ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MOTHER CHURCH

To her Church at its Annual Meeting in 1901, Mary Baker Eddy wrote (p. 1), "The baptism of the Spirit, and the refreshment and invigoration of the human in communion with the Divine, have brought you hither."

Those who attended the Annual Meeting this year, and those who heard or read from afar of its ever-unfolding activities, will have felt this refreshment and invigoration, and their thoughts been filled with profound gratitude for their Leader's priceless gift to humanity. Amidst the gigantic happenings taking place in the world today, the Christian Science movement is bringing in ever greater and wider measure health, salvation, and deliverance to mankind. The resolve of Christian Scientists everywhere will be to prove worthy of this great heritage, knowing that upon their consecration and love depends the prosperity of The Mother Church and its branches, and therefore the emergence of all men into a world of order and of peace.

The meeting was opened with the singing of Hymn No. 160, "It matters not what be thy lot," the words of which were written by our revered Leader, Mary Baker Eddy. The retiring President, John Randall Dunn, then read the following passages from the Bible, with correlative passages from the Christian Science textbook. "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy:

The Bible
Revelation 5:1-5; 10:1-3, 8-10 (to semicolon)
Science and Health
559:1-21
570:14

After a period of silent prayer, followed by the audible repetition of the Lord's Prayer, the congregation sang Hymn No. 18, "Be firm and be faithful."

Mr. Dunn then announced the names of the new officers of The Mother Church, namely: President, Mrs. Elisabeth F. Norwood, of Brookline, Massachusetts; Treasurer, Roy Garrett Watson, of Brookline Massachusetts; Clerk, Miss Mary G. Ewing, of Brookline, Massachusetts.

The retiring President. Mr. Dunn, then addressed the meeting as follows:

In June, 1903, our loving and inspired Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, from her balcony at Pleasant View, Concord, New Hampshire, greeted the many visiting Scientists thus:

"Beloved Brethren:—Welcome home! To your home in my heart! Welcome to Pleasant View, but not to varying views. I would present a gift to you to-day, only that this gift is already yours. God hath given it to all mankind. It is His coin, His currency; it has His image and superscription. This gift is a passage of Scripture; it is my sacred motto, and it reads thus:—

" 'Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.'

"Beloved, some of you have come long distances to kneel with us in sacred silence in blest communion— unity of faith, understanding, prayer, and praise—and to return in joy, bearing your sheaves with you. In parting I repeat to these dear members of my church: Trust in Truth, and have no other trusts" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 170).

May we not feel today our Leader's tender greeting? Her admonition to "trust in Truth, and have no other trusts" may well be heeded by us all at this momentous hour in the world's history. Taking his stand for Truth and Principle, the Christian warrior is hastening the coming of that happy day envisaged by the poet Tennyson, when he bids the bells

Certainly every Christian Scientist, enlisted for service in this greatest and holiest of causes, thrills at the privilege that is his today and every day. His is the joyous task of proving that the healing Christ is here, and that the light of Truth not only banishes the darkness of disease and sin, but can nullify all the hypnotic suggestions of the carnal mind, which seem to be working such mischief among the sons of men. The battle cry of the Christian Science soldier may well be this glorious declaration from the Revelation of St. John: "Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down." And our beloved Leader says in Science and Health (p. 568,) "Love sends forth her primal and everlasting strain."

I am sure I speak for everyone in this great audience, and for all the members of The Mother Church with us today in thought, but not in person, in welcoming our incoming President, and assuring her that we eagerly await her message to us.

Mr. Dunn then introduced the incoming President, Mrs. Elisabeth F. Norwood, who delivered the following address:

As followers of our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, who walked in the light of Christ, and as members of this Church, which is founded on the rock, Christ, we have before us today a duty beyond what we have ever faced.

This duty is to live the religion of Christian Science so well that we shall prove in a far greater degree the power of good over evil, the power of divine Mind over the carnal mind.

Today there is a definite call to every member of this Church to consecrate himself anew in thought and deed, that he may mentally and actively do his part in freeing mankind from the tyranny of human will.

Today the physical senses are aggressively suggesting that millions of people are in the awful conflict, with the Red Sea and the wilderness before them; that they are manacled by hatred and cruelty, with billows of fear and darkness surging over them; and that all phases of the carnal mind are raging. Ancient mythology, pagan idolatry, and despotism are pretending to hold sway, deceit and treachery are like foes in ambush, the forces of mental manipulation are operating, intending to put to sleep those who should be alert. But evil forces cannot misguide those who know the power of divine intelligence over perverted mind-power.

Let us always remember that "the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save." God will save mankind through His Christ, Truth. Christ's Christianity will free mankind from the bondage in which it is being held. The Christ will purify the motives and aims of individuals and nations, and give to humanity the divine right of individual thinking and acting, of individual progress and salvation.

When Moses, who brought the children of Israel out of bondage, was told by God to "go up hence," he asked God whom He would send with him, and God answered, "My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest."

When Joshua was called to take the leadership, God said to him, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with thee." May our brave warriors of today, fighting on God's side, and facing the foe on land, on sea, and in the air, be conscious of the divine presence, and hear God say, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with thee." May they be guided and guarded by God's angels until the victory is won, and they hear God's promise, "The Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever."

The Master prophesied "wars and rumours of wars," that "nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom," yet he counseled his disciples, when sending them forth to heal the sick and raise the dead, to preach, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand."

In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mrs. Eddy writes (p. 96,) "This material world is even now becoming the arena for conflicting forces." Yet she instructed her followers to pray (ibid., p. 16), "Thy kingdom is come."

Only with absolute perfection in the premise, and the demonstrable spiritual fact in thought, only on the foundation Christ, which cannot be shaken, shall we be able to prove that God's divine control is not being interrupted or His great law reversed.

