A local interfaith reader asked this question and Christian Scientists may appreciate reading the answer, sent by Jenny Pearson, Committee on Publication for South East 1.

As a Christian Scientist, I’d like to give a different perspective on Damian Thompson’s Feb 28 podcast, because I see in my church energetic, committed, and joyful individuals. However, Mr. Thompson’s argument begs the question vital to the practice of all faith, namely, what about religion will actually last? If it isn't practical, real, revitalizing, what is religion for?

In light of severe weather conditions and ongoing fears surrounding global warming, it’s enlightening to reflect on how ‘on message’ the Christian Science pastor (Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by our founder, Mary Baker Eddy) is. 

As people of many faiths, Christian Scientists take the Golden Rule as basic ethics. It guides our relations with society, and while we can’t claim to have been always perfect in this regard, we feel strongly about respecting the rights of our neighbors and fellow citizens, and not imposing our own religious choices on others.