Much to be grateful for
I want to thank you for the many wonderful articles in the February Journal. The article by Brian Kissock beautifully explains the many opportunities at hand for those willing to share Christian Science with those in prison. I loved the article by Tony Lobl on “Living Christly Love” and his ideas for sharing Science with our neighbors. This is one I will keep and reread as I work with members of the Interfaith Council in my community. The Shirley Paulson article on Scientology and Christian Science is most welcome as I’ve needed more information to help others understand the difference between them. Thank you, Shirley!
I also want to express my thanks for and eager anticipation of JSH-Online in April. This will bring the Reading Room and all its benefits into our homes, where we have time to research ideas and subjects in the past and present publications.
St. George, Utah, US
‘Truth telling’
I wanted to express appreciation for Shirley Paulson’s explanation of the similarities and contrasts between Christian Science and Scientology in the February issue. The truth about these systems can appear to be in short supply. Yet society places strong stress on truth telling.
I thank Ms. Paulson for straightening readers out about the purpose of church, the path to salvation, method of healing, and drug use.
Lynnwood, Washington, US
Needs always met
When I became eligible for senior discounts, I saw the danger of buying into that option. I felt I would be making myself a sitting duck for all the woes of world thought about aging if I chose to participate. And so I particularly like Margaret Pinkham’s point in her article in February’s Journal “Ageless Now and Forever” about “the claim that, as we mature in years, we don’t have as much money.”
I rejoice in rejecting the subtly aggressive idea of senior discounts and in knowing that others may demonstrate their dominion also in this arena.
Sarasota, Florida, US
‘The answer is already there’
The focus of the January issue, “The Christian Science Periodicals,” was so dear to my heart. I’m quite in agreement with the title of the article by Christine Driessen, “Our Continuing Education.”
Being a third generation Christian Scientist, I have been greatly supported by the periodicals, and by my family’s devotion to them. As a college student often being asked by friends about Christian Science, I was eager to share what modest understanding I was working to educate in myself.
My father’s empathy for my desire to share led him to say to me once, “When someone asks you about Christian Science, you can offer them something to read.” He was referring to the Christian Science periodicals, and his wise comment was, “Before there is a need, the answer is already there.”
This month my own need for correction and growth was filled by so many of the articles, but especially by the interview of Barbara Pettis by Roger Gordon; “The Beauty of a Prayerful Treatment” by Phil Davis; and “Dominion: Being Subordinate to God Alone” by Barbara Vining. I am so thankful for the richness of this issue.
Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, US
Uniting in prayer
Thank you very much for the issue of January 2012. The articles titled “Respect: A Divine Perspective” by Marilyn Perkinson and “Are You ‘Comfortable’ in Church?” by Karen Sevaly were inspiring. We can only support our mission on earth as healers if we unite in prayers and share a common goal of transforming the universe with God’s message of love.
God uses each of us in different ways to grow church, and we must pray to discern the way God wants us to bless mankind in the Cause. Nothing can block us unless we individually allow it.
For me, Divine Truth is omnipotent and capable of bringing in each of us the change desired to realize God’s will for mankind in Life.
Suna-Migori, Kenya
The cost and the blessings
I’m deeply grateful for the inclusion of “ ‘Dark nights of the soul’—Illumined,” by Joni Overton-Jung, in the January 2012 Journal. It is one of the most honest assessments I’ve read of the cost, as well as the blessings, of being a Christian and a Christian Scientist. It always strengthens my heart and resolve to hear how others, more experienced than myself, have faced and conquered darkness and doubt with courage, conviction, and spiritual clarity.
While it’s certainly important to hear reports of instantaneous healings and the abundance and joy that come with trust in God, this article gently reminds the reader that we need never feel embarrassed, confused, or ashamed if we struggle mightily, at times, to maintain our faith. Instead, the author sees these times as “a call to reach deeper and higher with a purer and finer trust; to face down the beliefs of evil. And as we do, regardless of how difficult our circumstances may seem to be, we are lifted, strengthened, and equipped to help others with greater tenderness and patience.”
What a compassionate reason for digging deeper in times of trial
. . . to bless others!
Paramus, New Jersey, US
Springboards for study
Thank you for the December 2011 “teacher edition” power-packed with articles by Christian Science teachers such as Diane Dailey, Mieteke Pennings, Allison W. Phinney, James Spencer, Mary Trammell, and the conversation with Scott Preller.
These thought-provoking articles, filled with the power of grace, devotion, and humility, are springboards for a deeper study and understanding of Christian Science. They open thought to how one can better demonstrate what is being revealed to the reader. My heart overflows with gratitude for this selfless sharing and the dedication and work that preceded it.
White Plains, Maryland, US
‘A treasure’
The Journal is a treasure! Each issue is fresh, thought- and prayer-provoking.
In particular, I commend the editors for addressing the timely and challenging subject of the alternative to death in the editorial by Nate Talbot (November 2011). Absolutely, we should be praying to ascend, not die. Mr. Talbot decisively clears up common misconceptions and holds out the promise of the Christ.
The January 2012 FAQ response about handling resistance to Christian Science in prayer treatment by Suzanne Riedel was an extremely helpful and important reminder—very much appreciated. Thank you to all involved!
Denver, Colorado, US