In the Scriptures we read, "I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God." In reality there is no power opposed to God, no kingdom but His kingdom.

In the present-day conflict, although it is necessary to meet evildoers through human means and methods, with material armor and sword, let us not forget, as Paul tells us, to put on the armor of God. Let us wield the sword of the Spirit, the sword of justice, not revenge, of love, and not hate. With one side of the two-edged sword of Truth, we shall defend and make strong our own citadel, and with the other side we shall take the offensive, go forward and attack the error. With the shield of faith, faith in God's presence and power, with the helmet of salvation, which is, as Mrs. Eddy writes in her textbook (p. 593)', "Life, Truth, and Love understood and demonstrated as supreme over all," with the breastplate of righteousness, which is invincible, and having our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, the gospel of Love and good tidings, we shall be able to stand against the fiery darts of the wicked. With consecration and prayer in our hearts, we shall be ready to march forward to meet and destroy the present-day Goliaths of inflated evil.

As we march on the highway of holiness, with fearlessness, courage, and loyalty for our sentinels, let us hold on high the banner on which are emblazoned the words Christian Science.

In Science and Health (p. 225) Mrs. Eddy writes, "The powers of this world will fight, and will command their sentinels not to let truth pass the guard until it subscribes to their systems; but Science, heeding not the pointed bayonet, marches on."

Science is the religion of Love, and numberless persons in the world today are yearning for the touch of divine Love. They are longing for true love, so gentle and strong it will heal their broken hearts and cheer their failing spirit.

May those who are held in the chains of oppression, and trampled upon by the forces of evil, hear the faithful promise of the Christ, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."

Let us who have found the Comforter, the Christ, send forth to our brother man an infinite measure of compassion and love to bind up the wounds of the world.

And let us assure him, and in so doing reassure ourselves, that evil in whatever form, and however furiously it may manifest itself, has no power to delay or prevent the fulfillment of that inspiring promise and prophecy to which our Leader gave expression when she said (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 185), "The peace of Love is published, and the sword of the Spirit is drawn; nor will it be sheathed till Truth shall reign triumphant over all the earth."

A WORD FROM THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, READ BY GEORGE CHANNING, FIRST READER

Through the labors of Christian men and women and their various Bible societies, portions of the Bible have been translated into every known language. People of many tongues are therefore able to read the ninety-seventh Psalm in such a way as to find its comfort. "The Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad....The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.... Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart."The value of the Christian Science textbook to the world is that it interprets the Scriptures into a mode of activity, not into doctrinal theories which might add to the confusion of warring sects. Its title is "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and it interprets the teaching of Christ Jesus, the divine messenger whose coming the prophets foretold, into a mode of conduct wherein his example can be followed. Mrs. Eddy's mission was to show the way whereby all mankind can be known some day as Christian Scientists.

At this anniversary period, we joyfully remember our dear Leader, who founded her Church sixty-three years ago, and was aided by those who were pioneers with her in the movement. The world is more than ever aware of the gracious example of Mary Baker Eddy, who proved Christian Science by practically obeying the teachings of Christ Jesus, whom she acknowledged as the great Exemplar. He called his pupils friends. In like manner the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science was friendly to her early followers by disclosing to them how the sick are healed, and the sinful made pure, and mankind regenerated, by that same Mind "which was also in Christ Jesus."

The troubles of our times have actually been the occasion for pouring forth of the riches of good will. In our movement the individual churches have enlarged their kindness in healing sorrow and sickness and sin. Practitioners have reassured the doubting, blessed the sorrowful, freed from pain the suffering, delivered the brave from the snares of death. The periodicals bear testimony to the restoration of health and happiness to so many that the conclusion is inevitable that God is visiting His people in mercy and goodness, even though evil is self-assertive and claims to have power.

What Mrs. Eddy has written enables us to discern good and to discredit evil. She declares that "the natural fruits of Christian Science Mind-healing are harmony, brotherly love, spiritual growth and activity." Per contra, she says: "The malicious aim of perverted mind-power, or animal magnetism, is to paralyze good and give activity to evil. It starts factions and engenders envy and hatred, but as activity is by no means a right of evil and its emissaries, they ought not to be encouraged in it." She further says: "Watch your thoughts, and see whether they lead you to God and into harmony with His true followers. Guard and strengthen your own citadel more strongly. Thus you will grow wiser and better through every attack of your foe, and the Golden Rule will not rust for lack of use or be misinterpreted by the adverse influence of animal magnetism" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 213).

The year that is past has been one of great trouble and disillusionment to the children of men, but to the active Christian Scientist it has been a period of growing courage, enlarging hope, and heart-whole reliance upon the promises of God, therefore a period of healing, of growth in grace, of the recovery of many from entanglement by the wiles of the wicked.

Christian Scientists have joyfully accepted the opportunities of ministry afforded them in individual churches. They have been kinder to new members, more patient with those in default, more tender and forgiving with children, and so repentance has come to the stubborn, the happiness of relief to the morbid, and the joy of the Lord to the sorrowful.

Practical Christianity is overcoming churchianity. Pharisaism is disappearing, and kindness to brethren enables church members to become acquainted with "the kindness and love of God our Saviour" (Titus 3:4); so that our people are making ready for the revelation to all mankind of Christian Science in adequate and universal healing. They are expecting the fulfillment of Mrs. Eddy's own words (Science and Health, p. 355), "Let discord of every name and nature be heard no more, and let the harmonious and true sense of Life and being take possession of human consciousness."

The need is for moral courage, and it is possible to have it, and to be actually strong. It is effective goodness that has the healing influence. Self-righteous goodness merely condemns others, and we must daily defend ourselves from the temptation to use mesmerism in this way and so cause anyone to turn aside from God, the sole source of good. In her Message delivered in 1901 (p. 2), Mrs. Eddy, speaking of the possibilities practically resultant from divine Love, says, "Only a firm foundation in Truth can give a fearless wing and a sure reward."

