Pulpit and Press
It is
interesting that correspondents speak of the new building as “a massive
temple” (page 52); “a great Christian Science church” (page 56); “a handsome
edifice” (page 63); and “the magnificent new edifice” (page 77). It seems that the new church building epitomised the promise and beauty of Christian Science - the Science of
Christianity.
The cost
of the structure was prominent in its newsworthiness. As was the fact that it was
dedicated with no cost outstanding. It was entirely paid for by voluntary donations
from “thousands of believers” (page 58).
Page 57 of gives the Order of Service for the four services held in dedication of the
temple. Here let us look at the Chapter "Glossary" in Science and Health's. The definition of
“temple” (p. 595) reads:
"Temple. Body; the idea of Life, substance, and intelligence; the superstructure of Truth; the shrine of Love; a material superstructure, where mortals congregate for worship."
The long
report from the American Art Journal (pp. 57-61) includes description of the
services.
“There was no special sentence or prayer of consecration."
"The printed program was for some reason not followed..."
"There was singing by a choir and congregation."
"The Pater
Noster [The Lord's Prayer] was repeated in the way peculiar to Christian
Scientists, the congregation repeating one sentence and the leader responding
with its parallel interpretation by Mrs. Eddy.”
"Antiphonal paragraphs were read
from the book of Revelation and her work respectively."
"The sermon, prepared by
Mrs. Eddy, was...read by a professional elocutionist...Mrs. Henrietta Clark Bemis" (not a student of Christian Science).
"The solo singer, however, was a Scientist, Miss Elsie Lincoln."
Turning over page 59, we find that there was a snowstorm amongst
all this activity.
Pages 60-61 gives a detailed description of the magnificent organ, and the chimes are extolled by the Boston
Journal pp. 61-62.
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