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The selected healings on this site have been published in The Christian Science Journal (a monthly magazine) or the Christian Science Sentinel (a weekly magazine) and republished in the book A Century of Christian Science Healing in Santa Barbara California. An additional 100 pages of healings are included in the back of the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health.

DEATH: FRIEND OR ENEMY? [Home] [to Top]

Years of accumulating drugs for a "suicide cocktail" ended with learning that God's way is life and that self-destruction is not a road to heaven.

Today the media report on suicide with some frequency. Whether these are cases of "assisted suicide" or the result of some other unhappy situation, the individuals involved clearly felt that death was the only solution. But there is another way, one pointed out to us by Christ Jesus. "The Bible calls death an enemy, and Jesus overcame death and the grave instead of yielding to them," Mary Baker Eddy writes in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. She continues further on, "To him, therefore, death was not the threshold over which he must pass into living glory." In this light, when human will, drugs, and other material methods fail, how could death be a valid way out of troubles? To tout death as the remedy for disease, a relief from pain, or a deterrent of crime bolsters the insidious thought that death is a giant dispose-all for everyone and everything that presents a difficulty or threatens to become a problem.

Christian Science acquaints humanity with God as divine Truth, Love, and Life-changelessly loving, the only source of true being. From this standpoint, Life could never be equated with a limited period of time to be "gotten through" and to be followed by eventual death. Nor is it meant to be ambled through idly, as though we were window shopping in a fantasy market of perishable passions, indulgences, or speculations. Life is infinitely worth cherishing. Eternal and indestructible, it is meant to be usefully and purposefully lived.

One dictionary defines mortality as "having eventually to die," whereas immortality is "deathless; living or lasting forever." These clearly are opposites. We can all agree that it's impossible to walk due north and due south at the same time. So how could immortality possibly be an endless string of mortalities? Life and death are absolutely opposite. Should we reasonably be tempted, then, to use death as an escape hatch to health and heaven? Doesn't it also make sense that accepting the suitability of death as a solution for one person would tend to weaken the effect of our stand against it in other cases? A little girl who lost all members of her immediate family in a terrible accident was taught in a well-meaning way that God had taken her beloved mummy, daddy, and sister away "to heaven," with the unwitting inference that the child had been abandoned as unworthy of being taken there with them. What, then, could compete with her heartbroken hope for an early death, imagining it to be the only avenue through which to rejoin in such a wonderful place all whom she'd loved?

A stagnating preoccupation with death stayed with her, and in adulthood she started matter-of-factly accumulating what she thought of as a "suicide cocktail" of leftover prescription medications. But then she was introduced to Christian Science, and early in her study it began gently to dawn on her that death is not a road to heaven and should not be contemplated as such.

If a shadow of doubt about God's will that we should live lingers in thought, the Bible offers numerous accounts dramatically illustrating the immediacy of God's law in overcoming death. The son of a Shunammite woman, 2 the daughter of a ruler of a synagogue,3 and a widow's son4 were all restored to life.

Individually, and step by step through devout prayer and consecrated spiritual study, humanity learns with certainty what constitutes man's real, immortal being and identity, and thus demonstrates the God-given qualities of hope, patience, and courage needed for progress.

One afternoon as this woman was suffering from symptoms of respiratory infection, she felt unable to draw another breath. But her attention was arrested by a question that came to her thought: "What do you think will happen when you die?" The answer came just as quickly and silently, "Why, I'll only find out that I haven't really died!" Instantly she was able to breathe, and she was never troubled again in that way.

She had caught a glimpse of the truth that death is incapable of bringing us anything good or of giving us a free ride. With no qualms then or afterward, the woman discarded her suicide kit of drugs and never again yearned for death. Eagerly, she began to look forward to and to experience the everlastingly sweet adventure of happy, harmonious living.

Let us rejoice in the wonderfully free and buoyant proclamation of the Psalmist "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord."5 We can right now learn to live our way gradually but surely into wholehearted, loving, secure, and adoring reverence for God, and to experience more of heavenly good right here on earth.
1 Science and Health, p. 39. 2 See II Kings 4:18-37. 3 See Mark 5:22 24, 35-43. 4 See Luke 7:11-15. 5 Psalms 118:17. -MARY GADBURY PATRICK in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 98 [Home] [to Top]

ABANDONED [Home] [to Top]

"The prospect of being perceived as a discarded ex-wife, the object of gossip and pity, was humiliating." Have you ever been in a situation so jarring that those were the only words you could pray? God answers such prayer.

A number of years ago I found myself in a totally unexpected situation. My husband of twenty-eight years decided he wanted to be married to someone else and moved out, informing me of his decision in a note, left on the kitchen counter, which I found after coming home from an evening meeting. The stunning realization that my life was about to change radically and that I was soon to be alone for the first time in my life filled me with anxiety. My three older children were grown and on their own, and my youngest was due to leave for boarding school in another two months. I had been a housewife and mother almost all of my married life, with very little work experience outside of the home. Although I believed that a divorce settlement would provide me with financial help, the prospect of being perceived as a discarded ex-wife, the object of gossip and pity, was humiliating and distressing. I wrestled with my emotions for hours. When I finally fell asleep that night, it wasn't for long. About three in the morning I woke, engulfed again by anguish, doubt, and despair. I finally reached out to God in prayer. All I could whisper was, "What do I do now, God?"

As I prayed quietly for an answer, the thought came to me, "Go get our Monitor" (The Christian Science Monitor). I was surprised at this, but I obeyed. I went downstairs to the den, found my newspaper, went back upstairs to my bed, and sat there with the Monitor in my lap. Then my prayer went something like this: "OK, God, now what?" Then the thought came, "Turn to the Classified section." Again, puzzled, I obeyed. My eyes fell on a small advertisement under the "employment" column. It read as follows: "RECEPTIONIST-SECRETARY Small and prestigious international consulting firm in Boston needs a conscientious, pleasant receptionist-secretary interested in variety of projects as well as being receptionist…. Typing skills important, but most important criterion is attitude."

