Christian Science treatment is a call to God from the patient’s spiritual sense ( their “conscious, constant capacity to understand God’). It is this capacity that moves thought forward to call with a deep desire to experience that Christian Science treatment is the absolute acknowledgment of present perfection. This was an idea shared with us recently by a lecturer. In getting the backstory, I found this from the Mary Baker Eddy Library:
“The statement attributed to Mary Baker Eddy: “A treatment in Christian Science is an absolute acknowledgment of the ever-presence of infinite perfection” was reportedly given during an interview with Robert Morton, a correspondent with the Associated Press. Eddy stated, “My boy, a treatment in Christian Science is an absolute acknowledgment of the ever presence of Infinite Perfection.” Several years later, when Morton was suffering with partial paralysis caused by war wounds, he recalled this definition and experienced a healing. He later became a student of Christian Science. “( recorded in a letter from Morton’s wife, Elise Morton, dated April 4, 1946, to the Clerk of The Mother Church.)
In reviewing how we go about a Christian Science treatment, we know that if you begin a treatment to improve an imperfect condition, STOP! You have been mesmerized! To start a treatment, you must know that you are well before you give the treatment. Treatment is being conscious of Truth’s present reality.”
SLIDE 19 .
What is our role in healing?
to bear witness to the truth of being
God is the healer
Jesus claims:
Our role
If we falter or feel inadequate
“While God alone heals, we are healers as we practice “the Principle and rule of Christian Science or metaphysical healing” (Science and Health, p. 493). God is the Principle of Science. It is comforting and reassuring that we’re already equipped to do the work God gives us to do, which Jesus promises we can do—bear faithful witness to what is true: God’s perfect creation. This is our role in healing.”
(From “Our role in healing” Moji George, Sent May 8, 2023)
Working from key elements of Christian Science: Lord’s Prayer, Dailies, Sermon, etc
In Primary Class and other Association addresses, we’ve often worked on praying together with the Lord’s Prayer, the scientific statement of being, and other key ideas found in our Pastor.
There is a constant flow of inspiration that comes out of our study and practice.
Cathy talks about finding inspiration in working with the scientific statement of being, and “the Dailies”-- these are a series of citations with requirements of how Christian Scientists are to work on a daily basis (a paper with a list of these citations is available on the Association website).
Looking at Science and Health as a book that helps us to heal and follow the directions of God as simplified in Christian Science, we find all kinds of ideas for treatmentin paragraphs of condensed inspiration. Unpacking these, we are helped toward stronger confidence in healing. For instance, turn to Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 220:4–20 and follow along.
There are really two parts to this statement: one describing instantaneous healing and the other - healing through argument. Let’s unpack this statement.
Giving Treatment - Go to SLIDES #20 and #21
(Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 220:4–20)
Review of One God, one man
God is the source of all true inspiration or all true healing.
There are no intermediaries to God. So our sole study is not exclusively on reading others’ inspiration but only as it helps us to focus primarily on God and our direct relation to God.
There is no hierarchy in Christian Science. Healing is the highest calling. Healing is the outcome of “Emmanuel” or our oneness with God. That means we have a direct line to God. Clear, permanent, unobstructed, never varying.
Although we are not dependent on others’ inspiration, we see that we are partners in each others’ inspiration.
How the compound idea man lifts all mankind
We are each included in that compound idea of man, including each individual consciousness reflecting the infinite facets of being.
“The Scriptures inform us that man is made in the image and likeness of God. ... Man is idea, the image, of Love; he is not physique. He is the compound idea of God, including all right ideas; the generic term for all that reflects God's image and likeness; the conscious identity of being as found in Science....(Science and Health, p. 475:)
The generic term “man” in Christian Science is expansive and inclusive. Man as idea - is one idea - yet a compound idea that includes all right ideas. While pondering this, I had an “Aha!” moment!
Like rays of a sun - of which there are many - but together make up the sum total of the radiance of the sun, so do all right ideas (or conscious identities) make up the sum total of the compound idea of God.
