Among the many conspicuous events in the external history of Christian Science, and the most conspicuous of the current year, is the completion and dedication of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Chicago. The erection and dedication of any church edifice to the cause of Christ, in the denominational name of Christian Science, is an especially important event, however small, comparatively, may be the structure. As in other affairs of this life, so also in Christian Science, there are degrees of importance; and each church structure has its relative degree. To us it seems that the erection and dedication of the first church building of our denomination in the great metropolis of the great West,—bearing, as it does, such important relations to the northwestern, and even the Pacific, states and territories,—carries with it a special significance, rendering the event well worthy of more than ordinary notice. We shall offer no apology, therefore, for yielding a considerable quantity of our space to an account thereof.
As the Address of the Rev. Mary Baker G. Eddy is first in interest, we give it first in order. As the Founder of the sect or denomination in whose name the church was erected and dedicated, she is also the Founder, to human sense, of all the churches and other denominational accompaniments of the Cause; but, in the higher sense, Christian Scientists see in it and through it all the handiwork of God, —the Divine Principle of all good work,—their beloved Leader being the active individuality through whom the Divine Energy thus manifests Himself. Her Address is as follows:—
Beloved Brethren:—Most happily would I comply with your cordial invitation and be with you on so interesting an occasion as the dedication of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Chicago. But daily duties require attention elsewhere, and I am glad to say there seems no special need of my personal presence at your religious Jubilee.
