In a previous article we have referred to cyclic changes that came during
the last quarter of preceding centuries. Of our remarkable nineteenth
century not the least eventful circumstance is the advent of Christian
Science. That it should be the work of a woman is the natural outcome of a
period notable for her emancipation from many of the thraldoms, prejudices,
and oppressions of the past. We do not, therefore, regard it as a mere
coincidence that the first edition of Mrs. Eddy's Science and Health should
have been published in 1875. Since then she has revised it many times, and
the ninety-first edition is announced. Her discovery was first called, "The
Science of Divine Metaphysical Healing." Afterward she selected the name
Christian Science. It is based upon what is held to be scientific
certainty, namely,--that all causation is of Mind, every effect has its
origin in desire and thought. The theology--if we may use the word--of
Christian Science is contained in the volume entitled "Science and Health
with Key to the Scriptures."
The present Boston congregation was organized April 19, 1879, and has now
over four thousand members. It is regarded as the parent organization, all
others being branches, though each is entirely independent in the
management of its own affairs. Truth is the sole recognized authority. Of
actual members of different congregations there are between one hundred
thousand and two hundred thousand. One or more organized societies have
sprung up in New York, Chicago, Buffalo, Cleveland, Cincinnati,
Philadelphia, Detroit, Toledo, Milwaukee, Madison, Scranton, Peoria,
Atlanta, Toronto, and nearly every other centre of population, besides a
large and growing number of receivers of the faith among the members of all
the churches and non-church-going people. In some churches a majority of
the members are Christian Scientists, and, as a rule, are the most
intelligent.
Space does not admit of an elaborate presentation on the occasion of the
erection of the temple, in Boston, the dedication taking place on the 6th
of January, of one of the most remarkable, helpful, and powerful movements
of the last quarter of the century. Christian Science has brought hope and
comfort to many weary souls. It makes people better and happier. Welding
Christianity and Science, hitherto divorced because dogma and truth could
not unite, was a happy inspiration.
"And still we love the evil cause,
And of the just effect complain;
We tread upon life's broken laws,
And mourn our self-inflicted pain."
* * * * *
[_The Outlook_, New York, January 19, 1895]
A CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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