When a student of Christian Science considers joining The Mother Church or a branch Church of Christ, Scientist, he or she may turn to the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy to get an idea of the Church's structure. The Manual establishes the organization and government of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts.
The Manual is a slim book, and it doesn't take much time to read. But the underlying ideas are radical and present a view of government that may be new to the reader. It is certainly a view that is unique in today's world.
Mrs. Eddy speaks of this government in Article VIII, Section 4. This By-Law, titled "Daily Prayer," reads: "It shall be the duty of every member of this Church to pray each day: 'Thy kingdom come;' let the reign of divine Truth, Life, and Love be established in me, and rule out of me all sin; and may Thy Word enrich the affections of all mankind, and govern them!"
