The 1898 Deed of Trust for The Christian Science Publishing Society is more than an interesting historical document. It is an integral part of Mary Baker Eddy's inspired design for her Church. Why did she put the publishing function into a trusteeship? As James A. Neal, one of the original Trustees, recalled her explanation: "She [Mary Baker Eddy] ... said, 'I am sorry that I had to put the publishing business into a trust rather than giving it directly to my church to handle, but I have been told by my attorney that that is the only thing that can be done, because of a law in Massachusetts which limits the holding by a church of property ....' She then said, Dear, don't think that what I am saying about this is for any lack of confidence in my trustees, in you and dear William McKenzie. It is not that. I am thinking of the future. ... We must have faith in God that He will work this out in His own way at the right time'" (James A. Neal, recalling an 1898 conversation with Mary Baker Eddy. See Proceedings in Equity, 1919-1921 [Boston: The Christian Science Publishing Society, 1921], p. 666).
So, even though the Deed began in order to meet a legal need, its provisions continue to give inspired guidance to the Trustees, supporting the fulfillment of the Publishing Society's purpose.
