The Lectures
At Toronto, Ont.
Mr. Carol Norton, C.S.D., of New York City, a distinguished Christian Scientist, lectured to a large and representative audience in Massey Hall, Friday evening, May 26. At a conservative estimate twenty-eight hundred people were in attendance. Mayor Shaw presided, and from his introductory address it must be inferred that his Worship has not only studied the tenets of Christian Science but is a believer therein.
To the believers in the audience, as well as to those who were present from mere desire to hear what Mr. Norton had to say, the lecture proved of exceptional interest. His address was entitled, "Christian Science alias the Healing and Saving Power of Christianity." He spoke clearly and dispassionately, and made no attack upon other religions or creeds. He laid down the principle that Christian Science is not the discovery of a new thing so much as the recovery of a temporarily lost element of the Christian religion, and upon this basis he proceeded to place concisely before his hearers the authorities upon which the religion is founded.
In opening the meeting Mayor Shaw said, "I accepted the invitation to be present here this evening with a very great deal of pleasure, partly because the distinguished lecturer is an American citizen, and we are desirous of showing our American cousins that we reciprocate the cordial feelings which they express toward us, and partly because the subject is an interesting one, namely, Christian Science, whose adherents are numbered to-day by millions. Christ, as you know, commanded his first followers to heal the sick and give alms to the poor; and his commands are just as binding on the Christians of this age as on those who followed him about, gathered around him, and sat at his feet and listened to his teachings. I do not know if there is any authority in the Scriptures for the use of medicine for the curing of diseases. With authority came power to heal, and the sick were healed without medicine, and the same power is given to those who believe in Christianity to-day. The believers in the teachings of our Lord have the same power to heal as had his first followers. To the patient, I suppose, it makes not a great deal of difference how he gets better. But the grand benefit of Christian Science in healing the body is that the mind also is healed, the mental condition is improved, and he moral system elevated."
His Worship then called upon the lecturer to address the gathering.—The Globe.
At San Jose, Cal.
Wednesday evening, May 10, the First Church of Christ, Scientist, in this city, had the pleasure of giving to the people of San José and vicinity the privilege, for the second time, of hearing a lecture on Christian Science.
September 7, 1898, Mr. Kimball of Chicago, delivered the first lecture to a full house, and Dr. Fluno of Oakland, gave the second just eight months later to a crowded house, some few even going away because they could not find seats, and both of these lectures were attended by many of our leading citizens, including a few ministers and doctors.
Mr. Armstrong, the First Reader of the Church here, introduced Dr. Fluno with the following remarks:—
This is the second time it has been my privilege to introduce to a San José audience a lecturer on the subject of Christian Science. The object is to state clearly the origin, character, and aim of Christian Science, to see that amid all the din of statement and counter-statement about it, there shall be occasionally a voice raised—not in defence but simply in explanation of what it is and does—this being understood, no defence is needed.
Christians generally concede that the only way of salvation is through Christ Jesus. Students of Christian Science not only believe, but understand, how true this is; they know that the oil and wine which is to revive the poor traveler fallen among thieves and half dead, flows not from any material source, but must still be of the same divine origin and nature as when it blessed humanity so plentifully centuries ago.
Jesus said to his disciples at one time, "Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards." Christian Scientists believe that the time is come when the disciples or students of the Christ may, if they will, follow him more closely than at any time since the third century, when ignorance and superstition sought to take the life of every representative of the then new Truth. This is made possible through the discovery of Christian Science stated in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," by Rev. Mary Baker G. Eddy. The world never needed this knowledge more than it does to-day. It is with great pleasure that I now introduce to you one who taught me Christian Science some years ago, F. J. Fluno, M. D., C.S.D.
Herbert D. Eustace, Clerk.
At Milwaukee, Wis.
A large audience assembled at the Pabst Theatre Tuesday evening, May 23, to hear Edward A. Kimball speak on Christian Science. A very nice class of people attended the lecture and listened attentively throughout.
Mr. Kimball was introduced by Joshua Stark, who in his introductory remarks said that this was an age of surprises and that the century just closing, especially the last half of it, was marked by inventions and discoveries which had advanced the interests of the human race physically, mentally, and morally. The accomplishments of the past fifty years were such as to challenge the admiration of thoughtful people. All these new things were judged solely by their ability to enhance the well-being of the human race. In the field of education scientific instruction is superseding the study of the classics, and manual training is taking a place side by side with mental work. Coming to the subject of the evening, Mr. Stark said that the large audience present proved the interest taken in the new faith—Christian Science. This Science promises great things for the human race, he said. It would lift mankind to a higher realm of thought, feeling, and action. The American people would give the new faith a respectful hearing, and would adopt it when it was thoroughly tested. If it exerted the influence which is claimed for it; if it alleviated human suffering as it was said it would, then it will abide. Mr. Stark closed by saying that the audience would then listen to one of its teachers, and he introduced Mr. Kimball.—The Evening Wisconsin.
