Last Saturday we had a church meeting where we started by going around and saying what we appreciated most about Christian Science. I thought you might like to see these thoughts whether you are familiar with Christian Science or not. It was a great way to start our meeting, which was wonderful, supportive, and forward looking.

Here are a smattering of the answers in no particular order:

• It works
• It is the truth
• It is useful
• It is logical
• It is reassuring
• It is a protection
• It give me hope
• It gives me joy and comfort
• I can rely on it
• It is positive
• It is supportive and inclusive
• It is internally consistent
• It is invaluable in parenting
• It answers my theological questions
• It gave me the only definition of God I could swallow
• It gives inner peace regardless of what is going on
• The focus on Genesis chapter 1 instead of Genesis chapter 2 makes a big difference
• The seven synonyms for God (Life, Truth, Love, Mind, Soul, Spirit, Principle) are very helpful
• The concept of Father/Mother God as expressed in the full range of qualities and attributes allows room for everyone to relate to being a full reflection of God
• You are not asked to believe anything you can’t prove.
• It gives me a depth that I can draw on in any situation
• It brings together high quality people that I most respect, who are full of integrity and constructive in their thinking.
• It gives a context within which to understand the world and try to do something about it
• I’m so grateful for how it has healed me
• It taught me how to pray like Jesus did, beyond petition
• It has helped me understand (and like) who I am
• It has shown me that there is always a solution, and there is nothing I can’t deal with. It is an immediate recourse when I have a problem.
• It teaches that God is infinite, all-powerful, ever-present good, never capricious, punishing, or fearsome.
• It brings out the best in me, helping me to continue to progress more and more.
• It helps me see myself and others from God’s perspective.
• It is always available to turn to.
• It is the law of love.

This is nowhere near an exhaustive list, but it is a good start.