Aha! So that explains our oneness with God and with another as we all - as a compound idea - are that one man (one radiance) reflecting that one God. One! We are all one!
Aha! So that explains the uplifting benefit I get when another shares their spiritual insights that resulted in their healing. Their healing sparks my healing because we are all that one compound idea man.
This connection is illustrated in the impact of Jesus’ words and works on his disciples and related in Science and Health: “Through all the disciples experienced, they became more spiritual and understood better what the Master had taught. His resurrection was also their resurrection.”(Science and Health, p. 34:18–21).
Likewise, as we are all reflections of God with one Father-Mother God, we can prove to varying different degrees, one person’s healing is our healing in that each healing lifts each individualized consciousness of the one compound idea, man. This makes me read this magazine’s testimonies of healing with fresh new insight! Each law they have proved in each testimony has a direct healing impact in my life! No one is outside, looking in at others’ healings. Each law proved for one is proved for all.
However this “compound idea” doesn’t mean that each of us individually becomes an amorphous blob! Again, Science and Health explains “Man is not absorbed in Deity, and man cannot lose his individuality, for he reflects eternal Life; nor is he an isolated, solitary idea, for he represents infinite Mind, the sum of all substance.” (Science and Health, p. 259:1) and “Neither will man seem to be corporeal, but he will be an individual consciousness, characterized by the divine Spirit as idea, not matter.” (Science and Health, p. 76:15)
This explains the scientific, provable basis of the effortless law of Love that governs each distinct idea of the compound idea man. One God, one man: and this compound idea, man, reflects infinite intelligence, instant companionship, and eternal life through an infinite variety of right ideas/us/individualized consciousness.
The impact of Christian Science on world consciousness
The light gleaned from one individualized spiritual consciousness lights up all thought, and the world. We are all individual identities of the compound idea man. What one individualized idea demonstrates – benefits the compound idea man. It could be seen as a spiritualized view of the physicist’s theory where all light is connected.
Aha! So that explains our impact on world consciousness when we pray for the world. Christian Science is a science. It articulates the laws of God, good, and we are able to teach, learn, and prove these laws and bear witness to them and this has impact - it propels a shift of thought - from a material sense to a spiritual sense; and this results in healing. One pure prayer impacts all mankind as we are all connected.
Mary Baker Eddy writes: ” ... as a result of teaching Christian Science, ethics and temperance have received an impulse, health has been restored, and longevity increased. (Science and Health, p. 348:30 as)
There is no wasted prayerful effort. Each individual and collective insight, revelation, healing, compassionate and unselfish act is cumulative. It builds up a moral and spiritual force that gives an impulse to human consciousness and pushes on the ages. Just as “a little leaven causes the whole mass to ferment” (Science and Health, p. 449:2–3), so does enlightened prayer affirm that the divine influence that is ever present in human consciousness is behind every step of progress. As “Every step of progress is a step more spiritual.” (Peo., p. 1:2 (only). Truth continues to transform consciousness and, as a result, moves humanity to turn from matter to Spirit.
Our prayer - is not this letting our light shine?
And as Soul is never without Its representative, so is man - that compound idea of God - constantly reflecting light.
Yes, the Light is always on!
++++++++++++++++++++
Exercise: praying for ourselves, one another, and the world
Excerpts from our annual call letter:
“This year, we will be addressing the fact that the demand for peace, justice, progress, and supply is growing almost exponentially in our neighborhoods, in the world, and in our own lives. What will save us? What will lead us? What will guard us? LOVE.
"God so loved the world, that God’s love had to be manifested, just as a growing seed must break into view as a blossoming flower. Love without expression/evidence is not Love. So God, Love sent His Son - the Christ: the true idea of God - so that we can see for ourselves what it means to live abundantly, graciously, and powerfully as a son or a daughter of God; and reflect “the light of ever-present Love.” This Love saves us, our communities, and our world, so that we might be safe and sound in the safety and salvation through Christ.
"The times are forcing us to deal with sin and evil with greater honesty and force.”