Speaking in an unfearing way, the British Premier has announced that the United Nations will have due reward. "It is sure and certain," he says, "that our perseverance will see us through these dark and dangerous valleys into sunlight more lasting than mankind has ever known" {The Christian Science Monitor, May 16, 1942).

In a magazine that has had continued publication for more than a hundred years, there appeared a picture suggesting the opportunities for the future, and the present duties for the United States of America. The President of the United States of America is depicted as a commander-in-chief, mapping out a campaign, but a figure is portrayed beside him with the lineaments of our martyr President, Abraham Lincoln. From his being there, brave, earnest, sad, yet full of kindness, one could almost guess what he would be saying—that while his task was the freeing of slaves, the task now before liberated America is to aid in working out freedom from slavery for the whole world!

The workers in the Christian Science movement should vividly remember Mrs. Eddy's own words (Science and Health, p. 226): "The voice of God in behalf of the African slave was still echoing in our land, when the voice of the herald of this new crusade sounded the keynote of universal freedom, asking a fuller acknowledgment of the rights of man as a Son of God, demanding that the fetters of sin, sickness, and death be stricken from the human mind and that its freedom be won. not through human warfare, not with bayonet and blood, but through Christ's divine Science. God has built a higher platform of human rights, and He has built it on diviner claims. These claims are not made through code or creed, but in demonstration of 'on earth peace, good-will toward men.' "

Through the ages tyrants have endeavored to govern and control men by engendering fear, but Mrs. Eddy says in Miscellany (p. 191) of the cruelty of those who have elected themselves to be controllers of mankind, "Persecution is the weakness of tyrants engendered by their fear, and love will cast it out." So, as she has written in her hymn (Poems, p. 79),

The Latin poet, Virgil, expressed the desire of mankind for a coming era of peace and happiness so well that it was believed he might have been predicting the unfoldment of Christianity. But all people, in all periods, have been hoping for a coming era of harmony and regeneration. To Victor Hugo is attributed this prophecy: "In the twentieth century war will be dead, the scaffold will be dead, hatred will be dead, frontier boundaries will be dead, dogmas will be dead; man will live. He will possess something higher than all these —a great country, the whole earth, and a great hope, the whole heaven."

Shall we not then, who know of the efficacy of Christian Science, find the prophecy of Isaiah" (59:19) full of meaning: "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him"? Is not every Christian Science church and Sunday school doing this? Our daily newspaper—is not that a standard upraised? Our other periodicals and their translations into many languages—are not they standard-bearers? And individual active members of The Mother Church in their strength and kindness—are they not exemplars, constituting a leaven of health throughout the world? A great work is going on in the healing of sickness, resentment, fear and its foreboding. The vacillating are being restored to firm health, workers are showing the wholesome warmth of kindness to the fallen who are striving to rise and manifest true manhood and womanhood. The reports to follow will enable the members to appreciate the immensity of the work being done and to recognize how essential to the world's welfare Christian Science has become, and to estimate how precious to mankind have become the vision, faith, and fidelity of Mary Baker Eddy.

REPORT OF THE TREASURER, ROY GARRETT WATSON, FOR YEAR ENDED APRIL 30, 1942

The report of the Treasurer for the fiscal year ended April 30, 1942, was read, and indicated that the finances of The Mother Church were in a sound condition. Aside from current bills and accrued taxes, The Mother Church is free from all indebtedness.

It was stated that a substantial sum had been expended for war relief and for camp welfare activities. Contributed clothing, blankets, etc., at an estimated minimum value of $901,000.90 have been distributed in the United States and in foreign countries.

Although there has been a very hearty response from the Field, the need for contributions to the activities supported by The Mother Church Wartime Fund continues, and in fact increases.

REPORT OF TRUSTEES OF THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATIONS AND THE PLEASANT VIEW HOME, READ BY THE TREASURER

The impetus to the study of Christian Science, and therefore to growth, which attends a visit to a Christian Science Benevolent Association Sanatorium is a religious experience, often rich in resultant blessings to our Cause and always beneficial to the individual guest.

The recipients of benevolence at these Sanatoriums and the residents of The Christian Science Pleasant View Home join with the associates in gratitude to the Field—to all whose donations and prayers assist the support of these truly charitable institutions.

The effectual practice of Christian Science is encouraged and aided through lectures donated by members of The Christian Science Board of Lectureship.

Guests have declared that at the Sanatoriums they have found a true sense of peace and hospitality. Men and women who come as residents to the Pleasant View Home, through demonstration, after years of service in the Cause of Christian Science, gain better understanding of home, heaven, harmony.

The associates who, in the words of Nehemiah, are "gathered thither unto the work" and serve so lovingly, receive great joy from their part in the promotion and extension of Christian Science. To them their institution is virtually an alma mater. Under its guidance they acquire technical proficiency and a tolerant knowledge of widely different customs and people that tend toward world peace. Our steward's and housekeeping departments make a valuable contribution in this training, and the workers there give excellent service. From our nurses' training courses go forth nurses with "a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice" and "the practical wisdom necessary in a sick room" prescribed by our Leader in the Church Manual (Art. VIII, Sect. 31.)

Thus our charitable institutions help guests, residents, and associates "in their passage from sense to Soul" (Science and Health, p. 566).

REPORT OF CHRISTIAN SCIENCE TRUSTEES FOR GIFTS AND ENDOWMENTS, READ BY THE TREASURER

The Christian Science Trustees for Gifts and Endowments was established by The Christian Science Board of Directors on June 4, 1926, to serve members of The Mother Church desiring to establish trust funds for the benefit of The Mother Church and to retain the income from these funds during their lifetime and perhaps that of the members of their immediate family.

