The writings of Mary Baker Eddy in their entirety constitute the text of Christian Science, and Mrs. Eddy designated the Bible, together with her works, as textbooks. A dictionary definition of "textbook" is in part, "any manual of instruction." One of the most important of her writings Mrs. Eddy named the Manual of The Mother Church—a compilation of Rules and By-Laws designed for the protection of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and for the guidance of its members. Although the By-Laws pertaining to organization are adaptable solely to The Mother Church and to its branches, as offshoots of the parent organization, the Manual is applicable to all members, wherever located. Each branch church is required to have its own established by-laws to meet its individual needs, but the fact should never be lost sight of that each Church of Christ, Scientist, throughout the world exists only because it is a branch of The Mother Church, inseparable from it and from its jurisdiction as provided for in the Church Manual. This fact is evidence that Church, a divine idea, is one and indivisible.
Every member of The Mother Church looks upon it as a joyful privilege, as well as a sacred duty, to become thoroughly acquainted with the By-Laws contained in the Manual. Through utilization of its contents there dawns upon the student ever-widening glimpses of its import to his thought and conduct as a Christian Scientist. He strives for clearer understanding and more implicit obedience to these Rules and By-Laws, designed for him for his protection, for his safe progress in the application of Christian Science, and for the absolute safeguard of the Cause he so dearly loves; in short, the Manual is his bulwark of strength, expressive of divine Principle, Love, on which Church rests.
Mrs. Eddy writes of the Church Manual (Art. XXXV, Sect. 1), "It stands alone, uniquely adapted to form the budding thought and hedge it about with divine Love." This statement indicates the tender and loving care that our Leader gave to designing the Manual for the greatest possible help to the seeker for Truth, as well as the protection which divine Love supplies him in taking his steps heavenward. Many Christian Scientists have undoubtedly read this statement with immeasurable comfort, and it has assured them of the unwavering operation of divine law in their behalf. On pages 251 and 252 of "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" is found Mrs. Eddy's further admonition, "Adhere to the teachings of the Bible, Science and Health, and our Manual, and you will obey the law and gospel."
