When I first enrolled in a Christian Science Sunday School at the age of about ten, a profound impression was made on me by the Christian Science explanation of what God is. This new (to me) and illuminating view of God as ever-present Love brought immediate change for the better in my life. Prior to that time I'd struggled with health troubles, slowness in school, and social difficulties with my peers. But the concept of myself as in reality the image and likeness of an infinitely good God, quickly brought the fruits of good and lasting health, joy and alertness in schoolwork, and greatly improved relations with friends. Since that early experience, spiritual healing through scientific prayer has been the only way for me, and the experiences of healing and protection have been numerous indeed.
As an example I would like to recount a healing that took place a few years ago. My work was in international sales for a large aircraft manufacturer. At one point I started to experience sudden loss of consciousness and would pass out completely for brief periods. This malady would occur at any time and any place without warning. It appeared difficult, perhaps even unwise, to continue with my sales work, which involved long hours and extensive overseas travel.
It was natural for me, as a Christian Scientist, to turn to God and rely on prayer for healing. I was supported in this decision by my dear wife, who shares my devotion to Christian Science and who prayed to help me and to overcome considerable concern about the situation. Further, a Christian Science practitioner was frequently asked for treatment through prayer during this time.
Early on in this prayerful work, I was helped by a descriptive passage from the Bible that seemed particularly applicable to the travel aspect of my work: "If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me" (Psalms). This passage provided a clear sense that God's closeness and protection are with me wherever I might be. It helped to overcome fear so that I felt confident about proceeding with my sales work.
Numerous other wonderful statements from the Bible and from the writings of our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, were held close and referred to frequently. For example, Science and Health states, "Consciousness, as well as action, is governed by Mind,—is in God, the origin and governor of all that Science reveals." This helped make clear that, in reality, consciousness cannot be lost. Another passage from Science and Health said to me that the healing was inevitable: "The power of Christian Science and divine Love is omnipotent. It is indeed adequate to unclasp the hold and to destroy disease, sin, and death."
The practitioner's clear statements of the healing Truth and her unflagging confidence in the power of divine Love were an always available help, as were the constant support and encouragement of my wife. And the healing came. There was gradual improvement over a period of months until these lapses ceased. During this time the sales work continued successfully. No meetings or appointments were ever missed, nor did I ever lose consciousness during any of them.
This was a time of spiritual growth for me, and I am deeply thankful for it. I have long been very grateful for Christian Science and for an increasing understanding of this wonderful truth.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
It is a privilege to confirm the statements made by my husband and to express my own appreciation and great gratitude for Christian Science. The experience that has been related was a test of our faith and understanding and required dedicated prayer. We'd had so many previous healings through scientific prayer in Christian Science that it was natural for us to turn to no other aid.
Over the years before and after this experience, there have been ample opportunities to apply the truths of Christian Science to our daily living. Our family has been witness to numerous healings, many of which have been very quick. Some of my own healings were those of recurring headaches, a painful back difficulty, and a severe case of eczema.
I am very grateful for our Leader's great love for humanity, shown in her establishment of the Church of Christ, Scientist, and for the marvelous gift of her discovery of Christian Science.