In the letter you were asked to “ give some deep thought to elements in your own life or in others - global issues, church issues, family and work issues, etc. - that are calling out for healing, redemption, progress, forgiveness, and grace. And we will collectively give those topics specific healing focus in the atmosphere of Love in our Association meeting.” Well, you did give some serious consideration to both global and personal issues - and your candor and humility to have them addressed were moving.
The next hour or will be full of considering these questions and prayerful responses. In the next 15-20 minutes, you will all have an opportunity to get up move around, check out the exhibits, think about what gives you a sense of freedom and hope and/or look at the list of global and community issues needing healing. Choose one of those issues (or come up with one of your own), find a moment and a space to pray about that issue, and then write down just one idea from that prayer.
In the next session, I’ll be responding to a number of questions that many of you sent in, and will also give anyone an opportunity to share their inspired idea on one of their key issues they have chosen.
Again, in this session of questions and answers, take about 15 minutes of quiet time - alone or with another - to consider these questions. At the end of this time, write down an answer or response on an index card for each question and be ready to share in our next session.
SLIDE 22 .
“The statement attributed to Mary Baker Eddy: “A treatment in Christian Science is an absolute acknowledgment of the ever-presence of infinite perfection” was reportedly given during an interview with Robert Morton, a correspondent with the Associated Press. Eddy stated, “My boy, a treatment in Christian Science is an absolute acknowledgment of the ever presence of Infinite Perfection.” Several years later, when Morton was suffering with partial paralysis caused by war wounds, he recalled this definition and experienced a healing. He later became a student of Christian Science. “( recorded in a letter from Morton’s wife, Elise Morton, dated April 4, 1946, to the Clerk of The Mother Church.)
In reviewing how we go about a Christian Science treatment, we know that if you begin a treatment to improve an imperfect condition, STOP! You have been mesmerized! To start a treatment, you must know that you are well before you give the treatment. Treatment is being conscious of Truth’s present reality.”
SLIDE 19 .
What is our role in healing?
to bear witness to the truth of being
God is the healer
- ... for I am the LORD that healeth thee. (Exodus 15:26 for)
- “Divine Love is our only physician, and never loses a case.” (My., 132)
- God is Mind, and divine Mind was first chronologically, is first potentially, and is the healer to whom all things are possible. ( My., p. 349:1–3)
Jesus claims:
- ... the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. (John 14:10)
- I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. (John 5:30)
- ... To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. … (John 18:37 To (to 2nd .)
Our role
- God is the Principle of Science. We practice this Principle.
- We are following Christ’s teachings and
- bearing witness to God’s creation and the truth of being
- Seeing the perfect man
- To abide strictly to the rules of Science, heed every statement (Science and Health 462: 13)
- These rules include rules of perfection, health and holiness, perpetual harmony, etc.
- Remain wholeheartedly receptive, with an earnest and childlike trust in God (all-in!)
- START, STAY, STICK, AND STAND WITH GOD
- Never make a reality of disease (Science and Health 369:14)
If we falter or feel inadequate
- Remember, like Paul “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”(Philippians 4:13)
- Accept that even the slightest glimmer of God’s perfection has power ( a grain of mustard seed faith ( Matt 17:30)
- Love giveth to the least spiritual idea might, immortality, and goodness, which shine through all as the blossom shines through the bud. (Science and Health, p. 518:19–21)
- Mrs. Eddy writes about turning away from the material picture altogether - whatever it takes “self-denial, sincerity, Christianity, and persistence alone win the prize, as they usually do in every department of life. (Science and Health, p. 462:13)
- Through repentance, spiritual baptism, and regeneration, mortals put off their material beliefs and false individuality. (Science and Health, p. 242:1–3)
- “There is no malice, no envy, no will power. All is Truth and Love. Argue this way.” Mary Baker Eddy’s note to a student.
“While God alone heals, we are healers as we practice “the Principle and rule of Christian Science or metaphysical healing” (Science and Health, p. 493). God is the Principle of Science. It is comforting and reassuring that we’re already equipped to do the work God gives us to do, which Jesus promises we can do—bear faithful witness to what is true: God’s perfect creation. This is our role in healing.”
