A light for the world

In 1908 few women had the authority or resources to start a daily newspaper. But late during that summer Mary Baker Eddy wrote a brief note to the directors of her church and to the trustees of The Christian Science Publishing Society telling them it was time to start a daily newspaper. She explained, "The Cause [of Christian Science] demands that it be issued now."

Unquestionably, she felt that there was a divine demand for this step to be taken. It was not a political step or an economic venture; it was not merely a journalistic enterprise; it was the result of a continuing unfoldment to her of what was needed for the redemption of mankind. In a draft letter to her editor and publisher, she wrote, "When I proposed having the weekly Sentinel students held back at first; they may hold back this time but I in the name of God direct you to do this."

The officers of her church and professionals from around the country clearly felt the force of this spiritual need and demand, and in three months the first issue of The Christian Science Monitor came off the press. Wednesday morning, Nov. 25, 1908, was overcast and foggy. When the first copy of the paper was delivered to Mrs. Eddy, her staff commented on how dark the day was. Mrs. Eddy responded, "Yes, but only according to sense. We know the reverse of error is true. This, in truth, is the lightest of all days. This is the day when our daily paper goes forth to lighten mankind...!" Rare is the paper that has such a spiritually defined origin and purpose. In "Science and Health" Mrs. Eddy wrote, " 'Let there be light,' is the perpetual demand of Truth and Love, changing chaos into order and discord into the music of the spheres." The demand for light never disappears, and the appearance of light never ceases in this spiritual equation. The demand that light come into the world and that humanity be enlightened is perpetual as well, and the work of The Christian Science Monitor is a continuing response to this demand.

Because of the severe challenges the paper faces at times, people are tempted to fear it will not survive. Reassurance and conviction of its life and future come with a realization of the spiritual demand that brought it into existence and continues to cause it to appear. What would make one think there is no need for a publication that takes as its mission to alleviate the fears and pains and despair that afflict so many in the world today? The Monitor reports the world's ills but doesn't become mesmerized by them. Like the polar star, it is a steady beacon of hope; it gives reassurance and direction to those in need. This paper also emphasizes the achievements that have improved life, the efforts that have resolved problems, and the things that bring joy into people's lives.

Those who are personally striving against oppression and being persecuted because of this, deserve evidence that their work is recognized and supported. When much in the media shows men and women at their worst, something is needed to honor the decency and courage and selflessness that surround us. It is important to shine a light on the work of those who are dedicated to delivering people from disaster, famine, or extermination. Often it is people of faith who have been moved to help the most unfortunate in the world, and their story should be told. And when so many are faced with inequality in education and opportunity, it is essential that this be exposed, and whatever and whoever is working to remedy this deserves to be lauded and known.

It is rarely fruitful to preach morality at people. But the spiritual roots of the Monitor have caused it to embrace its role as a moral force in the world. This doesn't translate into being holier than thou but into seriously heeding the spiritual directive "Love thy neighbor as thyself." This is what keeps us from being blind to our neighbor's need.

Page: 1 | 2 | 3