About the cover:

From In Defense of Mary Baker Eddy, and the Remnant of Her Seed, by Paul R. Smillie:

In the Christian Science Sentinel of September 6, 1913 on page ten, Archibald McLellan stated three most important points about the cover of the Sentinel and a minor change made at that time on its cover. Speaking of this change he said, “Beyond this there can be neither desire nor occasion for change in the Sentinel, because,” he said, “Mrs. Eddy’s instructions forbid any change.” He explained this by saying, “Mrs. Eddy likewise gave instructions.” The word “instructions” is most important. Speaking then of the two women, the lamps and the inscriptions beneath them, he said they had been “preserved as expressive of our Leader’s thought. ...” Mrs. Eddy requested that the cover of the Sentinel be light blue in color.”

“Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men”

Christian Science Sentinel, July 26, 1900

Yes, here, now; not idle words, but words of hope and strength, — sure as that God is Love. It is not too late for you, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Centuries ago, there appeared to an expectant people a great light, proclaiming “Peace on earth, good-will to men.” It came in sweet humility, teaching purity, truth, and love, — a doctrine so strange and revolutionary that both the message and the messenger were rejected by all save a few, who recognized the Christ in the lowly Nazarene.

Today shines forth again the promised light, revealing this time the divine Principle and its unerring Science of the Truth Jesus gave to the world, attesting its divine source by “signs following.” Jesus had said, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” Again ignorance, conservatism, self-righteousness, hatred of purity and Truth, reject and revile — but the despairing invalid and sin-sick prisoners recognize their Deliverer, and are set free.

Mortals are seeking everywhere but in the right way for salvation from the ills of the flesh, that materia medica cannot cure nor theology destroy. Christian Science, the Science of the Christ-teaching, finds the Principle of all Being in God, infinite Mind, and demonstrates that this Principle is a “present help in trouble.” This healing power is now breaking down the strongholds of error with irresistible Scientific power, and is within the reach of all who will accept it.

Has hopeless disease cut off every hope of a useful life? You cannot be more skeptical than were most of us, who only turned to Christian Science as a last resort, to learn that it was indeed God's opportunity. And how glad we are now that our extremity was urgent enough to make us willing to accede to the demands of divine Principle. The thousands who have experienced such glad restoration, testify that the physical freedom is but an incident to the spiritual uplift. How beautifully Love teaches that only by perfect obedience can rest and peace abide.

Every earnest seeker for Truth, Christian or unbeliever, understanding the teaching of Science and Health, finds it makes the Bible a positive guide to eternal life — not as a mysterious oracle; but, in the wondrous light of the spirit of Truth, it becomes a living Word, enabling him to see how to really obey all the Master's commands, how to “put off the old man” and become the son of God, in the present realization that man is the child of God.

Get that wonderful book, Science and Health, study it deeply, prayerfully, persistently, this alone may heal you. None may climb up by any “other,” “easier,” or “reformed” way. When you decide to give Christian Science as fair a trial as you have man's methods, select a practitioner from the standpoint of Christian character rather than from what the world calls “intellect,” and you will be healed in much less time and at less cost than man dare promise, and without medicine, remedies, or instruments, receiving what God alone can give. It may be at once, but if slow, persist, and you will find truly that “heaven is within,” a foretaste of the new heaven and earth that passeth not away.

Christian Science Journal, December 1923

In all literature there is nothing perhaps more familiar to the Christian world, or more exquisite, than Luke's recounting of the vision of the shepherds on the plains of Bethlehem when the angel brought to them word of the birth of Jesus. Nothing has ever been written which appeals to the thought of humanity with a greater sense of joy and hope. How simple and yet how beautiful is this picture of the faithful shepherds, “keeping watch over their flock by night;” and “the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.”

Then came the comforting assurance that they were not to fear, because the angel brought “good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” After that there was the wonderful news, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord;” and the final marvelous praising of God by the “multitude of the heavenly host,” saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Here is the story of what may be called the greatest event in all human history, and the one which is fraught with deepest interest and value to all mankind. Here is a recording of the coming of the Christ.

If most men were asked if they desire peace, they would be apt to answer emphatically in the affirmative. Indeed, today there are few things more talked of; and some believe they are doing all they know how in order to advance peaceful conditions in the world. What mankind, as a whole, does not yet fully discern is the fact that peace on earth can be brought about in only one way. It is only as men awaken to the necessity of following in the footsteps of Christ Jesus that universal peace can become an assured fact.

Christ Jesus proved under every condition that peace resulted for him and for others only in the degree that the will of God was understood and obeyed. He, under every circumstance, victoriously demonstrated that the peace “which passeth all understanding” resulted from his triumph over that which is unlike God.

Unselfishness was one of the most prominent keynotes in his life among men, and it was as he conquered all the beliefs in a selfhood apart from God that men were universally blessed through his example and demonstration. Without Christian Science, mankind could not understand that unselfishness means the overcoming of self-will, self-love, and self-justification in each human consciousness. Mary Baker Eddy defines these, in Science and Health (p. 242), as “the adamant of error” and “the law of sin and death.” It was through triumphing over these universal claims of evil that Jesus gained the peace which finally resulted for him, and must result equally for all, in the peace which knows no end.

Peace which is to endure can be won only as mortals are willing not so much to seek it, as to seek to overcome that which prevents its realization. For each victory won, each wrong proved unreal, must be followed by some measure of the consciousness of God's nearness and power; and this is the true meaning of peace.

In Miscellaneous Writings (p. 227) Mrs. Eddy gives us a vision of this when she says, “The sublime summary of an honest life satisfies the mind craving a higher good, and bathes it in the cool waters of peace on earth; till it grows into the full stature of wisdom, reckoning its own by the amount of happiness it has bestowed upon others.” How true this is; and yet how rarely have men measured their own by the good they have brought to their fellows! True peace is won as “the fruit of conquered sin,” as the triumph over some selfish tendency, as the overcoming of some arrogant claim of a mind and a will apart from the divine.

As another Christmas season approaches, when all the Christian world is turning its thought towards the birth of Christ Jesus, his mission to the world and to the individual, could there be a more appropriate time to realize anew their responsibility in proving by their unselfed living that the Christ is here today in our midst, fulfilling through Christian Science the promises the angels sang in the “long ago”? If each and every one of us will forget self, sacrifice peace, have Christ and the Cause our only incentives, who can tell how rapidly the whole world shall be won to Christ and Christian Science, and peace on earth be universally known!

Christian Science Monitor, March 3, 1914

Some years ago a prize was offered for the picture that would best illustrate the idea of peace. Many entries were made of landscapes and portraits of persons supposed, by their serene pose and expression, to typify this idea, but none of these were successful. The picture which was awarded the prize at first glance imaged anything but peace. It showed a tumultuous waterfall, roaring and floundering over huge rocks, splashing into clouds of spray, and descending in sheets of rain to a dark, angry looking pool at the base of the fall.

Why such a picture which seemed to typify turmoil, noise and destruction should be awarded the prize did not become evident until a more careful study of the picture was made. Then it was seen that on the branch of a tree beside the fall, but out of harm’s way, a little bird was sitting on her nest where the falling, roaring, splashing water and the flying, drenching spray could not reach her.

This picture conveys the idea of that peace which the world can neither give nor take away. It shows that, just like the little bird in the midst of the noise of the torrent, whosoever knows that the eternal God is his refuge is safe, for “underneath are the everlasting arms.” He has nothing to fear, and fears nothing because there is nothing to fear. Peace is, therefore, seen to be a mental quality, an equipoise which results from or is characteristic of the understanding that God governs all things well. Whoever has this understanding may declare with assurance of its truth. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.”

Peace is by no means a mere passive quality. It is decidedly active and implies that mental alertness which prevents the acceptance of the negative thoughts so disturbing to man’s mental equilibrium. Peace is an active state of war against “every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God.”

The true idea of peace has no relation to inertia. Peace is a purely mental quality which conveys the thought of poise, superiority to external conditions, and dominion over all beliefs of a negative nature such as hate, anger, jealousy, worry, haste, fear, greed, or any other of the numerous brood of evil impulses. True peace indicates that its possessor has mastered these mortal propensities and risen superior to them with the understanding that they are not of God and therefore have no more power than we give them.

Old-fashioned teachings based upon the personality of Jesus left humanity open to harassments while upon earth, with nothing but a faint hope that better things might possibly follow after men had passed on to some other state of existence. Peace here and now is what Christian Science demonstrates and presents as one of the proofs that it can fulfil its promises of ultimate and complete harmony. It declares most emphatically that “Spiritual living and blessedness are the only evidences, by which we can recognize true existence and feel the unspeakable peace which comes from an all-absorbing spiritual love” (Science and Health, p. 264).

Christian Science Sentinel, May 1, 1920

The familiar words, “On earth peace, good will toward men,” associated generally with holidays, Christmas presents, and so forth, have lost much of their force in the course of the years. Some modern translators, however, have thrown a fresh light upon the subject by giving a different phrasing to the words, for “peace on earth to men of good will” certainly awakens a new train of thought. If the promise of peace was conditional, then it is not to be wondered at that peace is still problematical, if the conditions of its coming are not fulfilled.

The conclusion to be drawn is that men have not really understood the nature of this good will, and not that they have not desired to attain it. As Mrs. Eddy says, “If mortal mind knew how to be better, it would be better” (Science and Health, p. 186). To the student of Christian Science, men of good will are those who understand the nature of God's will and desire above everything else that His will should be done in earth as it is in heaven.

How constantly Christ Jesus affirmed his freedom from the domination of the human will and his unity with the divine will, from the first boyish utterance that he was about his Father's business, to the last sublime aspiration, “Not my will, but thine, be done.” As a result, he demonstrated his control over the essence of the human will in its subtler manifestations, that will of which Mrs. Eddy has also said, “It is the headlong cataract, the devouring flame, the tempest's breath” (Science and Health, p. 192).

