[Page 129.]
To The Mother Church.
My Beloved Brethren:—If a member of the church
is inclined to be uncharitable, or to condemn his
brother without cause, let him put his finger to his lips,
and forgive others as he would _be_ forgiven. One’s first [5]
lesson is to learn one’s self; having done this, one will
naturally, through grace from God, forgive his brother and
love his enemies. To avenge an imaginary or an actual
wrong, is suicidal. The law of our God and the rule of
our church is to tell thy brother his fault and thereby help [10]
him. If this rule fails in effect, then take the next Scrip-
tural step: drop this member’s name from the church, and
thereafter “let the dead bury their dead,”—let silence
prevail over his remains.
If a man is jealous, envious, or revengeful, he will seek [15]
occasion to balloon an atom of another man’s indis-
cretion, inflate it, and send it into the atmosphere of mortal
mind—for other green eyes to gaze on: he will always
find somebody in his way, and try to push him aside;
will see somebody’s faults to magnify under the lens that [20]
he never turns on himself.
What have been your Leader’s precepts and example!
Were they to save the sinner, and to spare his exposure
[Page 130.]
so long as a hope remained of thereby benefiting him? [1]
Has her life exemplified long-suffering, meekness, charity,
purity?
She readily leaves the answer to those who know
her. [5]
Do we yet understand how much better it is to be
wronged, than to commit wrong? What do we find in
the Bible, and in the Christian Science textbook, on this
subject? Does not the latter instruct you that looking
continually for a fault in somebody else, talking about it, [10]
thinking it over, and how to meet it,—“rolling sin as a
sweet morsel under your tongue,”—has the same power
to make you a sinner that acting thus regarding disease
has to make a man sick? Note the Scripture on this
subject: “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the [15]
Lord.”
The Christian Science Board of Directors has borne
the burden in the heat of the day, and it ought not to
be expected that they could have accomplished, without
one single mistake, such Herculean tasks as they have [20]
accomplished. He who judges others should know well
whereof he speaks. Where the motive to do right exists,
and the majority of one’s acts are right, we should avoid
referring to past mistakes. The greatest sin that one can
commit against himself is to wrong one of God’s “little [25]
ones.”
Know ye not that he who exercises the largest charity,
and waits on God, renews his strength, and is exalted?
Love is not puffed up; and the meek and loving, God
anoints and appoints to lead the line of mankind’s tri- [30]
umphal march out of the wilderness, out of darkness
into light.
[Page 131.]
Whoever challenges the errors of others and cherishes [1]
his own, can neither help himself nor others; he will be
called a moral nuisance, a fungus, a microbe, a mouse
gnawing at the vitals of humanity. The darkness in
one’s self must first be cast out, in order rightly to discern [5]
darkness or to reflect light.
If the man of more than average avoirdupois kneels on
a stool in church, let the leaner sort console this brother’s
necessity by doing likewise. Christian Scientists preserve
unity, and so shadow forth the substance of our sublime [10]
faith, and the evidence of its being built upon the rock of
divine oneness,—one faith, one God, one baptism.
If our Board of Directors is prepared to itemize a report
of the first financial year since the erection of the edifice of
The First Church of Christ, Scientist, let it do so; other- [15]
wise, I recommend that you waive the church By-law
relating to finances this year of your firstfruits. This
Board did not act under that By-law; it was not in ex-
istence all of the year. It is but just to consider the great
struggles with perplexities and difficulties which the [20]
Directors encountered in Anno Domini 1894, and which
they have overcome. May God give unto us all that loving
sense of gratitude which delights in the opportunity to
cancel accounts. I, for one, would be pleased to have the
Christian Science Board of Directors itemize a bill of this [25]
church’s gifts to Mother; and then to have them let her
state the value thereof, if, indeed, it could be estimated.
After this financial year, when you call on the members
of the Christian Science Board of Directors to itemize or
audit their accounts, these will be found already itemized, [30]
and last year’s records immortalized, with perils past and
victories won.
[Page 132.]
A motion was made, and a vote passed, at your last [1]
meeting, on a subject the substance whereof you had al-
ready accepted as a By-law. But, I shall take this as a
favorable omen, a fair token that heavy lids are opening,
even wider than before, to the light of Love—and By-laws. [5]
Affectionately yours,
MARY BAKER EDDY
To ——, On Prayer.
MASSACHUSETTS METAPHYSICAL COLLEGE,
571 COLUMBUS AVENUE, [10]
BOSTON, March 21, 1885
_Dear Sir_:—In your communication to _Zion’s Herald_,
March 18, under the heading, “Prayer and Healing; sup-
plemental,” you state that you would “like to hear from
Dr. Cullis; and, by the way, from Mrs. Eddy, also.” [15]
Because of the great demand upon my time, consisting
in part of dictating answers through my secretary, or an-
swering personally manifold letters and inquiries from all
quarters,—having charge of a church, editing a maga-
zine, teaching Christian Science, receiving calls, etc.,—I [20]
find it inconvenient to accept your invitation to answer
you through the medium of a newspaper; but, for infor-
mation as to what I believe and teach, would refer you to
the Holy Scriptures, to my various publications, and to my
Christian students. [25]
It was with a thrill of pleasure that I read in your arti-
cle these words: “If we have in any way misrepresented
either Dr. Cullis or Mrs. Eddy, we are sorry.” Even the
desire to be just is a vital spark of Christianity. And those
words inspire me with the hope that you wish to be just. [30]
[Page 133.]
