In the Manual of The Mother Church by Mary Baker Eddy, the Historical Sketch closes with this paragraph (p. 19): "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Mass., is designed to be built on the Rock, Christ; even the understanding and demonstration of divine Truth, Life, and Love, healing and saving the world from sin and, death; thus to reflect in some degree the Church Universal and Triumphant." To the Christian Scientist, then, church membership is far from being perfunctory; it is joyous, voluntary, purposeful service to God, who is almighty Life and Love.
Active membership in The Mother Church and one of its branches is usually the cherished desire of everyone who has come to know something of Christian Science. Since our Church is "built on the Rock, Christ," membership therein should be built on the very nature of the tender, persuasive Christ, which Mrs. Eddy defines in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 583) as "the divine manifestation of God, which comes to the flesh to destroy incarnate error." It is an inspiring experience to be in church, to feel oneself with those who are learning to know Christ, and who are bringing gladness and healing to many.
Activity in the Church of Christ, Scientist, is precious to the heart of every devoted follower of the Founder of the Christian Science movement, Mrs. Eddy. For this reason branch church boards do well to plan the distribution of church activity so that all who claim membership may enjoy an active part.