Any member of The Mother Church may establish a trust fund of a thousand dollars or more and the trust may be revoked at any time at the wish of the donor.

These individual trust funds are under the supervision of three Trustees, one of whom is the Treasurer of The Mother Church.

All inquiries regarding these trusts should be addressed to the Treasurer of Gifts and Endowments, Roy Garrett Watson, 107 Falmouth Street, Boston, Massachusetts.

During the past year a number of new trusts have been established and additions made to existing trusts. There are at present one hundred and forty-two active trusts.

REPORT OF THE CLERK READ BY MISS MARY G. EWING

Christ Jesus declared, "The kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it." With spiritual vision he saw the complete triumph of his teachings over the powers of darkness. The Annual Meeting of The Mother Church brings forcibly to mind this profound declaration of the great Master. We are reminded of its vitality as the applications for membership in The Mother Church pour in from close at hand and from the islands and lands beyond the seas. Their arrival foretells that glad day when all men will accept Christian Science and, through its teachings, press into the kingdom of God, gain spiritual power and freedom from the fetters of sin, disease, and death. Salvation of all men is the objective of Christian Science.

In spite of the serious difficulties with which they are confronted, it is gratifying to know that some of the branches of The Mother Church on the European Continent are still carrying on their good work.

READING ROOMS

The Mother Church maintains four Reading Rooms, all of which are meeting the needs of the many who visit them. One of these rooms has recently been changed to a ground floor location. A larger attendance and excellent fruitage resulted immediately, confirming the wisdom of this change. Another ground floor room, opened last June in Brookline, has been well attended and warmly welcomed by the residents of that locality.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

The great objective of the Christian Science Sunday School is to give the pupil a clear grasp of the fundamentals of practical Christianity. Through the unerring wisdom of our beloved Leader, the necessary instruction to reach this objective is provided in the Manual of The Mother Church. In accord with her instructions in Article XX. Section 3, the first lessons of the children are the Ten Commandments as given us by Moses, the Sermon on the Mount and the Lord's Prayer as given us by Christ Jesus, together with the spiritual interpretation of that prayer as revealed to Mary Baker Eddy.

The pupils should be so grounded in the truth that they will go forth from our Sunday schools clad with the armor of righteousness, and thus armored they will nullify the wiles of materiality. Christ Jesus said, "I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world. but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil." The children imbued with the spirit of Christianity have a priceless possession; they will be kept from evil. The teachers who aid them to attain this ideal are blessed of God.

LITERATURE DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE

The Literature Distribution Committee of The Mother Church is encouraged by the effectual distribution of our periodicals. Reports of healing and redemption have reached us both by letter and by word of mouth. The shopkeepers' willing acceptance of our distribution boxes and their eagerness to have them properly filled are gratifying evidence of progress in extending the religion of Christian Science in this community.

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE WAR RELIEF COMMITTEE IN BOSTON

The Christian Science War Relief Committee continues to supply the needs of those suffering from the war.

In the last six months about ten thousand knitted garments were distributed to our forces, and at strategic places there are stored many garments for possible emergencies.

In the last year 1, 628,400 garments have been shipped abroad, and the work continues. These garments are made available in England to peoples of many lands seeking refuge there.

THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE WARTIME COMMITTEE OF THE MOTHER CHURCH IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

The Christian Science Wartime Committee of The Mother Church in the United Kingdom, through its three hundred Almoners, has given financial help or distributed gifts of clothing and bedding from the United States and Canada to approximately thirty thousand persons. These include evacuees, service men's dependents, refugees from the Far and Near East, European nationals, and auxiliary land and sea services. Two mobile canteens are ready for any emergency. Local civic authorities are recognizing the Committee's activities as a substantial contribution towards war relief.

CAMP WELFARE ACTIVITIES

Camp Welfare Activities of The Mother Church are daily demonstrating the universality and the ever-availability of Christian Science to meet human needs. In these stirring times Truth is knocking at the door of thought through the avenue of the Christian Science Wartime Worker, whose privilege it is to serve the needs of the men in the armed forces of the United States. There are now sixty-four Wartime Workers giving their full time to this activity. The Christian Scientists in uniform, whose names are sent to the Manager of Camp Welfare Activities, are sought out by the Wartime Workers, and through their loving ministrations, healings are constantly taking place. Testimonies of problems solved, evidences of prejudice overcome, increasingly grateful appreciation for The Christian Science Monitor—all of this is proof of God's loving care for His children, wherever they may be and whatever their state of receptivity. Vest pocket editions of the Bible and the Christian Science textbook are presented by The Mother Church to service men who express a desire for the books. At the request of those in authority subscriptions to our newspaper are placed in company day rooms, barracks, hospital wards; on ships and in Service Men's Rooms; and presented as individual subscriptions to any of the higher officers and the chaplains who are desirous of accepting our daily newspaper. A great work has begun, but a greater work is before us. Through prayerful thinking and loving contributions, Christian Scientists throughout the Field will make the Camp Welfare Work even more effective in the months to come.

THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CENTRAL WAR RELIEF COMMITTEE OF THE UNITED KINGDOM

The Christian Science Central War Relief Committee of the United Kingdom was appointed by The Christian Science Board of Directors to co-ordinate local activities designed to meet the spiritual needs of the men and women serving in His Majesty's and the Allied Forces. The Committee supervises the activities of nearly one hundred Christian Science Rest Rooms, which are maintained by contributions from local Christian Scientists and The Mother Church. These rooms, which are serviced by volunteer workers, furnish a haven to all who enter them —many of whom are not Christian Scientists. Literature is placed in barracks, aerodromes, naval depots, on ships of Great Britain and those ships belonging to the United States calling at British ports. Literature is also distributed to Internment and Prisoner of War Camps in Great Britain, and is sent with helpful letters to prisoners of war in Germany and Italy. Letters from men in His Majesty's and the Allied Forces express gratitude for the love of The Mother Church in providing these facilities.

