However varied the circumstances which caused us to become interested in the teachings of Christian Science, they all have one thing in common: there was something positive about Science that appealed to us. It might have been the attitude of a neighbor, an article we read, a lecture we were invited to, a healing we witnessed or one we even experienced ourselves with the help of a Christian Scientist. It was some small or large ray of hope we received that made us want to find out more about Christian Science, to read Christian Science literature, to visit the church services and study the weekly Bible Lesson, found in the Christian Science Quarterly.
In order to answer satisfactorily the question whether it is worthwhile being a member of a branch church, it would perhaps be appropriate to clarify three other questions. First, what is Christian Science? To put it concisely, as Mrs. Eddy who discovered this Science, expresses it, it is the Science which reinstates the "lost element of healing" Manual of The Mother Church, p. 17. of primitive Christianity so that it can be proved. The second question would be: What does Christian Science have to offer us? Help in every difficulty, healing of physical and mental affliction, increased harmony in human relationships, and an understanding of our relationship to God that brings deep peace to our lives. This answer might easily give rise to the third question: Is membership necessary for this? Well, as long as we're only interested in our own well-being, it might seem enough to study Christian Science and practice it for ourselves in our daily life. But we can't afford to be like the priest or the Levite in Jesus' parable of the good Samaritan and pass by another's distress with indifference. Like the Samaritan, we should seek to help the one suffering by drawing his attention to the Science of Christian healing and helping him apply it. Mrs. Eddy says it this way: "Millions of unprejudiced minds—simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert—are waiting and watching for rest and drink. Give them a cup of cold water in Christ's name, and never fear the consequences." And a few lines further on she says: "Those ready for the blessing you impart will give thanks." Science and Health, p. 570.
To be fit to help others, we need to practice what we are learning. It is in our dealings with other people that our own character is purified and proved. How important it is, then, to seek opportunities to work in church with people on a democratic basis—not for the sake of personal gain but for a high spiritual goal.
