Testimony of Healing October 11, 1952 Issue

I submit this testimony of the...

Arch Bailey

I submit this testimony of the healing and redeeming power of Christian Science with deep gratitude, hoping that it will help some world-weary one to press onward and upward.

"Let it be understood that success in error is defeat in Truth," writes Mary Baker Eddy on page 239 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." About twenty-five years ago, at the height of a successful career as a singer and teacher, I was enjoying all that professional and worldly success includes. I had studied with master teachers in both America and Europe, and material success had been obtained; but despite this I left defeated in spirit and purpose. I was obsessed with personal ambition and driven by human will. Also I was in bondage to tobacco and alcohol. Reliance upon them for stimulation had brought me to the point of nervous exhaustion with its corresponding states of frustration, severe depression, self-condemnation, and devastating fears. At that time it could have been said that I appeared outwardly successful, but trembled inwardly with defeat.

In this extremity an unusual experience came to me. A Christian Science friend, who knew of my desire to be liberated from this confusion, told me that a certain branch Church of Christ, Scientist, in the city in which I was living was holding auditions for soloist. I was then employed by one of the large orthodox churches of the city, and there seemed no reason why I should change positions. However, I soon found myself auditioning for the music committee of that Christian Science church. At the conclusion of the audition a member of the committee said, "You might be the next soloist of our church."

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