If we desire peace on earth we must set about its attainment in the only way possible, and that is by working to understand the nature of the will of Principle, and to be willing it should be done whether the carnal mind likes it or not. So doing, we shall involuntarily become men of good will ourselves, and not only give out peace, but attract it. It is obvious that such a one will quite naturally keep the Ten Commandments, for if he knows only the will of divine Mind, any impulse to infringe upon the rights or possessions of his neighbors will disappear, and he will find his own rights and possessions respected. The reason for this is scientific, for if his treasure is in heaven, in Spirit, Mind, as it must necessarily be if he has only one God, one good, it cannot be taken from him. No rust can corrupt it, nor thief break in or steal.

To the student of Christian Science these matters all seem so simple it is astonishing that men and nations still go on in the old way, each suspecting the other of bad will. On page 340 of Science and Health, Mrs. Eddy writes, “One infinite God, good, unifies men and nations; constitutes the brotherhood of man; ends wars; fulfils the Scripture, 'Love thy neighbor as thyself;' annihilates pagan and Christian idolatry, — whatever is wrong in social, civil, criminal, political, and religious codes; equalizes the sexes; annuls the curse on man, and leaves nothing that can sin, suffer, be punished or destroyed.”

We then understand God as infinite divine Mind or Spirit, and that this energy becomes manifest in human experience in the proportion that individuals turn away from the carnal will and its desires, and become thereby men of good will.

Christian Science Sentinel, December 19, 1903

As on the sea of Galilee,

The Christ is whispering "Peace."

In the early days of Christianity, the Roman world was a seething tumult. The authority of the Cæsars had suppressed organized opposition and had well-nigh undisputed dominion throughout the world. The clash of philosophical and religious ideas was equally marked with that of worldly ambitions. It was an age of universal unrest. It was in the midst of this turmoil of sinful and distracted mortal sense that there was heard the angelic carol of “Peace on earth!”

How startling the incongruity! and yet these heaven-born words found fulfilment in the gentle heart of the virgin mother and the sweet face of her sleeping babe, and in all his after trials, from the cradle to the cross, the angel song lingered with the Christ-child. In the "peace of God" he found refuge and strength, and when his work was “finished,” he gave his loyal followers this benediction, “My peace I leave with you.”

The peace which Jesus gave to all faithful hearts, does not mean escape from the necessity of a constant overcoming of evil. The "peace of God" is not a sweet sense of inactivity. He said to them frankly, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth, I came not to send peace but a sword.” “They shall deliver you up to councils, and in the synagogues you shall be beaten, ... and ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. ... These things I have spoken unto you that ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” He thus taught very explicitly that there can be no peaceful “adjustment by compromise” between right and wrong in human consciousness. “Even Christ could not reconcile truth to error, for they are irreconcilable” (Science and Health, p. 19).

Peace does not inhere in human belief or human conditions, but in spiritual understanding. It is the fragrant flame within the sanctuary of a heart that is in conscious unity with God. — a unity which is undisturbed because it cannot be reached by the antagonism of the world, and to this Jesus referred when he said, “Rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”

Belief in materiality has obscured this sense of oneness, because it embraces that which is unlike God. The absence of peace in the heart, the home, or the church can thus be readily explained. If the Master be not with us in life's tempests, the waves are not stilled.

In Christian Science we come to apprehend as never before that disease and unrest are the inseparable companions of falsity, while “Truth imparts its own true peace and permanence” (Science and Health, p. 516). When with the “Mind that was in Christ Jesus” we come to know our Father-God as omnipresent Love, we part with anxious thought, and are undisturbed. In the understanding of Truth we know with Paul, that “all things” are ours, and can sing with the poet, —

The stars come nightly to the sky;

The tidal wave unto the sea;

Nor time, nor space, nor deep, nor high,

Can keep my own away from me.

Christian Science Sentinel, November 17, 1917

To speak of peace on earth when the greater part of the world is involved in war, is to many mere mockery. The angel message delivered to the shepherds in the field of Bethlehem has no meaning to them.

In view of the world's unreadiness to solve its present problems by spiritual means, our chief task consists in doing right mental work. This does not signify that we may treat the situation in the sense of employing mental arguments in favor of one and to the detriment of the other group, although we may think that we see very clearly “where right doth really lie,” for such procedure would not aid in reconciling the human family, a house already grievously divided against itself.

What we can and should do is to realize that error, wherever it is found, can only destroy itself; that it cannot harm the real man or cause destruction and devastation in the realm of God, and that Truth will finally be seen to be supreme. This work means nothing more or less than the discernment and demonstration of reality.

In Hebrews we read, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” and in II Corinthians, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen.” We are to look away from the things seen by material sense and to look at the things visible to spiritual sense.

Christian Science opens our eyes to behold as present realities the things which mankind has hoped and waited for all through the centuries. What else can the eye of faith be but the discernment of reality? God's work is finished; it exists now and forever as a perfect spiritual creation, including perfect spiritual man. Instead of supinely waiting for God to do something, we must do something ourselves, namely, rise above the material seeming into the realm of the real, the realm of Spirit, the realm of harmony, where the heavenly chorus can always be heard.

Let us ponder Mrs. Eddy's definition of “angels” in Science and Health (p. 581): “God's thoughts passing to man; spiritual intuitions, pure and perfect; the inspiration of goodness, purity, and immortality, counteracting all evil, sensuality, and mortality.” We have many instances in the Bible of men who were able to rise to a height of spiritual perception where they were in the company of angels and received their protection. Daniel was able to say, “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me.” And the deliverance of the three Hebrew men from the “burning fiery furnace” was recognized by Nebuchadnezzar to be due to the fact that God, divine Mind, had “sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him.”

Does God send His angels in our own day? Yes, indeed. Thousands of Christian Scientists know this from personal experience, and many letters and statements have been received from Christian Scientists serving in the military, some of which have appeared in our periodicals, testifying to the fact that angels, “God's thoughts passing to man,” have protected them. The psalmist sang, “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.” Is this protection only for the favored few to the exclusion of the “thousand” and the “ten thousand”? Assuredly not, for “God is no respecter of persons." All are protected who have learned what it means to look "at the things which are not seen,” namely, spiritual realities.

We may not see with our eyes the evidence of peace about us, yet it exists here and now, discernible to all to whom “the evidence of things not seen” means something. In the degree that the world learns to recognize this evidence, will the things that are seen approach the state of spiritual perfection. In the meantime each one of us, by earnestly and persistently fastening his attention on reality, may hear the angels sing. They proclaim the Christ, who is with us “alway, even unto the end of the world,” — unto the end of all selfishness, strife, cruelty, suffering, want, and woe. This invisible Christ, Truth, is our protection and also supplies our every need. As Mrs. Eddy expresses it so beautifully on page 442 of Science and Health, “Christ, Truth, gives mortals temporary food and clothing until the material, transformed with the ideal, disappears, and man is clothed and fed spiritually.”

Christian Science Journal, July, 1916

In view of the interest now being aroused in the coming celebration of the three hundredth anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrim fathers on Plymouth Rock, it is well worth while for Bible students to trace the history of the pilgrims of ancient days and to note how each footstep of freedom paved the way for a larger, more practical vision of the ever-present Christ.

If it be true that “the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church,” then it is not too much to say that the faith of the pilgrims is the rock of national life. Abraham was a pilgrim. He was called of God to depart from his father's house and from the lethargy and limitations of old traditions into a more spiritual consciousness of Life and Love, — a veritable land of promise. “And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing,” was God's promise to him. His obedience proved that he loved Spirit more than matter, loved God and desired truth above all else, and was willing to sacrifice everything for this.

In the epistle to the Hebrews we find this eloquent tribute to the father of pilgrims: “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” Respecting this patriarch and others the record says: “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth… . And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.”

Still another exile for Christ's sake tells us that he saw the promise. St. John saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” and he adds, “I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven.” Then he describes it in metaphorical terms, and encourages and inspires our weary hope with this sublime assurance: “The kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into it." On page 575 of Science and Health Mrs. Eddy tells us what this heavenly city is, and on page 573 she writes, “This testimony of Holy Writ sustains the fact in Science, that the heavens and earth to one human consciousness, that consciousness which God bestows, are spiritual, while to another, the unillumined human mind, the vision is material.”

The blessing upon Abraham's pilgrimage was that he should be the father of a great nation, in number “as the sand which is upon the seashore,” and that of this nation would be born the Messiah, the Saviour of the world. In the thirty-ninth chapter of Genesis we read of another brave exile of this chosen family, — Joseph in Egypt. The famine of which Pharaoh dreamed threatened to destroy the seed' of Abraham before the Christ could come; that is, before they were able to receive him. But Joseph, faithful to Truth and Love, was God's messenger. His reflection of divine Love wisely met the need of that hour and thus saved them from the evil. In tender forgiveness and marvelous breadth of vision he said to his brethren when they were reunited: “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.”

Thus did the pilgrims' obedience preserve the precious seed of Truth, until after many generations should come the harvest and the Son of man send forth his angels to garner the golden sheaves into the Father's storehouse. In the forty-ninth chapter of Genesis we read of the vastly significant blessing which Jacob bestowed upon Joseph: “The archers have sorely grieved him, and shot at him, and hated him: but his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob; (from thence is the shepherd, the stone of Israel:) … The blessings of thy father … they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren.”

Thus we begin to perceive what it is to be a pilgrim and to separate one's self from all evil. It is to desire Truth above all else, to listen for God's voice, and to follow wherever Truth and Love may lead. It calls us out of old beliefs which are not good, true, and progressive, even though it may often mean temporary separation from all we have hitherto cherished. But this very separation clears the vision and blazes the right path for others to follow, and so paves the way for ultimate and genuine unity, peace, and prosperity. In its ripening processes time changes the pilgrim into the pioneer, and causes the vision seen from the lonely mountain to become the golden realization of a grateful world.

The immortal craving of the nobler manhood for freedom to serve and worship the ideal, the longing which was expressed in the great exodus of Israel from Egypt under Moses’ leadership, found its highest fruitage in the advent of Christ Jesus. Indeed we of today, looking back across the pages of history, may advisedly say the deeper purpose of that exodus and its educational experience was to prepare the human understanding for the coming of the Christ. Thus Jesus was born of the tribe of Judah. The desert wanderings, the conquest of Canaan; the long years of preparation, of defeats or triumphs, of alternate light and shadow; the ebb and flow of prophetic vision and fidelity to spiritual law, — all these were the travail of a great nation giving birth to the Messiah. The effort of evil to strangle, and the nature of good to prevail, continued until the veil was lifted and the Christ appeared; then Abraham's pilgrimage received its consummate reward.

