THE survival of democracy is a question seriously before the people today. Thoughtful individuals are recognizing that the measure of freedom thus far attained by the race appears to be in jeopardy. A searching and fearless analysis of the religious, social, economic, and political ideals of the day is one of the results of this awakening. We are inquiring into the legitimacy of customs and traditions which formerly it would not have occurred to us to question. We are not hesitating to challenge the stability of institutions which, though supported by long usage, are not meeting some of the present-day needs. The world is seriously asking, "Why should we not discard theories and customs which are proving inadequate to meet present-day demands for justice and equality?" The answer is that we certainly should do so just as rapidly as sound means may be found. Where shall we, in these troublous times, seek for the solution of these problems?
The Psalmist provided the answer to the problems of all ages when he wrote, "Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses." Christian Science is founded upon the inspired Word of the Bible. It teaches its adherents how to avail themselves of this promised deliverance. It presents an understanding of spiritual law which, intelligently applied, is capable of solving all human problems. Mrs. Eddy writes on page 24 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures": "Acquaintance with the original texts, and willingness to give up human beliefs (established by hierarchies. and instigated sometimes by the worst passions of men), open the way for Christian Science to be understood, and make the Bible the chart of life, where the buoys and healing currents of Truth are pointed out." Students of Christian Science are exceedingly grateful that they have such a chart and guide, which enables them to help meet conflicting world conditions and to exchange binding human beliefs for higher, more progressive ideals.
Mrs. Eddy perceived the fact that equal rights and justice provide the only foundation upon which human relationships can be harmoniously maintained. In establishing The Mother Church, she provided that which can be regarded as a great proving ground where this ideal is being put to a practical test and its efficacy demonstrated. Each branch of The Mother Church has the high privilege of proving that it is entirely feasible for groups of individuals to function harmoniously under a form of government which our Leader describes as "distinctly democratic" (Church Manual, Art. XXIII, Sect. 10). As the ideal here set forth is put into operation in branch church affairs, it points the way in which mutual rights and privileges for all shall be recognized. Theoretically there has been, in the past, some recognition of this ideal, but human practice has fallen far short of its fulfillment. The question we need to ask ourselves is, "Are we, as exponents of a demonstrable religion, using our knowledge of spiritual law to the end that genuine democracy shall be to us more than a theory?"
