At the risk of appearing to avoid the issue, it is felt that...

Cecil Barnes, Committee on Publication for Natal, South Africa,—Durban

Churchman

At the risk of appearing to avoid the issue, it is felt that to reply categorically to the various statements in your January number would be futile, as the article on Christian Science reveals a palpable ignorance of the divine Principle and practice of Christian Science, which destroys both so-called functional and organic diseases.

Christian Science teaches that God is Mind, Spirit, divine Principle, omnipotent Life, Truth, and Love. Therefore, there can be in reality no power opposed to God; hence the unreality of evil, sin, sickness, and death.

While it is admitted that most Christian Scientists have been attracted to this religion through the healing power of Truth demonstrated, even as Jesus proved his words by his works, yet it is its unquestionable logic which draws and retains within its ranks so many Christian thinkers of to-day.

Christian Science is a systematic interpretation of spiritual law, comprehensible only by those who are prepared to consider it with an unbiased and honest thought. No one reading Mary Baker Eddy's writings in this manner can truthfully say that either deception or fraud is to be found in her works.

In her Preface to "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," the Christian Science textbook, Mrs. Eddy has said (p. x): "The author has not compromised conscience to suit the general drift of thought, but has bluntly and honestly given the text of Truth. . . . Only those quarrel with her method who do not understand her meaning, or discerning the truth, come not to the light lest their works be reproved. No intellectual proficiency is requisite in the learner, but sound morals are most desirable."

Christian Scientists are entitled to and expect fair treatment from those who should conform to the Golden Rule, but "Crusader's" remarks in your December issue are certainly not in accord with the precepts taught by Christ Jesus, who rebuked those disciples who attempted unjustly to condemn those who did not follow them.

Christian Scientists do not attend a patient uninvited, and no one is persuaded to sever his connection with his church. This is entirely a matter of individual decision, and is invariably the result of the desire of the patient to express through right actions and kindly deeds his gratitude for the blessing of health, happiness, and freedom from sin, discord, and disease, received in accordance with the promise of Christ Jesus, "If ye continue in my word, ... ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Christian Scientists are endeavoring to meet in the Christ spirit the test for true discipleship which was given by Jesus when he declared, "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

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