With the advent of Christ Jesus a new era began, revealing a brotherhood greater than the sons of Israel, a world-wide brotherhood, and a fatherhood more precious than that of Abraham, a heavenly Father of all, impartial in His love and universal in His embrace. Had it not been for the human disposition to dominate its fellow men, this brotherhood would have been established for all time and fully realized in the early Christian days; but cruelty and tyranny continued their persecutions to such an extent that it threatened, as did the famine in Egypt, to destroy again the seed of promise before the harvest could be realized in its full glory. With “truth forever on the scaffold, wrong forever on the throne,” what could the laborers in the vineyard do? What seemed to be the world's greatest need? Was it not for a country where truth could be cradled free from oppression, where men could love and serve God according to the dictates of their own conscience? Light and liberty have ever prospered hand in hand. Light cannot live without liberty, and as liberty begets light, so light demands liberty. The light of the gospels has never been put out, — it could not be, — and this immortal flame demanded and finally found a cradle of liberty.

During the latter part of the sixteenth century and throughout the seventeenth, many lovers of freedom and seekers of fortune colonized in America, but those who came for the specific purpose of worshiping God and serving Him in freedom and right were the Pilgrim fathers, who landed at Plymouth, Massachusetts. Mrs. Eddy says of them, “On shores of solitude, at Plymouth Rock, they planted a nation's heart, — the rights of conscience, imperishable glory” (Pulpit and Press, p. 10). Aspiration for a righteous liberty begets unity, hence the United States. We remember the blessing Jacob pronounced upon Joseph, upon him who was "separated from his brethren," upon him whom God did send before his brethren “to preserve life.”

It is surely significant that as Christ Jesus was born of Israel, so Christian Science was discovered in the United States of America by a descendant of the Pilgrims. Mrs. Eddy was a descendant of those brave men and women who in 1620 planted their standard upon the rock-ribbed shores of New England. Like Abraham of old, they were forced to leave forever the cradle of their old beliefs and to push out, trusting God's protecting arm to guide them to a better shore. Like Abraham, they too could have returned to the land of their fathers had they desired an earthly habitation, but they declared that "they sought a city, that is to say an heavenly;" hence they did not return. They had learned the unwisdom of attempting to put “new wine into old bottles.” Across the deeps their indomitable spirit led them, demanding freedom and broader skies, yearning for the peace that stretches out its arms alone to God. And God led them, prospering that inspired voyage and later crowning their successes with the final revelation of Christ in Christian Science.

A mist of tenderness and gratitude unspeakable almost dims the page as we of the present time read these lines written by its pilgrim author nearly fifty years ago (Science and Health, p. 226): “I saw before me the sick, wearing out years of servitude to an unreal master in the belief that the body governed them, rather than Mind. The lame, the deaf, the dumb, the blind, the sick, the sensual, the sinner, I wished to save from the slavery of their own beliefs and from the educational systems of the Pharaohs, who today, as of yore, hold the children of Israel in bondage. I saw before me the awful conflict, the Red Sea and the wilderness; but I pressed on through faith in God, trusting Truth, the strong deliverer, to guide me into the land of Christian Science, where fetters fall and the rights of man are fully known and acknowledged.”

As portrayed in the nineteenth chapter of Revelation, St. John foresaw the fall of that great city Babylon, the representation of human tyranny, oppression, cruelty, greed, and persecution, and he foretells the glorious spectacle of a united world following the leadership of the Christ idea, which he describes as follows: “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war… . And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God… . And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords.”

The revelator perceived the destiny of all nations and peoples united under the guidance of the one Mind, divine Love, and it is this power of God and His Christ that has been restored to us in Christian Science, the power which Jesus proved and commanded his followers to bring into manifestation, the healing and saving power which is our strength and comforter in every human need, even as Jesus said it would be. Christian Science makes pilgrims of us all; that is to say, it separates the tares from the wheat in each individual consciousness, and is solving the problems of the nations by setting each individual to work to understand and to obey the supreme guidance of the one Mind. This will inevitably be followed by oneness of purpose, action, and desire on the part of all peoples and nations, singleness of devotion to Truth and Love, faithfulness to God and to their fellow men.

Christian Science enables all to understand and heed the apostle's admonition, “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”

We have seen that as two or more in a community are healed and reformed by Christian Science, others are encouraged and made braver and bolder to reach out for themselves and appropriate all God's bounteous gifts, — health, joy, harmony, purity, spirituality, understanding, and peace. This is the “glorious liberty of the children of God,” and let us cherish no thought that would delay its realization. Longfellow says: —

From hand to hand the greeting flows,

From eye to eye the signals run,

From heart to heart the bright hope glows;

The seekers of the Light are one.

One in the freedom of the truth,

One in the joy of paths untrod,

One in the heart’s perennial youth,

One in the larger thought of God.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the following poem on Christmas Day in 1863. He was evidently depressed by his wife’s death 3 years earlier in a house fire and his son, a Union soldier wounded in a Civil War battle. While battling depression, he heard church bells ringing in Christmas and this changed his thought from despair into hope, that God is not dead and He prevails — and this poem, “Christmas Bells,” which is a familiar Christmas carol.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,

The belfries of all Christendom

Had rolled along

The unbroken song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till ringing, singing on its way,

The world revolved from night to day,

A voice, a chime,

A chant sublime

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth

The cannon thundered in the South,

And with the sound

The carols drowned

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

It was as if an earthquake rent

The hearth-stones of a continent,

And made forlorn

The households born

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;

“There is no peace on earth,” I said;

“For hate is strong,

And mocks the song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:

“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;

The Wrong shall fail,

The Right prevail,

With peace on earth, good-will to men.”

Dear God, the seasons in their row

In perfect order come and go,

Exemplifying what we know:

Reality is Your reflection.

We see Your hand in everything,

The autumn’s fruits, the life of spring,

And all the world seems to sing:

“Perfection! Perfection! Perfection!”

How often in some woodland bower

We see the workings of Your power

Unfolded in a single flower,

Recipient of Your protection.

Each lovely petal tells so much,

All velveted by Your own touch,

We find no words to speak of such

“Perfection! Perfection! Perfection!”

And when the stars spread forth at night

Their luminescent span of light,

So all the heavens are clear and bright,

Is not this done at Your direction?

To our awed sense, the stars appear

To say to us, “Your God is here;”

So vast You are — and yet so near.

“Perfection! Perfection! Perfection!”

Small we sit here and meditate

How sin and fear and greed and hate

Disrupt humanity’s estate,

And lost ourselves in sad dejection?

Ah, no, dear God. The wrongs we see

Must fade before reality,

And in it there can only be

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From Mrs. Eddy

History Corner

Christian Science Journal, January 1907

Words are things, and a small drop of ink,

Falling like dew upon a thought, produces

That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.

Although Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mrs. Eddy was first published to the world in 1875, it already has had a history sufficiently determinative to indicate unmistakably its true place in the permanent literature of mankind. Its phenomenal four hundred editions, published in its first thirty-one years, have exposed it in the most intense lime-light of the world's criticism and judgment.

Because it antagonizes the views of some learned professions, as well as the representatives of certain ecclesiastical dogmas which have been accumulating during something more than sixteen centuries, it has had to pass through the fiercest flames of hostile criticism, and has emerged unscathed and triumphant. It has had to bide a weary period of malice and misrepresentation, but like Daniel from the lions' den, it has been delivered unharmed. It has proven its place as one of the very few wholly good books possessed by men. When a really good book is born, a miracle has occurred and a benefaction given to humanity the value of which is beyond estimate.

Only thirty-two years have elapsed since the first appearance to the world of Science and Health, yet it has created already a new epoch in the religious thought of our race, and the restoration of the Christ-method of overcoming sin and sickness. The Christian method of healing the sick had practically become ignored by Christian ministers and their followers and had been committed to materialism. Christians thus abandoned an essential and basic part of the teachings and example of Jesus.

The unchanging processes of Truth have passed into the annals of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries as an accomplished and incontestable historical fact. To portray the tremendous significance of this fact, to prophesy the scope of its beneficence and its far-reaching activities, is beyond words. The results already attained ought to be a joyous inspiration to every lover of humanity. Whenever a drunkard is restored to a life of sobriety and usefulness, there is a streak of the growing dawn in the sky. Whenever the victims of opium, chloral, cocaine, and other vicious drugs are rescued from their degrading bondage, whenever the sick are lifted up from their beds of suffering through the blessed Christ-method, there are added more and more streaks of the growing dawn in the sky, — the dawn which is the sure precursor of the coming day!

The day is breaking,

And men are awaking;

God speed the time!

When Mrs. Eddy began the writing of Science and Health, with those "drops of ink" which have, indeed, made “millions think,” she was confronted with the difficulty that the English language had grown to be quite materialistic in its meanings and forms of expression. She found it a very imperfect vehicle to convey the spiritual truths which she desired to teach. She had to invent a new and distinct system of capitalization; she had to construct a glossary of many of the words which she was compelled to employ because of the lack of words and terms better adapted to express her exact and full meanings; she had to build up, in part, a new terminology.

Ever since its first appearance in print, the Christian Science textbook has been receiving the vigilant and untiring attention of its author in perfecting its statements. Every addition and alteration is being made, from time to time, which Mrs. Eddy considers useful. Every thoughtful Christian Scientist recognizes how useful this has been, and gladly and gratefully welcomes each amendment, in order better to keep step with her thought and teaching.

This book, with its every sentence and paragraph adjusted to the highest discernment of its author, is the very foundation of the Christian Science movement. Every dollar expended in the dissemination among men, women and children of our textbook is most useful. Every dollar we contribute to the dissemination of this book is for another stone in the rearing of a temple in the consciousness of the world grander than any temple reared by human hands. Every copy is bread upon the waters.

