OF no other newspaper are the words, "News is the benediction that follows prayer," so true as of The Christian Science Monitor, the international daily newspaper founded in 1908 by Mary Baker Eddy as the crowning accomplishment in her establishment of five spiritually uplifting periodicals.
The student who is accustomed to daily reading of the Christian Science periodicals is quick to recognize the distinction in their individual functions and the specific purpose of each. The Christian Science Journal, the Christian Science Sentinel, and The Herald of Christian Science in its several translations are concerned with the presentation and elucidation of the scientific truths which are revealed in the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy. The Christian Science Quarterly contains the weekly Lesson-Sermons which are read in Christian Science churches each Sunday, and which individual Scientists study during the week. Their purport is entirely metaphysical, setting forth the absolute statements of Science. Therefore these periodicals are used by all Christian Scientists and by those seeking a knowledge of this Science.
The Monitor, however, with the exception of the one religious article on its Home Forum page, contains no discussion of Christian Science. Based on the truths of Christian Science and published in an environment in which these truths are being practiced, it strives to achieve comprehensive, accurate reports and intelligent interpretation. The Monitor is not an ordinary newspaper. Its mission is, as the Bible advocates (Isa. 62:10), to "lift up a standard for the people." It is read in diplomatic, political, educational, business, social, and religious circles where the other Christian Science periodicals are less likely to find immediate acceptance. It leavens thought with its messages of hope and health and with its promotion of constructive thinking and universal interests.
