IN 1883, the Christian Science movement was represented by the Christian Scientist Association, organized in 1876, and the Church of Christ, Scientist, organized in 1879. The Association had sixty odd members, most of whom had studied with Mrs. Eddy. The church was smaller, and most of its members belonged also to the Association. As yet, the functions of the Association and of the church had not been adjusted, and the Association often assumed responsibilities which later would have been regarded as appropriate for the church. Mrs. Eddy was the chief officer of both organizations, and neither of them did anything important without her sanction.
In this situation, the first Christian Science periodical was started by Mrs. Eddy, and promoted by the Christian Scientist Association. At its meeting of January 17, 1883, "the subject of a publication for the good of the Cause was introduced, and some of the many objects to be gained by such an organ were warmly discussed, meeting with general favor." A committee to be known as "Committee on Christian Scientist Publication" was elected; two members of the Association agreed to subscribe for twenty copies each, and eleven members agreed to take ten copies each.
On January 31, the committee reported progress. On February 14, "mention was made of the paper enterprise. It was thought to be of great importance." On March 1, "Mrs. Eddy said, 'If I have to give up other work we will have the paper.' "On March 14, it was declared to be "the property of Mrs. Eddy." On March 23, Mrs. Eddy spoke of the forthcoming periodical by name, and requested the members who thought they could write for it to present their names. Seven members responded.