At West Chester, Pa.
There was an audience of probably five hundred people in the Assembly Building Monday evening, May 22. It was a representative gathering, too. Many of West Chester's leading people were there, and some people who had come in from the country for miles around. The announcement that Carol Norton, C.S.D., of New York City, was to lecture upon the theme, "Christian Science—It is Christian; It is Scientific," had brought the people together. Many were there to listen for the first time to a lecture on this theme by one of its advocates.
Mr. Norton was here under the auspices of the Christian Science Church, which has been maintained in West Chester for a long time past.
The speaker was introduced by Burgess Talbot, who took occasion to say, "Ever since the dawn of human intellect there has been an effort to solve the questions of disease and its causes. How to overcome the weaknesses to which humanity is subject has occupied the attention of many minds. There have been many theories, many schools of medicine. Experiments on human subjects have been numerous. At last Mrs. Eddy comes with a solution and Christian Science as the true way of deliverance. Mr. Norton is an able exponent of those teachings, and I take pleasure in introducing him to the audience tonight."—Daily Local News.
At Elyria, O.
Mrs. Annie M. Knott lectured in Elyria, Monday evening, May 15, under the auspices of First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Elyria, the Church of Christ, Scientist, of Rocky River Hamlet, and the Christian Science Association of Oberlin.
The Opera House was well filled, and the lecture was listened to with closest attention. Two papers notices the lecture very kindly, and we have heard many appreciative comments from those present. One gentleman said he went in expecting to stay a few moments—would have stayed two hours longer, and would have liked to have gone the next evening.
There were present from Cleveland, three "specials"—cars containing one hundred and thirteen Scientists—one special from Rocky River Hamlet, and one from Oberlin.
This demonstration of Unity and loving-kindness, made quite an impression, "and we know that all things work together for good to them that love God," and that good always comes from being obedient. Our hearts overflow with love and gratitude to our beloved Leader, who has made all these blessings possible for us. Already, new interest has been manifested, and new work come to us, from the effects of the lecture.—M. Theresa Brush.
At Whitewater, Wis.
An audience of over four hundred people listened to a lecture delivered by Edward A. Kimball, C.S.D., of Chicago, on Christian Science, Monday evening, May 22.
The lecture was given under the auspices of First Church of Christ, Scientist, of this city, and was held in the Congregational Church. Rev. Dr. Johnson of the Episcopal Church introduced the speaker.
About thirty Scientists from Madison, Janesville, Beloit, Fort Atkinson, and Oregon, were in attendance, bringing their love-offering with them, showing us that, although our number is small, we thoroughly demonstrate that Love is the source of all supply. After all expenses were paid we have quite an amount left in the treasury.
It has been a great time of rejoicing with us, because we have been able to help spread this great Truth, by being obedient, trusting, and faithful, and we know that the seed sown will bring forth much fruit.
Grace F. Stephens, Clerk.
At Peterborbough, Ont.
The doctrine of the Christian Scientists was clearly, forcefully, and eloquently expounded in a lecture delivered Thursday evening, May 25, in the Sons of England Hall, Hunter Street, by Mr. Carol Norton, C.S.D., of New York City. The address was given under the auspices of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, 414½ George Street. J. C. Parker, Reader, presided. The audience was fairly large, the rain doubtless deterring many from attendance, and all present were deeply interested.
Mr. J. C. Parker introduced Mr. Norton to the audience. He spoke a few words. Christian Science inspires us, elevates us to the Temple not built with hands. It helps us to look into the realm of Spirit, raising humanity above self into purer and holier desires. It gave Mr. Parker great pleasure to introduce a member of the Board of Lectureship, Mr. Carol Norton, C.S.D.
Daily Evening Review.
At Salem, Ore.
An audience of about seven hundred people attended the lecture at the Opera House, Wednesday evening, May 17, given by Dr. F. J. Fluno, one of the national official lecturers of the Christian Scientists.
Dr. Fluno was presented to the audience by Hon. R. S. Bean, associate justice of the Supreme Court. The lecturer is a middle-aged man and an accomplished speaker. He held the undivided attention of his audience during the delivery of the lecture, which required about ninety minutes. He very clearly outlined the belief of Scientists, and by illustrations, argued the world's great need of Christian Science as the sole medium through which true civilization could be attained, and by the application of which only, could the Golden Rule be successfully practised.
