What We Teach
By Rev. Virgil Gfeller
“Science of Mind is a correlation of the laws of science, the opinions of philosophy and the revelations of religion applied to human needs and the aspirations of humankind” – Ernest Holmes
Science of Mind provides a basic framework for living, and is immediately applicable to the daily routines of one’s life. The principles are designed to speak directly to the needs of modern people.
We may approach Science of Mind through any of three aspects (philosophy, religion and science), and discover for ourselves a new, dynamic and creative way of thinking and living which is immediately intelligent, sensible and emotionally satisfying.
Unbounded by superstition, dogma and outworn concepts, it draws upon the wisdom of the ages as well as the frontiers of modern science to bring together the highest reaches of the human mind for practical use in daily living. It is not a closed system of thought, but is ever open at the top for continual growth and enlightenment from new sources.
Fundamental to Science of Mind is a concept that ancient intuition has revealed and modern science is confirming: The universe in which we live is essentially of a spiritual nature. In, through and behind it there is intelligence, purpose, law and order. It is from this tangible source that all things emanate. Some call this source God; others call it Life. Intelligence, Infinite Mind, Ultimate Reality. But because the universe is a unity, it can have but one Source. If we call it God, then we find that in the Mind of God there is first the idea of creation, and that God is manifest in Creation through the action of the Law of its own nature.
As a Philosophy, Science of Mind presents a proactive, down-to-earth way of thinking about the nature of the universe and humankind’s relationship to it. It considers our place in the scheme of things and how we can live up to and express the potential within each of us. Such an increased understanding broadens our scope of activity and releases us from limitation and fear. As creations of God, reflecting God’s nature, we discover our rightful positions as co-creators with God.
As a Religion, Science of Mind provides a practical framework for beliefs that have significance and value in every aspect of life. As a faith, it is free of bias and holds only to those truths which have been found to be universal. It presents a sound way of thinking instead of questionable concepts subject to doubt and futile speculation.
As a Science, Science of Mind presents specific and definite ideas which we can demonstrate for ourselves in our own lives and experiences. No formula is involved, but there are certain methods, techniques and procedures which, if properly used, can enable a person to discover and experience a better way of life. This procedure is called Spiritual Mind Treatment – the elevation of prayer out of a routine ritual to its highest and most effective point. Spiritual Mind Treatment brings together and uses basic religious ideas and the scientific knowledge of the mind-body relationships.
So we find that Science of Mind is intelligent to think about, satisfying to believe in, and practical to use. Regardless of race, religious affiliation, education or social status, one may find in it ways and means to a fuller, richer life.
Science of Mind presents a message of hope, help and inspiration. Its practice and use extend into every form of human experience: health, abundance, harmonious relationships, success, creative activity and all the other things that make for the good life becomes accessible. We no longer feel like helpless human beings tossed about by the currents of life; for we have learned that as Divine Beings we are masters of our destinies, and have proven to ourselves that it is done unto us as we believe.
Science of Mind presents to the world a fresh concept of religion through the organization of the United Church of Religious Science, with home offices in Los Angeles, California, and its many member churches. Universal in its appeal to all people, it seeks to follow the three fold pattern of preaching, teaching and healing. The preaching involves the presentation of great truths; the teaching concerns how to use them; and through their use, healing becomes evident and tangible by changes in human lives.
The Church of Religious Science was founded by Dr. Ernest Holmes in 1927. Dr. Holmes’ philosophy, called Science of Mind, was compiled from the writings of the greatest teachers and writers on the subjects of spirituality and philosophy of life.
Rev. Virgil Gfeller