Article February 1, 2014

The new faith and the old

Correspondence between a beginner in Christian Science and his former Pastor.

Source: Originally published in the December 15, 1890 issue of the Christian Science Series (Vol. 2, No. 16)

(Pastor’s letter.)

My dear_______ … I have wondered if I might not perhaps say a helpful word to you. When I met your brother this morning, and he told me how troubled your family were feeling over your acceptance of Christian Science, and consequent giving up of business, I determined that I would write, and that very earnestly, believing that in view of our hearty friendship heretofore, you would not take it amiss. I will only refer to the Christian Science question to say, that all that is true in it, we have long had as Unitarians and I have been preaching it for many, many years. I should feel troubled indeed if my preaching left you in any doubt as to the clear eyed vision of the Unseen and Eternal, which it is the special mission of our liberal faith to impart. My purpose now, is to advise you not to take what seems a very unwise step, in flinging away the business opening you had. We used to wish so much (you and I) for the means of doing good, and of carrying out this and that enterprise of reform. You had the promise before you of some day finding yourself in command of the means to help the needs of the poor and out-cast ones. I beg you not to let such an opportunity slip. Be led and advised (for you are yet very young,) by those, who, as your own flesh and blood, love you more tenderly and truly than any strangers can. To them surely, and to a recognition of their love and sacrifices for you, you owe your first duty. Your family are feeling very worried and troubled because you have become a Christian Scientist. Let the new views pass for what they are worth, but stick bravely and truly to business duties. Distrust any influences that would lead you to neglect the every day duties which God has set you to do. Think how young you are, and be guided a while yet by those who have loved and tenderly led you from a child.

Affectionately yours,
“__________”

Send a comment to the editors