Letters & Conversations

On—and from—Brazil Could we please be spared the dreadful made-up term birthing ["Birthing in Brazil," January]? Birth is a noun, not a verb, and should not take an "ing" ending. What's wrong with bearing or giving birth? Otherwise, I enjoy the new, lively Journal.

'Speaking the people's language' The January Journal was delivered for humanity and the world. Thank God it is not an inhouse magazine written for its in-house club and members.

The 'new' Journal When the new format appeared, I needed to shift my expectations for the Journal from its being a supplementary study of Christian Science, to its present mission as a clear and practical account of the wonderful changes that take place in people's lives as a result of prayer. I used to pick and choose articles to read.

Timely issues I commend you for publishing the article ("A single mom starts the long journey home") in the November Journal , including the author's comments on abortion. With the abortion issue remaining acute in public consciousness for more than a quarter century, I hope you'll have the courage before too long to address the issue further.

Starting out The Starting Point of September's issue, "Getting a 'leg up'" is wonderful and I want to express gratitude for it. Thank you, Nona! Antônio Claret da Mota, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Narrative pieces Since there has been a change in the format of the Journal, I have found the personal essay very tedious.

Location of testimonies I really am not looking forward to your dispersal of testimonies throughout the Journal. [The testimony section is] where I turn when I need a quick dose of inspiration.

Albanian Herald Thank you for telling the touching "Story of the Albanian Herald" in the July Journal. I am so grateful to know about this gift to the Kosovo refugees, which must have taken much loving effort to create and deliver.

Blessing our enemies I was especially inspired by "A conversation," where Bishop Mvume Dandala talks about prison and prayer [June]. What honesty, courage, and "love your enemy" Christian faith! How blessed we are to learn of these events and know how God answers prayer.

Reports from abroad As a former reporter for The Christian Science Monitor, I was naturally drawn first to the articles by Monitor collegues in your May issue. I share their gratitude to God for the comfort and protection that Christian Science offers reporters in troubling and even dangerous circumstances.

Length of articles I am writing to express my concern about the quality of articles in the Journal. Lately, I have noticed that the articles have gotten shorter and shorter.