During the year we hear an announcement read from the desk of every Church of Christ, Scientist, that application may be made for church membership. This is a joyful, eagerly-awaited message for those who have been conscientiously preparing themselves for closer affiliation with the Christian Science movement. Church membership is indeed a great privilege and can be the source of much happiness, but it also imposes responsibilities proportionate to its satisfactions. It is well to consider this announcement, therefore, as more than just a message to applicants. In its larger significance it may serve to remind members to review the progress they are making and to rededicate themselves to the task of becoming more worthy church members.
On page 583 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mary Baker Eddy defines "Church" as follows:
"The structure of Truth and Love; whatever rests upon and proceeds from divine Principle.