If this is so, you will not delay corrections of the statement [1]
you make at the close of your article, when referring to
me, “the pantheistic and prayerless Mrs. Eddy, of Boston.”
It would be difficult to build a sentence of so few words
conveying ideas more opposite to the fact. [5]
In refutation of your statement that I am a pantheist,
I request you to read my sermons and publications.
As to being “prayerless,” I call your attention and
deep consideration to the following Scripture, that voices
my impressions of prayer:— [10]
“When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites
are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and
in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men....
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet,
and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father [15]
which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret
shall reward thee openly.”
I hope I am not wrong in literally following the dictum
of Jesus; and, were it not because of my desire to set
you right on this question, I should feel a delicacy in mak- [20]
ing the following statement:—
Three times a day, I retire to seek the divine blessing
on the sick and sorrowing, with my face toward the Jeru-
salem of Love and Truth, in silent prayer to the Father
which “seeth in secret,” and with childlike confidence that [25]
He will reward “openly.” In the midst of depressing care
and labor I turn constantly to divine Love for guidance,
and find rest. It affords me great joy to be able to attest to
the truth of Jesus’ words. Love makes all burdens light,
it giveth a peace that passeth understanding, and with [30]
“signs following.” As to the peace, it is unutterable; as
to “signs,” behold the sick who are healed, the sorrowful
[Page 134.]
who are made hopeful, and the sinful and ignorant who [1]
have become “wise unto salvation”!
And now, dear sir, as you have expressed contrition for
an act which you have immediately repeated, you are
placed in this dilemma: To reiterate such words of [5]
apology as characterize justice and Christianity.
Very truly,
MARY BAKER G. EDDY
To The National Christian Scientist Association.
_Beloved Students_:—Meet together and meet _en masse_, [10]
in 1888, at the annual session of the National Christian
Scientist Association. Be “of one mind,” “in one place,”
and God will pour you out a blessing such as you never
before received. He who dwelleth in eternal light is
bigger than the shadow, and will guard and guide His [15]
own.
Let no consideration bend or outweigh your purpose
to be in Chicago on June 13. Firm in your allegiance to
the reign of universal harmony, go to its rescue. In God’s
hour, the powers of earth and hell are proven powerless. [20]
The reeling ranks of _materia medica_, with poisons, nos-
trums, and knives, are impotent when at war with the
omnipotent! Like Elisha, look up, and behold: “They
that be with us, are more than they that be with them.”
Error is only fermenting, and its heat hissing at the [25]
“still, small voice” of Truth; but it can neither silence
nor disarm God’s voice. Spiritual wickedness is stand-
ing in high places; but, blind to its own fate, it will tumble
into the bottomless.
[Page 135.]
Christians, and all _true_ Scientists, marching under what- [1]
soever ensign, come into the ranks! Again I repeat, per-
son is not in the question of Christian Science. Principle,
instead of person, is next to our hearts, on our lips, and
in our lives. Our watchwords are Truth and Love; and [5]
if we abide in these, they will abound in us, and we shall
be one in heart,—one in motive, purpose, pursuit. Abid-
ing in Love, not one of you can be separated from me; and
the sweet sense of journeying on together, doing unto
others as ye would they should do unto you, conquers all [10]
opposition, surmounts all obstacles, and secures success.
If you falter, or fail to fulfil this Golden Rule, though you
should build to the heavens, you would build on sand.
Is it a cross to give one week’s time and expense to the
jubilee of Spirit? Then take this cross, and the crown [15]
with it. Sending forth currents of Truth, God’s methods
and means of healing, and so spreading the gospel of
Love, is in itself an eternity of joy that outweighs an
hour. Add one more noble offering to the unity of good,
and so cement the bonds of Love. [20]
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY
To The College Association.
Letter read at the meeting of the Massachusetts Metaphysical
College Association, June 3, 1891. [25]
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE CHRISTIAN SCIENTISTS’ ASSOCIATION OF
THE MASSACHUSETTS METAPHYSICAL COLLEGE
_My Beloved Students_:—You may be looking to see me
in my accustomed place with you, but this you must no
[Page 136.]
longer expect. When I retired from the field of labor, [1]
it was a departure, socially, publicly, and finally, from
the routine of such material modes as society and our
societies demand. Rumors are rumors,—nothing more.
I am still with you on the field of battle, taking forward [5]
marches, broader and higher views, and with the hope
that you will follow.
The eternal and infinite, already brought to your
earnest consideration, so grow upon my vision that I
cannot feel justified in turning aside for one hour from [10]
contemplation of them and of the faith unfeigned.
When the verities of being seem to you as to me,—as
they must some time,—you will understand the neces-
sity for my seclusion, and its fulfilment of divine order.
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye sepa- [15]
rate, saith the Lord.”
All our thoughts should be given to the absolute
demonstration of Christian Science. You can well
afford to give me up, since you have in my last re-
vised edition of Science and Health your teacher and [20]
guide.