(From “Our role in healing” Moji George, Sent May 8, 2023)
Working from key elements of Christian Science: Lord’s Prayer, Dailies, Sermon, etc
In Primary Class and other Association addresses, we’ve often worked on praying together with the Lord’s Prayer, the scientific statement of being, and other key ideas found in our Pastor.
There is a constant flow of inspiration that comes out of our study and practice.
Cathy talks about finding inspiration in working with the scientific statement of being, and “the Dailies”-- these are a series of citations with requirements of how Christian Scientists are to work on a daily basis (a paper with a list of these citations is available on the Association website).
Looking at Science and Health as a book that helps us to heal and follow the directions of God as simplified in Christian Science, we find all kinds of ideas for treatmentin paragraphs of condensed inspiration. Unpacking these, we are helped toward stronger confidence in healing. For instance, turn to Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 220:4–20 and follow along.
There are really two parts to this statement: one describing instantaneous healing and the other - healing through argument. Let’s unpack this statement.
Giving Treatment - Go to SLIDES #20 and #21
(Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, Mary Baker Eddy, p. 220:4–20)
Review of One God, one man
- One God as the source of all healing
- One man as a compound idea - including all right ideas
God is the source of all true inspiration or all true healing.
There are no intermediaries to God. So our sole study is not exclusively on reading others’ inspiration but only as it helps us to focus primarily on God and our direct relation to God.
There is no hierarchy in Christian Science. Healing is the highest calling. Healing is the outcome of “Emmanuel” or our oneness with God. That means we have a direct line to God. Clear, permanent, unobstructed, never varying.
Although we are not dependent on others’ inspiration, we see that we are partners in each others’ inspiration.
How the compound idea man lifts all mankind
We are each included in that compound idea of man, including each individual consciousness reflecting the infinite facets of being.
“The Scriptures inform us that man is made in the image and likeness of God. ... Man is idea, the image, of Love; he is not physique. He is the compound idea of God, including all right ideas; the generic term for all that reflects God's image and likeness; the conscious identity of being as found in Science....(Science and Health, p. 475:)
The generic term “man” in Christian Science is expansive and inclusive. Man as idea - is one idea - yet a compound idea that includes all right ideas. While pondering this, I had an “Aha!” moment!
Like rays of a sun - of which there are many - but together make up the sum total of the radiance of the sun, so do all right ideas (or conscious identities) make up the sum total of the compound idea of God.
Aha! So that explains our oneness with God and with another as we all - as a compound idea - are that one man (one radiance) reflecting that one God. One! We are all one!
Aha! So that explains the uplifting benefit I get when another shares their spiritual insights that resulted in their healing. Their healing sparks my healing because we are all that one compound idea man.
This connection is illustrated in the impact of Jesus’ words and works on his disciples and related in Science and Health: “Through all the disciples experienced, they became more spiritual and understood better what the Master had taught. His resurrection was also their resurrection.”(Science and Health, p. 34:18–21).
Likewise, as we are all reflections of God with one Father-Mother God, we can prove to varying different degrees, one person’s healing is our healing in that each healing lifts each individualized consciousness of the one compound idea, man. This makes me read this magazine’s testimonies of healing with fresh new insight! Each law they have proved in each testimony has a direct healing impact in my life! No one is outside, looking in at others’ healings. Each law proved for one is proved for all.
However this “compound idea” doesn’t mean that each of us individually becomes an amorphous blob! Again, Science and Health explains “Man is not absorbed in Deity, and man cannot lose his individuality, for he reflects eternal Life; nor is he an isolated, solitary idea, for he represents infinite Mind, the sum of all substance.” (Science and Health, p. 259:1) and “Neither will man seem to be corporeal, but he will be an individual consciousness, characterized by the divine Spirit as idea, not matter.” (Science and Health, p. 76:15)
This explains the scientific, provable basis of the effortless law of Love that governs each distinct idea of the compound idea man. One God, one man: and this compound idea, man, reflects infinite intelligence, instant companionship, and eternal life through an infinite variety of right ideas/us/individualized consciousness.
