Reminiscences, Sermons, and Correspondence: Proving Adherence to the Principle of Christian Science as Taught by Mary Baker Eddy, 1884-1913

Stetson, Augusta E. Reminiscences, Sermons, and Correspondence: Proving Adherence to the Principle of Christian Science as Taught by Mary Baker Eddy, 1884-1913. New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1913.

The title of this 1,214-page volume is accurate, starting with the reminiscence of Stetson’s education in “the Trinitarian faith,” introduction to Mary Baker Eddy, and Eddy’s persistent effort to prepare her for leadership in Eddy’s movement. It includes the program of her ordination and installation as “Pastor of the Church of Christ, Scientist” in New York City and the sermons she delivered there. Chapter 3 consists of her letters to Eddy, professing her love and obedience, such as “My disloyal students and others are determined to destroy me and my work. Their efforts to prevent me from loving and obeying you, as Leader and Teacher, are futile to terrify me” (192). Letters to her students convey the same struggle: “I will press on, dear loving disciples of Christian Science, for my revered Leader’s sake, for your sakes, for the lambs in my fold” (329). Chapter 5, titled “Letters on Church Problems,” includes her explanation of the problems: “I was accused by the five Directors of The Mother Church of mental malpractice…” (485). Some of the remaining chapters include “Findings and Orders of the Board of Directors,” “Letters to Church Officials,” “… to Friends,” “to the Press,” and “… Counsel to Students,” and “Fruits of Experience.”

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.