In every city and community throughout the world, people face what could look like insuperable obstacles and unsolvable challenges. They often take on these challenges with incredible courage and resourcefulness. Perhaps the problem is the homeless, gang warfare, abused children, lack of government funds, or simply rivalries and factions among those supposed to be helping. But when a friend comes along who quietly listens and understands, supports the good that is being accomplished, encourages—and deeply believes that there is an answer—the response, understandably, is warm.
During the last three years, Michael B. Thorneloe, C.S.B., has been serving in the office of Circuit Lecturer. He has had a warmhearted response, and much of the reason is his conviction, rooted deeply in Christian Science, that there always is an answer. This is communicated not through presentation or preaching but in the informal style of first-century Christianity.
He is the first to serve actively in this office, which is provided for by Article XXXI, Section 5, of the Manual of The Mother Church by Mary Baker Eddy. The By-Law provides for special lectures in the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and Ireland. The provision is unique—the lectures are distinct from other lecture work in that they are sponsored directly by The Christian Science Board of Directors—and the lessons of this pioneering work are great and can be extended.
