On the memorable occasion of her first address in the newly completed Mother Church, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts, in May, 1895, Mary Baker Eddy said (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 106): "It has long been a question of earnest import, How shall mankind worship the most adorable, but most unadored,—and where shall begin that praise that shall never end? Beneath, above, beyond, methinks I hear the soft, sweet sigh of angels answering, 'So live, that your lives attest your sincerity and resound His praise.'"
Here are words that focus thought directly on the quality of worship and its fruits; on the nature of praise and the deeper demands true worship makes upon individual character. The outward symbol must be lighted by the inward yearning for the Christly deed, which has its source in God. The new Church must commemorate the healing Christ.
"Music," Mrs. Eddy continues further, "is the harmony of being; but the music of Soul affords the only strains that thrill the chords of feeling and awaken the heart's harpstrings." A contrast must always be drawn between the human symbol of praise, however perfect its outward expression, and the illumination of spiritual sense; between that which awakens and inspires thought, motive, desire, to seek and emulate the example of Christ Jesus, and the outward observances unillumined by spiritual inspiration. True praise will extend its vital influence beyond church walls and be reflected in the lives of the worshipers themselves.
