How I Found Christian Science December 10, 2012 Issue

'I knew my life was changed forever...'

Helen Martin—Los Angeles, California, US

I had a rigorous Christian upbringing that involved harsh and demanding attitudes. I loved God, but I also feared Him. I explored various denominations, but never found one to fully accept. 

In 1947, I was first introduced to Christian Science when a man I was dating mentioned it to me. I knew absolutely nothing about it. He was on furlough from a government job and was about to leave to go back to work, but he told me I could find the book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy in the library. The book would explain what Christian Science was. I went to the library, found the book, and couldn’t stop reading it. I didn’t get out of my chair all day. I didn’t leave until the library closed at 9:00 p.m.! 

I wrote to my boyfriend, telling him that I was delighted and fascinated with the book, and referring to Mary Baker Eddy, asked him, “Who was that woman?” I was in such wonderment that this marvelous book was written by a woman. He told me more about Mrs. Eddy, but he also said that being a Christian Scientist is not all sweetness and light. It’s not just about reading beautiful ideas; it’s about practicing the Science of the Christ and demonstrating spiritual truths. 

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