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In this series, individuals share how taking Christian Science Primary class instruction has strengthened their spiritual understanding, and brought increasing inspiration and healing to their lives.
Like joining a new family
Back in 2010, I began to feel that I wanted to take Christian Science class instruction. There are several teachers near where I live, and another that I knew of in my state that I thought would be good, but I never really followed through with it beyond a casual inquiry.
I was succumbing to the suggestion that there was no way that I could take two full weeks away from my office and my two young boys.
That all changed when my family went to a series of lectures given by the woman who would become my teacher. I instantly felt a connection to her, and by the time the second lecture was over, I felt like I had known her all my life, even though I’d barely spoken to her. I e-mailed her the next day to inquire about class. My husband, who at that point was very new to Christian Science, was interested also, and we spoke to her together on the phone that night.
After she received our applications, she accepted us both. I was so convinced that this was the right path for me, that I lost all fear that I would not be able to take the time off, even though we would be traveling halfway across the country and be away from home for two weeks.
It was really a liberating feeling—knowing that what I was doing was so God-directed that no material situation could prevent me from being there. Of course, animal magnetism—the resistance of the carnal, or mortal mind, to spiritual progress—tried to throw up all sorts of obstacles, but I truly never worried that they would prevent us from going forward.
It was a wonderful experience for both of us. It felt like we were joining a new family. It was exciting to see so many young people in the class, as well as older ones. It gave me a sense of renewal about the Christian Science movement.
We were this teacher’s second class, and when we met the students from her first class at association, they were so welcoming that it expanded our sense that we were all family. It is so nice to feel as if we have family all over the country now, and we get excited whenever we see any members of our association throughout the year. Not to mention how much we look forward to the yearly association meeting!
It gave me a sense of renewal about the Christian Science movement.
I definitely feel that I now have the spiritual tools to tackle any circumstance that tries to obstruct my vision of the Truth. I have made significant progress in resolving several long-term issues in my life since taking class, including nagging anxiety that my family’s supply will run out at some point. And I have had many quick healings of other issues that have come up.
Class instruction has given me a sure foundation and confidence in my understanding of Christian Science. It has also had an impact on our children, who sense the stronger dedication we have to making Science an integral part of our lives. I encourage everyone to take this step. It will be one of the best decisions you will ever make.
And some thoughts from Kevin:
Crossing paths with our teacher was definitely a life-changing event. After discussing the outpouring of feelings we both experienced, my wife had a strong desire to inquire about taking class with this teacher. I knew at the time that I, too, could not see myself taking class from anyone else. Even though we had to battle a great deal of animal magnetism along the way, we pushed through it.
I have such a better understanding of Christian Science and have been able to apply it in my everyday life. Shortly after taking class, I was involved in the creation and planning of a successful regional youth event for our area and was also elected to the board at my local branch church. I feel that class played an integral part in the unfolding of all of this. I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.
October 29, 2012 issue
View Issue-
Letters
Cristina Minola, Susan Vreeland, Barbara Alexander
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A different tack
Jeff Ward-Bailey, Staff Editor
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The government that blesses all
Mark Sappenfield
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Quenching the volcanoes of partisanship
Jack Lindsey
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Elections, justice, and mercy
Rosalie E. Dunbar, Senior Staff Editor
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Health anxiety: Help for the well-but-worried
Russ Gerber
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Love casts out demons
Nate Frederick
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'Think globally act locally' moments
Diane Bolman
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A prophecy fulfilled
Malcolm Drummond
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Frisbee and a 'holy day'
Emily Clarke
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When I prayed for myself...
Rod Jones
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The 'business' that replaces 'busyness'
Irene Schanche Bowker
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Like joining a new family
Kristen Coleman
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Love and wisdom trump hatred
Sharon Carper
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'Where art thou?'
Deanna Mummert
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Distinctly democratic
Dorcas Strong
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Study points to health benefits of prayer
Donald Ingwerson
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'Spiritual fitness' and suicide prevention
Carey Arber
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'Undisturbed' and healed after an election
Roberta Dever
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Skin growth dissolved
Ann Kneeland with contributions from Jennifer Kneeland
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Healing of premenstrual tension
Martha Corrêa Henriques Samary
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Divine simplicity...or mental algebra?
The Editors