Christian Scientists ought not to need the admonition to study the pages of Science and Health constantly. Correct thinking is manifested in correct living. The constant reading of this textbook is a sure recipe for correct thinking. It needs to be read, not a few times only, but continually. We will thus assimilate its healing truths. No one has exhausted its depths, which are filled with treasures more precious than nuggets of gold or deposits of diamonds. “Full many a gem of purest ray serene” still awaits every one of us.

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Interesting Squibs

A happy life consists in tranquility of mind.

Happiness does not depend on outward things, but on the way we see them.

If you want to be successful, it's just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing.

To-day I got out of every danger, or rather, I got every danger out of me; for the dangers are not without, but within, in my own opinions.

Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.

When we recall the past we usually find that it is the simplest things — not the great occasions — that in retrospect give off the greatest glow of happiness.

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.

The man who never makes a mistake must get tired of doing nothing.

A bend in the road is not the end of the road…Unless you fail to make the turn.

Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God no matter what the conflict.

If there is to be any peace it will come through being, not having.

Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.

One night alone in prayer might make us new men, changed from poverty of soul to spiritual wealth, from trembling to triumphing.

What do we live for if not to make life less difficult for each other?

What light is to the eyes — what air is to the lungs — what love is to the heart, liberty is to the soul of man.

Our reliance is not in armies, it is in the love of liberty which God has planted in our hearts.

There are men running governments who shouldn't be allowed to play with matches.

The unthankful heart … discovers no mercies; but the thankful heart … will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings.

Remember that not to be happy is not to be grateful.

From the Early Workers

Christian Science Sentinel, December 21, 1918

Year by year Christendom celebrates the birth of Jesus the Christ on December the twenty-fifth, but the scientific Christian seeks to make every day a Christ-day. The new birth of the Christ, Truth, can come to human consciousness at all times of the year. Men and nations of the north associate snow and sleigh bells with Christmas, but south of the equator Christmas comes in the middle of the torrid summer. Christian Science invites mankind to rejoice over the fact that Christ is never absent, and to apply this fact to the healing of the nations. Mrs. Eddy has written (Poems, p. 29): —

Dear Christ, forever here and near,

     No cradle song,

No natal hour and mother's tear,

     To thee belong.

Jesus came as a little child. The tender spiritual perception of Mary, that man is the son of God, manifested itself in a human babe. Christians, therefore, do well who seek to understand and cultivate the spiritual child quality, for it is this quality in women and men which reveals the Christ to them. Unto each one, the Christ child is given — the consciousness of the kingdom of heaven. The unconscious humility and purity of the child pave the way for true wisdom. While the chief priests and scribes resented the wonderful works of the Messiah, the children cried in the temple, “Hosanna to the son of David,” and Jesus confounded his critics by quoting the words of the psalmist, “Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise.”

It was the childlike quality in the Wisemen of the East, not mere human wisdom, which brought them to do homage at Jesus' manger. They had seen his star. There were doubtless many wise men and many observers of the stars in the East that Christmastide, but the three alone sought the Christ child. Many men learned in the law discoursed in the temple, but the faith of a little child in the devout Simeon and the prophetess Anna caused them to take up the young child Jesus in their arms and praise God. It was the unspoiled wisdom of the child in Jesus himself which made the doctors in the temple “astonished at his understanding and answers,” for there is nothing more disconcerting to religionists splitting doctrinal hairs and magnifying intellectual nonessentials than the direct questions and answers of a little child. Unspiritual and uninspired discussions, dogmatical and problematical analyses, have little interest for those who hunger and thirst after righteousness.

It was the quality of the young child which caused Jesus as a grown man to bless the little ones and set one of them before his disciples as a type of those who enter the kingdom of heaven. The pure, unerring discernment of childlikeness enabled Jesus to select his disciples, to detect those who were ready to follow him immediately, leaving behind the ties of the flesh and making no excuses. Mrs. Eddy writes in Unity of Good (p. 59): “To mortal thought Jesus appeared as a child, and grew to manhood, to suffer before Pilate and on Calvary, because he could reach and teach mankind only through this conformity to mortal conditions; but Soul never saw the Saviour come and go, because the divine idea is always present.”

The willingness of Christ Jesus to act as the Way-shower crowned his earthly mission with everlasting glory. He was “the Lamb of God.” In Revelation we read that it was the Lamb who was found worthy “to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof;” the unspotted innocence of a selfless purpose alone could unfold to humanity God's plan of salvation and demonstrate the at-one-ment of Father and Son. Christ Jesus, as the blessed and beloved child, the heir, brought the gospel to a waiting world, and though the husbandmen might believe they could slay the heir, they could not prevent the rending of the veil, the bursting of the tomb, the resurrection, and the ascension. What Jesus could not say to the materialistic age in which he worked and taught, he left to be revealed by the Comforter, who leads into all truth.

When, in the early years of the nineteenth century, a little child nurtured in a godly home heard herself called by name by the voice of God, there came to that child, Mary Baker, now known to the world as Mary Baker Eddy, the divine commission which she has since fulfilled. Christian Science, which she discovered and founded, has fulfilled the law by bringing to human consciousness the motherhood as well as the fatherhood of God. This motherhood is to-day an established spiritual fact in human consciousness, an integral part of the Christian religion, now and forever inseparable from that religion. Thus the complete God is revealed and the understanding of the complete man knocks at the door for admission.

Referring to her discovery of Christian Science Mrs. Eddy writes in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures (p. 109): “The revelation of Truth in the understanding came to me gradually and apparently through divine power. When a new spiritual idea is borne to earth, the prophetic Scripture of Isaiah is renewedly fulfilled: ‘Unto us a child is born, ... and his name shall be called Wonderful.’”

Has this child been born in our individual consciousness, this state of mind which is ever ready to discard the untrue and to try the new, which does not wait for the fruit before plowing and planting, which plays with beasts of prey and, behold, they become lambs? The child of promise is itself the result of consecration and labor and the reward of good and faithful service; it escapes the dragon and enters newborn and unscathed into the shelter of the divine arms, sinless and free, blessed and blessing, known of the Mother God, the special care of the heavenly Father, the offspring of Love, the fulfillment of the law of self-existing, self-evident, demonstrable Principle. Who will follow where this child leads?

The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world the healing medicine of love which has transformed all manner of hearts for almost two thousand years.

Christian Science Sentinel, July 22, 1922

In Retrospection and Introspection (p. 93), Mrs. Eddy writes: “The best spiritual type of Christly method for uplifting human thought and imparting divine Truth, is stationary power, stillness, and strength; and when this spiritual ideal is made our own, it becomes the model for human action.”

Mankind is not always awake to the importance of stillness, since it is so contrary to the arrogance of so-called mortal mind. Isaiah held this same model before the people, only to be met with similar resistance; for he declared: “Thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.”

True quietness is never aggressive, never arrogant. It never egotistically asks to be considered in any way, nor does it ever call attention to itself. Indeed, on the contrary, it can never be recognized until egotism and its like be absent, and it only appears in proportion as turmoil and unrest disappear, since it is a truism that opposites cannot dwell together.

The so-called carnal mind is always ready with clamor and bustle, and insists on the futility of peace and quiet. Indeed, it will not only always argue against these, insisting on the importance of its own noise, but it will also endeavor to misrepresent quietness, by claiming that the latter is inactive and lethargic, — whereas these evil qualities have nothing in common with true stillness. Instead, there is no attitude so conducive to the very highest spiritual activity as is the proper understanding and attainment of right mental quietude.

True stillness or quietness is born of confidence in God. It comes to the heart which has laid down the warring beliefs and elements of fear and self-will. It is the fruit of patient striving after spiritual good. While selfishness is always anxious and disturbed, the bliss of unselfishness is known in peace and calm. This spiritual ideal is not won in a moment; but its attainment can be hastened in proportion as its beauty and desirability are recognized, and in the degree that it is earnestly loved, sought, and demonstrated.

How helpful it is to frequently turn aside for a few moments of quiet communion with divine Mind. The reverent contemplation of the presence and power of spiritual good will bring refreshment that can be gained in no other way. This process also brings the ability to speak with authority to the claims of tempest and disturbance whenever and wherever they may present themselves. Jesus so frequently went “apart to pray;” and as a consequent result, never once did he fail to express the "stationary power, stillness, and strength," of which Mrs. Eddy has told us.

One of the greatest blessings that Christian Science brings to the human race is that it enables the student — at all times, under all circumstances — to flee into “the secret place of the most High.” Whatever the apparent condition, he can instantly turn to the Father's house, can go in and close the mental door; and there in the stillness of the divine Mind, he can find the calm and quiet so necessary to the right working out of every problem.

The very words, — stillness, quietness, — bring visions of harmonious loveliness; and the holy attitude they stand for may be sought, cherished, and enjoyed. Indeed, we may always be awake to the fact that it is our constant privilege to avail ourselves of its possibility. Doing this, we shall come to realize what our Leader meant when she said in Retrospection and Introspection (p. 88), “Mind demonstrates omnipresence and omnipotence, but Mind revolves on a spiritual axis, and its power is displayed and its presence felt in eternal stillness and immovable Love.”

Christian Science Sentinel, February 2, 1918

To be full of joy is to have a defense impregnable. The glad heart always has splendid resisting power against the assaults of mental malpractice, wickedness, and fear. At the rebuilding of Jerusalem this was brought out by Nehemiah, who besought the people not to mourn, “neither be ye sorry,” he said; “for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” At the institution of Christianity, its Founder said to his disciples, “Your joy no man taketh from you.”

The basis of this joy is the assurance we have as to the being and character of God, and the settled peace and certainty as to His goodness. Christian Science develops in man the joy of this certainty, and our Leader says (Science and Health, p. 419), “Never fear the mental malpractitioner, the mental assassin, who, in attempting to rule mankind, tramples upon the divine Principle of metaphysics, for God is the only power.”

The mental manipulator referred to may be anyone who, for the time being, is actuated by a determination to “rule or ruin” others, and his influence is measured by the favor or fear with which his efforts are regarded. He may gather into a band those who are like-minded, and make them cooperative in his evil plot or scheme, but over every such effort hangs the verdict of the law, “Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished.”