I recommend that the June session of this honorable
body shall close your meetings for the summer; also, that
hereafter you hold three sessions annually, convening
once in four months; oftener is not requisite, and the [25]
members coming from a distance will be accommodated
by this arrangement.
Yours affectionately,
MARY B. G. EDDY
[Page 137.]
To The National Christian Scientist Association.
_My Dear Students and Friends_:—Accept my thanks
for your card of invitation, your badge, and order of exer-
cise, all of which are complete.
When I gave you a meagre reception in Boston at the [5]
close of the first convention of the National Christian
Scientist Association, it was simply to give you the privi-
lege, poor as it was, of speaking a few words aside to your
teacher. I remember my regret, when, having asked in
general assembly if you had any questions to propose, I [10]
received no reply. Since then you have doubtless realized
that such opportunity might have been improved; but
that time has passed.
I greatly rejoice over the growth of my students within
the last few years. It was kind of you to part so gently [15]
with the protecting wings of the mother-bird, and to spread
your own so bravely. Now, dear ones, if you take my
advice again, you will do—what?
Even this: Disorganize the National Christian Scientist
Association! and each one return to his place of [20]
labor, to work out individually and alone, for himself and
for others, the sublime ends of human life.
To accomplish this, you must give much time to self-
examination and correction; you must control appetite,
passion, pride, envy, evil-speaking, resentment, and each [25]
one of the innumerable errors that worketh or maketh
a lie. Then you can give to the world the benefit of all
this, and heal and teach with increased confidence. My
students can _now_ organize their students into associa-
tions, form churches, and hold these organizations of their [30]
[Page 138.]
own,—until, in turn, their students will sustain them- [1]
selves and work for others.
The time it takes yearly to prepare for this national
convention is worse than wasted, if it causes thought to
wander in the wilderness or ways of the world. The de- [5]
tail of conforming to society, in any way, costs you what
it would to give time and attention to hygiene in your
ministry and healing.
For students to work together is not always to co-
operate, but sometimes to coelbow! Each student should [10]
seek alone the guidance of our common Father—even
the divine Principle which he claims to demonstrate,—
and especially should he prove his faith by works, ethi-
cally, physically, and spiritually. Remember that the
first and last lesson of Christian Science is love, perfect [15]
love, and love made perfect through the cross.
I once thought that in unity was human strength; but
have grown to know that human strength is weakness,—
that unity is divine might, giving to human power, peace.
My counsel is applicable to the state of general growth [20]
in the members of the National Christian Scientist Asso-
ciation, but it is not so adapted to the members of
students’ organizations. And wherefore? Because the
growth of these at first is more gradual; but whenever
they are equal to the march triumphant, God will give [25]
to all His soldiers of the cross the proper command, and
under the banner of His love, and with the “still, small
voice” for the music of our march, we all shall take step
and march on in spiritual organization.
Your loving teacher, [30]
MARY BAKER G. EDDY
CONCORD, N. H., May 23, 1890
[Page 139.]
N. B. I recommend this honorable body to adjourn, [1]
if it does not disorganize, to three years from this date;
or, if it does disorganize, to meet again in three years.
Then bring your tithes into the storehouse, and God will
pour you out a blessing such as you even yet have not [5]
received.
M. B. G. E.
To The First Church Of Christ, Scientist, Boston.
(_For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty_ [10]
_through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) casting down_
_imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the_
_knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the_
_obedience of Christ._—2 COR. X. 4, 5.
In April, 1883, I started the _Journal_ of Christian [15]
Science, with a portion of the above Scripture for its
motto.
On December 10, 1889, I gave a lot of land—in
Boston, situated near the beautiful Back Bay Park, now
valued at $20,000 and rising in value—for the purpose [20]
of having erected thereon a church edifice to be called The
Church of Christ, Scientist.
I had this desirable site transferred in a circuitous,
novel way, at the wisdom whereof a few persons have
since scrupled; but to my spiritual perception, like all [25]
true wisdom, this transaction will in future be regarded
as greatly wise, and it will be found that this act was in
advance of the erring mind’s apprehension.
As with all former efforts in the interest of Christian
Science, I took care that the provisions for the land and [30]
[Page 140.]
building were such as error could not control. I knew [1]
that to God’s gift, foundation and superstructure, no one
could hold a wholly material title. The land, and the
church standing on it, must be conveyed through a type
representing the true nature of the gift; a type morally [5]
and spiritually inalienable, but materially questionable
—even after the manner that all spiritual good comes
to Christian Scientists, to the end of taxing their faith
in God, and their adherence to the superiority of the
claims of Spirit over matter or merely legal titles. [10]
No one could buy, sell, or mortgage my gift as I had
it conveyed. Thus the case rested, and I supposed the
trustee-deed was legal; but this was God’s business, not
mine. Our church was prospered by the right hand of
His righteousness, and contributions to the Building Fund [15]
generously poured into the treasury. Unity prevailed,—
till mortal man sought to know who owned God’s temple,
and adopted and urged only the material side of this
question.
The lot of land which I donated I redeemed from under [20]
mortgage. The foundation on which our church was to
be built had to be rescued from the grasp of legal power,
and now it must be put back into the arms of Love, if we
would not be found fighting against God.
