I feel that it is my duty to write this...

I feel that it is my duty to write this testimony and express my thankfulness for the teachings of Christian Science.

Many years ago my doctor told me that if I did not have a very critical operation there was little chance of my living a fortnight. I very reluctantly gave in to his decision, and the operation was performed. To my dismay it gave me no relief; in fact, it intensified the pain and left me a complete wreck.

After trying various methods of treatment recommended to me by kind friends, to no avail, I became very despondent and fearful. At last Christian Science was brought to my notice. I immediately inquired if the Bible was used in the treatment, and was told that a book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, was always used in conjunction with the Bible. I then realized at once that this was the teaching I had long been looking for, since from early childhood I had been taught to revere the Bible and to regard it as a guide to true Christian living. I then sought out a Christian Science practitioner, who gave me loving counsel and help. The fear which seemed to surround me was greatly lessened at the first visit, and I gained a much brighter outlook on life. From that time onward, conditions which had appeared almost insurmountable gradually dwindled away, and I gained my freedom.

During the ensuing years I have witnessed many healings, of both functional and organic troubles, and have found that when the truth, as taught in Christian Science, is faithfully applied to any problem, the solution is at hand.

I am happy to state that I have been a member of The Mother Church and of a branch church for many years; also I have received class instruction and have had the privilege of serving in various activities in a branch church.

As the fact of God's presence floods our consciousness, we lose the sense of fear, find our freedom, and realize that as our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, says (Manual of The Mother Church, Art. VIII, Sect. 1), "In Science, divine Love alone governs man." A verse found in our Hymnal helped me to understand this more clearly. It reads (No. 64):

My thanks go out to Mrs. Eddy for her thoughtfulness and foresight in compiling the Manual, which gives such a concise and perfect guide for our conduct and welfare; also for establishing The Christian Science Board of Directors, the Board of Lectureship, and the periodicals.—(Mrs.) Elizabeth Rothwell, Wellington, New Zealand.