It is clear enough, however, that darkness has no power over light, since even a little candle shineth far. So likewise even a momentary vision of the light of God brings illumination, and with it assurance that the works of darkness are not to be feared, — from which enlightenment and assurance comes a secret and sacred joy, an exultance in the omnipotence of good. It is the business of the Christian Scientist to increase and maintain this joy; then obedience becomes spontaneous to the admonition of our Leader (Science and Health, p. 442), “Christian Scientists, be a law to yourselves that mental malpractice cannot harm you either when asleep or when awake.”

Christ Jesus, in that most loving address wherein he set forth the safety of the branches which abide in the vine, said, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” It was the characteristic of the Son to attribute all power to the Father and to do nothing of himself. When man gains the Christ-spirit he then ascribes all power to God, that is, to good — hence his joy, which cannot be invaded or destroyed. His peace of mind enables him to say, “I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” Mrs. Eddy says clearly that “Christian Science translates Mind, God, to mortals” (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 22). She continues, “It shows the impossibility of transmitting human ills, or evil, from one individual to another; that all true thoughts revolve in God’s orbits: they come from God and return to Him, — and untruths belong not to His creation, therefore these are null and void.”

Let us be wise, for it is the fool who “hath said in his heart, There is no God.” Real joy is the cure for such folly; for the joyous heart finds cause for thanking and loving God hour by hour. This gladness brings companionship with the Christ, the divine Truth which overcomes the world. Spiritual joy unfolding divine Life, overcomes the flesh and the ills to which it is heir. Joy revealing God as Love shows how “the accuser of our brethren is cast down,” and enables us to hear the “loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ.”

Christian Science Sentinel, February 23, 1907

Though the desire for happiness is universal, few possess it. Many think they would be happy if they only had greater wealth, in attaining social distinction, in winning worldly fame. In Christian Science one learns that happiness is spiritual, that it proceeds from goodness, and not from the abundance of material things which he may possess.

Accompanying the desire for material riches often come thoughts which bring with them much unhappiness, — envy, discontent, selfishness, greed, and sometimes a dishonest thought, — the willingness to profit at another's expense, also the unhappy and unchristian ambition to out-shine one's neighbors. In the writings of Paul we read. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;” again, “They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.”

Christian Science brings to us peace and joy in place of unrest and discontent. It gives us an abiding sense of the presence of God in place of the barrenness of human life. It brings us health and harmony in place of disease and discord. It places our treasure in heaven instead of in the earth. It exalts our ambition.

A man may think that because he has been able to lay aside a certain amount of money, that he has thereby made great gain, but what is gain? Paul teaches that “godliness with contentment is great gain.” Then it would follow that true riches are mental, and only as we are growing in holiness are we gaining the riches which can never be taken from us. The world thinks that riches give power, but with clearer vision Mrs. Eddy declares, “The good you do and embody gives you the only power obtainable” (Science and Health, p. 192), and she urges us to have no ambition nor aim other than that of holiness.

The spiritual understanding of that which constitutes true riches, and the overcoming of the material sense of wealth, will destroy the claim of poverty. If we would overcome a sense of financial limitation we should examine our thoughts and the real desire of our hearts. We should be sure that our prayer is for greater spiritual growth, a sincere desire for the real substance, a longing for the true riches, and not a desire for more material possessions. Spiritual attainments call down blessings from heaven, and assurance is given that when, through goodness and spiritual understanding, we obtain power with God, our present needs will all be supplied. When our thoughts are made right, the outward manifestation will be a more harmonious environment.

The important thing, then, is to seek first, last, and always, “the kingdom of God, and his righteousness.” The whole teaching of Christian Science is to direct thought away from the material to the spiritual. Dependence upon the material, and love for it, must fade out of human consciousness, and be replaced by love for spiritual realities. This is the only road to health, happiness, and to the consciousness of our heavenly Father's abundant supply; and those who follow this road will realize the promise of Isaiah: “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily.”

Christian Science Sentinel, December 11, 1915

The eye of faith sees differently than the eye of flesh; it sees better and more clearly; it sees the truth and the reality. The eye of faith turns away from the things of earth in order to look up on high and, like St. John, through an open door to gain a glimpse into heaven. Here below the peoples are shaken as dice in a cup, but up yonder faith perceives the Lamb as it had been slain, in the midst of the throne, having in his hand the book with the seven seals, and engaged in breaking these seals one by one.

J. J. Knap, D.D., in The Christian Intelligencer

Christian Science Sentinel, July 12, 1919

It puzzled me very much as a little girl in an orthodox Sunday school, that the angels never came to us as they did to those in Bible times. It seemed to me that in every Sunday's lesson these words appeared: “An angel came to him and said” — followed by some good promise, as I remembered it. For about ten years after I left Sunday school I gave little thought to the Bible or to attending church. About four years ago, however, when I had been in deep sorrow for several months, experiencing extreme loneliness, Christian Science was presented to me, and I began an earnest study of its teachings.

The searchlight of truth reached the darkest and innermost parts of my human consciousness when I found on page 581 of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mrs. Eddy, her wonderful definition of angels: “God's thoughts passing to man; spiritual intuitions, pure and perfect; the inspiration of goodness, purity, and immortality, counteracting all evil, sensuality, and mortality.” I read and re-read this definition. When I finally discerned in a small way just what it meant, with that discernment came the wonderful and happy realization that angels had come to me times without number. My thought was that if I did not get another truth from the Christian Science textbook, I had enough in that paragraph to make me happy forever. With that realization it seemed, too, that the prayer, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” had also been illumined; for here were God's angels with me, right here on earth. My heart fills with love and gratitude for Mrs. Eddy whenever the word angels comes to my thought.

On page 299 of Science and Health, speaking of angels as “God's representatives,” Mrs. Eddy says, “By giving earnest heed to these spiritual guides they tarry with us, and we entertain ‘angels unawares.’” While at my work one day in a busy printing office these thoughts came pouring into my consciousness. With each thought came some new revelation, some new understanding, and for each one I am very grateful. The one that has helped me most, however, is the one that prompted this article.

Home is a word that is very dear to all. Webster's definition of home is, “One's own dwelling place; the house in which one lives.” This of course is the home of the material, mortal man. In Christian Science we learn that man is spiritual, and that he has a spiritual home. We learn, also, that God is Spirit, that God is Mind; and as we realize that this spiritual man lives in Spirit, in Mind, reflecting Mind, or intelligence, we understand the truth of the passage, “In him we live, and move, and have our being.” Mind becomes home to us consciously in proportion as our thought abides in God.

To entertain anyone who is in our home we need to remain at home — to be at home. We cannot entertain anyone there if we are in some other city or state. Man's spiritual home is in Mind, in God, and to entertain angels unawares we need always to be at home in Mind.

Angels are ever guarding our every footstep, telling us how best to do our work, where God needs us most, and always shielding us from harm. They are the messengers of divine Principle, who governs man. When we have such visitants as these, should we not always desire, even yearn, to be found “at home,” so as to entertain them? It is by being “at home” to angels that we find ourselves in heaven; and the truth of this latter statement will be recognized by reading Mrs. Eddy's definition of heaven, on page 587 of Science and Health: “Harmony; the reign of Spirit; government by divine Principle; spirituality; bliss; the atmosphere of Soul.” It is only by being guided by these angels, making me pure and perfect, and making me useful to God, that I can express my gratitude to the world for the pure life of Mrs. Eddy, and for Christian Science.

I am the place where God shines through,

For He and I are one, not two,

He wants me where, and as I am,

I need not fret, nor fear, nor plan.

If I will be relaxed and free

He’ll carry out His work through me.

Current Articles

I came across something which I thought was quite interesting, although not related to my own area. It involves Sheffield, in the midlands of England, and Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, which I believe is 100 miles or so from Plainfield.

In 1848, five men in the small settlement of Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, decided to continue the Christmas tradition they had brought from their native town of Micklehurst, in England, by singing Christmas carols house-to-house. So they went out on Christmas Eve, and sang just four carols brought from England. Amazingly, the carol singing has continued every year since then, with a slowly increasing number of choir members drawn from the local community as the town grew. Today they have 50 uniformed members, and a total of 132 members altogether. They are all men, and they sing 15 carols (including the original 4) in 3-part harmony, accompanied by 2 trumpets and 2 trombones. They follow a set route, from just after midnight until dawn on Christmas Day, a beautiful start to this special day.

Meanwhile, in English churches in the early 19th century, the choirs (or the old spelling ‘quires’) comprising singers and musicians who sat in the west gallery in each parish church, for the church services, both men and women, were being replaced by church organs, and more modern hymns. Some parishioners continued singing their much-loved carols and hymns in the streets and in village pubs, particularly at Christmas. This dwindled over time, but Sheffield, which is fairly near to Micklehurst, has remained a stronghold for this enthusiastic and robust carol singing to this day, held in public houses in the area. Eventually the Glen Rock and Sheffield groups learned of each other and got in touch, and in 2002 and 2012, the Glen Rock Carollers visited England to join in the Festival of Village Carols in Sheffield, and in 2014, the English Carollers were welcomed in Glen Rock when the first Festival of English Village Carols was held there.

Statue of the 5 original singers in Glen Rock:

In more recent times, the West Gallery Music Association has been set up in England to share interest in this older style of church praise singing, and Quires have formed to learn and perform these hymns and carols. My husband and I have enjoyed several ‘West Gallery’ workshops, where the hymns are sung in 4-part harmony, and the tenor part has the melody line. Musical instruments, such as the violin, cello, flute or serpent play along with each part, and the result is an inspiring, joyous sound of praising God.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” James 1: 17

This verse always makes me think of Christmas time and New Year’s. People, including me, are looking for the perfect gift for someone and this verse reminds me that “every good gift and every perfect gift” is from God who loves us. He gives us His love, along with all His synonyms: Life, Truth, Love, Principle, Mind, Soul, Spirit and all that each includes. God gives just what we need at just the right time and what “blesses one, blesses all.” So when we give a gift we should remember these things.

These gifts come down from the “Father of lights” and aside from Christmas lights, which are beautiful, the Father’s lights can be manifested as the stars, the sparkle of sunlight on the snow, sunshine coming through the clouds on a cold dreary day, street lights shining from above us, or even rows of lights on the interstate. Most importantly, the Father’s lights light up our thoughts and our hearts, giving joy to all.

