Paths of Pioneer Christian Scientists: Join us on April 23

“There are so many powerful lessons we can learn from the experiences of the early workers in the Christian Science movement,” says Anne McCauley, president and executive director of Longyear Museum. “By attending these upcoming events, I hope people can see their courage and commitment, and acknowledge the wonderful gift their healing work has given students of Christian Science today.”

An alum, McCauley (C’79) still recalls the course that exposed Principia College students in the 70s and early 80s to the history of the Christian Science movement, its major events and milestones, and the dedicated workers instrumental to its growth. “In my role at Longyear Museum,” McCauley explains, “I was eager to introduce Principia College students to the stories of some of these early pioneers. Their lives were transformed by Christian Science, and many were so moved by the freedom they found that they committed themselves to serving Mrs. Eddy and the Cause.

Certain that providing Principia College students with greater exposure to the history of their religion was a priority, College President Jonathan Palmer was thrilled to support the learning opportunities Longyear Museum could offer. After a year of collaboration, Principia College and Longyear Museum present two special events for students, alumni, and friends to learn about the inspiration, dedication, and achievement of several early Christian Science pioneers.

“Paths of Pioneer Christian Scientists”
Friday, April 23, 7:00–8:30 p.m. CDT
Principia College, Cox Auditorium

Chronicling the lives of four remarkable and courageous women who helped Mary Baker Eddy establish her religion and church, Stephen Howard, director and curator of Longyear Museum, and Christopher Tyner, senior writer and researcher at Longyear Museum, will share findings from their original research on Emma Thompson, Abigail Dyer Thompson, Janette Weller, and Annie M. Knott. The results of their research will appear in a book the Museum plans to publish later this year, but listeners will get an early look at their findings.

“Imparting a Fresh Impulse: Preparing the Next Generation”
Principia College, School of Government

Following the April 23 presentation, a special exhibit, “Imparting a Fresh Impulse: Preparing the Next Generation,” will be unveiled. The exhibit includes photographic portraits of Mary Baker Eddy and eleven students from Mrs. Eddy’s last class, held in the church pictured above in November 1898 in Concord, New Hampshire. The exhibit’s title is derived from a statement by Mrs. Eddy to the class, found in The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany (244:11). According to Irving C. Tomlinson, in his book Twelve Years with Mary Baker Eddy, Mrs. Eddy herself said that her work with that class “changed the character of the entire Field.”

This exhibit will be on display through spring 2011.