I read the ad over and over in amazement. I thought to myself, "God, You must be kidding! Me, move to a city a thousand miles away? Get a job as a receptionist-secretary, with no office skills other than typing, which I'd learned in high school?" But as I humbly considered the idea further, it dawned on me that here was a position that basically required qualities rather than work experience. I took stock of myself. I knew that I was conscientious. I considered myself a pleasant person with a good attitude. Could this job really be for me? Could this really be divine Love's plan for my life? I let the idea take shape over the next twenty-four hours or so. By then I felt confident enough to make an investigative call. Four days later, I was on a plane to Boston, having set up an interview with the firm's vice-president. I was offered the job at the end of the interview. When I said that I wouldn't be ready to start right away, I was assured that was fine. I moved to Boston two months later and began anew. God had propelled me into the start of an incredible new life, lifting me out of an almost unbearable situation.

There were many challenges to be met as I adjusted to the divorce and being on my own. But focusing on the demands and rewards of my new life made the challenges easier to bear. As the Apostle Paul wrote, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it" (I Cor. 10:13). I worked for that firm for nearly two years and learned valuable office skills, which prepared me for five years of rewarding and progressive work at the headquarters of my church.

In the thirteen years since that move to Boston, my life has been full and rewarding, varied and satisfying, rich with opportunities and blessings I had never thought possible. And all because I expected, listened for, and heeded the answer to my prayer, "God, what do I do now?" -SALLY H. SMITH in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 102 [Home] [to Top]

DREAD HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Are you ready and raring to go? Most of us have awakened on the day of some special event with a great sense of exuberance-a long-awaited trip, participation in a sporting event, recognition for some accomplishment, and so on. I looked in on my three-year-old daughter one morning just as she woke. She opened her eyes, burst out with a "Yea!"-and then she paused. It was obvious she couldn't think of anything special scheduled for that day. But she saw no reason why that should make the day any less special to her. Unrestrained, she exclaimed, "It's God's day!"

How much we all want and need that childlike joy, that eagerness for every day that God has made. Indeed, "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps. 118:24). But what is the day that God hath made? A twenty-four-hour cycle of work, play, sleep, and eat? It's got to be much more than that. Science and Health gives a spiritual description of day that begins, "The irradiance of Life; light, the spiritual idea of Truth and Love" (p. 584). God made the day. We don't have to make it. Nor do we need to attempt to change His order of events in any way. Then, what do we need to do? We have some wonderful work before us as we embrace the day that God has made. We can: Humbly ask in prayer to know His plan for the day. Eagerly go forth to do His will. Confidently acknowledge Him. as the source of all goodness and power and intelligence. Courageously face down fears with His truth. Sincerely strive to be and do good. See God's goodness expressed everywhere. Thank Him for the day He has made. Do everything for His praise and glory.

The same daughter mentioned above is now in high school. Her days are filled with activities and responsibilities. One particular Saturday loomed ahead as possibly overbooked. She was scheduled to participate in a daylong track meet and then baby-sit immediately afterward for a long evening. She felt burdened and pressured.

At first, I was concerned that this was somehow symptomatic of the "overworked teenager syndrome." I knew, though, that initially my daughter had chosen each activity carefully. That morning, when I asked her why she even bothered to run track, it was quite natural for her to answer, "To glorify God!"

I then assured her that God gave her both the willingness and the ability to do just that. Divine Life and Love activated and motivated her with right desires, infinite Mind and Spirit provided intelligence and strength, Soul filled her with grace, and divine Principle enabled discipline, precision, and order. With my daughter focused on these attributes of God, the physical and mental power needed for every event of the day would be freely supplied by God-this day, every day, moment by moment.
We reasoned together that fulfilling her responsibilities need not be burdensome but satisfying; not taxing but rewarding. "Yea! It's God's day-and that in itself is cause to rejoice and be glad. The same spiritual truth she expressed as a young child when she greeted the day so expectantly was still true today and every bit as powerful to make her day a happy one.

Her attitude changed from one of dread to joyful anticipation. The day did, in fact, turn out happily. She didn't set any track records, but did improve her own best time in her event. The meet was over earlier than expected, which gave her time to relax a little before the evening baby-sitting job. Every day is special because every day is God's day, made just for us. Be glad and rejoice in it. -DONALD R. LOSTER in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 100 [Home] [to Top]

DESPAIR HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Job said, "I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee:" and I can say that God has been revealed to me through the teachings of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy. Christian Science came to me about two years ago, when I was in the depths of despair after years of suffering, though I had been under the care of many eminent physicians. With all due regard for those who treated me, I can only say they did the best they could, according to their knowledge. Years of invalidism, the undergoing of many operations (to the extent of having some of the organs removed), which left me in a wretched state physically and mentally, with the prospect before me that another critical operation might be necessary, finally drove me, like a tired child, "to the arms of divine Love" (Science and Health, P. 322).

Prior to this I had taken up "mental science," which I learned was principally the exercise of will-power. Later, when in my weakened condition I found I had no will, no hope, I longed for the end to come which I believed would release me from physical suffering. At first I thought that Christian Science healing was the same as my former teaching, and I would not listen to the friends who advised me to try Christian Science; but the time came when I fully realized that I must seek first "the kingdom, of God," and then I went to a Christian Science practitioner in tears, telling him that the doctors and surgeons had failed to cure me, and asking him if he could. His reply was, "No, not I; but I assure you that God can." I had treatment at once, which brought me rest and peace such as I had not known for days; and this convinced me that Christian Science was not will-power, nor hypnotism, but the result of scientific prayer. I continued treatment, studying every day as much as I was able. In three weeks I began to notice that I had no need for glasses, which I had been wearing for six years, and just previous to this I had been told by an eminent eye specialist that I must wear them constantly.

This healing of my eyes rather astonished me, as I had not mentioned anything regarding them to the practitioner, but I soon laid my glasses aside and have never worn them since. Some of the old, chronic troubles were slower to yield, causing discouragement, but the practitioner was kind and patient always, and was ever ready to help me on my journey from sense to Soul. To-day I am a much changed woman; health and happiness having come to me through the understanding of divine Principle. Since taking up Christian Science I have had many beautiful demonstrations of Truth's power, proving that divine Mind alone heals. To any one in bondage to the ills of the flesh I freely give this testimony, hoping others may be led to this truth, which is indeed the Christ-teaching.

