[As published in the Christian Science Sentinel, March 28, 1942]
In the present emergency arising from the war now being carried on, Christian Scientists, as all other loyal citizens of their respective countries and local communities, are eager to do their part in helping to preserve human life. A student of Christian Science realizes, of course, that the highest and most effectual help he can give in this respect is through faithful, consecrated prayer, acknowledging that God, by His infinite wisdom and power, guides, sustains, and protects His children. There is no reason, however, why those who wish to do so may not join with their fellow countrymen in the human footsteps which are being taken for defense.
Training for some phases of civilian defense work involves taking a course in "first aid," and the question has arisen as to whether a Christian Scientist should participate in such defense activities to the extent of joining a class in that subject. This is a matter which must necessarily be determined individually, through demonstration. If a Christian Scientist feels led to take such a course, or is required to do this in connection with his instruction for certain other types of defense work, there should be no objection to or criticism of his doing so. One might well receive instruction which will enable him to master the mechanics of "first aid" without going more deeply into this activity.