The Father is not variable neither has “shadow of turning.” His love and strength are with us always. He is always speaking to us. He is always guiding and governing us and our world. So how could we have the winter “doldrums” or the summer “blahs”, when our “Father of lights” is constantly sending us good and perfect gifts.

I am becoming increasingly aware of the importance of reading and studying the Bible.

The spiritual significance has been coming to light thanks to our Bible Studies and other activities, such as a movie about the history of the Bible that some of us have been watching. It is probably important to note that after learning about the many different versions of the Bible that have been written, we study with the King James Version of the Bible. There are 704 versions in different languages translated from Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and translations of the New Testament in 1,551 languages.

Many people suffered great hardships, and even death, to write, or share Bibles for the everyday man to read, in order that we might be blessed by the Word of God and live in Truth and Love.

Mrs. Eddy lived in a household where the Bible was read each day and she was healed of a life threatening injury by reading the Bible. She writes in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, “The Bible has been my only authority. I have no other guide in the straight and narrow way of Truth.” Also, “The central fact of the Bible is the superiority of spiritual over physical power.”

I am so grateful to have found Christian Science and the Plainfield Church, where the Bible is the foundation of all our work, along with Science and Health, and that citations from these books comprise our powerful Lesson Sermons that are available to everyone. Each day I love the Bible more and more.

I learned a wonderful lesson recently. Over the years, whenever we would be having guests for dinner, I would get very anxious — what should I fix to eat? Is everyone going to like everything? Are they going to have a good time? So with relatives of my husband’s coming that I had never met before, I was feeling particularly anxious about their visit.

My practitioner reminded me that the most important thing was how did I want them to feel while they were here and after they left? All the details around their visit would unfold beautifully as long as I had the correct motive in my thought. Mrs. Eddy says in Science and Health on page 254, “Pilgrim on earth, thy home is heaven; stranger, thou art the guest of God.” This reminded me that we were all the guests of God and that my home, or consciousness, is at home in God where we all dwell harmoniously. God fills this home with perfect love and peace. Thinking this way, I felt completely relaxed about their visit. I started to really look forward to meeting them and knew that all the activities we were planning were going to unfold according to God’s plan.

The first night everyone came for dinner, and we had such a good time. The next day my husband mentioned that because they were staying in a small AirBnB, that it would probably be nice to have his sister stay with us. I gave an enthusiastic, “I would love to have your sister stay with us!” There was a lunch planned the next day at a restaurant that fell through, but instead our visitors had a sunset dinner overlooking the ocean. It was beautiful! There were other things, too, that turned out better than we thought; but I knew it was because I had turned everything over to God, and knew we were all God’s children and were His guests.

When it was time for my husband’s relatives to leave, none of us was ready to say good-bye, especially my husband’s sister, who now feels she has a new friend, and so do I.

I am so grateful for practitioner support and for this lesson in getting self out of the way and acknowledging that our only real selfhood is in and of God. This is how we bless one another, not impress one another. In Miscellany, Mrs. Eddy says, “may each member of this church rise above the oft-repeated, what am I? to the scientific response: I am able to impart truth, health and happiness, and this is the rock of my salvation and my reason for existing.” It is only the false sense of self that feels fearful or anxious. I am so grateful for Christian Science and its teaching about who we really are as God’s children, and how inseparable we are from Him.

“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” (Gen 1:26)

While studying this verse and rereading Mrs. Eddy's chapter on Genesis in Science and Health, and Herbert Rieke’s discussion on Genesis in “No Big Power Veto,” it became very clear that the “us” in verse 26 of Genesis I, refers to Truth, Life, Love, Principle, Mind, Soul, Spirit — all the synonyms of God. All that God is, all that He imparts, I/we naturally reflect as His image and likeness. However, it is my responsibility to be mindful daily and strive to express these qualities in my words, my thoughts, and my actions. It is through my demonstrating these qualities more and more, that I will see Truth, Life, Love, Principle, Mind, Soul, Spirit’s dominion over all things.

I am so grateful for the beautiful citation to “turn our gaze to the spiritual record of creation, to that which should be engraved on the understanding and heart ‘with the point of a diamond’ and the pen of an angel.”

I am very grateful for the weekly unity watches. They have given me purpose, been instructive, helped build my spiritual muscles, and have given me discipline to do this as part of my work for God. It is a blessing to have access to all the books on our website, especially those by Gilbert Carpenter. We have been given such powerful tools that we must use unselfishly to help our world.

I had a wake-up call to do more one day after reading the local news. There were different types of division flaring up between several groups. Some of this was spilling over so that it was affecting children. This alerted me to be more diligent and specific in my prayers regarding the needs in my community. I wanted to support and bless those who were trying to find practical solutions to these issues, and help silence any lying voice that would try to tempt man to hate or harm his brother.

Now I have begun to take time each day to sit by the window and send out prayers for the community and cities. I was also inspired by a story which Gilbert Carpenter, Sr. shares about prayer while he was at Pleasant View. He wrote, “I let my thought go out to all who needed God, realizing that God is All-Presence, All-Power, and Love.” From “The Power of Prayer” by Gilbert C. Carpenter, Sr., I also used assignments given at the Roundtables such as reading “Love Your Enemies” by Mary Baker Eddy.

The other day as I entered a store in a neighborhood that has been affected by some of these challenges, I was greeted by the storekeeper with an outpouring of warmth and love, as if I were an old friend. That clearly dispelled any lie that man is created to be divided or suspicious. I could feel her desire to express Christly love. The Bible says to let brotherly love continue. This was wonderful proof of that!

A couple of weeks ago I made a mistake. I rushed in to help someone from my childhood. I went with the right intention and pure purpose, but I forgot an important step that we are taught here at Plainfield. I forgot to pray and ask God about that person’s intention. So there was not an avenue for me to be open and listening to God.

Well, it turned out that it was not a good or loving intention that this person held, no not at all. This deeply upset me, and I became ill and weak. I couldn’t eat any food. I spent days sleeping and weeping (and yes, I had a bit of a “pity party,” no doubt!). But I also called my Plainfield practitioner for prayer, and I listened to our beautiful 24/7 reading room, almost non-stop. Through this I felt God’s peace; and I felt God’s love. My practitioner was so very loving and wise. I felt cared for, beyond measure, and felt uplifted. It was a very purifying and holy time.

I learned a lot during this time. First, that the “bloody holidays” are aptly named! And it is right to say “NO” if you do not feel that you are going into the right company, no matter what that association may be. I learned also the importance of staying focused and undistracted, like Nehemiah on the wall, with a tool in one hand, the sword of Truth in the other. I also learned again, and best of all, the lesson, that God loves me and that my heritage is with God!

I was delighted to hear exactly this sentiment, written by Una Willard, and read at the December 4 Roundtable: “Does the argument come to you that you didn’t come forth from as good a family, or have as good opportunities as someone else? — then all the more, stand on the fact that you came forth from God, that your background is God Himself.

Thou art Truth’s honest child,

Of pure and sinless heart;

I have often repeated the mistake of rushing in to help someone, whenever I forget to let God do the battle and tried to take things into my own hands. Thanks to the wonderful teaching by our practitioners at this church, I am learning how to handle error—by knowing that the battle is the Lord’s, that He is God of heaven and earth, and of all mankind. All God’s creatures are wondrous and loving in His Kingdom.

So I am ever grateful to our Lord God Almighty, who has always saved me, warned me, protected me, from many evils throughout my life. I am so grateful for the pure love in Christian Science that Mary Baker Eddy brought to mankind. Thank you to my practitioner at this church for her prayer and teaching. Thank you Christ Jesus; what a blessing you are for the world! Thank you dearest Plainfield independent! How I love you all—my brothers and sisters in Christ!

On our church website, PlainfieldCS.com, in an article called “The Real Work of Church Work,” Bicknell Young says, “Anyone who has not been in church work does not know himself.” In my time at Plainfield, I have found this statement to be very true, and I am grateful for all I have learned about my true self, the self that God made me to be.

My old identity was filled with many things I have since learned are false, and the way that I have been able to really solidify these changes in my character is clearly from being here, learning Christian Science, and doing this church work. This work has made me see that God made us, and prepared our place and our purpose. I see that, as we diligently do this work, we all have equal access to the divine Mind, and each of us proves we are the expression of Soul, as Mrs. Eddy has told us.

I see that God is our only employer. I also have seen that if people feel they can't do church work, that is just a claim that needs to be handled. The way to handle it is to start volunteering and start working. Without this work, I don't feel I would have learned to live this Science, and definitely would not have made the progress I have.

Church work has also made me see that when we are doing the work, we are all on the same team, God's team. That is the only place to be, and I am so grateful for this opportunity.

I’m so grateful for Christ Jesus and Mary Baker Eddy’s God-sent message and how they lived their examples for us to follow. One of these examples is praying unceasingly, and particularly praying before our meals.

We hear a lot today about food being an affliction. Mealtimes which should be a time of gratitude and happiness, have become a time of anxiety, and pain afterward for many people. This lie starts by making you afraid of eating something, so you eliminate that, and then the next thing, and then the next thing. Through Christian Science, we see that this is just one more way that mortal mind would keep us slaves, to be afraid of eating. Praying with the Lord’s Prayer when we sit down to eat is one of those simple but preventive steps we can take every time we eat.

In Course in Divinity and General Collectanea, also known as the “Blue Book,” on page 195, Mrs. Eddy gives us something that is very simple but can be used in conjunction, or as an alternative, to using the Lord’s Prayer. It says, “Before each meal, deny the existence of any power or intelligence that can interfere with our conscious oneness with God.” I find that so beautifully said and so very powerful.

I say to anyone who has been tempted with this lie, please use what we have been given. Have faith in it, it works. We do not have to be afraid of food, something so good — nourishment from our Father-Mother. We can stand our ground with the Lord's Prayer, or the simple prayer in the “Blue Book,” or any other of your choice. We need not live in fear, there is a Father-Mother God, always present, who we can turn to and have our relief.

John, that dear, beloved apostle, said, “For this is the message that ye have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.” I remember reading an account about John, how during his last days, that is what he would tell everyone. Everywhere he spoke, he would say, “Little children, love one another.” What a wonderful and important lesson that is. How much happier, healthier, holier, we all would be if we would just love one another as God loves.

