Lectures on Christian Science 1922–1945
Ross, Peter V. Lectures on Christian Science 1922–1945. New York: Hobson Book Press, 1945.
Ross’s collection of lectures and his essays on the act of lecturing as a member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship offer present-day researchers some insight regarding the evolution of Christian Science lecturing. The now amusing discussion with the Christian Science Board of Directors on the propriety of wearing a tuxedo for evening lectures establishes the historical context. Ross’s more serious essays and collection of writings enrich our understanding of the culture of Christian Science lecturing in the early 20th century. His comments range from self-improvement to critique on the management of lecturers. “My fundamental mistake lay in assuming, from what the Directors told me and from the general practice of Science lecturers, that a lecture must be committed to memory and recited verbatim. Now a speech, as everybody should know by this time, cannot be delivered effectively in that way” (6). With a tone of self-appointed authority, he explains what a good lecture should embody: basic theological teachings of Christian Science and their application to human experience. Examples from his 14 lectures include “The Operations of Divine Law in Human Affairs,” “The Purpose and Method of Christian Science,” and “The Answer to Human Problems.” A legal document and discussion of professional fees are included in the addenda.
This reference is written by an ‘independent’ Christian Scientist and is included in the bibliography because of its historical value. For further explanation, click here.