In her life and manner of living, a marked simplicity characterized Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and revelator of Christian Science. Her home was dignified and representative, but devoid of ostentation or display. It is observable that she expressed the same apparent desire for simplicity in every step taken in the organization and formation of The Mother Church and m the wise provisions made to carry on the great Cause of which she was the Founder. She provided no elaborate system for the government of her Church.
It is interesting that the Rules and By-Laws of the Manual of The Mother Church, of which Mrs. Eddy herself was the author, are embodied in eighty small pages, and yet the study and understanding of this little book is important for the growth of every individual member. Each Rule and By-Law was the outcome of consecrated prayer and profound foresight on the part of our revered Leader.
On page 148 of her book "Miscellaneous Writings" Mrs. Eddy says: "The Rules and By-laws in the Manual of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, originated not in solemn conclave as in ancient Sanhedrim. They were not arbitrary opinions nor dictatorial demands, such as one person might impose on another. They were impelled by a power not one's own, were written at different dates, and as the occasion required." It is said that the early Christian church was simple in form and organization, and the Church of Christ, Scientist, is conducted and governed on similar lines.