Mary Baker Eddy has taught us some beautiful things about love. One statement that has meant a lot to me recently is from the “Blue Book” on page 63. “Thou infinite Life, Thou infinite strength, Thou art here. You are strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. You are strengthened with might by His spirit in the inner man. Flow through me, spirit of divine Love, to do this healing. Divine Love flows everywhere and is reflected through you as well as through the most advanced Scientist. Look up and feel its beams of warmth and live in it.” (Mary Baker Eddy)

I work with this almost daily. Think of it for yourself, to know that divine Love is flowing everywhere, and is reflected through you. Our own human love is useless, but God's love is reflected in you when you allow it to be. Then look up and feel its beams of warmth and live in it. What could be more beautiful or healing than that!

Christian Science Journal, June 1885

There is no unbelief;

Whoever plants a seed beneath the sod

And waits to see it push away the clod,

He trusts in God.

Whoever says, when clouds are in the sky,

“Be patient, heart; light breaketh by and by,”

Trusts the Most High.

Whoever sees ‘neath winter’s field of snow,

The silent harvest of the future grow,

God’s power must know.

Whoever lies down on his couch to sleep,

Content to lock each sense in slumber deep

Knows God will keep.”

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Letters of Gratitude

Thank you for the dedicated, consecrated workers at the Plainfield Christian Science Church, Independent. Your work means that I have access to a Christian Science reading room and church, and a workshop available every Sunday, that I can participate in Bible Study and Wednesday evening testimony meetings, as all made possible by the dedicated workers that give up their time and love so generously.

Your blessing is being felt sometimes in the middle of the night or sometimes in the quiet morning hours. Thank you all.

I love recent citations from Science and Health that I have memorized which remind me of the strength and foundation of Mary Baker Eddy’s work and inspiration. One of them so beautifully states the definition of divine metaphysics, and the other is a beautiful prayer.

Divine Metaphysics, as revealed to spiritual understanding, shows clearly that all is Mind, and Science. Hence all is in reality, the manifestation of Mind.

Thank you, God, for your presence always.

Recently, in a calendar statement, we were drawn to the article “The Beatitudes” by Doris White Evans. A few years ago, when I first learned of Plainfield CS Church, Independent, I would go onto the website and read the many articles and past Bible Lessons, and I would hear about Mrs. Evans mentioned at the Roundtables or in a Bible Study. I must admit I grew quite curious to know more about Mrs. Evans and was able to then find her Sermons and Articles on the website, and to purchase a copy of her book which I obtained from the Plainfield Store. The ideas presented in the book are very inspiring, encouraging, and practical. I am grateful to learn about Mrs. Evans and her deep love and devotion to the Cause of Christian Science. I thank you so much for making available all the precious and timely articles that are on the website.

Many thanks for the Sept. 14, 2022, Wednesday meeting, with its inspired readings on “Christian Healing” and its call to do the works through “right thinking and right acting.” What a privilege it is to have this instruction and this opportunity! And thank you to everyone who testified, bearing witness to proof of this obedience to God! Thank you for the love, honesty, and uplift that flowed from this exalted time of praising God — it was very precious.

I enjoy the Roundtable so much. I listen to each one three times. I am grateful for all of you. I am growing in Science more than all the years I studied before I knew of Plainfield, with only two years of study. I am working on demonstrating this Truth and learning to love more, speak less and listen more.

I am so grateful for the watching points by Gilbert Carpenter and all the other gems that Plainfield opened up to the world.

God bless you all!

To all members,

I am grateful for all the good things you bring to my life and the world.

Thank you all, every one of you far and wide, who work to make this church what it is — and what a gift it is to a waiting world.

Being a member of the Plainfield Church has been life-altering, more than I could have ever imagined. Most importantly, however, from what I have been taught here is the importance of reaching out and helping others, and sharing Mrs. Eddy’s pure Christian Science, made beautifully accessible through the wonderful website and periodicals. This has proven to be the most profound blessing of all!

Enclosed please find our monthly contribution to Plainfield’s worldwide outreach.

Sending all our love to you.

I wanted to thank you for the website and the YouTube videos. I have been listening to the YouTube video “The Ninety-First Psalm,” by Bliss Knapp. It is often recommended that we memorize this psalm. Listening over and over has not only helped me to memorize it, but has also helped me to understand it better. Thank you, Plainfield.

Thank you for these many blessings:

True Government Watch Booklet on the carousel; it has been, and is, a splendid source to work with, and grounding us to know that God, and only God is in charge!

Immortality — 1949 Association Address by Herbert E. Rieke, also on the carousel is enlightening and profound! Thank you so much for showing our real selfhood: one with God, now and always!

Peace in Christ, so beautifully sung on Sunday, November 6, 2022, is what we can have when we work with and stay with these messages of Truth! Thank you so much!

Thank you, Plainfield, for providing us with the booklet “True Government.” It is very timely and presents strong watches and ideas to work with. Much appreciated.

Please pass along a hug and thanks to Faith, Bruce, Jared and anyone else who sang the musical selection “There is peace in Christ.” It was wonderful.

I am so grateful for this Independent Church, and all of the pure Christian Science that is practiced here. The website is such a blessing and often I find myself uplifted by one of the many articles that reminds me of God’s allness and ever presence. I am happy to have access to the materials anytime — it helps to raise my consciousness above the clamor of mortal mind. I was raised in Christian Science but had fallen away from our local church as an adult. I always turned to God in times of darkness, but this church has given me a real appreciation for the Truth and my desire to know the truth in everything in my experience.

Recently the south and east of England has had a prolonged, very hot and dry period of weather. From what I’ve learned at Plainfield, I have been trying to know that God controls the weather, therefore we can experience only harmonious conditions, including an adequate supply of gentle rain.

At one point it became extremely hot, and I started experiencing bad chest pains, so I contacted a practitioner, who very kindly said, “let the peace and love of God reign within your heart, within your whole being, because surely, He does. This understanding will eliminate the belief of high blood pressure.” That was such a loving thought to dwell on, and I am so grateful that when I woke up the next morning, I was no longer experiencing any difficulty.

This morning we are finally having some rain — gentle, steady rain for a couple of hours so far, and not the violent thunderstorms in the weather forecast. (A false prophecy as was mentioned in a recent Roundtable.)

I am so grateful for what I am learning at Plainfield and my very kind Plainfield independent practitioner, and to Mrs. Eddy for her discovery and life of dedication.

Much gratitude and love to all.

Yesterday I came across a dead chameleon lying on my front stoop. It had puncture wounds on its side and was turning a splotchy black. Sadly, one of my five cats had gotten to it. Chameleons are sprinkled throughout the yard, and I love them (from afar). I took a twig to try and move it out of the way. Then the thought came to bless it first even though I knew it had crossed over.

I covered it with both hands and prayed, letting it know that whatever the cat had done was what came naturally to him and really in God’s kingdom there are no accidents. Life is immortal and His chameleon reflection was untouched right now. I uncovered my hands to see its stomach stirring but nothing else, so I continued to cover it and pray: God is All. Yes, now I could see it breathing! I reached down to stroke it and its eye opened. I picked it up and set it into a potted plant away from the cat’s reach. I let it be for about an hour and returned to see it plumper and visibly alive, so I set it on a plumbago bush far away, poured water on it, and left. Later in the afternoon I saw it upright and alert. How great is God! Even a little understanding can be a blessing to others or whatever is within reach to bless.

I am very grateful to be able to practice this Science for the little creatures in my yard.

Thank you, Plainfield, for taking up the cross and faithfully representing the Christ and the Comforter as brought to us by Mary Baker Eddy.

The weekly Lesson Sermons are wonderful and the Roundtable presentations full of inspiration and support. I appreciate too having the watches to consider prior to pondering the Lesson each day and being reminded of the daily duties too. I love having my 24/7 access to our “reading room,” the Plainfield website.

Thank you, God, and thank you Plainfield.

Testimonies of Healing

from C. T. in New Jersey

Recently, I had the joy of helping a friend move a safe, a very, very heavy safe, weighing hundreds of pounds. I was glad to be there to help. God directed us, and we got the safe up from the basement.

My friend didn’t know it, but I experienced chest pain and difficulty breathing during this time. In fact, it had happened to me several times recently, and each time I applied the healing truth God has given us, “The Spirit of God has made me and the breath of the Almighty has given me life” — and I was free in a matter of moments. We finished our job and took care of it.

I was getting kind of tired of this, so the next day I called a practitioner from this church, because I was concerned that something was up. About this chronic situation she told me, we live and move and breathe in God. She told me, yes, that I was using the truth rightly, but she told me more. She told me Mrs. Eddy talks in Miscellaneous Writings about a change of heart. I realized, like so many of us — if not all of us in this church — we have had a change of heart, where God has led us to a life of love, not a life of self. I realized that that is what has allowed me to be healed, because I was out to do good for someone, as God directed. It’s a remarkably beautiful thing. As your life is a reflection of God, Love, you experience the things that are God-like.

I needed to be reminded of this unity that is here, and the opportunity to speak to a practitioner. To get the whole understanding is tremendous, and makes us stronger, and safer, and healthier. It’s easy to slip back into a life of loving self, out of laziness or whatever.

I thank God for this wonderful place of learning that’s open to the whole world, and for our wonderful practitioners, and the freedom it brings. I’m not going to have that problem again because there are no chronic problems in divine Mind. Thank God for this church.

from S. P. in California

“I’m everything I am, because you loved me.” These are the lyrics to a popular song of years ago. They say it all for me.

Through hypocritical teaching of Christian Science growing up, the love of God was not evident, nor was my worth. Through correct teaching of Christian Science here at Plainfield Church, “I find my life as God’s own child,” as hymn 154, says.

And, I found my self-worth! I never knew I could claim that! “Living stones we, each in his place, may we be worthy such a grace,” from another hymn, 176. I thank You, God, because I found You love me, and, for all the practitioner support in the revealing of this.

There is another popular old song that has also been coming to me, since all I have been hearing around me lately is “people getting ready” for Thanksgiving. This song begins,

People, get ready, there’s a train a-coming.

