Testimony of Healing September 20, 1919 Issue

It is with a deep feeling of gratitude for the many blessings...

Francis I. Dodge

It is with a deep feeling of gratitude for the many blessings enjoyed by me and by my family through the application of Christian Science to our problems that I give this testimony. Over five years ago, while engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery, Christian Science was presented to me by a sister who had a few years before first experienced its healing power. At that time I was a victim of the drink and tobacco habits and wholly incapacitated to continue my professional duties. My desire was, and had been for a long time, to overcome these habits, but I saw no way to obtain this freedom. As a physician I had entertained considerable prejudice against Christian Science; just how much I did not know as it was not at that time very well known in the section where I practiced medicine and therefore did not interfere with my business from the standpoint of competition. Had it done so, there is no doubt that I would have been an active opponent.

When it was presented to me, however, I offered no resistance to Christian Science as I had become thoroughly subdued through mental and physical suffering. The world had given quite liberally of its so-called pleasures, but when called upon through its false doctrines to repair the damage done and restore to a normal condition the wrecked mentality and bring back to the home the happiness of old, it was not equal to the occasion. Still indulging my habits, I began to read Science and Health and in it found food, for it aroused a desire to know something about the works of Jesus; and I seemed from the first to be confident that it contained the truth about God and His creation. It required some time to effect a healing, as I did not accept the help so generously offered as much as I might have done; however, in about three months I gained my freedom and a keen interest in Christian Science, also a determination to progress in the understanding of God and His creation as explained by Mrs. Eddy.

For a while I again engaged in the practice of medicine, but I knew it would not be possible for me to remain long in this practice. At first I felt some regret, but as I grew in the understanding of Christian Science, I found myself looking forward to the day when I would be relieved, and divine Love finally made it possible. For this freedom I am especially grateful, as with it has come growth and active participation in Christian Science work. It would take too much space to relate the many experiences and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles overcome since leaving my old work and preparing myself for the greater work which God has given me.

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