For all this I give thanks every day to God, and to our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, who rediscovered this truth and gave it to the world through Science and Health. MRS. HATTIE GADT in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 10 [Home] [to Top]

ASTHMA HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Words are inadequate to express my gratitude for Christian Science. It has been proved to me that when this Christ Science is rightly applied, it never fails.
Beginning with my childhood in Copenhagen, Denmark, I suffered asthmatic attacks for many years.The doctors had no cure for asthma, but advised me to go to warmer climates for relief. So I came to California in 1929. But as far as my health was concerned the change was in vain. Years went by without relief. Then ten years ago my condition went from bad to worse. I was in and out of the hospital much of the time.

One night I collapsed. My wife called an ambulance and doctor. At the hospital I was near death. The doctor told my wife there was nothing more he could do for me. I had developed an incurable lung disease, which he called emphysema. I was told to buy a breathing machine, because there was nothing else he could do for me. I was greatly discouraged. My son and daughter-in-law had been Christian Scientists for many years. One day when they were visiting us, they said to me, "Dad, why don't you try Christian Science? What can you lose?"

I then decided I would try Christian Science for help. My wife and I went to a little Church of Christ, Scientist, that following Sunday morning. After the service I said to my wife, "Did you notice how happy everybody looked?" "They sure did," was her reply. So we looked forward to Wednesday, when we went to the same church. I listened to the testimonies, and then stood up and told my history of despair, aying, "I am sick, and no doctors can cure me. I need help but do not know how to get well. Will you please help me? What can I do and how?" These are the exact words I spoke. After the meeting the members all came to me and my wife and thanked us for coming. We were met with great love. We were told what books to buy and where the Christian Science Reading Room was, and were given helpful literature to read.
Through the prayers of a Christian Science practitioner, my own prayers, and study of the Bible, and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, I recovered rapidly, and am now completely healed.

Later that year, at income tax time, I went to the doctor's office for a statement to use in my tax return. The doctor insisted on examining me and was amazed to find me in perfect health. I am so grateful to God for Christ Jesus, whose healings are our example for today, and for Mrs. Eddy for her wisdom in establishing the Christian Science movement. And I am sincerely grateful for the church members who gave me help when I so much needed it. My wife and I are now members of that church and of The Mother Church. - ANKER FRED HOWMANN in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 77 [Home] [to Top]

EXPLOSION EFFECTS HEALED [Home] [to Top]

For some time past I have wished to express my gratitude for the many benefits that I have received for myself and family through Christian Science. I would like to tell of a demonstration for me which happened while on duty at the power plant, where I have charge as engineer. About midnight on Nov. 30, 1907, I was showing the foreman how to blow out the oil burner at the boiler, when the oil exploded and came out into my face, burning me very badly, my hands being one mass of burns. I commenced at once to realize the truth of God's allness, and that there was no room for error of ally kind: that God is a present help in all kinds of trouble. I then went home, and was back at my work the next morning at seven o'clock. I was advised by some friends to get a doctor for my hands; that it was a serious injury, and I was in danger of losing them. Blood poisoning did seem to be starting, but I went to a Christian Science practitioner, and had five treatments. Had not Christian Science been my help I would have been in bed at least three weeks, but by Christmas there was no scar of any kind to show that I had been burned at all.

My wife was healed of stomach trouble, after the doctors had given her up the second time, telling her that there was nothing to do but stay in the house and wait for her death; but my wife is now well, and able to do all her housework. My daughter was also healed through Christian Science of a very bad gathering in her ears. She was healed in one treatment. We find that whenever we reflect divine Love to others, we regain a hundredfold. Christian Science, as taught by Mrs. Eddy, will bring the millennium to mankind. For these and many other blessings I am very thankful. -W. D. LANGDON in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 10 [Home] [to Top]

JOB LOSS HEALED [Home] [to Top]

h I professed to believe, and rely on God's direction and guidance? Or would I listen to mortal mind's prompting and take the so called "expeditious" way.
It began in 1978 when our company informed all employees that by the middle of 1980 the manual assembly of our product would be discontinued and computerized automation would take over most of the operations Some of the two hundred and fifty employees would be absorbed by other departments. However, the majority of us would be given severance pay and terminated. I had been with the company for twenty eight years and was offered a night job at a reduced position and salary.
Although this was quite a blow to me, I turned, as I always do whenever a decision has to be made, to the Bible and to Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy, seeking guidance. In the Bible book of Psalms is full of admonitions for us to trust only God, and I found the third verse in Psalm 3I particularly helpful: "For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me." Then, in Science and Health, I read these words (p. I26): "The Bible has been my only authority. I have no other guide in 'the straight and narrow way' of Truth."

As I continued praying and studying, the thought came, quite strongly, to turn down the night job. I did this, much to everyone's surprise. Later that year I was elected to serve as First Reader in my branch church. Had I taken the night job, I could not have accepted this church position, which includes conducting the Wednesday evening testimony meetings.

In the latter months of 1979 I was reminded by the company production vice president that in less than eight months my whole department would be closed down. I was encouraged to accept the night position, which had been kept open, or I could be out of a job. Again I turned to deeper study and prayer for further inspiration, guidance, and reassurance from God, divine Mind. On page 467 of Science and Health I found this very strong statement: "Having no other gods, turning to no other but the one perfect Mind to guide him, man is the likeness of God, pure and eternal, having that Mind which was also in Christ." There were also several other passages that inspired me.

I was strongly convinced that I had been experiencing much spiritual progress as a result of the deep study of Christian Science necessary to perform my duties as First Reader. I should add that while I was seeking answers through study of the Bible and Science and Healtb, I was also being supported by the prayers of a Christian Science practitioner. When I gave my decision to my superior, and the reasons for my decision, he said that he admired my devotion to my religion. But he also reminded me that at my age it might not be so easy to find another job.

During the last six months-while the department was winding down-my immediate supervisor, the department manager, was transferred to another department. I was then given the task of meeting and arranging all of the final schedules, at the same time making a smooth, successful transition to the new operation. All this was accomplished with a rapidly dwindling work force and was quite a challenge. Still, with absolute conviction I knew that God was guiding me step by step. I can honestly say that it was a joyous and successful operation all the way.

One day the production vice-president called me into his office and offered me another position. He had created a new department out of three existing departments and was offering me the position of manager. He said he would expect me to increase production, while keeping costs the same, and I should therefore consider his offer carefully. He also informed me that because over half the department was a data entry operation, the results of production and cost were readily available on the weekly printout. He added that there had been more than a 50 percent turnover in personnel during the last twelve months, and that one of the key supervisors was rapidly becoming disenchanted with the situation and was considering leaving.