The impact of Christian Science on world consciousness
The light gleaned from one individualized spiritual consciousness lights up all thought, and the world. We are all individual identities of the compound idea man. What one individualized idea demonstrates – benefits the compound idea man. It could be seen as a spiritualized view of the physicist’s theory where all light is connected.
Aha! So that explains our impact on world consciousness when we pray for the world. Christian Science is a science. It articulates the laws of God, good, and we are able to teach, learn, and prove these laws and bear witness to them and this has impact - it propels a shift of thought - from a material sense to a spiritual sense; and this results in healing. One pure prayer impacts all mankind as we are all connected.
Mary Baker Eddy writes: ” ... as a result of teaching Christian Science, ethics and temperance have received an impulse, health has been restored, and longevity increased. (Science and Health, p. 348:30 as)
There is no wasted prayerful effort. Each individual and collective insight, revelation, healing, compassionate and unselfish act is cumulative. It builds up a moral and spiritual force that gives an impulse to human consciousness and pushes on the ages. Just as “a little leaven causes the whole mass to ferment” (Science and Health, p. 449:2–3), so does enlightened prayer affirm that the divine influence that is ever present in human consciousness is behind every step of progress. As “Every step of progress is a step more spiritual.” (Peo., p. 1:2 (only). Truth continues to transform consciousness and, as a result, moves humanity to turn from matter to Spirit.
Our prayer - is not this letting our light shine?
And as Soul is never without Its representative, so is man - that compound idea of God - constantly reflecting light.
Yes, the Light is always on!
++++++++++++++++++++
Exercise: praying for ourselves, one another, and the world
Excerpts from our annual call letter:
“This year, we will be addressing the fact that the demand for peace, justice, progress, and supply is growing almost exponentially in our neighborhoods, in the world, and in our own lives. What will save us? What will lead us? What will guard us? LOVE.
"God so loved the world, that God’s love had to be manifested, just as a growing seed must break into view as a blossoming flower. Love without expression/evidence is not Love. So God, Love sent His Son - the Christ: the true idea of God - so that we can see for ourselves what it means to live abundantly, graciously, and powerfully as a son or a daughter of God; and reflect “the light of ever-present Love.” This Love saves us, our communities, and our world, so that we might be safe and sound in the safety and salvation through Christ.
"The times are forcing us to deal with sin and evil with greater honesty and force.”
In the letter you were asked to “ give some deep thought to elements in your own life or in others - global issues, church issues, family and work issues, etc. - that are calling out for healing, redemption, progress, forgiveness, and grace. And we will collectively give those topics specific healing focus in the atmosphere of Love in our Association meeting.” Well, you did give some serious consideration to both global and personal issues - and your candor and humility to have them addressed were moving.
The next hour or will be full of considering these questions and prayerful responses. In the next 15-20 minutes, you will all have an opportunity to get up move around, check out the exhibits, think about what gives you a sense of freedom and hope and/or look at the list of global and community issues needing healing. Choose one of those issues (or come up with one of your own), find a moment and a space to pray about that issue, and then write down just one idea from that prayer.
In the next session, I’ll be responding to a number of questions that many of you sent in, and will also give anyone an opportunity to share their inspired idea on one of their key issues they have chosen.
Again, in this session of questions and answers, take about 15 minutes of quiet time - alone or with another - to consider these questions. At the end of this time, write down an answer or response on an index card for each question and be ready to share in our next session.
- What gives you a sense of freedom and hope?
- How are you praying about the key issues of the day? ( state that issue):
- Agelessness
- mental health and mental stability
- justice vs law
- environmental disasters and climate change
- gun violence and safety
- proper care and education for children
- civility and truthful communication
- world peace
- health
- supply
- small church membership and desire to attract children and families to attend
- church unity
- Other issues? Please state it and then share your prayer.
SLIDE 22 .
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