MR. A. G. GARDINER says in the Nation that “it is surprising that the introduction of faith healing into the apparatus of the Church of England has aroused so little public comment.” Surely there has been too much comment or, at least, too much “yellow” reporting, and we suggest to Mr. Gardiner that the phrase “the apparatus of the Church of England” is a little unhappy. Nevertheless, this comment from a journalist of position emphasizes the danger to which we again draw attention in our leader columns, and in this connexion we would draw attention to the fact that in the “stunt” Press Mr. [J. M.] Hickson is now described as a Miracle Worker. Mr. Gardiner is apparently convinced that the methods of M. Coué* and Mr. Hickson** are exactly the same, and that the idea that the cures effected during Mr. Hickson’s missions are the result of mystical forces is mere superstition and credulity. We are warned that “it is not a very long step from the faith healing blessed by the Bishop of Bradford to the miracles of Lourdes.” Perhaps not, but it must not be forgotten that, whether or not they are miracles, a large number of unmistakable cures have taken place at Lourdes.

*Émile Coué, promotor of self-healing, with the mantra “Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better”

**lay Anglican founder of the Society of Emmanuel

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