War Relief and Camp Welfare Committees throughout the Dominion of Canada, Australia, and Africa are actively and efficiently serving, and encouraging reports have been received showing the fruitage of their activities. The Christian Science Officiating Ministers and women known as Authorised Christian Science Workers are helping Christian Scientists in the Forces and doing good healing work.

Our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, rejoiced in the prosperity of our Cause. On page 321 of "Miscellaneous Writings" she says, "My heart is filled with joy, that each receding year sees the steady gain of Truth's idea in Christian Science." So, today, we rejoice in the steady growth of Christian Science and the consequent prosperity of The Mother Church and its far-flung branches. The Clerk is glad to report a substantial increase in membership. We gladly welcome these new members and wish them Godspeed as they press into the kingdom of our God.

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES UNDER THE WILL OF MARY BAKER EDDY, READ BY MRS. AMEA H. HARRIS, SECRETARY

For twenty-eight years the Trustees under the Will of Mary Baker Eddy have been dispensing the income from the trust fund established by our Leader "for the purpose of more effectually promoting and extending the religion of Christian Science as taught" by her. and they are glad to report that during the past year the funds available have been allocated to various activities of Christian Science churches and societies as follows:

$165,000 were expended for the purpose of assisting in the erection and remodeling of church buildings,

$24,500 to aid in the purchase of literature for free distribution.

$2,900 for the excess traveling expenses of lecturers visiting distant fields,

$8,200 for first lectures delivered under the auspices of newly recognized churches and societies and annual lectures given by college organizations,

$6,900 for Mrs. Eddy's books and other authorized literature placed in public and Christian Science lending libraries.

In their capacity of Publishers, the Trustees have received constantly increasing evidence that our Leader's writings are being more and more carefully read and earnestly studied. A larger number of copies of the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, has been sold during this period than during the previous year, and there has been a marked increase in the sale of Mrs. Eddy's other writings.

Sales of the Service Edition of Science and Health have been excellent, and hundreds of soldiers, sailors, and workers in the armed forces have obtained copies.

The Thumb-Indexed Pocket Edition of the textbook, now in black, blue, and brown morocco, has been generously welcomed by the Field.

A majority of the branch churches and societies are now presenting to pupils who leave the Sunday school at the age of twenty a gift copy of the leather-bound Church Manual with an individually hand-lettered presentation bookplate.

An increased demand for Poetical Works shows renewed appreciation of these gems of thought, with particular interest in "Christ and Christmas," which was so dear to our Leader's heart, and which so well rewards the student who delves deeply into its inspired pages.

The demand for Concordances to Science and Health and Mrs. Eddy's other writings is still further evidence that her teachings are receiving greater interest and study.

May the Trustees take this opportunity to thank the Field for its many expressions of gratitude and its kindly co-operation.

REPORT OF THE MANAGER OF COMMITTEES ON PUBLICATION, READ BY ARTHUR W. ECKMAN

The work of Committees on Publication is a continuous unfoldment of God's plan for this activity of The Mother Church. There has been no backward step during the past year, but much progress. Committees have presented Christian Science to the public through corrective letters and constructive publicity in the press and by means of the radio. They have also expressed alertness in defeating or amending proposed legislation which would have affected the practice of Christian Science in the several states and provinces. The Committees in the democratic nations are doing excellent work, and they are doing so without hindrance from their governments.

When it has been known that anyone is to speak against Christian Science, the Committee or his Assistant has called upon him, not to argue against the delivering of the address, but to inquire if he is properly informed regarding Christian Science, and if he has available "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy and the authorized biographies of our Leader. These books are often loaned with good results.

This Committee for The Mother Church has been active during the past two years in securing the appointment of Christian Scientists as chaplains in the United States Army and of a commissioned officer in the Navy who is connected with its chaplain corps. Our chaplains are helping officers and men in the service to make practical use of Christian Science and are to be highly commended for their good work. They are bringing spiritual help to officers and men. Many young men who have had rather an indifferent interest in Christian Science are now turning to it gratefully and with good results.

During the past year this Committee has given its attention to problems arising from the defense plans of our country in so far as they touch the activities of our Readers and practitioners.

The radio work is unfolding well in its mission of bringing hope and healing to the invisible audience. The church services and lectures which are broadcast are primarily for the shut-ins and for those who are strangers to Christian Science. This is also true regarding religious programs. With this in thought an informal radio religious program was released last November, and it has been given a cordial reception. There has been good fruitage in healings, and it is the privilege of the members of The Mother Church and its branches to give metaphysical support to these programs.

Deep gratitude is expressed for gains which have been made, and confidence is strengthened that God will care for His own throughout the coming year. In facing the world problems, guidance and protection are found in Mrs. Eddy's words in "Pulpit and Press" (p. 2): "The real house in which 'we live, and move, and have our being' is Spirit, God. the eternal harmony of infinite Soul. The enemy we confront would overthrow this sublime fortress, and it behooves us to defend our heritage."

Hymn No. 117, "Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty," was sung at this point.

REPORT OF THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BOARD OF LECTURESHIP, READ BY GAVIN W. ALLAN, CHAIRMAN

In "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 155) our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, has written: "The pride of circumstance or power is the prince of this world that has nothing in Christ.... Forget self in laboring for mankind; then will you woo the weary wanderer to your door, win the pilgrim and stranger to your church, and find access to the heart of humanity."

