Several years ago I joined an interfaith Bible study group, and some fellow members of my Christian Science branch church participated with me. Through this activity, we learned how many lovely individuals there are in our community who place God at the center of their hearts and homes. While there were theological differences among the group, they were never debated. Rather, we focused on our desire for learning. The elevated atmosphere of thought in our discussion groups was awe-inspiring.
I appreciate having the opportunity to ask questions about others’ beliefs, and as a lifelong Christian Scientist, I am eager to share what I’ve learned through my study and practice. The group discussions about the Bible helped me vocalize truths without the Christian Science verbiage I’d grown accustomed to. After these meetings, I was often asked questions about comments I’d shared that had opened thought to fresh, healing ideas. On several occasions I was asked which church I attended. These conversations presented opportunities to correct misconceptions about Christian Science and further an understanding of our commonalities. I felt so blessed by these associations and by our newfound respect for each other’s beliefs.
This interfaith activity has broadened my perspective and opened new views on Church.
This activity has broadened my perspective and opened new views on Church. Christian Science is universal Truth communicating itself. It is fostering receptivity to healing through prayer, and this is happening both inside and outside of our churches, as Mary Baker Eddy anticipated. In a variety of venues and media, Christianity is being discussed in everyday language, enlightening and elevating thought. Heavy, confusing doctrinal platforms are giving way—at least to a degree—to the simple teachings of Jesus. People are relating and identifying with this less formal structure of Church. Universal Truth is right where we are! Divine Love is impelling listeners to search their hearts, purify their thoughts, question religious ritual and dogma, and look for fresh inspiration.
The universality of Truth advocated in the teachings of Christian Science was discerned by those from differing faith backgrounds in Mrs. Eddy's day. In her book No and Yes, she quotes part of a sermon given by a Boston Baptist clergyman, the Rev. Dr. A. J. Gordon, as saying, “The prayer of faith shall save the sick, and it is doing it to-day; and as the faith of the Church increases, and Christians more and more learn their duty to believe all things written in the Scriptures, will such manifestations of God’s power increase among us.” Mrs. Eddy goes on to say, “Such sentiments are wholesome avowals of Christian Science” (pp. 41–42).
The universal message of divine Science, known as the Comforter, is the leaven of Truth.
The universal message of divine Science, known as the Comforter, is the leaven of Truth. It is at work here and now, continuing its mission of healing. It is silently raising the standards of humanity, awakening thought to a higher sense of purpose and integrity. It is reaching across the globe, enlightening spiritual seekers who are taking the universal message of Truth to their home base for nurturing. I feel certain we are progressing toward the fulfillment of Jesus’ prayer “that [we] all may be one” (John 17:21).
