Christ Jesus loved little children. He perceived their ability to grasp and to use spiritual truth, for he said (Mark 10: 14), "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." Jesus knew that children have their place to fill in the spiritual unfoldment of good to the human race.
Mary Baker Eddy, the revered Leader of the Christian Science movement, loved little children. She also had respect for their spiritual ability and usefulness, for she provided in the Manual of The Mother Church (Art. IV, Sect. 3) that at the age of twelve years they may join The Mother Church, thus assuming individual responsibility in forwarding the healing work of this Church.
The child's place in society is of much importance. His natural innocency and purity touch the hearts and minds of his elders with a softening, refining influence. His presence in the household has much to do with the high purpose of the home and with its moral and spiritual atmosphere. His quick perception of spiritual truth, his simple happiness and ingenuous sweetness, bring joy and inspiration to those about him.
