Article January 31, 1914 Issue

An Appreciation of Christian Science

MABEL FREESE DENNETT

Though I am not a Christian Scientist, I have recently come into sympathy with the movement through first-hand knowledge, obtained from friends, experiences, and the reading of copies of the Monitor and Sentinel which have been sent to me from time to time. For many years the only impressions I had of Christian Science were received from the adverse criticisms and unfavorable comments sent to me by other friends. These biased my mind and awakened strong prejudices against it.

While in a hospital, however, recovering from an operation, a small pamphlet entitled "Prayer and Healing," issued by The Christian Science Publishing Society, was handed to me. I read it carefully, nothing the beauty of many thoughts. Some time after this I became interested in the Monitor and greatly appreciated its stand for clean journalism. Nevertheless, no lasting impression for good was received until July, 1912, when a devoted Christian Scientist, having the supervision of my husband's business, and at that time our only acquaintance in the Science faith, paid us a brief visit. The day of his arrival I was suffering with what is known as broken arches of the feet, of five years' duration. Soon afterward the pains began to lessen, and to my great surprise and delight I was able to be on my feet without annoyance. From that day I have never experienced the old pains. Besides this I have had the same use of my feet that I had before the arches broke, wearing, instead of the special shoes worn for several years, anything that I choose, and enjoying the extended walks for so long I had to forego. I am also accomplishing nearly twice as much as formerly, going about the common round with the joy of an athlete and dispensing with a regular helper. One reason for the accomplishment of a greater amount of work is that I have regained the quick motions and dexterity which characterized my younger days. What makes my recovery seem remarkable, however, is the fact that only a short time before this healing my physician told me never to expect my feet to be well, owing to the duration of the broken-down condition.

Simultaneously with the more complete physical effectiveness there has developed a more complete mental and spiritual unfolding for Christian and social service, and with new responsibilities added power has come, while a deeper consecration for the Master leavens all. Lately I have been reading with interest the Christian Science literature at hand, finding new meaning in the pamphlet previously referred to, "Prayer and Healing," and prizing for its spirituality the leaflet, "If Ye Abide in Me," reprinted from the Sentinel. Once, upon the occasion of a union service at the church of my membership, I attended the Wednesday evening meeting at the Christian Science church, and a phrase from one of the testimonies has become a household word in our home, so that whenever our five-year-old son is hurt or troubled, his voice rings with a declaration of man's God-given dominion, and comfort follows.

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