Letters to the Press from Christian Science Committees on Publication

John J. Selover

Redondo Breeze

John J. Selover, Committee on Publication for Southern California Redondo Breeze, Redondo Beach

Under the caption "Bypaths of History," a recent issue of the Breeze contained an article answering this question: "What famous American woman was called the 'Queen of the World'?" The writer incorrectly asserted that the title was given by ardent admirers to Mary Baker Eddy, the Founder of the Christian Science church, early in the century. To correct this error and several others which unfortunately crept into the writer's article, I respectfully request that this letter be published.

There is nothing in the archives of the Christian Science church or in the authorized biographies to indicate that Mrs. Eddy was ever referred to as the "Queen of the World." Indeed, we can safely say that she would never knowingly have permitted the reference to be made to her, for she was far from desiring worldly glory. She sought at all times to turn her followers away from her personality. She said in her Message to The Mother Church for 1902 (p. 4), "I again repeat, Follow your Leader, only so far as she follows Christ."

There are a number of authentic sources of information which the author of the article could have consulted. One of latest and most complete biographies was written by an Episcopal minister, Dr. Lyman P. Powell. It is entitled "Mary Baker Eddy: A Life Size Portrait."

Mrs. Eddy today is revered and respected by an ever-growing number of thinking people. They recognize her as the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, as the author of its textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and as the Leader of a great religious movement, the purpose of which is to bless impartially all mankind.

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