The diviner claim and means for upbuilding the Church [25]
of Christ were prospered. Our title to God’s acres will
be safe and sound—when we can “read our title clear”
to heavenly mansions. Built on the rock, our church
will stand the storms of ages: though the material super-
structure should crumble into dust, the fittest would sur- [30]
vive,—the spiritual idea would live, a perpetual type of
the divine Principle it reflects.
[Page 141.]
The First Church of Christ, Scientist, our prayer in [1]
stone, will be the prophecy fulfilled, the monument up-
reared, of Christian Science. It will speak to you of the
Mother, and of your hearts’ offering to her through whom
was revealed to you God’s all-power, all-presence, and [5]
all-science. This building begun, will go up, and no one
can suffer from it, for no one can resist the power that
is behind it; and against this church temple “the gates
of hell” cannot prevail.
All loyal Christian Scientists hail with joy this pro- [10]
posed type of universal Love; not so, however, with
error, which hates the bonds and methods of Truth, and
shudders at the freedom, might, and majesty of Spirit,
—even the annihilating law of Love.
I vindicate both the law of God and the laws of our [15]
land. I believe,—yea, I understand,—that with the
spirit of Christ actuating all the parties concerned about
the legal quibble, it can easily be corrected to the satis-
faction of all. Let this be speedily done. Do not, I im-
plore you, stain the early history of Christian Science by [20]
the impulses of human will and pride; but let the divine
will and the nobility of human meekness rule this busi-
ness transaction, in obedience to the law of Love and the
laws of our land.
As the ambassador of Christ’s teachings, I admonish [25]
you: Delay not longer to commence building our church
in Boston; or else return every dollar that you yourselves
declare you have had no legal authority for obtaining, to
the several contributors,—and let them, not you, say
what shall be done with their money. [30]
Of our first church in Boston, O recording angel!
write: God is in the midst of her: how beautiful are her
[Page 142.]
feet! how beautiful are her garments! how hath He en- [1]
larged her borders! how hath He made her wildernesses
to bud and blossom as the rose!
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY
To Donors Of Boat, From Toronto, Canada.
Written on receipt of a beautiful boat presented by Christian
Scientists in Toronto, for the little pond at Pleasant View. The
boat displays, among other beautiful decorations, a number of
masonic symbols. [10]
_Beloved Students and Friends_:—Accept my thanks
for the beautiful boat and presentation poem. Each day
since they arrived I have said, Let me write to the donors,
—and what?
My first impression was to indite a poem; my second, [15]
a psalm; my third, a letter. Why the letter alone? Be-
cause your dear hearts expressed in their lovely gift such
varying types of true affection, shaded as autumn leaves
with bright hues of the spiritual, that my Muse lost her
lightsome lyre, and imagery of thought gave place to [20]
chords of feeling too deep for words.
A boat song seemed more Olympian than the psalm in
spiritual strains of the Hebrew bard. So I send my
answer in a commonplace letter. Poor return, is it
not? [25]
The symbols of freemasonry depicted on the boat
wakened memory, touched tender fibres of thought, and
I longed to say to the masonic brothers: If as a woman
I may not unite with you in freemasonry, nor you with
me in Christian Science, yet as friends we can feel the [30]
[Page 143.]
touch of heart to heart and hand to hand, on the broad [1]
basis and sure foundation of true friendship’s “level”
and the “square” of moral sentiments.
My dear students may have explained to the kind par-
ticipants in beautifying this boat our spiritual points, [5]
above the plane of matter. If so, I may hope that a
closer link hath bound us. Across lakes, into a kingdom,
I reach out my hand to clasp yours, with this silent bene-
diction: May the kingdom of heaven come in each of
your hearts! [10]
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY
Address,—Laying The Corner-Stone.
_Beloved Students_:—On the 21st day of May, A.D.
1894, with quiet, imposing ceremony, is laid the corner- [15]
stone of “The First Church of Christ, Scientist,” in
Boston.
It gives me great pleasure to say that you, principally
the Normal class graduates of my College, well known
physicians, teachers, editors, and pastors of churches, [20]
by contributions of one thousand dollars each, husband
and wife reckoned as one, have, within about three
months, donated the munificent sum of forty-two thou-
sand dollars toward building The Mother Church. A
quiet call from me for this extra contribution, in aid of [25]
our Church Building Fund, found you all “with one
accord in one place.” Each donation came promptly;
sometimes at much self-sacrifice, but always accompanied
with a touching letter breathing the donor’s privileged joy.
[Page 144.]
The granite for this church was taken from the quar- [1]
ries in New Hampshire, my native State. The money
for building “Mother’s Room,” situated in the second
story of the tower on the northeast corner of this build-
ing, and the name thereof, came from the dear children [5]
of Christian Scientists; a little band called Busy Bees,
organized by Miss Maurine R. Campbell.
On this memorable day there are laid away a copy of
this address, the subscription list on which appear your
several names in your own handwriting, your textbook, [10]
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and
other works written by the same author, your teacher,
the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science;(4) without
pomp or pride, laid away as a sacred secret in the
heart of a rock, there to typify the prophecy, “And a man [15]
shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert
from the tempest; ... as the shadow of a great rock in
a weary land:” henceforth to whisper our Master’s
promise, “Upon this rock I will build my church; and
the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” [20]
To-day, be this hope in each of our hearts,—precious
in God’s sight as shall be the assembling of His people
in this temple, sweet as the rest that remaineth for the
righteous, and fresh as a summer morn,—that, from
earth’s pillows of stone, our visible lives are rising to [25]
God. As in the history of a seed, so may our earthly
sowing bear fruit that exudes the inspiration of the wine
poured into the cup of Christ.
