Article September 26, 1964 Issue

College Organizations

What is the significance of the activities of Christian Science organizations at colleges and universities formed in accordance with Article XXIII, Section 8, of the Manual of The Mother Church by Mary Baker Eddy? In the following report received by the College Organization Division, Department of Branches and Practitioners, a senior from a women's college answers this question:

"The organization functions as a meeting of people sharing the same values and aims. I remember, after anxiously seeing all those strange new classmates my first week at college, how fearful I was about maintaining my beliefs. Even my own roommate followed a religion differing radically from mine. Imagine my surprise and pleasure when I received an invitation to a reception held by the Christian Science organization! There I met many Scientists from all over campus who offered me any help I might need. Without this meeting I might not have known that another student in my dormitory thought as I did; this companionship strengthened me. In social situations outside campus I often recognized Scientists whose conduct was an outstanding example to me. The organization has been a source of support and meaningful friendships.

"The Christian Science college organization provides an opportunity to learn practical skills for later work in branch churches. By taking turns at preparing the readings, for instance, everyone learns how to use Concordances. We can realize that our joyful duty to share testimonies need not be a frightening experience. It is an indispensable lesson for active Christian Scientists. Lecture preparations provide experience for many other organization members. Now, as organization president, I foresee new opportunities of working in Christian Science, especially in personal relationships.

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