Here was the challenge of "putting my money where my mouth was." If I accepted the position and failed to meet the company's high goals, I would probably be out of a job. Or I could play it safe and take the severance pay and an early retirement. The decision, after all my prayerful work during the previous two years, was really not hard to make. I accepted the position.

I dived into the new job. With the help of the department's supervisors, plus the constant flow of spiritual ideas that came as a result of my early morning study of the Bible Lesson outlined in the Christian Science Quarterly, we not only met all goals but constantly surpassed them. The personnel problems were completely turned around, and the disenchanted supervisor became a tower of strength to me.

Oh, there were problems all right, and there were times when I thought that I was in too much of a hurry to take time out to pray. Among some of the challenges were schedules that were too tight and the demands of other departments. After a few close calls I found that I couldn't afford not to pray. I learned that the few moments it takes to realize our oneness with God, and acknowledge that the Christ, Truth, is our ever-present guide, saves bungling the job the first time and having to do it over. As we read in Science and Health (pp.12-13), "In divine Science, where prayers are mental, all may avail themselves of God as 'a very present help in trouble.'"
There were so many evidences of good, and I always gave God the credit. I could feel the omnipresence of divine Mind. The magnitude of the guidance I received reminded me often of Christ Jesus' words I can of mine own self do nothing" (John 5:30).

After six fulfilling, busy years in the position, I retired, and I am now just as busy serving God through a variety of church activities. The very first sentence in Science and Health reads (p. vii): "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, today is big with blessings." I can attest to the truth of that statement, especially the word big. For all the ways in which the teachings of Christian Science have helped me, I give a very grateful thank-you! -JOHN G. BELL in The Christian Science Journal, Vol 106 [Home] [to Top]

MENTAL SURGERY [Home] [to Top]

Even though satisfied with my lot in 1971, I saw ahead only old age and no way to combat it . The future looked bleak. The year before, my daughter had sent me a paperback copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. Now I suddenly had a compelling urge to read the Bible and understand it I took up the textbook. Key to the Scriptures! This is what was thrilling! This book would explain what puzzled me in the Bible. At first, I sampled Christian Science by reading, each day, one section of the Bible Lesson in the Christian Science Quarterly. Now I began to really understand the Bible. This gave me joy that cannot be taken away. I was on the move spiritually. I was in action. Soon I was studying the entire Bible Lesson daily.

For over twenty years I had not been to a structured, Western-religion church. But I found the services of a branch Church of Christ, Scientist, to be straightforward and without mystery. The Lesson-Sermon with citations from the Bible and Science and Health read in a dynamic manner made the Bible come alive. At this time all kinds of occasions in my life made God's love for me apparent. They could not be attributed to human acts, but were beautiful solutions to problems. There were also examples of others living the Golden Rule in relation to me-following the Sermon on the Mount, as Jesus taught and lived. Friends helped me to recognize errors and correct them. Their actions carried a spirit expressed clearly in "A Rule for Motives and Acts" (Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy, Art. VIII, Sect. l): "Neither animosity nor mere personal attachment should impel the motives or acts of the members of The Mother Church. In Science, divine Love alone governs man; and a Christian Scientist reflects the sweet amenities of Love, in rebuking sin, in true brotherliness, charitableness, and forgiveness .... "

Early in my study of Christian Science I had a convincing example of the power of the Christ to heal. A car door closed on my ankle. It was very painful. In that moment I had a decision to make-hobble around for a few days or deny the whole incident as having no reality, no part of my life as God's expression. Three or four steps away from the car the pain was still sharp, but then as I steadfastly declared God to be my Father-Mother, and that I was a beloved child without blemish, the pain was gone. It was all over. My gratitude for this instantaneous healing filled me with joy, which comes when God's love in action is seen. To know this love firsthand is the source of enduring joy.

A few years later a great deal of discomfort came from a large lump that appeared on my body. A wearisome struggle followed. There was no instantaneous healing as I had expected. After two weeks of consistent prayer, I felt impelled to simply get up both mentally and physically and leave the problem behind. There was improvement, and I was able to go back to work. Many months later, the trouble again appeared, with more intensity. In addition to my own study and prayer, I called on a Christian Science practitioner to help me. His conscientious, effective prayer culminated in healing one day, during a visit from my daughter. She burst into the house filled with joy, as though she had seen through the whole sham of disease. This was so evident that I got out of my bed as though I had been physically lifted up. It was a case of mental surgery, for the lump dissolved; and not only has it never reappeared but other bodily functions righted themselves permanently.
This healing changed my view of life and continues to bless me. It is never too late. Years cannot prevent our being made new! - KATHRYN BRANDT in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 97 [Home] [to Top]

MEANING OF LIFE [Home] [to Top]

Christian Science has so completely changed the meaning of life to me, and has brought me so much happiness, peace, and contentment, that I shall ever deem it a privilege to tell others of it. Perchance some other weary and disappointed mortal may take heart and come to the living waters to learn the truth about God and man. I was a member of an orthodox church for many years, but it brought me no comfort, and the ceremonial of the church appealed only to the senses. The mystery of life, and the strangely inharmonious conditions in and out of the church, puzzled and discouraged me; all seemed vanity and vexation of spirit.

After enduring many trials and disappointments, as a very tired child I turned to Christian Science, read "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, and was healed. Some years before I had had the great privilege of class instruction under Mrs. Eddy, but the seed seemed to fall on stony ground, and it was not until after 1 had wandered in the wilderness many years (to mortal sense) and been beaten with many stripes, that I was spiritually awakened and the good seed began to bear fruit. I emerged from the darkness of mortal beliefs, and was "born again;" then came "the awakening from the dream of life in matter, to the great fact that God is the only Life" (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 16). Since taking Science and Health for my daily guide in studying the Scriptures, it has indeed made a new heaven and a new earth to me. Mrs. Eddy teaches that Christian Science is a demonstrable science and that it is not understood until demonstrated. It is our demonstration that proves to us the truth, and this is our safeguard from all evil each and every day.

