My family and I had been residents of Libau, Russia, for...

Paul Gassner

My family and I had been residents of Libau, Russia, for many years when the World War broke out. As I was a German subject, I was made a prisoner at the commencement of the war. I was separated from my family, and sent into the far interior of russia. My eldest daughter was in Germany at the time. Many letters were lost, and only one of my daughter's letters reached its destination. In this letter I learned for the first time of Christian Science, with which teaching my daughter had become acquainted in the home of a relative. The war censor allowed only short letters, and this letter contained "the scientific statement of being" from page 468 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, in words which are clear and reach the heart. I realized immediately that the letter revealed a great truth, also our child's innermost prayer, Acknowledge the truth which will free you. This letter, which contained the light of Truth, and which could not be retained by any war censor, was brought to me in November, 1914, when my family came to the place of my exile.

We had been together but a few days when I was suddenly suspected of some political plot, and was rearrested. I was obliged to remain in a Russian prison for nearly four months, until it was revealed that the suspicion was unfounded. This prison term brought about the turning point in my life, as here I learned the first and most lasting lesson of Christian Science. I do not know how I could have lived through that time had I not received a slight understanding of the truth through that letter. With even my slight understanding I experienced the healing power of Truth for myself, for I was able to dispel and easily overcome sickness which tried to become manifest. I was also able to bring comfort and help to my comrades; and when we were suddenly released, they thanked me for the comfort which I had been able to give them.

After my release we endeavored to leave Russia, in order to learn more of Christian Science, which teaching had given us so much strength. All hindrances which arose were overcome, and in 1915, I arrived in Germany with my family of five with only about five hundred marks. We were lovingly received by our relatives.

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