You don’t need baggage; you just get on board.

All you need is faith to hear the diesels humming.

You don’t need a ticket; you just thank the Lord.

from M. J. in Illinois

Several years ago, when my children were all toddlers, I drove from the Midwest to Arizona to spend time with my parents. On my second day of travel, I found myself stuck in traffic on an interstate in Albuquerque, and my gas was dwindling quickly. Because of the desert heat, I had my air conditioning on high, and the unexpected delay resulted in running out of gas a few miles from the next exit.

I pulled as far off the road as I could and got very still so I could listen to God, who is my constant companion and only supply. Within two minutes, a man pulled behind me in a truck and came to my window. He asked if I needed assistance, and when he saw my predicament, he told me that he would push my car with his truck down the highway to the next exit and a gas station. This was the answer that I have learned will always come when I make myself receptive to it.

We drove carefully down the highway about four miles and were able to go down the exit ramp to a gas station at the right of the ramp. I was able to fill my car with gasoline, thank God for sending my angel, and get back on track. The entire event took about 10 minutes.

Often when I seem to find myself being challenged by error or false belief, I remember that God has never failed me. I know the importance of being grateful and this helps to keep my thought on God and his omnipotence.

Thank you all for the love that comes from this church and reflects our Father, Omnipotent God.

from K. M. in California

I am so grateful to God for a healing I had just the other day. I woke up with a very painful toothache. I called my practitioner and she immediately reminded me that there is no reality in pain because of the allness of God, and no matter to feel pain. She also reminded me about the article by Doris Evans that was mentioned in the Roundtable on Sunday called “Evil Has No Local Habitation.” It states, “When you are tempted to be disturbed, remember, ‘Evil has no local habitation.’ Evil can’t live anywhere. It can’t live in anyone’s house and it can’t call itself by anyone’s name. Evil has no local habitation in anyone’s chest … stomach, heart, head, or organ of the body; in an arm, a leg, or a foot,” or in my case a mouth.

I continued to declare the truth about my present perfection, but the pain seemed very intense so I made an appointment with a dentist. He could not see me until 5:00. I called my practitioner and told her what I had done. She assured me that Truth is operating and whatever I felt I needed to do at the time, God would direct.

I wondered how I was going to last that long with the pain I was feeling. After a while I decided that I have declared the truth and my practitioner is also doing the same, so I have to get up out of my chair and know that in God everything is already all right. Truth is operating, I just need to trust that it is. The truth doesn’t need me to operate; my job is to trust in God. Not too long after getting up, I could feel the pain lessening. I texted my practitioner to tell her and to tell her how grateful I was for the progress. I called the dentist and canceled my appointment. I was so grateful to experience once again the power of this Christ, Truth!

from S. W. in New Jersey

Ten years ago, I was living in an apartment complex, and it became infested with bed bugs. Every apartment in my area, and there were about 50 apartments, every one had them, except my apartment. I thank God for His protection, and for what I have learned in this church. I was taught to work every day with the Ninety-first Psalm. Two of the verses read, “Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” That is the law of God, a protection, and a healing Truth.

I thank God and Mary Baker Eddy for giving us this Science, for the office of practitioner, and for the practical Truth I am learning in this church.

from E. H. in Oklahoma

I woke up one morning feeling stiff and sore. I was confused and puzzled, because I had not been overly active the day before. I moved my legs and attempted to roll over in bed. Agonizing pain shot through me. I immediately started praying the Lord’s Prayer to calm me down. I know “There is no pain in Truth and no truth in pain.” Mary Baker Eddy (S&H, p. 113)

I pushed through the pain and struggled to sit up. It hurt, but I took some breaths and then tried to stand up and then to walk. I grabbed a chair to help steady myself and I got to my computer and opened it to the article “Oneness,” by Bicknell Young. I realized I needed help, so I called a Plainfield practitioner and left a message asking for help on my back pain. I continued to listen to articles on the website and came across the article “Practice” by Martha Wilcox. Something “clicked” and I realized I was praying for, and as, a separate mortal entreating God to deliver me. I had forgotten Jesus’ revelation, “I Am One with the Father” (within) and the Father’s assurance, “Son all that I have is yours.” And “the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the work.”

I fell asleep in the chair and slept deeply. The practitioner texted me to say she had been working and would continue. I was able to be comfortable in bed that night and woke refreshed and well.

I am thankful to Mary Baker Eddy and her dedicated work, for the textbook and other writings. I am thankful for the wonderful Plainfield website and the practitioner who is a ready help in times of trouble.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

from Sandy in North Carolina

I’m learning now the importance of practitioner support. Mrs. Mary Baker Eddy understood the importance of having a practitioner to support us with our praying work. I’m very grateful, with humility, I’m very grateful for practitioner, for what she gave to my husband. She gave him the article “Body” by Mary Baker Eddy. I took it for me. I’ve been blessed, and I've been healed, and this message of the practitioner saying, “Truth, Sandy, stay with the Truth.” “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)

I have been in the United States for more than thirty years, unable to get my citizenship. This week it has been granted to me! Thank you to the Lord Jesus Christ, for the writings of Mrs. Mary Baker Eddy, and for the wonderful practitioner who speaks with moral authority in the Roundtables.

I’ve been healed. When I came to Nebraska I had a big tumor in my breast. I couldn’t talk about it. You know, the things that happened to me — now there is no cancer! Just by working with the article “Body,” there was intervention.

I am so grateful for Christian Science Independent for having these teachings around the world the way Mrs. Mary Baker Eddy wanted it to be done, for doing it correctly. I’m going to be able to be an American citizen. I am grateful for that intervention, for her talks, for all the workers of the Independent Christian Scientists.

I’m still a baby, I’m still learning, I'm still working. I just need to be more obedient. I’m so grateful for this meeting tonight, for the hymns, for blessing the community, and blessing the world. Thank you.

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When Plainfield Church first became independent, we were asked, “How will you survive? What will you read?” As you can see below, through the grace of God, we have survived very well, thank you — and flourished!

We began by writing our own Bible Lessons, and then Independent Christian Scientists from all over the world began sending us writings by early Christian Science workers that were not available anywhere else. And we grew from there — and continue to grow.

Our Website

Our church website, plainfieldcs.com, has a wealth of inspiring and healing items to read and listen to, including recordings of past services, Bible Studies, and Roundtable discussions.

You will also find a treasure trove of articles and other literature by early workers in Christian Science, including Bicknell Young, Martha Wilcox, Herbert W. Eustace, and many others. There are also audio recordings of many of these articles and books. Audio recordings of the current week’s Bible Lesson, and a Forum to post comments relating to the Lesson are available, and also a Bulletin Board where you can post comments of a more general nature.

YouTube Channel

Our YouTube channel has over 3,000 videos of church services, classes, readings of books and articles, hymns, and music from our services, which are visited regularly by people from all over the world.

Check out all that we have to offer by going to:

YouTube.com/PlainfieldCS

Our Church Publications

Our church publications are available free on our church website, but sometimes it’s nice to have a copy in your hand to refer back to at your leisure, or during the night when there might be a need for comfort. Descriptions and subscription prices are included below.

Newsletter

In alternate months, our church publishes our church Newsletter, “Plainfield Independent.” This publication contains news about church activities, miscellaneous writings, and other fun things that will make you smile, laugh — and think.

Books by Early Workers in Christian Science

Plainfield Church is the source for many books and writings by early workers in the Christian Science movement, many of whom worked in Mrs. Eddy’s home and were taught by Mrs. Eddy herself. These priceless writings are available for purchase at very reasonable prices, and are listed, along with ordering information, on our church website, plainfieldcs.com. Many articles on our church website are excerpts taken from these books, so to have the complete works is a real privilege!

You can find a list of books we have available for purchase by clicking “Store” on the top menu of our website.

Church Membership

“When one sees that Christian Science is the only way, he is ready for church membership, and there is no other requirement.” — Mary Baker Eddy

This is the only requirement for membership in Plainfield Church. We welcome everyone who wishes to become a member and work for God to send in an application, which you can find under the “Members” tab on our website. Or send an email to our clerk at: clerk@plainfieldcs.com.

Websites in Other Languages

Our missionary work is expanding. We have recently launched websites in the languages of Hungarian, Ukrainian, Russian, Marathi, Nepali, Pashto, Persian, Sindhi, and Tamil, which join with our existing Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu — that makes seventeen languages other than English!

Much gratitude to all of our translators for their individual demonstrations which are working to bless every corner of the world!

We recently received the following email from someone new in Pakistan:

Accept my greetings and salute for the lovely way to produce your unchallenged true teachings about God, as our Mind, we as His ideal creation and making it clear what the Christian Science Church is giving to the spiritual-thirsty like me. The great work you and your Church is dealing regarding foreign languages is amazing and fruitful. I am having great blessings since I have started learning the Word of God through your website and YouTube channels. Especially Pashto, Sindhi, Urdu, Punjabi, Tamil and Marathi languages are doing great things spiritually in my life when I read and listen to the YouTube lessons.

I greatly appreciate it and ask my Lord for the unstoppable blessings for the whole church worldwide. May you always please my heart and soul by producing these lessons and other great material in all the languages of the world especially for my Pakistani and Indian people. Amen.

I thank you and the whole church again for all of this.

Our goal was, and still is, to get the Word of God out to people all over the world who need this pure, unadulterated Science, as we did, and still do. So you will see that much of what we provide on our website, plainfieldcs.com, is free. Please feel free to browse through all that we have there. You don’t even have to tell us who you are — we warmly welcome everyone!

But there are expenses involved in maintaining a website, and in maintaining our church home and our church services. So if you are helped by what you find here, and you wish to show your gratitude, please use the “donate” button on the website. It would be greatly appreciated!

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A note about the lighthouse sketch by Luanne:

Boston Light — little Brewster Island (outer Boston Harbor), Massachusetts

Boston Light was the first light station in North America and is the country’s oldest continuously used lighthouse site. The original structure, built in 1716, was destroyed during the Revolutionary War. Rebuilt in 1783, it has been called “the ideal American lighthouse.” Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1964, it is the only manned lighthouse in the United States.

“Publish the Word”

Broadcast the Truth

“Freely ye have received, freely give”

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