My heart goes out in loving recognition to our dear Leader for all she has given us and all mankind; for the rediscovery of the truth that heals the sick, the sinful, and the sorrowful, and enables us to fulfill the command of our Master to preach the gospel and heal the sick. The garment of Truth cannot be divided, as we apprehend after gaining our spiritual light in divine Science, and when we preach the true gospel, or glad tidings of great joy, we heal the sick. physically, morally, and spiritually.

Our revered Leader has said, "He who has named the name of Christ, who has virtually accepted the divine claims of Truth and Love in Divine Science, is daily departing from evil; and all the wicked endeavors of suppositional demons can never change the current of that life from steadfastly flowing on to God, its divine Source" (Miscellaneous Writings, 19). How full of comfort and cheer is this message, exhaling heavenly perfume, and peace and good will (Gods will) to all mankind. -EMMA K. S. SAWYER in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 11 [Home] [to Top]

After years of faithful research among the physical sciences and philosophies, and an extended study of both eastern and western religions, I came to the conclusion that there was undoubtedly a God somewhere; but since immutability could not be manifested through mutable phenomena, we could have no possible means of knowing or understanding Him, and I therefore abandoned my search.

For a longtime I had been incapacitated from any steady employment by reason of a severe heart trouble which would cause me to remain unconscious for hours at a time. At last I thought I had found a medicine which, when taken frequently enough, so stimulated my energies that I was able to work more continuously, although the attacks did not cease, but were more likely to occur at night. One evening I fell in the street, and when I became conscious I was at the other end of the town, utterly unable to collect my thoughts or discover my whereabouts. After some friends had seen me home, I went to my physician, who told me that these attacks resulted from the drugs I had been taking, and that the doses must be curtailed or my reason would suffer. I told him I would take no more drugs, if that was the case. He assured me that it would be impossible to leave them entirely alone without occasioning intense suffering and even endangering my life.

It is not necessary, even if it were possible, for me to describe the agony of the next seventy-two hours, without sleep to ease my suffering, but on the fourth day I said to a friend, with whom I had once studied philosophy, "Can't you give me a thought or a problem to think about so that I shall not go mad?" "Yes," he said; "think of this: 'All is infinite Mind and its infinite manifestation, for God is All in all'" (Science and Health, p. 469). How absurd the quotation seemed-little manifestation could I see of the infinite! My friend then handed me a copy of Science and Health, on condition that I return the book next day, telling me to read it while awake that night. I did so, but could only understand portions of the chapter on Prayer.

It was after midnight when I gave up the struggle and said to myself: "If all is infinite Mind and its infinite manifestation, God can see only that manifestation, and He can know nothing of my sins or my ignorance. To Him I can only be as the reflection of His work. I know nothing of Him. If then He is to answer my prayer, it must be through an impersonal law of which I know nothing. I can therefore do nothing but trust." Then these words came into my thought, and repeated themselves over and over again, "Underneath are the everlasting arms." I heard it strike three o'clock, and then I must have slept. When I awoke the lamp was still burning, the book was open on the bed, the morning sunshine was streaming, through the window, and I was healed. I quickly dressed and hurried to my friend's house. When I said to him, "Did you ever see such a beautiful morning in October?" he clasped my hand with the words, 'I'm so glad!"

Having received life, reason, health, a God whom I could trust and a Bible which I could understand, all through one sentence from the Christian Science text-book, what could I do but with a thankful, earnest humility study and demonstrate more of its truth in the following years. I had much to unlearn and much more to learn, but with unspeakable gratitude for the beautiful life which is being spent to give and preserve for us the truth, I add this testimony, that, without a single exception, Christian Science has stood the test of every question and answered every problem upon which I have brought it to bear. My study of the Christian Science text-book has persuaded me that the effort to understand and demonstrate the truths it unfolds to the world must become the supreme quest in life. I have turned to its pages when the shadows of fear, ignorance, pain, and death itself have seemed to darken my way, to find it, as the psalmist said, "a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Though oftentimes a careless and backward scholar, I have proved enough of its truth and power to trust to it in every difficulty that has arisen since my first healing, and this trust has never been betrayed. -ALBERT R. CHAPPELL in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 11 [Home] [to Top]

BOTH KIDNEYS HEALED [Home] [to Top]

It is a little less than three ears ago that I began to study Christian Science, and during this time I have been given new life; many of the "former things" have passed away, and each day brings new light. When I began the study of Christian Science I was suffering great physical distress, having a supposedly incurable disease, also a complication of other ailments. The disease which had been pronounced fatal was one which medical science considered to have been thoroughly diagnosed by the use of X-ray plates, analysis, etc. The diagnosis had been made in the most thorough manner by able men, and there was no known means of cure. Palliatives in the form of antiseptics taken in very large quantities, and tonics for the heart, had been faithfully followed for more than two years; nothing was left undone which is known to medical science, and all efforts in my behalf were directed by most competent and faithful physicians. The diagnosis disclosed calculi in both kidneys and the entire system was said to be so affected that an operation was not considered possible, in fact segregation was not deemed advisable.

After a few weeks' study of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and faithful efforts to put to use what I had read, I found myself forgetting to take the material remedies, and in less than a month from the time I began to study I had dropped all material means, and with the aid of a Christian Science practitioner I regained my health. When I began to read Science and Health, together with the study of the Christian Science Quarterly, I was unable to remember a line as I read it over, and for some days I could see no improvement, mentally or physically; but I now realize I must have learned that these words, "God is the Principle of man, and man is the idea of God" (Science and Health, P. 476), embodied something that was to be proved by me, as I knew that many other persons similarly afflicted had successfully proved that rule.

I have found my sense of life thoroughly transformed, and I owe my reformation of thought and life to the application of the rules given by Mrs. Eddy in her invaluable text-book. I am not able to express all my thankfulness for the knowledge gained by the study and practice of these teachings, and for the advice and instruction which I found in her "Miscellaneous Writings." I am glad to make this acknowledgment of the help and comfort that come to me constantly from Mrs. Eddy's writings and the Journal and Sentinel. --Mrs. Carrie L. Bliss

To one who does not believe in the Bible, or who has not the understanding of it which is to be gained by its study in connection with "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," the recovery of my wife as told in the above testimony may seem miraculous; but to any person who has such understanding it will be recognized as the natural working of divine Principle, God, who governs and controls the universe.

