The qualities of honesty, uprightness, and justice have characterized religious men in every age. The spiritually-minded are described in the Bible as "the congregation of the righteous" (Ps. 1:5). Today seekers for Truth the world over are learning through Christian Science the way of righteousness and spiritual understanding. Through the unity and spiritual strength of The Mother Church and its branches, Christian Scientists are seeking to exemplify in increasing measure "the congregation of the righteous."
The word "righteous," so frequently found in the Bible, has the connotation of uprightness, consecration, and holiness. The Hebrew patriarchs furnished illustrations of righteousness in their dignity, rectitude, steadfastness, and spiritual wisdom. The apostles were inspiring examples in their singleness of purpose, courage, and zeal. More than all others, Christ Jesus embodied righteousness and proved the power of spirituality to strengthen and comfort mankind. Throughout the Bible, righteousness signifies not merely an attitude but a way of living.
As considered in Christian Science, congregations today also express the vitality and joy of righteousness. The congregation of a Church of Christ, Scientist, manifests no regimentation, no forfeiture of individual rights of self-government or of free moral agency. It is composed of individuals united in their mutual desire to know more of God. The strength of this unity lies in the freedom of each person present to express his God-given spiritual individuality and to avail himself increasingly of his unlimited opportunities for progress.