A synopsis of the lecture appears on the sixth page.
Oregon Statesman.
At Nashua, N. H.
The Rev. William P. McKenzie, C.S.B., delivered a lecture Tuesday evening, May 23, at Beasom Hall, under the auspices of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, of this city. The audience was a good-sized one, and was by no means composed of Scientists alone.
The Rev. Enoch Powell, minister of the Unitarian Church, introduced the lecturer with a few brief remarks. He stated that he knew but little of Christian Science aside from the fact that it is arousing a great deal of interest throughout the country of late. He said in substance that he believed it should be given a hearing just as other religions were, and that the citizens should decide for themselves upon its merits.—Nashua Daily Telegraph.
At Grand Forks, N. D.
A large audience gathered at the Metropolitan Theatre, Monday evening, May 22, the occasion being the delivery of a lecture by Judge Ewing of Chicago, on "Christian Science." Judge Ewing is an elderly man, somewhat spare, of fine, scholarly appearance, an eloquent, impressive speaker, and a man who is evidently thoroughly in earnest. No better evidence of the latter fact could be given than his resignation of a position on the bench of the Superior Court of Illinois to take up his present work. He was introduced last night by Hon. Willis A. Joy, and for over an hour he discussed in clear and forceful language the doctrines of Christian Science.—Daily Herald.
At Los Angeles, Cal.
At Simpson Auditorium Thursday evening, May 4, Dr. F. J. Fluno lectured on Christian Science, explaining its origin and aims. The keynote to his address is contained in this paragraph:—
"That spirit of investigation in man, which can find a flaw in a solution of his being, naturally and necessarily demands a solution that will bear investigation; a solution that has no flaw, a solution that will bear the closest scrutiny, and yet no imperfection can be found."
"Such a fabric," said he, "is Christian Science—the Science of Being—that comes to-day to fill the world's great need."—Los Angeles Record.
At Erie, Pa.
Thursday evening, May 18, a representative audience assembled at the Tabernacle to hear a lecture by Carol Norton, C.S.D., of New York City. The lecture was given under the auspices of the First Church of Christ, Scientist. The subject was, "Christian Science—It is Christian; It is Scientific."
The profound attention given was a marked feature of the evening. In a very pleasant manner, and a few well-chosen words the speaker was introduced by the Rev. Leon Harvey, pastor of the Unitarian Church.
Alice M. Carey.
At Winnipeg, Man.
The noted Christian Scientist, Hon. W. G. Ewing of Chicago, lectured before a large audience at the Winnipeg Opera House on Sunday afternoon, May 21. Mayor Andrews occupied the chair, and introduced the lecturer with a few appropriate remarks, to the effect that while he, with perhaps the majority of those present, had given but little study to the ethics of Christian Science, they were nevertheless gratified at having the opportunity of learning from so distinguished a citizen of the United States as Judge Ewing undoubtedly was.—The Daily Tribune.
At Weeping Water, Neb.
Edward A. Kimball, C.S.D., of Chicago, one of the leading Christian Science demonstrators of the country, delivered a free lecture on the doctrines and beliefs of the Scientists, at the Opera House here, Monday evening, May 22. The attendance was large and the audience for two hours listened with marked attention to the words of the speaker. Mr. Kimball is a good talker and explains very plainly the principles of this new Science which is being investigated by some of the brightest minds all over the country.—Weeping Water Republican.
At Riley, Kan.
A large audience which completely filled the Opera House listened to the lecture on Christian Science delivered by Mrs. Annie M. Knott, Monday evening, May 1.
The lecture was well received even by those who thought they were opposed to Christian Science. Delegations from Junction City, Clay Center, and Leonardville came over to hear the lecture.
We thank Mrs. Eddy for sending out those who reflect so much divine Love.—Ida E. Nixon, Clerk.
At St. Louis, Mo.
Mrs. Annie M. Knott, C.S.D., of Detroit, Mich., who for fourteen years has been a pupil of Mrs. Eddy, Discover and Founder of Christian Science, and who is regarded as one of the ablest lecturers, delivered an address at the Olympic Theatre, Sunday evening, May 7, on the doctrines of Christian Science. The house was well filled.
St. Louis, Globe-Democrat.
At Evanston, Ill.
Saturday evening, April 29, Mr. Edward A. Kimball, C.S.D. of Chicago, lectured on Christian Science, in the First Baptist Church. The lecture was given under the auspices of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, and the church was well filled with a very appreciative and intelligent audience.—Mrs. Emily D. Pierson, Clerk.