"How did you happen to become a Christian Scientist?" This question has been so often propounded to me, and I myself have been so helped and strengthened by the experiences of others, that I am led to give, through the columns of our Journal, something of my own experience in coming into this beautiful Truth; trusting that it may be, to some in need, "the word in season."
Educated (religiously) in the Methodist church, of which my mother was for many years a member, I early endeavored to find there the spiritual rest and peace for which I longed. During one of the revivals of religion, so frequent in this church, I became deeply interested, and with many others sought the "pearl of great price." Night after night found me upon the anxious seat, honestly and earnestly resolved to lead a Christian life; and, fulfilling to the best of my understanding the conditions, seeking an assurance of my acceptance with God; but I found it not. One after another, those who had started with me in a first endeavor to be followers of Christ, professed to have come into the joyful assurance of salvation, and were rejoicing in their new-found hope; but I was still in despair. Many who had known and loved my mother, and who had a deep interest in my own spiritual welfare, tried vainly to help me into the light; but there was no light there. At last, in deep distress of mind I appealed to the pastor of the church for help, sure that help would come. Long and faithfully he labored with and for me; and led me, if possible, into greater depths of suffering.
At last, as a final resort, I was urged to take a decisive step; to go forward in baptism, and unite myself with the church. My earnest query, "would this be right until I was sure that God had answered my prayers for pardon," met reply that this step would bring to me the light and blessing; and reluctantly I offered myself as a candidate for baptism and church membership. During the six months of probation, usual in this church, I left the town; and, gradually drifting away from an irksome bondage which brought no rest, never united with the church in full membership.
