An Item of Interest which appeared in the Christian Science Sentinel of February 5, 1938, on the subject of benedictions appears to have been misconstrued by the officers or members of some Christian Science churches.
The Item of Interest was designed to remind Christian Scientists that the benediction is an integral part of our church service, and that therefore it should receive due respect. This is lacking, however, when the congregation exhibits "undue haste in returning Hymnals to the racks, putting on wraps, and otherwise preparing to leave. . . ." There was no intention that any statement in this Item should add to the order of service in Christian Science churches, as prescribed by our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, and it was not expected that Christian Scientists would make a ritual or ceremony of standing quietly and reverently immediately following the pronouncement of the benediction, at which time the Readers leave the platform. It should be understood by all that the service is concluded with the pronouncement of the benediction, and whether one shall stand quietly in his place for a moment before leaving, or shall leave promptly, or be seated and listen to the postlude, is a matter wholly for individual determination.
[As published in the Christian Science Sentinel, March 7, 1942]
