At One Time my branch church held testimony meetings at noon on Wednesdays as well as in the evening. As the Reader conducting the service, I had worked out a schedule with my employer so that I could leave fifteen minutes before noon and arrive back to work fifteen minutes past one. Since we were permitted only a half-hour lunch break, I had to make up the time from my vacation allotment. I arrived at the church at twelve and walked directly onto the platform. I had already placed the Bible and Science and Health by Mary Baker Eddy, marked with the readings, on the Reader's desk the night before.
This pattern went on for about a year. Without my realizing it, my enthusiasm had begun to wane, and I wondered whether the noon service was all that necessary. Was anyone really benefiting, and was all my effort actually appreciated? I shared my doubts and concerns ... with friends and reveled in their empathy.
About this time, I was finding it more difficult to get away from work to make the noon service. One thing after another would come up at the last minute to prevent my leaving on time. Once I had to call the church to ask the organist to continue playing until I arrived.
