Editorial August 15, 1970 Issue

The Ministry of Christian Science

Naomi Price

The question is sometimes asked by those who are unacquainted with its teachings, "Does Christian Science have a ministry?" Yes, it does, and this ministry covers every aspect of men's experience. While it is primarily concerned with the spiritual, mental, and moral welfare of the individual, it has, as well, the effect of healing physically.

Christian Science is a religion, and it is represented by the Church of Christ, Scientist. This institution is not humanly constituted, and has no ritually ordained clergy. Nevertheless, it is a manifestation of the spiritual idea of Church in its highest meaning. It is founded on the scientific understanding of true spiritual being upon which Jesus himself established his church. From this basis proceeds its twofold ministration to the needs of humanity, preaching the Christian gospel of man's sonship with God and healing in accordance with the Master's admonition, "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils." Matt. 10:8;

This church is devoid of ritualism and personal preaching. In 1895, Mary Baker Eddy, its Founder and Pastor Emeritus, was divinely led to ordain the Bible and her book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures as its permanent Pastor forever. This act, far from curtailing the effectiveness of the ministry of the Church of Christ, Scientist, releases it from personal limitations and extends its pastoral care to the remotest corners of the earth. Everyone who owns these these two books can avail himself of this impersonal Pastor's comfort, advice, and admonition, wherever he may be. It helps to establish the healing recognition that, as Mrs. Eddy says, "God is our Father and our Mother, our Minister and the great Physician." Miscellaneous Writings, p. 151;

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A Change of Heart
August 15, 1970
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