Twenty years ago, a friend invited me to attend a Thanksgiving Day service at his local Christian Science Society. Little did I know that it would change my life.

For ten years prior to this invitation, this friend had been so supportive. When my husband no longer wanted to be married, my friend helped me navigate the divorce with encouraging words, never making a harsh, judgmental comment or suggestion. He was kind, assuring me that all was well. Over the following year, he continued demonstrating God’s pure love and care, including me in many dinners, special occasions, and holiday events with his family. The genuine and selfless care, comfort, and love I experienced was the deciding factor in my attending that Thanksgiving Day service in 2002. 

When I arrived, the church was peaceful. Beautiful worship music was playing, and members were kind and friendly. I felt so calm and surrounded by love. Just seeing the words “God is Love” (see I John 4:8) on the wall gave me a sense of warmth and security. I had been raised in another Christian denomination and had spent 45 years as a member of various other congregations. The atmosphere was much different at my friend’s church. I attended services regularly for eight months.