My husband and I are lifelong Christian Scientists and have had many healings and have served our church in all capacities. A few years ago, my husband had a serious physical problem and recently, when he could no longer dress himself, he went to a medical clinic for treatment. He now is on medication (of course the practitioner stepped aside from the case). Could the Journal address the guilt we feel for getting medical treatment rather than relying exclusively on Christian Science? How do we go forward? Do we tell anyone at church? Do we resign from church committees?
A1 First, let me say how much I appreciate the loving service you have both given to the Christian Science movement over many years and in so many capacities. It is great, too, to know you have had so many wonderful healings. This fact must be of considerable encouragement to you both in relation to the difficulty your husband is facing at the moment. Nothing has changed the fact that healing is always possible. Mary Baker Eddy covered your situation very lovingly when she wrote: "Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearest right under the circumstances, and thence achieves the absolute" (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, p. 288). Clearly, that statement implies a sense of progression. You and your husband will go forward by each continuing to learn more of your relationship to your Creator and getting even stronger in your understanding. The medical situation can be viewed as temporary and capable of yielding at some point to individual growth and healing in Christian Science. Keep on keeping on!
Don't feel guilty! You could never let God down or be in a position where you need to feel guilty toward Him. Divine Love deeply admires Her own perfect expression, those beautiful identities that you both are, now and eternally. You could never let Christian Science down. It holds itself up—and all those who love it as you do. You have not let down your church. Church is not a forum for judgment or criticism, but an avenue for the mutual expression of love. If you see it that way, you'll find support there. You may wish to tell certain friends at church of your situation (you'll know whom), and you can let God guide you as to where you can best continue to serve. But there is no need, as I see it, to step down from activities where you will bless and be blessed. You love church! It's part of who you are. Keep on enjoying it! You are both much needed and still have so much to give!
