In addition to philanthropic endeavours and the Camp Welfare Workers' magnificent pursuits, it soon became apparent that there was need for a "quiet retreat" in each of the soldiers' camps. These had the purpose of providing space for church services, room for "study and spiritual refreshment", and somewhere in which to meet to discuss problems with an experienced Christian Scientist. They also served as a centre for distribution and collection of CS literature.
Our book, Christian Science Wartime Activities, explains it so well, and it is an inspiration for those of us involved in Reading Room work today:
Simple and homelike in structure, cozily furnished, with flower boxes at the windows and "Welcome" over the door, the Christian Science Buildings have been a refuge not only to young soldiers but to the stranger, the chaplain, the nurses and relatives of boys in need. Christian Scientists know, however, that these buildings, no matter how attractive, could never of themselves have met the heart's great need. It was the conscious realization of the presence of divine Love, its protecting Fatherhood and Motherhood, which created the loving atmosphere that attracts, uplifts and comforts. Many a heartsick boy having come to the War Relief Building and having found there a touch of humanity, came later on to find Divinity,--seeking a quiet, homey place, he found also healing and courage. p. 101
Many of those who had hitherto spent their week-ends in the city, whiling away the time in worthless amusements, now came in to read and study to their profit. p. 107
A visitor from the YMCA was heard to remark: "You people have a knack of always expressing beauty and art in everything you do, no matter how inexpensive it may be." p. 103
One takes away a sense of peace by just reading about these Love-filled spaces.
Julie Swannell
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