I am grateful for the continuous unfolding of the idea of Church, and for its representation by the Church of Christ, Scientist, which has blessed every aspect of my life. I attended a Christian Science Sunday School from my earliest years. But when I was a young woman, although I never stopped attending a branch Church, my thinking about Church was sometimes critical. I realize now that the vague dissatisfaction I felt with church organization was actually dissatisfaction with the false concept of Church as a collection of personalities.
This discontent made me explore more deeply to determine just what God's Church, the divine idea, is. Then I asked myself how I could do as Jesus said—take up my cross daily and follow Christ. The answer I found was to be at my post supporting my branch church in every way I could.
When this impetus came, I realized that since Church is a divine idea, always present, personal likes and dislikes have no place in it. I had Christian Science class instruction, and I felt great thankfulness for the Christian Science movement as a whole, and for the spiritual foundation of The Mother Church. It became clear to me that in order to grow, I needed to support my branch church in my thoughts, instead of criticizing or wondering how the church was supporting me. As a result, I was able to give useful service in such positions as that of Sunday School superintendent and Reading Room librarian. And with these responsibilities I felt I was coming closer to "praying without ceasing."
