A Visitor to Pleasant View, in Concord, New Hampshire, looks with delight upon the pretty pond which students of Christian Science gave to Mrs. Eddy. If, before viewing this unusual gift, the visitor will read the article "Pond and Purpose," beginning on page 203 of "Miscellaneous Writings" by Mrs. Eddy, he will see how helpfully from a metaphysical standpoint our Leader refers to water. He will be particularly interested in the way she defines baptism in three very important aspects, and he will gain a satisfying sense of the scientific meaning of baptism.
Religionists who feel that Christian Science ignores the value of baptism merely because the Church of Christ, Scientist, does not feature it as a ceremonial rite or sacrament will be impressed with the importance Mrs. Eddy places upon it in terms of moral and spiritual regeneration. The three aspects of baptism presented in this article show how divine Love acts both on and in human consciousness to rebuke the senses, illustrating the transforming power of Christian Science.
Our Leader closes the article with these words: "As you journey, and betimes sigh for rest 'beside the still waters,' ponder this lesson of love. Learn its purpose; and in hope and faith, where heart meets heart reciprocally blest, drink with me the living waters of the spirit of my life-purpose,— to impress humanity with the genuine recognition of practical, operative Christian Science."
