As Christian Scientists move into the second century of Christian Science, the challenges confronting them appear to intensify. To those who are striving to understand and demonstrate the truths of spiritual being, these challenges take the form of more aggressive, ever stiffer competition. The dazzling accomplishments of natural scientists, the competing elements of liberal and conservative theology, the advances medicine has made, all compete for mankind's attention and loyalty. We must be alert to know that this cannot isolate Christian Scientists from society or make them appear ineffective in helping humanity find the answers it needs so desperately.
At the Annual Meeting in June, 1967, The Christian Science Board of Directors set forth three five-year goals for the members of The Mother Church. These goals will help us meet the challenges of today and take our place as effective members of society. They point out how we can strengthen our defenses, improve our alertness and watchfulness, and increase our usefulness. These goals reach into every phase of our lives as Christian Scientists. They touch every aspect of our movement.
The first goal is "to encourage members of The Mother Church to grow in spiritual understanding through more consecrated and systematic study of the Bible and Mrs. Eddy's writings, thus to accomplish more and better healing and assure a greater supply of qualified workers entering the public practice of Christian Science."