To-day I pray that divine Love, the life-giving Prin-
ciple of Christianity, shall speedily wake the long night [30]
of materialism, and the universal dawn shall break upon
the spire of this temple. The Church, more than any
[Page 145.]
other institution, at present is the cement of society, and [1]
it should be the bulwark of civil and religious liberty.
But the time cometh when the religious element, or Church
of Christ, shall exist alone in the affections, and need no
organization to express it. Till then, this form of godli- [5]
ness seems as requisite to manifest its spirit, as individ-
uality to express Soul and substance.
Does a single bosom burn for fame and power? Then
when that person shall possess these, let him ask him-
self, and answer to his name in this corner-stone of our [10]
temple: Am I greater for them? And if he thinks that
he is, then is he less than man to whom God gave “do-
minion over all the earth,” less than the meek who “in-
herit the earth.” Even vanity forbids man to be vain;
and pride is a hooded hawk which flies in darkness. Over [15]
a wounded sense of its own error, let not mortal thought
resuscitate too soon.
In our rock-bound friendship, delicate as dear, our
names may melt into one, and common dust, and their
modest sign be nothingness. Be this as it may, the visible [20]
unity of spirit remains, to quicken even dust into sweet
memorial such as Isaiah prophesied: “The wolf also shall
dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with
the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling
together; and a little child shall lead them.” [25]
When the _hearts_ of Christian Scientists are woven to-
gether as are their names in the web of history, earth will
float majestically heaven’s heraldry, and echo the song
of angels: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth
peace, good will toward men.” [30]
To The Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, and to
the dear children that my heart folds within it, let me
[Page 146.]
say, ’Tis sweet to remember thee, and God’s Zion, with [1]
healing on her wings. May her walls be vocal with sal-
vation; and her gates with praise!
To The First Church Of Christ, Scientist, Boston
_My Beloved Students_:—I cannot conscientiously lend
my counsel to direct your action on receiving or dismiss-
ing candidates. To do this, I should need to be with
you. I cannot accept hearsay, and would need to know
the circumstances and facts regarding both sides of the [10]
subject, to form a proper judgment. This is not my
present province; hence I have hitherto declined to be
consulted on these subjects, and still maintain this
position.
These are matters of grave import; and you cannot [15]
be indifferent to this, but will give them immediate at-
tention, and be governed therein by the spirit and the
letter of this Scripture: “Whatsoever ye would that men
should do unto you, do ye even so to them.”
I cannot be the conscience for this church; but if I [20]
were, I would gather every reformed mortal that desired
to come, into its fold, and counsel and help him to walk
in the footsteps of His flock. I feel sure that as Chris-
tian Scientists you will act, relative to this matter, up to
your highest understanding of justice and mercy. [25]
Affectionately yours,
MARY BAKER EDDY
Feb. 12, 1895
[Page 147.]
The First Members Of The First Church Of Christ, Scientist, Boston,
Massachusetts
_My Beloved Students_:—Another year has rolled on, [3]
another annual meeting has convened, another space of
time has been given us, and has another duty been done [5]
and another victory won for time and eternity? Do you
meet in unity, preferring one another, and demonstrating
the divine Principle of Christian Science? Have you
improved past hours, and ladened them with records
worthy to be borne heavenward? Have you learned [10]
that sin is inadmissible, and indicates a small mind?
Do you manifest love for those that hate you and de-
spitefully use you?
The man of integrity is one who makes it his constant
rule to follow the road of duty, according as Truth and [15]
the voice of his conscience point it out to him. He is not
guided merely by affections which may some time give
the color of virtue to a loose and unstable character.
The upright man is guided by a fixed Principle, which
destines him to do nothing but what is honorable, and to [20]
abhor whatever is base or unworthy; hence we find him
ever the same,—at all times the trusty friend, the affec-
tionate relative, the conscientious man of business, the
pious worker, the public-spirited citizen.
He assumes no borrowed appearance. He seeks no [25]
mask to cover him, for he acts no studied part; but he
is indeed what he appears to be,—full of truth, candor,
and humanity. In all his pursuits, he knows no path
but the fair, open, and direct one, and would much rather
fail of success than attain it by reproachable means. He [30]
[Page 148.]
never shows us a smiling countenance while he meditates [1]
evil against us in his heart. We shall never find one part
of his character at variance with another.
Lovingly yours,
MARY BAKER EDDY [5]
Sept. 30, 1895
Extract From A Letter
The Rules and By-laws in the Manual of The First
Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, originated not in
solemn conclave as in ancient Sanhedrim. They were [10]
not arbitrary opinions nor dictatorial demands, such as
one person might impose on another. They were im-
pelled by a power not one’s own, were written at differ-
ent dates, and as the occasion required. They sprang
from necessity, the logic of events,—from the immedi- [15]
ate demand for them as a help that must be supplied to
maintain the dignity and defense of our Cause; hence
their simple, scientific basis, and detail so requisite to
demonstrate genuine Christian Science, and which will
do for the race what absolute doctrines destined for future [20]
generations might not accomplish.
