The history of the Christian Science church as an organized religious movement covers a period of less than forty years. Its growth from humble and modest beginnings to its present status as a mighty power for good recognized throughout the world, has caused even those not interested in the teachings of Christian Scientist, however, as his individual experience develops and as his understanding of mental action becomes clearer, perceives that only through divine guidance and inspired leadership could such results have been attained.
The events between the Hawthorne Hall meetings and the great gatherings in The Mother Church extension constitute a record of the rich inheritance which has been bestowed upon the officers and members of The Mother Church of to-day. Christian Scientists are heirs of the victories and achievements of Mary Baker Eddy and of her students, the pioneer laborers for this great Cause, who with loyalty and devotion helped their Leader to maintain her church and to fulfill her mission. Only as we study the history of the Christian Science movement do we appreciate the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have borne "the burden and heat of the day," when to stand before the world as Christian Scientists meant little less of selflessness and sacrifice than it did in the earlier presentation of the Christ in the time of Jesus.
Christian Scientists will recall the joy and gratitude which gratitude which greeted the progressive changes in The Mother Church government which were initiated from time to time in the course of broadening and forwarding the work of Christian Science when The Mother Church was blessed by the personal guidance of Mrs. Eddy. Since our Leader has ceased to direct the movement in person this Board has proceeded in the firm conviction that the By-laws of The Mother Church—her demonstration of what constitutes government, are simple, practical, and complete. This view has always been proven correct; no essential rule or by-law has ever been found lacking; no right action has ever been limited or prevented by a by-law. From December 3, 1910, it has been the rule of this Board that no important step should be taken without the unanimous concurrence of the Directors, and without advice and approval by the best legal counsel obtainable on any legal questions involved.