My wife had not been well for many years, and her troubles finally reached a point at which material remedies could give her no further help. At the time she began to study Christian Science she was expected to live but a few weeks at the most. The result of her study is told in the above testimony. I took up the study of Christian Science at the same time my wife did, hoping to help her rather than myself. I have always been physically strong, subject only to the little ills that come to any one more or less frequently, but I found myself benefited by my study and that I could ward off these minor sicknesses very quickly, and I have often relieved myself of ills that have come upon me. But the great comfort and joy for myself individually is that I now have a religion which I can take into my daily life, which is a help to me at all times and in all places, and that I understand the Bible as I never did before.

Words cannot express the gratitude which I have toward Mrs. Eddy and Christian Science for this understanding that has given back my wife's health, and is making my own life brighter and happier. -Frank S. Bliss in The Christian Science Journal, Vol 27 [Home] [to Top]

ELONGATED PALATE HEALED [Home] [to Top]

"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing" (Ps. 100:2). The gladness which comes from serving the Lord entered my life when I started the study of Christian Science more than twenty years ago. I was a high school student when an older, beloved sister passed on. I turned to my mother's copy of Science and Health by Mary Baker Eddy, to find a God who did not send grief to His children. This study brought healing, comfort, and great joy.

Prior to this time I had rebelled at the thought of a God who would bless or harm. I had voiced this rebellion in an orthodox Sunday school and had been rebuked for not being willing to accept, without question, what the Lord gave. The joy which the new knowledge of God brought into my life was immeasurable. There have been many problems to be solved in my daily experience, and they have been solved harmoniously as Christian Science has been applied to them.As a small child I was troubled with an elongated palate. This did not interfere with my speech, but it caused an almost constant irritation in my throat and periods of violent coughing. As I grew older these coughing periods took the form of severe colds, from which I suffered often. When the attacks occurred I was helped through Christian Science, but the healing was not complete. This condition continued for about ten years. During one of these sieges, when no relief seemed to come after faithful work, my mother told me of the mortal law of an elongated palate laid upon me as a child.

Our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy, states on page 273 of Science and Health: "The so called laws of matter and of medical science have never made mortals whole, harmonious, and immortal. Man is harmonious when governed by Soul." The healing which followed the application of the truths in these statements was complete and permanent. A number of years ago I resigned from a position which I had held with great joy for about ten years. There did not seem to be any other work for me to do, but the resignation assured another of an opportunity for advancement in a chosen field. Knowing that my motive was unselfish I waited for Love's guidance with no fear of the outcome. Within a short time an entirely different type of work, which afforded me the opportunity to use talents which before I had not had time to develop, was offered me. The new work has been a blessing which I could not have found had I not been willing to trust God's care. The new work involves much use of my voice, healed through Christian Science. I find constant blessing and inspiration in the hymns in the Christian Science Hymnal. Many times physical distress or mental worry has been completely healed by the singing of Mrs. Eddy's hymns.

The physical healings of burns, falls, sprains, headaches, influenza, constipation, and many other difficulties have been great blessings in my experience, but the adjustment to everyday living, the protection, and the inspiration are even greater blessings. Surely Christian Science has brought to me a gladness which foreshadows the kingdom of heaven. I am humbly grateful for the privilege of class instruction, also for membership in The Mother Church and in a branch church, and for the opportunities which I have had to serve the Cause of Christian Science. - Mrs. GEORGIANA K. BROWNE in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 47 [Home] [to Top]

THERE IS NO CHANCE IN LIFE [Home] [to Top]

I have proved in my own experience that love and gratitude are a sure defense against error of every kind. I should like to tell two incidents that illustrate this.
During the so-called depression I was engaged in a small business. It was a seasonal business, and in the midst of the dull season I found myself without sufficient funds to pay two rents and to meet the wholesale bills, which were due on the tenth of the month. Although we were quite busy in the workroom, there was little forthcoming. I seemed not to find time to do specific work in Christian Science until about eleven o'clock of the night of the ninth, when I realized that I had only from then until the next day to do this work. With that I picked up a copy of the Sentinel and began reading an article in which appeared the following quotation from Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy (p. 3): "Are we really grateful for the good already received?" I read no farther; this was sufficient, for it was a deserved rebuke. I was not expressing gratitude, and yet I was asking for more. I immediately got a pencil and paper and began to make a list of my blessings. It was not more than twenty minutes until I was so uplifted that I found joy and peace, and then sleep.

The next morning I was still uplifted, although there was no material evidence of supply; however, that did not disturb me. About one o'clock a customer came in and paid a large bill, and from that time money literally flowed into the shop, giving me enough to meet all expenses and more.

The other incident occurred one morning when I went to my sister's home to do some laundry in her new washing machine. I was expressing gratitude for a recent healing of my son, with the words, "Praise ye the Lord. Praise the Lord, O my soul" (Ps. 146: l), and was filled with love toward my sister for her kindness. While I was wringing the clothes, a niece stood on the other side and pulled them out of the wringer. In feeding the clothes into the wringer, my hand slipped and went entirely through to the other side. I did not know about the emergency lever, and it was several moments before my brother came from another room and released me.
My sister brought me our textbook, and on page 424 I read, "Accidents are unknown to God, or immortal Mind, and we must leave the mortal basis of belief and unite with the one Mind, in order to change the notion of chance to the proper sense of God's unerring direction and thus bring out harmony." How happy I am to be able to say that this accident did not hurt me. In about an hour I was able to wash the dishes. Although at first there seemed to be weakness, I went right ahead. Later, I went to my place of business and blocked hats, using a heavy iron; in about a month all the discoloration was gone.

I am grateful to Mrs. Eddy for giving us Christian Science, which helps us and shows us how to prove God's allness. One of my greatest blessings is class instruction from one of our beloved Leader's students. -MRS. MAY BELLE HINKEY in The Christian Science Journal, Vol 63 [Home] [to Top]

DIPTHEREA HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Having had the privilege of being a student of Christian Science since childhood, I have had numberless blessings and healings through its ministrations. As a child of about eight years, I was quickly healed of a severe case of diphtheria, when my parents despaired of my life. An advanced case of erysipelas was healed later in one week's time through the help of a practitioner, without a vestige of a scar or any need of recuperation. I was strong and well.