Today is the annual stocktaking day of our movement. When we consider it as a whole, notwithstanding the stupendous strides that have been made, we recognize that this is a day not for pride, but for selflessness and prayer.

Occasionally there has come into our language what has been regarded as a perfect phrase. One such came from the lips of the present Prime Minister of Great Britain. This is it: "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few."

Lifting that phrase out of the setting of war, we may use it today. Looking back a half century or more to the early life and example of our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy, and to those selfless followers who began living on the basis of her vision long before its wide acceptance was possible, we too can say, Seldom "was so much owed by so many to so few."

Now for a look at the present.

The Mother Church has provided for lectures in Boston and in surrounding cities and towns where there are as yet no Christian Science churches. In all, nineteen lectures have been given, including one in the State Prison at Charlestown. That the bread of Life has been broken at these lectures to those hungering after righteousness is known by the reports of physical healings and other benefits received. These reports are typical of many which have been received in connection with the large number of lectures given throughout the Field.

During this year lectures have been delivered in Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain and Ireland, British West Indies, Canada, Cuba, Mexico, and in the United States, including Alaska, Canal Zone, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.

In some parts of the world the property of our churches has been confiscated, their institutions closed, and assembly for worship has been prohibited. But wherever multitudes of plain people in ordinary, everyday living cherish and practice the truths of their religion, its resurrection is assured.

In this connection, there is a passage in John (1:5) which reads, "The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." That passage has been translated differently by both Markham and Good-speed. Hear this: "The light is still shining in the darkness, for the darkness has never put it out."

During this year there has come to pass a union which Christian Scientists have been looking toward ever since it was foreseen and foretold forty-four years ago by our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, in one of her poems (Poems, p. 11):

Today we hope this union will ever grow closer.

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES OF THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE PUBLISHING SOCIETY, READ BY A. WARREN NORTON, MANAGER

Our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, writes in the Preface to "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. vii,) "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings." The fulfillment of this promise has been marked in all the activities of The Christian Science Publishing Society during the past twelve months, and the Board of Trustees is happy to report an increase in the circulation of The Christian Science Journal, Sentinel, and Monitor.

The Christian Science publications are a mighty power in the destruction of evil and for the promulgation of spiritually right thinking. They have their specific work in the redemption of the world today from sin, disease, and death. Their leaves are indeed "for the healing of the nations." Notwithstanding that prices of all materials, supplies, and labor required for carrying on our publishing business are continuing to increase, the Trustees are able to report economies effected and savings made since the last Annual Meeting. The Trustees are grateful for the splendid support from the Field and for the general growth of the Publishing Society.

The Journal, Sentinel, and Herald Editorial Department expresses gratitude for the faithful and alert co-operation of its contributors in meeting the demands of the time. The demand is constant for articles which will effectually reverse and annul the false suggestions abroad in the world. From suitable articles such as have been received, widespread help is resulting. This is shown by letters reaching the contributors and the department continually. The Editors would be glad to receive more articles written especially for young people, more religious articles for The Christian Science Monitor; and testimonies giving specific results of the use of Christian Science are always exceedingly desirable.

The Christian Science literature continues to go forth carrying its healing message over both the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. While delayed, the literature continues to arrive in Switzerland, unoccupied France, Spain, Portugal, the British Isles, all parts of Africa, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It is also being sent to India, Ceylon, and points in China which have not fallen under Japanese occupation. We are pleased to report that our sales of the Bible this year are the largest they have ever been in the history of the Publishing Society.

There has been a substantial increase in the circulation of the Christian Science Sentinel. Individuals, church officials, Reading Rooms from all parts of the world, have had only praise for this new, compact publication, the contents of which have not been sacrificed in reducing the size. The quality of the paper is the same as that used formerly, although the finish is not so highly calendered. The off-white color of the paper in the Sentinel and the other periodicals is due to the Government's restriction of the use of the bleaching chemical.

Additions to the list of publications of The Christian Science Publishing Society during the past twelve months include a Spanish edition of the Christian Science Quarterly, this being the seventh language, besides English, in which the Quarterly is published; four new vest-pocket pamphlets primarily for use by the armed forces throughout the world; also, an illustrated edition of "Historical Sketches" by Judge Clifford P. Smith. This book is a storehouse of information about Mrs. Eddy and the early days of Christian Science.

Plans are being made for publication in the fall of a clothbound volume of "A Child's Life of Mary Baker Eddy" by Mrs. Ella H. Hay.

The Trustees are pleased to report a marked increase in the circulation of The Christian Science Monitor during the past twelve months. Because manufacturers of consumer goods are diverting their facilities to defense purposes, there has been a general lessening of consumer advertising, thus affecting the revenue of all advertising media.

Within the year some of our correspondents, who had returned from war-ridden countries to tell the true story of events there, have again gone out into the firing line. One such correspondent is at American Headquarters in the Southern Pacific. Another is in North Africa, a second crucial focus of the war effort. Another completed a searching survey of inter-American relations by twenty thousand miles of travel below the Rio Grande. Still another traveled widely in the United States itself, covering seditious and subversive activities from within. Our efforts have received high recognition in many influential quarters, so that the achievement of our newspaper has never been more fully appreciated. In addition, the Monitor has again this year received national recognition for its excellence in typography, make-up, and press work.

The Trustees desire to extend their grateful thanks to all supporters of the Publishing Society, to the loyal workers, to subscribers and readers, to Circulation and Advertising Committees, and to individual church members and church boards for their untiring efforts, which have aided us in carrying forward the work which our great Leader so successfully founded. Continuing to lean 'on the sustaining infinite," the Publishing Society looks forward expectantly to inspiring growth and marked progress during the coming year.

REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BRANCHES AND PRACTITIONERS, READ BY MISS M. ROSAMOND WRIGHT, MANAGER

The opportunities for the demonstration of a practical Christianity, and the exemplification of its teachings in the lives of Christian people, are today greater than in any previous period. Christian Science practitioners are well aware of the challenge of the Scriptures—to "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."

Those who have presented applications for recognition as public practitioners of Christian Science this past year have shown an alert, purposeful desire to promote the Cause of Christian Science, and an awareness of their responsibilities in standing as representatives of the healing work in Christian Science.

Since our last meeting, The Christian Science Board of Directors has accepted applications for cards in the Journal from five hundred and sixty-six practitioners and sixty-four nurses. Thirteen practitioners have qualified for cards in the Herald.

The need for united action in dealing with world affairs is recognized among Christian people, and it is evidenced in our branch church work. It has been encouraging to find that Christian Scientists with wisdom are supporting the branches of The Mother Church which are already established, and are recognizing the need for working within these branch churches until they are filled with growing congregations, before taking steps to organize new churches.

However, we are glad to report satisfactory growth, and to tell you that new branches of The Mother Church have been formed in the British Isles, in Australia, in Cuba, and in South America, as well as in the United States. Also there has been gratifying growth in the number of university organizations. Nineteen Christian Science Societies have taken the title of church, which shows good progress in the growth of these societies. Two hundred and ten branch churches have added the Sunday school hour to the notice in the Journal.

The Church of Christ, Scientist, is standing today as a light in the world, and its members are blessed in their opportunities for alert Christian service. In "Christian Science and the Church," which begins on page 299 of "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany," our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, closes with these words, which I should like to quote: "I would that all the churches on earth could unite as brethren in one prayer: Father, teach us the life of Love."

REPORTS FROM THE FIELD

Loving greetings came to The Mother Church at this Annual Meeting season from branch churches and societies. These messages expressed gratitude for the spiritual strength and protection which are symbolized by The Mother Church, and an increasing sense of unity with it.

Extracts from only a few of the letters could be read in the time assigned, but these were representative of the many records of progress received. They were read by Dr. Frank F. Bunker, of Washington, District of Columbia, and Miss L. Ivimy Gwalter, of New York City.

Twenty-one churches in Chicago, Illinois, together give joyful testimony to progress in that field. There has been a marked increase in the number of applications for church membership from pupils of the Sunday school. One church dedicated its edifice in December, and another reports that its building is nearing completion, free from debt.

Christian Science Society, Windsor, England, tells of increased demand at the Reading Room for Science and Health and the Monitor. A fruitful experience was the first lecture given by the society. There has been joy in participating in a near-by rest room for His Majesty's forces, which is extending comfort and help, and is the means of introducing Christian Science in a new and rapidly growing area. Gratitude is expressed for clothing lovingly supplied by Christian Scientists in the United States and Canada for war relief work.

First Church, Melbourne, Australia, has welcomed at its services many overseas visitors. Strangers who have been deprived of material homes and possessions have sought the Reading Room immediately on arrival, to be re-equipped with the Bible and Mrs. Eddy's writings. Members of the Australian and Allied armed forces are using the room freely. Activity of the lending library is reported by the librarian. Instances of healing have occurred at church services, and also at the three lectures given. The fruitage of the Sunday school is revealed in the clear, demonstrable understanding of Christian Science evidenced by pupils who have become members of the church.

First Church, Westmount, Quebec, Canada, finds that since the opening of a ground floor Reading Room on the main thoroughfare, there has been an increase in the number of visitors and in sales of Mrs. Eddy's works and the other literature.

With appreciation and gratitude on behalf of The Mother Church, its Board of Directors acknowledges these and other inspiring reports from its branches.

INCIDENTS OF CHRISTIAN SCIENCE HEALING, READ BY CECIL F. DENTON, OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

A number of authenticated testimonies of healing were read, bearing witness to the power of Truth to deliver mankind from every form of disability and disease.

The meeting was adjourned with the singing of the Doxology (Christian Science Hymnal, No.1).

NEW PRESIDENT OF THE MOTHER CHURCH

Mrs. Elisabeth F. Norwood, C.S.B., was born in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Her father, Isaac Paul Gragg, served throughout the Civil War and was given the rank of Captain by Brevet for gallant and meritorious services. Her mother, Mrs. Eldora O. Gragg, C.S.D., was one of twelve of Mrs. Eddy's pupils chosen by her to form The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Eddy also appointed Mrs. Gragg as the first woman Reader in The Mother Church, where she read for over seven years.

Mrs. Norwood was educated at the Girls Latin School in Boston, and at private schools. She took Primary class instruction in Christian Science with her mother in 1904, and entered the practice of Christian Science healing in 1915. Mrs. Norwood was a member of the Normal class of the Board of Education of the Massachusetts Metaphysical College in 1922, receiving a certificate as a teacher of Christian Science. From June, 1926, until June, 1929, she served as Superintendent of The Mother Church Sunday School. In June, 1929, Mrs. Norwood was elected Second Reader of The Mother Church, in which office she served until 1932.

BOARD OF LECTURESHIP

The list of lecturers elected to serve on The Christian Science Board of Lectureship during 1942-1943 is as follows:

Allan, Gavin W.,C.S.B., Toronto, Ontario,
 Canada.

Beck, Herbert W.,C.S.B., San Francisco,
 California.

Biggins, Peter B.,C.S.B., Seattle, Washington.

Browne, Harry C.,C.S., Boston, Massachusetts.

Cook, Mrs. Louise Knight Wheatley,
 C.S.B., Kansas City, Missouri
.

Coulson, Miss Lucia C.,C.S.B., London.
 England. (In Great Britain and Ireland
 only, after February 1, 1943.)

