The credit of every Christian Science church should be above question. Our Leader raised a standard for us all when she ordained that our church buildings should be dedicated only after they were paid for (Christian Science Sentinel, October 14, 1905), and, by a provision in her will for the promotion and extension of the religion of Christian Science, she made it possible for her Trustees to assist from her estate all Christian Science organizations in making their final payments before dedication of their church homes.
The ideals thus presented by Mrs. Eddy should be upheld by us today. Every church in our movement will do well to make a careful survey of its financial condition, its resources, and its methods of administering them. If it has fallen behind in meeting its ordinary obligations, such as rental, repairs, salaries, supplies, and the like, this condition needs to be corrected by right metaphysical activity supplemented by more bountiful giving, both of which are essential to breaking down the claim of limitation that would impose apathy and impede progress.
Special needs call for special attention. The church or society that has unpaid debts for its operating expenses should make special efforts to meet them. As said above, two factors are fundamental to the success of such efforts: first, prayerful, scientific mental work; second, personal monetary sacrifice. The former will awaken thought to the unlimited resources of divine Mind, available to all who are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. The latter points to the security that lies in the valued truism our Leader has handed us, "Giving does not impoverish us in the service of our Maker, neither does withholding enrich us" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 79).
