Part 29 (1/2)

evil against us in his heart. We shall never find one part of his character at variance with another.

Lovingly yours, MARY BAKER EDDY [5]

Sept. 30, 1895

Extract From A Letter

The Rules and By-laws in the Manual of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, originated not in solemn conclave as in ancient Sanhedrim. They were [10]

not arbitrary opinions nor dictatorial demands, such as one person might impose on another. They were im- pelled by a power not one's own, were written at differ- ent dates, and as the occasion required. They sprang from necessity, the logic of events,-from the immedi- [15]

ate demand for them as a help that must be supplied to maintain the dignity and defense of our Cause; hence their simple, scientific basis, and detail so requisite to demonstrate genuine Christian Science, and which will do for the race what absolute doctrines destined for future [20]

generations might not accomplish.

To The Mother Church

_Beloved Brethren_:-Until recently, I was not aware that the contribution box was presented at your Friday evening meetings. I specially desire that you collect no moneyed contributions from the people present on these occasions.

Let the invitation to this sweet converse be in the words of the prophet Isaiah: ”Ho, every one that thirsteth,

[Page 149.]

come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come [1]

ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Invite all cordially and freely to this banquet of Chris- tian Science, this feast and flow of Soul. Ask them to [5]

bring what they possess of love and light to help leaven your loaf and replenish your scanty store. Then, after presenting the various offerings, and one after another has opened his lips to discourse and distribute what G.o.d has given him of experience, hope, faith, and under- [10]

standing, gather up the fragments, and count the baskets full of accessions to your love, and see that nothing has been lost.

With love, MARY BAKER EDDY [15]

To First Church Of Christ, Scientist, In Oconto

_My Beloved Brethren_:-Lips nor pen can ever ex- press the joy you give me in parting so promptly with your beloved pastor, Rev. Mr. Norcross, to send him to [20]

aid me. It is a refres.h.i.+ng demonstration of Christianity, brotherly love, and all the rich graces of the Spirit. May this sacrifice bring to your beloved church a vision of the new church, that cometh down from heaven, whose altar is a loving heart, whose communion is fellows.h.i.+p with [25]

saints and angels. This example of yours is a light that cannot be hid.

Guided by the pillar and the cloud, this little church that built the first temple for Christian Science wors.h.i.+p shall abide steadfastly in the faith of Jesus' words: ”Fear [30]

[Page 150.]

not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to [1]

give you the kingdom.” May He soon give you a pastor; already you have the great Shepherd of Israel watch- ing over you. Give my forever-love to your dear church.