The Mother Church

GERTRUDE S. SMITH

THE MOTHER CHURCH! What tenderness, love, and compassion these words awaken in us! On page 592 of the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mary Baker Eddy gives the definition of "Mother" as "God; divine and eternal Principle; Life, Truth, and Love."

As Christian Science has made clear to mankind the motherhood of God, so has its church organization given to the many branch Churches of Christ, Scientist, a noble, wise, gentle, compassionate Mother Church. In the Manual of The Mother Church (p. 70) Mrs. Eddy states, "The Mother Church of Christ, Scientist, shall assume no general official control of other churches, and it shall be controlled by none other."

No human mother seeks to control entirely the actions of her child, for she realizes that individual development is essential in molding the child's character. With loving counsel and wise supervision a mother guides the mental and moral progress of her offspring. If the child heeds not her admonition, it may eat the bitter fruit of disobedience. The Mother Church symbolizes divine Love; and the branch churches, like obedient children, are refreshed in beholding the firm, steadfast faith exemplified by The Mother Church. It is The Mother Church that bears the brunt of the storm when error hurls its lies at Truth. Calm and serene it stands, shielded and shielding its branches, never flinching in battle. In a degree, what an inspiring representation it affords of the love of our Father-Mother God!

In the twentieth chapter of Acts it is recorded that Paul thus charged the elders of Ephesus: "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God. ... For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them." In "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 277) Mrs. Eddy warns her followers in these words: "Falsehood is on the wings of the winds, but Truth will soar above it. Truth is speaking louder, clearer, and more imperatively than ever. Error is walking to and fro in the earth, trying to be heard above Truth, but its voice dies out in the distance."

As our beloved Mother Church is given grace to withstand the shafts of error, its branch churches are likewise comforted. Let the branch churches pattern The Mother Church in obedience to the Manual, in so far as its requirements govern them. The branch churches in turn should reflect this same quality of love and grace toward their members, as children, victims of discouragement and false beliefs, disheartened by seeming inability to help themselves, should be comforted. Let the church support their feeble steps, comfort and sustain them, forbearing with true maternal patience. As Christian Scientists do this the members of our beloved church militant will stand as a happy, united family, sheltered through obedience to divine Principle and the law of God, good.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

"As little children"

November 9, 1929

Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit