Article April 10, 1971 Issue

When Shall I Take Class Instruction?

WILLIAM F. MARQUARDT III

When to take class instruction is, of course, a highly individual demonstration. However, a deep love for Christian Science and its Leader, Mrs. Eddy, brings spiritually inspired motives leading to its marvelous unfoldment. Class instruction is important, and nothing can take its place in enhancing one's progress in Christian Science. It is a deeply moving spiritual experience in which the real essence of Christ, Truth, becomes more clearly revealed to the individual as within his grasp, as a tangible aspect of his own identity and experience. It enables him to perceive more definitely than before the nature of heaven on earth, of divinity brought to humanity.

Some individuals wait unnecessarily long before acting to receive this most precious gift. This instruction is specifically referred to as Primary class instruction. Therefore it is not expected that the individual must first understand everything about the teaching and application of Christian Science. It is the purpose of class instruction to give the student a deeper understanding of its teachings and to sharpen his skill in its application.

The author, for example, was led to take class instruction at the age of twenty, just six months after he left a Christian Science Sunday School, having finished in accordance with the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy. Although this was a number of years ago, he can honestly state that not one day has passed since having this instruction that he has not seriously reflected upon some of the truths—and especially the spirit—of what was presented during the two weeks. He has continuously felt the deepness of the Christ-power revealed to him during class. It has helped see him through many formidable experiences.

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