To The Mother Church
_Beloved Brethren_:—Until recently, I was not aware
that the contribution box was presented at your Friday
evening meetings. I specially desire that you collect no
moneyed contributions from the people present on these
occasions.
Let the invitation to this sweet converse be in the words
of the prophet Isaiah: “Ho, every one that thirsteth,
[Page 149.]
come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come [1]
ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without
money and without price.”
Invite all cordially and freely to this banquet of Chris-
tian Science, this feast and flow of Soul. Ask them to [5]
bring what they possess of love and light to help leaven
your loaf and replenish your scanty store. Then, after
presenting the various offerings, and one after another
has opened his lips to discourse and distribute what God
has given him of experience, hope, faith, and under- [10]
standing, gather up the fragments, and count the baskets
full of accessions to your love, and see that nothing has
been lost.
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY [15]
To First Church Of Christ, Scientist, In Oconto
_My Beloved Brethren_:—Lips nor pen can ever ex-
press the joy you give me in parting so promptly with
your beloved pastor, Rev. Mr. Norcross, to send him to [20]
aid me. It is a refreshing demonstration of Christianity,
brotherly love, and all the rich graces of the Spirit. May
this sacrifice bring to your beloved church a vision of the
new church, that cometh down from heaven, whose altar
is a loving heart, whose communion is fellowship with [25]
saints and angels. This example of yours is a light that
cannot be hid.
Guided by the pillar and the cloud, this little church
that built the first temple for Christian Science worship
shall abide steadfastly in the faith of Jesus’ words: “Fear [30]
[Page 150.]
not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to [1]
give you the kingdom.” May He soon give you a pastor;
already you have the great Shepherd of Israel watch-
ing over you. Give my forever-love to your dear church.
Yours in bonds of Christ,
MARY BAKER G. EDDY [5]
BOSTON, MASS., 1889
To First Church Of Christ, Scientist, In Scranton
_Beloved Brethren_:—Space is no separator of hearts. [10]
Spiritually, I am with all who are with Truth, and whose
hearts today are repeating their joy that God dwelleth
in the congregation of the faithful, and loveth the gates
of Zion.
The outlook is cheering. We have already seen the [15]
salvation of many people by means of Christian Science.
Chapels and churches are dotting the entire land. Con-
venient houses and halls can now be obtained wherein, as
whereout, Christian Scientists may worship the Father
“in spirit and in truth,” as taught by our great Master. [20]
“If God be for us, who can be against us?” If He
be with us, the wayside is a sanctuary, and the desert a
resting-place peopled with living witnesses of the fact
that “God is Love.”
God is universal; confined to no spot, defined by no [25]
dogma, appropriated by no sect. Not more to one than
to all, is God demonstrable as divine Life, Truth, and
Love; and His people are they that reflect Him—that
reflect Love. Again, this infinite Principle, with its uni-
versal manifestation, is all that really is or can be; [30]
hence God is our Shepherd. He guards, guides, feeds,
[Page 151.]
and folds the sheep of His pasture; and their ears are [1]
attuned to His call. In the words of the loving disciple,
“My sheep hear my voice,... and they follow me;
...neither shall any man pluck them out of my
hand.” [5]
God is a consuming fire. He separates the dross from
the gold, purifies the human character, through the
furnace of affliction. Those who bear fruit He purgeth,
that they may bear more fruit. Through the sacred law,
He speaketh to the unfruitful in tones of Sinai: and, in [10]
the gospel, He saith of the barren fig-tree, “Cut it down;
why cumbereth it the ground?”
God is our Father and our Mother, our Minister and
the great Physician: He is man’s only real relative on
earth and in heaven. David sang, “Whom have I in [15]
heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I
desire beside thee.”
Brother, sister, beloved in the Lord, knowest thou
thyself, and art thou acquainted with God? If not, I
pray thee as a Christian Scientist, delay not to make Him [20]
thy first acquaintance.
Glorious things are spoken of you in His Word. Ye
are a chosen people, whose God is—what? Even _All_.
May mercy and truth go before you: may the lamp of
your life continually be full of oil, and you be wedded
to the spiritual idea, Christ; then will you heal, and
teach, and preach, on the ascending scale of everlasting
Life and Love.
Affectionately yours in Christ,
MARY BAKER EDDY [30]
[Page 152.]
To First Church Of Christ, Scientist, In Denver
_Beloved Pastor and Brethren_:—“As in water face
answereth to face,” and in love continents clasp hands, so
the oneness of God includes also His presence with those [5]
whose hearts unite in the purposes of goodness. Of this
we may be sure: that thoughts winged with peace and
love breathe a silent benediction over all the earth, co-
operate with the divine power, and brood unconsciously
o’er the work of His hand. [10]
I, as a corporeal person, am not in your midst: I, as a
dictator, arbiter, or ruler, am not present; but I, as a
mother whose heart pulsates with every throb of theirs
for the welfare of her children, am present, and rejoice
with them that rejoice. [15]
May meekness, mercy, and love dwell forever in the
hearts of those who worship in this tabernacle: then
will they receive the heritage that God has prepared for
His people,—made ready for the pure in affection, the
meek in spirit, the worshipper in truth, the follower of [20]
good.
