Article August 7, 2006 Issue

A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

BY INGRID PESCHKE

SOME FASCINATING developments are taking place at the Wednesday testimony meetings of Christian Science churches and societies across the country and abroad. At the heart of these developments is a spirit of growth and healing. "Metaphysical healing, or Christian Science, is a demand of the times," wrote Church founder Mary Baker Eddy. "Every man and every woman would desire and demand it, if he and she knew its infinite value and firm basis" (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, p. 232). Of course healing is absolutely vital to the Christian Science movement—and the Wednesday meetings provide a platform for public affirmation of its value.

I recently visited a testimony meeting at First Church of Christ, Scientist, Richardson, Texas—with special approval—by speakerphone from my home outside of Boston. I sat on my couch and settled in for an inspiring hour. The topic of the readings? "Forgiveness." You find topics such as this covered at any Wednesday meeting across the country, across the globe. Then came a constant stream of testimonies, several given by relative newcomers to Christian Science who have found healing—one of diabetes, another of severely impaired movement. Both testifiers were healed through their study and practice of Christian Science. It was a lively discussion, informal and spoken from the heart.

The Richardson church's testimony meetings have undergone changes in the last three years that have infused this important midweek gathering with freshness and innovation. "Our meetings are relaxed now—we feel comfortable and united as a family," says member Susan Erwin. "And visitors feel welcome, too."

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

EVERY DAY CAN BE A WEDNESDAY!