At one time in stepping out of my automobile, I fell heavily on my hip. Through instantly realizing that my true spiritual selfhood could not fall or be injured , I got up unaided and sustained no injury whatever, not even a bruise. Through a long, successful musical career I did not miss one concert engagement because of illness.
These are only a few of the many healings I have received through Christian Science. I am very grateful for them and for the textbook, our beautiful "key" to the Scriptures, and the other writings of our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy; for the privilege of class instruction, and for membership in The Mother Church as well as in a branch church. - MAYBELL STROCK in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 48 [Home] [to Top]

LARGE TUMOR HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Christian Science has been the only physician in our household for many years. There have been numerous healings experienced by members of the family, and gratitude has been expressed for the good that has come to us through the study and application of the truth as given us by our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy. Some years ago I accepted a teaching position in a school system which required each applicant to take a physical examination. The physician who gave me the examination told me that I had quite a large tumor, which should be removed by an operation at once. He said that a possible injury at the time of the birth of our daughter many years before was the probable cause.

The fear which flooded my thinking was bewildering. I turned to the loving support of my husband, and together we went to see a Christian Science practitioner. She reminded us of the tender care of our Father-Mother God, the changelessness of His creation, and the power of Truth to meet every human need. It appeared necessary for me to take an immediate stand either by going to the hospital for an operation or by depending wholly upon Christian Science as I had done in every emergency for many years. Still battling wave after wave of intense fear, I looked back over the years that Christian Science had been our only physician. I remembered many proofs of God's tender care, guidance, and protection, as well as the healing of material ills, and I knew that there was only one course I wished to follow. I asked the practitioner to continue helping me, and I went on with my daily work.

The healing came very slowly, and there were many dark hours, but I clung steadfastly to the truth that all God's creation is perfect and that as His child I was a part of that perfection. This stand made it possible for me to perform every duty expected of me at home, at school, and at church, where I was substituting as Second Reader, an office I had held some years before.

One day I realized that this physical imperfection, which was said to be linked to the birth of our daughter, denied completeness to that experience. Thus it virtually endeavored to destroy faith in the perfect and permanent healing power of Christian Science. The harmonious birth of our daughter had been one of the first proofs of divine protection in our household. There had been no medical supervision up to the time of delivery. The doctor in attendance had remarked to me when we engaged his services: "Study your Christian Science. You'll be having an examination on what you learn, and you can't write answers on your cuff." The birth was most harmonious, and he remarked that my "test" was passed with an unusually high grade.

Now, many years later, to have a different physician speak disparagingly of that experience roused me to deny imperfection. I saw the nothingness of the suggestion that God's perfect work could be reversed, and I knew that I was free. Before very long the growth disappeared, and the healing has been permanent. There is constant proof of God's law of good, and I am most grateful for the multitudinous blessings that acknowledgment of this law brings into our daily experience. I am wonderfully blessed by being a member of The Mother Church and a branch church, having had class instruction, and having the right to live our beautiful religion. - MRS. GEORGIANA K. BROWNE in The Christian Science Journal, Vol 73 [Home] [to Top]

IVY POISONING HEALED [Home] [to Top]

Our spiritually inspired Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, has written (Science and Health, p. 174): "Truth is revealed. It needs only to be practiced." A healing in my family taught me much about proving Truth, and I want to share it.

One morning when my youngest child was in the third grade at school, she came to my room and asked me to look at her face, saying she believed she had ivy poisoning. Unmistakable symptoms were in evidence. Previously she had been playing in a park when a stray kitten attracted her. Against my protest, she had followed it into some brambles where she encountered the poison ivy.

Acknowledging her disobedience, she now asked me for help in Christian Science. I loved her honesty and humility, yet fear assailed me. A clear assertion of God's allness claimed my attention. Tender compassion for the child pushed back fear. In quick succession mental pictures of a frightened mother, a disobedient child, a poisonous plant, and a fearsome material condition flashed through my thought. However, I had centered my thought on God and acknowledged His government of His creation. Therefore, I was able to reject and deny as baseless, causeless, and unreal this entire mental parade. With no excuses about discomfort or "a lot of big words" my little third grader joyously accepted the invitation to join in reading the Lesson Sermon, outlined in the Christian Science Quarterly. The subject for that week was "God." Each statement proclaiming the beauty and power of God's creation and declaring man's freedom appeared fresh and new, appropriate for the occasion.

The lesson unfolded to us both until all sense of a problem was lost. This passage from Science and Health wrote finis to any lingering belief in penalty (p. 384) : "We should relieve our minds from the depressing thought that we have transgressed a material law and must of necessity pay the penalty. Let us reassure ourselves with the law of Love." Before we had concluded the Bible Lesson, the child's sister came into the room and exclaimed: "Oh, look! You are beautiful again !" With her eyes opened wide and the color and shape of her face back to normal, the little girl was indeed beautiful. The revealed Word, declaring itself through the Bible and Science and Health, had become law to the child's receptive thought. Overjoyed and awed by her rapid deliverance she said: "Now I know what people mean by instantaneous healing. It means right now."

A quickened appreciation of the Lesson Sermon, a better understanding of the modus operandi of quick healing, plus a singing, buoyant gratitude, are some of the healing results of this precious incident. I am especially thankful that my children are learning with the help of devoted Sunday School teachers to apply the truth promptly and effectively to their daily needs. In the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy we read (Art. XXX, Sect. 7), "Healing the sick and the sinner with Truth demonstrates what we affirm of Christian Science, and nothing can substitute this demonstration."

I have special cause to value the work of the Christian Science Committees on Publication, my teacher's guidance, and the authorized biographies of our beloved Leader. The unselfed love of practitioners, our periodicals, and the Wednesday testimony meetings have blessed me immeasurably. I say with the Psalmist (Ps. 103: 1 ), "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name." -Mrs. NANCY RUTH ROBERTS. in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 59 [Home] [to Top]

FAILURE AT COLLEGE HEALED [Home] [to Top]

I am grateful to have been born into a Christian Science family and to have enjoyed the privileges of the Sunday School. But I am much more grateful to have been reborn into Christian Science through understanding and applying this truth. Fuller awareness of the power and grace of this Christly teaching came to me during the Second World War. After failure at a university and at an Army school, I sought out a Christian Science Wartime Minister, as he was then called. A moral and spiritual awakening took place. The Bible became illumined, and the mission of Christ Jesus was made clear. Membership in The Mother Church resulted. The following two years in England, France, and Germany were entirely joyous ones, full of enduring friendships, spiritual growth, and service as a Christian Science volunteer Wartime Worker, a position now known as a Christian Science Representative in the Armed Services. Hospitals and prisons were visited, and healings were effected for other soldiers and for me.