Davis, Richard J.,C.S. B., San Jose, California.

de Lange, Dr. Hendrik J.,C.S.B., New
 York City.

Dunn. John Randall C.S.B., Boston. Massachusetts.

Eddison, Colin Rücker C.S., London, England.

Greene, Judge Samuel W., C.S.B.. Chicago.
 Illinois.

Herzog, Mrs. Anna E.,C.S.B., Columbus,
 Ohio.

Hickman. Adair, C.S.B., New York City.

Hill, Judge Frederick C.,C.S.B., Los Angeles. California.

Kilpatrick. William Duncan C.S.B., Detroit, Michigan.

Matters, Mrs. Margaret C.S.B., New
 York City.

McCloud. Earl, C.S.B., San Antonio. Texas.

Morrison, Miss Margaret. C.S., Chicago,
 Illinois.

Peeke, Oscar Graham. C.S.B., Kansas City,
 Missouri.

Rowell, James G.,C.S.B., Kansas City.
 Missouri.

Scholfield, Ralph B.,C.S.B., London, England.

Seeley, Paul Stark, C.S.B., Portland. Oregon.

The following have been elected members of The Christian Science Board of Lectureship to serve only in the countries named:

GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND

Eric W. Carr. C.S.B., London. England.
Charles W. J. Tennant, C.S.B., London, England.

AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Mrs. Aimée Holdship. C.S.B., Sydney, New South Wales.

George W. Martin, C. S. B., Melbourne. Victoria.

Mr. Carr and Mr. Tennant have been re-elected each year since 1940 to serve the churches and societies in Great Britain and Ireland, and the term of service of Mrs. Holdship and Mr. Martin will begin July 1, 1942. These appointments are temporary and were made to meet the emergency arising from the war, which has occasioned difficulty in transportation to and from these parts of the world.

NEW MEMBERS OF THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BOARD OF LECTURESHIP

Herbert W. Beck, C.S. B., was born in San Francisco, California, and received his education in the public schools of Oakland and the University of California. His early business training was in the Pacific Coast Borax Company, where he rose to the position of Director, from which he resigned in 1902 to devote his full time to the practice of Christian Science.

Through the healing of his father, Mr. Beck became interested in Christian Science in 1887. He was admitted to Mother Church membership in 1899 and took Primary class instruction in 1903. He has served as Reader, president, and director in branch Churches of Christ, Scientist, and was a Chaplain in the United States Army during the first World War. Later he was Assistant to the Manager of Committees on Publication of The Mother Church. After receiving instruction in the Normal class of the Board of Education in December, 1925, he returned to the San Francisco Bay area to continue his practice and to take up the teaching of Christian Science. In 1938 he was appointed Committee on Publication for Northern California, which position he retained until he was called to Boston in 1940 to become Manager of Committees on Publication.

Mr. Beck will continue to hold his classes and conduct the meetings of his pupils' association in San Francisco.

Harry C. Browne, C.S., was born in North Adams, Massachusetts, and received his education in the public schools there. After leaving high school, he took up the study of law. When the United States declared war against Spain in 1898, Mr. Browne obtained the consent of his parents to enlist with the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry, and the regiment was soon mustered in the United States Army forces and saw active service in the Santiago. Cuba, campaign. After Mr. Browne returned to the United States, he lectured on the war. In 1900 he became interested in the theater, and for twenty-five years he toured the United States and Canada as an actor. He was associated with many of the foremost producers and managers.

Mr. Browne's interest in Christian Science began in 1910, and he joined The Mother Church in 1916. Later he became a member of First Church of Christ, Scientist, Flushing, New York, where he served as a member of the board of trustees. He received Primary class instruction in 1919.

Mr. Browne removed to New York City in 1928, where he joined Second Church of Christ, Scientist, and served that church for a full term as First Reader as well as in other capacities, including three years as a member and chairman of its board of trustees. Mr. Browne served as First Reader of The Mother Church from 1938 to 1941.

For a number of years Mr. Browne has devoted all of his time to the practice of Christian Science healing.

Mrs. Anna E. Herzog, C.S.B., was born in River Falls, Wisconsin, and attended public and normal schools in that city and in Superior. Wisconsin.

Mrs. Herzog became interested in Christian Science after moving to Newark, Ohio. She joined First Church of Christ, Scientist, of that city, in January, 1914, and The Mother Church in June of that same year. She received Primary class instruction in 1918, and has engaged in the public practice of Christian Science since 1916.

Mrs. Herzog served as Second Reader and member of the board of trustees of First Church of Christ. Scientist, in Newark. Ohio, and in 1923, having moved to Columbus, Ohio, as a member of the executive board of First Church of that city.

In 1928 Mrs. Herzog was a member of the Normal class of the Board of Education and became an authorized teacher of Christian Science.

Mrs. Aimée Holdship, C.S.B., of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, has been an earnest student of Christian Science since 1916. She received Primary class instruction in 1924 and shortly thereafter entered upon the public practice of Christian Science healing. Mrs. Holdship served as a Sunday school teacher and as a member of the executive board in First Church of Christ, Scientist, Sydney, Australia, and was also elected its Second Reader.

Mrs. Holdship studied in the Normal class of the Board of Education in 1937, and has been since that time an authorized teacher of Christian Science.

George William Martin, C.S.B., of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, took up the study of Christian Science in 1908 and received Primary class instruction in 1920. He served the branch churches in Melbourne, Australia, of which he has been a member, as Sunday school teacher and superintendent, treasurer, chairman of the board, president, and Reader. He filled the office of Committee on Publication for the State of Victoria for about ten years.

Mr. Martin has devoted himself to the public practice of Christian Science healing for a number of years, and in 1937 he attended the Normal class of the Board of Education, since which time he has been an authorized teacher of Christian Science.