Thus founded upon the rock of Christ, when storm
and tempest beat against this sure foundation, you,
safely sheltered in the strong tower of hope, faith, and
Love, are God’s nestlings; and He will hide you in His [25]
feathers till the storm has passed. Into His haven of
Soul there enters no element of earth to cast out angels,
to silence the right intuition which guides you safely
home.
Exercise more faith in God and His spiritual means [30]
[Page 153.]
and methods, than in man and his material ways and [1]
means, of establishing the Cause of Christian Science.
If right yourself, God will confirm His inheritance. “Be
not weary in well doing.” Truth is restful, and Love is
triumphant. [5]
When God went forth before His people, they were
fed with manna: they marched through the wilderness:
they passed through the Red Sea, untouched by the bil-
lows. At His command, the rock became a fountain;
and the land of promise, green isles of refreshment. In [10]
the words of the Psalmist, when “the Lord gave the word:
great was the company of those that published it.”
God is good to Israel,—washed in the waters of
Meribah, cleansed of the flesh,—good to His Israel
encompassed not with pride, hatred, self-will, and self- [15]
justification; wherein violence covereth men as a gar-
ment, and as captives are they enchained.
Christian Scientists bring forth the fruits of Spirit,
not flesh; and God giveth this “new name” to no man
who honors Him not by positive proof of trustworthiness. [20]
May you be able to say, “I have not cleansed my heart
in vain.”
Sir Edwin Arnold, to whom I presented a copy of
my first edition of “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” writes:— [25]
Peace on earth and Good-will!
Souls that are gentle and still
Hear the first music of this
Far-off, infinite, Bliss!
So may the God of peace be and abide with this church. [30]
Affectionately yours,
MARY BAKER EDDY
[Page 154.]
To First Church Of Christ, Scientist, In Lawrence
_Beloved Brethren_:—The spreading branches of The
Church of Christ, Scientist, are fast reaching out their
broad shelter to the entire world. Your faith has not [5]
been without works,—and God’s love for His flock is
manifest in His care. He will dig about this little church,
prune its encumbering branches, water it with the dews
of heaven, enrich its roots, and enlarge its borders with
divine Love. God only waits for man’s worthiness to [10]
enhance the means and measure of His grace. You
have already proof of the prosperity of His Zion. You
sit beneath your own vine and fig-tree as the growth
of spirituality—even that vine whereof our Father is
husbandman. [15]
It is the purpose of divine Love to resurrect the under-
standing, and the kingdom of God, the reign of har-
mony already within us. Through the word that is
spoken unto you, are you made free. Abide in His word,
and it shall abide in you; and the healing Christ will [20]
again be made manifest in the flesh—understood and
glorified.
Honor thy Father and Mother, God. Continue in
His love. Bring forth fruit—“signs following”—that
your prayers be not hindered. Pray without ceasing. [25]
Watch diligently; never desert the post of spiritual ob-
servation and self-examination. Strive for self-abnega-
tion, justice, meekness, mercy, purity, love. Let your
light reflect Light. Have no ambition, affection, nor
aim apart from holiness. Forget not for a moment, that [30]
[Page 155.]
God is All-in-all—therefore, that in reality there is but [1]
one cause and effect.
The pride of circumstance or power is the prince of
this world that has nothing in Christ. All power and
happiness are spiritual, and proceed from goodness. [5]
Sacrifice self to bless one another, even as God has
blessed you. Forget self in laboring for mankind; then
will you woo the weary wanderer to your door, win the
pilgrim and stranger to your church, and find access to
the heart of humanity. While pressing meekly on, be [10]
faithful, be valiant in the Christian’s warfare, and peace
will crown your joy.
Lovingly yours,
MARY BAKER EDDY
To Correspondents
_Beloved Students_:—Because Mother has not the time
even to read all of her interesting correspondence, and
less wherein to answer it (however much she desires
thus to do), she hereby requests: First, that you, her
students’ students, who write such excellent letters to [20]
her, will hereafter, as a general rule, send them to the
editors of _The Christian Science Journal_ for publication,
and thereby give to us all the pleasure of hearing from you.
If my own students cannot spare time to write to God,
—when they address me I shall be apt to forward their [25]
letters to Him as our common Parent, and by way of
_The Christian Science Journal_; thus fulfilling their moral
obligation to furnish some reading-matter for our denomi-
national organ. Methinks, were they to contemplate the
universal charge wherewith divine Love has entrusted us, [30]
[Page 156.]
in behalf of a suffering race, they would contribute oftener [1]
to the pages of this swift vehicle of scientific thought;
for it reaches a vast number of earnest readers, and seek-
ers after Truth.
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY
To Students
_Beloved Christian Scientists_:—Please send in your
contributions as usual to our _Journal_. All is well at head-
quarters, and when the mist shall melt away you will see
clearly the signs of Truth and the heaven of Love within [10]
your hearts. Let the reign of peace and harmony be
supreme and forever yours.