My heart was singing, for I had found the way to health, happiness, and holiness. Truly, "Love is impartial and Universal in its adaptation and bestowals" (Science and Health, by Mrs. Eddy, p. 13). All may use Christian Science to heal as Jesus did. With full confidence in Gods gracious and enduring love, I returned to civilian life. There followed marriage to another student of Christian Science. Before taking this step, we asked God's guidance and referred to the Bible and to the writings of Mrs. Eddy on this subject through the help of the Concordances. Since then we have trusted God implicitly, and His goodness has been abundantly manifested. Happiness and harmony in the home, healings of diseases, and increasing supply have been ours. Active branch church work has helped us maintain our consecration to God.

Undergraduate and graduate study in college was completed. Before the war my high school record kept me from entering a particular college; after I had been aroused to the practicality of Christian Science my college work came naturally, easily, and joyously. Service to the Cause continued through membership in a Christian Science Organization at college, and afterward satisfying professional work unfolded normally. The birth of one of our children was accompanied by serious complications. As the practitioner worked prayerfully, the peace of God was made manifest. To the amazement of the doctor, the birth went on naturally and was completely harmonious for the mother and child.

At the birth of another of the children, the infant appeared to be lifeless and did not respond to the doctor's attempts at resuscitation. A Christian Science practitioner was called long distance, and we worked to realize that God is Life. Within a short time the child was normal. Each of our children has been enrolled in the Sunday School at or under the age of two. The uplifting experience of class instruction has unfolded, and the orderly, systematic understanding of Truth I thereby gained has further enriched my living. Since returning to college for an advanced degree, I find all our needs cared for through an understanding of God's abundance. Renewed membership in a Christian Science Organization at college has helped me to make the highest degree of spirituality my real desire.

Constant spiritual alertness and activity, daily study and silent prayer, being mindful of God's guidance, are all enabling me to serve better the Cause of Christian Science. -DONALD R. RIPPBERGER in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 60 [Home] [to Top]

JOY RESTORED [Of Special Interest to Young Men and Women] [Home] [to Top]

Much of the apparent misery and sadness in the world today is brought about by false beliefs concerning the nature of joy. Our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, clearly warns us against such beliefs when she states in" Miscellaneous Writings" (pp. 9, 10), "A false sense of what constitutes happiness is more disastrous to human progress than all that any enemy or enmity can obtrude upon the mind or engraft upon its purposes and achievements wherewith to obstruct life's joys and enhance its sorrows." To the conscientious reader of this passage, the question boldly asserts itself, "How can I rid my thought and experience of such false beliefs about happiness?" In answering this question, the student of Christian Science will find it useful to examine and ponder the true nature of joy. Where does joy come from? How is it expressed? Christian Science teaches and demonstrates that joy comes from God. True joy does not come from any phase of material sense-person, place, or thing-no matter how promising or alluring it may appear to be. Joy is spiritual. Of necessity it must come from God, Spirit. The Psalmist sang (Ps. 16:11), "In thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."

Eventually, either through scientific understanding or through earthly disappointments and sorrows, mankind will come to the admission that there is no joy in matter. We can see that joy is a quality of God, which man expresses naturally and continuously, because man is God's complete spiritual idea, or expression, always. When correct concepts of God and of His harmonious creation are received into our thought, we can express gratitude and joy consistently. A young college student, a Christian Scientist, was able to prove the true nature of joy in her experience. Her healing illustrates the practical application which Christian Science has to problems of youth today.

She attended a fine college, but a small one, in which the male enrollment was not large enough to provide every girl with a date. Unhappy with this situation, she considered attending another college where she might have more friends and a satisfactory social life. At the same time she asked a Christian Science practitioner to help her. A decision did not appear immediately. The close of each vacation brought forth tears and a dread of returning to college. One day, near the end of a Christmas vacation, the girl was feeling unhappy and irresolute. She realized that she must make her own decision about the right college, and the decision, if it was based on Christian Science demonstration, would be the correct one. She realized that a change was necessary in her thinking before any satisfactory change could take place in her experience.

Evidence of such a change came one morning shortly after her return to college. She awoke with the thought: "Oh, no! Not another dreary day!" Almost immediately came the awareness that she was dwelling on error in her thinking. Then came an angel message. She said to herself: "Why, what am I thinking? I have been looking for happiness from without, when it comes really from within!" Instantly she was filled with the deepest joy, and she began to realize that she was healed of unhappiness.

The girl's decision to demonstrate Christian Science had brought about a lasting effect in her life. Her happiness stayed with her, whether she had a date or not. She found ways to express joy to others: In conversation, in smiles, in acts of kindness. She had more dates after that, and her friends were the right ones for her. They came as a result of her spiritual understanding and her joy. She had learned that joy does not come from having dates. She had proved that real joy comes from God directly through mankind's understanding and expression of God.

The Christian Scientist knows that joy is one of the many qualities of God, and man, the likeness of God, expresses these naturally and perfectly. Knowing this, one does not go around merely getting joy out of things; he lives and acts from the standpoint of God's goodness, expressing joy and giving joy in everything he does.
Mrs. Eddy describes the role of the Christian Scientist in these words in "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 160): "To live so as to keep human consciousness in constant relation with the divine, the spiritual, and the eternal, is to individualize infinite power; and this is Christian Science." In order to express deep joy, the Scientist does not have to wait for some future time when all problems will be cleared away. However, recognition of the activity of the Christ, Truth, in his own consciousness is needed to produce joy.

In his daily activity and conversation, the Christian Scientist does not lose contact with the Christ. He is aware of the ever-present power of the Christ, impelling his every good thought, word, and act. He is inspired by the Christ and can inspire and heal others, as Jesus indicated in his teachings. Truly do our hears glow within us when we realize that the Christ, Truth, has always been present to heal and bless. The Christ is here today! Through Christian Science it is healing the world of sin and sorrow. Truly we share an age-old and eternal truth, hidden from the world but revealed to the spiritually receptive thought--the truth that joy comes from God. -JOHN MARSHALL CUNO in Christian Science Sentinel, Vol 65 [Home]