Christian Scientists at the turn of the century were well acquainted with the spotlight of public attention. It was no surprise to them to pick up a newspaper and find Christian Science in the headlines. Scores of newspaper articles and editorials debated the efficacy of Christian Science healing, attacked Mrs. Eddy, or discussed the latest legislative attempt to outlaw the practice of Christian Science.
It was in 1899 that Mrs. Eddy wrote to the Christian Scientists in Concord: "Rest assured that the injustice done by press and pulpit to this denomination of Christians will cease, when it no longer blesses this denomination."The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 151.
In recent years media attention has again focused strongly on Christian Science, especially in the United States and Great Britain. Television programs, novels, films, syndicated columns, and feature articles have often caricatured the views of Christian Scientists. Now an unusual court case may attract additional media attention, making new demands on Christian Scientists to demonstrate an unshakable assurance that real blessing is going on, despite any appearance to the contrary.