I proposed to merge the adjourned meeting in the one
held at Chicago, because I saw no advantage, but great
disadvantage, in one student’s opinions or _modus oper-_ [15]
_andi_ becoming the basis for others: read “Retrospection”
on this subject. Science is absolute, and best under-
stood through the study of my works and the daily Chris-
tian demonstration thereof. It is their _materiality_ that
clogs the progress of students, and “this kind goeth not [20]
forth but by prayer and fasting.” It is materialism through
which the animal magnetizer preys, and in turn becomes
a prey. Spirituality is the basis of all true thought and
volition. Assembling themselves together, and listening
to each other amicably, or contentiously, is no aid to [25]
students in acquiring solid Christian Science. Experi-
ence and, above all, _obedience_, are the aids and tests of
growth and understanding in this direction.
With love,
MARY B. G. EDDY [30]
[Page 157.]
To A Student
_My Dear Student_:—It is a great thing to be found
worthy to suffer for Christ, Truth. Paul said, “If we
suffer, we shall also reign with him.” Reign then, my
beloved in the Lord. He that marketh the sparrow’s fall [5]
will direct thy way.
I have written, or caused my secretary to write, to Mr.
and Mrs. Stewart, of Toronto, Canada (you will find their
card in _The C. S. Journal_,) that you or your lawyer will
ask them all questions important for your case, and re- [10]
quested that they furnish all information possible. They
will be glad to help you. Every true Christian Scientist
will feel “as bound with you,” but as free in Truth and
Love, safe under the shadow of His wing.
Yes, my student, my Father is your Father; and He [15]
helps us most when help is most needed, for He is the
ever-present help.
I am glad that you are in good cheer. I enclose you
the name of Mr. E. A. Kimball, C. S. D., of Chicago,—
5020 Woodlawn Ave.,—for items relative to Mrs. Steb- [20]
bin’s case.
“Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him;
and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth
thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the
noonday.” This I know, for God is for us. [25]
Write me when you need me. Error has no power
but to destroy itself. It _cannot harm you_; it cannot stop
the eternal currents of Truth.
Ever with love,
MARY B. G. EDDY
[Page 158.]
To A Student
_My Beloved Student:_—In reply to your letter I will
say: God’s ways are not as our ways; but higher far
than the heavens above the earth is His wisdom above
ours. When I requested you to be ordained, I little [5]
thought of the changes about to be made. When I insisted
on your speaking without notes, I little knew that
so soon another change in your pulpit would be demanded.
But now, after His messenger has obeyed the message
of divine Love, comes the interpretation thereof. But you [10]
see we both had first to obey, and to do this through faith,
not sight.
The meaning of it all, as now shown, is this: when
you were bidden to be ordained, it was in reward for your
faithful service, thus to honor it. The second command, [15]
to drop the use of notes, was to rebuke a lack of faith in
divine help, and to test your humility and obedience in
bearing this cross.
All God’s servants are minute men and women. As
of old, I stand with sandals on and staff in hand, wait- [20]
ing for the watchword and the revelation of what, how,
whither. Let us be faithful and obedient, and God will
do the rest.
In the April number of _The Christian Science Journal_
you will find the forthcoming completion (as I now think) [25]
of the divine directions sent out to the churches. It is
satisfactory to note, however, that the order therein given
corresponds to the example of our Master. Jesus was
not ordained as our churches ordain ministers. We
have no record that he used notes when preaching. He
[Page 159.]
spake in their synagogues, reading the Scriptures and [1]
expounding them; and God has given to this age “Science
and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” to elucidate
His Word.
You may read this letter to your church, and then [5]
send it to Rev. Mr. Norcross, and he will understand.
May the God of all grace give you peace.
With love,
MARY BAKER EDDY
Extract From A Christmas Letter
_Beloved Students_:—My heart has many rooms: one
of these is sacred to the memory of my students. Into
this upper chamber, where all things are pure and of
good report,—into this sanctuary of love,—I often
retreat, sit silently, and ponder. In this chamber is [15]
memory’s wardrobe, where I deposit certain recollec-
tions and rare grand collections once in each year. This
is my Christmas storehouse. Its goods commemorate,
—not so much the Bethlehem babe, as the man of God,
the risen Christ, and the adult Jesus. Here I deposit [20]
the gifts that my dear students offer at the shrine of
Christian Science, and to their lone Leader. Here I talk
once a year,—and this is a bit of what I said in 1890:
“O glorious Truth! O Mother Love! how has the sense
of Thy children grown to behold _Thee_! and how have [25]
many weary wings sprung upward! and how has our
Model, Christ, been unveiled to us, and to the age!”
I look at the rich devices in embroidery, silver, gold,
and jewels,—all gifts of Christian Scientists from all
parts of our nation, and some from abroad,—then al- [30]
[Page 160.]
most marvel at the power and permanence of affection [1]
under the _régime_ of Christian Science! Never did grati-
tude and love unite more honestly in uttering the word
_thanks_, than ours at this season. But a mother’s love
behind words has no language; it may give no material [5]
token, but lives steadily on, through time and circum-
stance, as part and paramount portion of her being.
Thus may our lives flow on in the same sweet rhythm
of head and heart, till they meet and mingle in bliss super-
nal. There is a special joy in knowing that one is gaining [10]
constantly in the knowledge of Truth and divine Love.
Your progress, the past year, has been marked. It satis-
fies my present hope. Of this we rest assured, that every
trial of our faith in God makes us stronger and firmer in
understanding and obedience. [15]
Lovingly yours,
MARY BAKER G. EDDY