In the articles "Words for the Wise" and "Afterglow" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, pp. 250, 251), our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, commends the adoption of a three-year term for Readers in branch churches. In obedience to her loving counsel this rule has been faithfully adhered to by the branches of The Mother Church and has become a fundamental custom in our denomination. In Mrs. Eddy's words (p. 250), "Rotation in office promotes wisdom, quiets mad ambition, satisfies justice, and crowns honest endeavors."
Occasionally, though seldom, it has been found unavoidable in a branch church to extend the term of a Reader or to elect one who has already served a full term. This is, of course, permissible when circumstances make it necessary, as our Leader explains in the articles referred to. The Sunday services and Wednesday testimony meetings in our branch churches have a sacred importance which carries the assurance of Love's protection and direction, supplying every need in an orderly unfolding.
The three-year term represents the total period of service, whether as First or Second Reader, or in both offices. It need not preclude the appointment of a former Reader to fill a vacancy as a substitute. In some branch churches one who has served as a Reader for not more than half the customary term is considered eligible for a full threeyear term in addition. Each branch church can determine its course of action in such questions as the outcome of experience and demonstration.
