An occasional column, recording insights and experiences from members of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship as they travel the world, speaking on Christian Science and its healing mission.
THERE have been many branch churches and societies that have reached out to the Spanish-speaking community by sponsoring Spanish language lectures. This reminds me of what Mary Baker Eddy said regarding a new idea: "The new idea, conceived and born of Truth and Love, is clad in white garments. Its beginning will be meek, its growth sturdy, and its maturity undecaying" (Science and Health, p. 463). It's a great step in demonstrating the brotherhood of man despite world-imposed divisions related to nationality and language.
I had accepted an invitation to lecture in English and Spanish for a church in New England in the middle of January. An exciting prospect—because it was the first time the church had offered a lecture in Spanish, and the community in which the church is located has a significant percentage of Spanish speakers.
The members had chosen a venue close to the highest concentration of Spanish speakers, and put a lot of work into advertising the lecture, including placing flyers with many of the local businesses and an enthusiastic word-of-mouth effort on the part of two Spanish speakers. Most important, the church had prepared to welcome Spanish speakers into their church fold. Much prayer had gone on prior to the lecture, especially addressing any negative tendencies, such as stereotyping, fear of people who are different, and so on, that would get in the way of the church's natural loving outreach to its community.
On the day of the lecture, there was a huge snow storm. Shortly before the lecture was to begin, about six inches of snow had already accumulated. Needless to say, the weather picture was not pretty. But everyone from the church who had planned to come and welcome the audience was present.
Our expectations for an audience were greatly exceeded. Newcomers came and stayed afterward for at least half an hour to ask questions. The lecture was a success. So much so, that this host church is now in the final planning stages for holding services in Spanish.
I am very grateful for this experience that showed me there are really no obstacles that can impede God's activity!
