Leslie's talk focused upon how Committees on Publication throughout the world are fulfilling their Manual-based duty to "correct in a Christian manner impositions on the public in regard to Christian Science." (Church Manual by Mary Baker Eddy, Art. XXXIII, § 2). The work of the Committees on Publication is first and foremost about benefiting mankind, and it is based on the healing practice. It is about uplifting (leavening) public thought, and this includes helping the public to gain a higher and more correct sense of Christian Science nursing.
 
Leslie began her presentation by providing some basic information about advance directives at the request of the CSNCN Board. Generally speaking, the term "advance directive" refers to various types of legal documents that individuals can use to express their preference for a particular type of health care if they become unable to make their own decisions. These documents can be particularly helpful in making sure that those who prefer Christian Science care and treatment rather than medical care will have their preference respected. Leslie explained that it is very important for anyone interested in making an advance directive to consult with an attorney in their jurisdiction because state and international laws about advance directives vary.
 
Leslie also provided an update on the legislative efforts of the Committees on Publication regarding Christian Science nursing. She explained that, although there has been progress in this area over the past couple of years, there is still a tremendous need for prayer. One great development this year was the passage of a law in Vermont that accommodates the practice of Christian Science nursing. The Vermont Committee on Publication worked with the State Nursing Board over a period of several years to obtain this accommodation. The Committees on Publication in eight states (Alaska, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, North Dakota, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Wyoming) are continuing their legislative work to obtain accommodations for the practice of Christian Science nursing.
 
Leslie also indicated that the Committees on Publication for Idaho and Arizona were successful in obtaining letters from state officials indicating that Christian Science nurses may use the full title "Christian Science nurse" even though these states have laws that prohibit anyone other than a licensed medical nurse from using the term "nurse". Although we are very grateful for this progress, there continue to be other states that have laws that restrict the use of the term "nurse" to licensed nurses. Leslie asked for the continued metaphysical support of the Conference attendees concerning this issue. She also indicated that it continues to be very important for Christian Science nurses to always use the full term "Christian Science nurse."
 
Leslie thanked the Conference attendees for the work that they do, and assured them that the Committees on Publication will continue to work hard to make sure that the public has access to this important, healing form of care.