My earliest recollection of Christian Science was about...

Frederick L. Degener

My earliest recollection of Christian Science was about the year 1898. I attended a Christian Science service at that time, although then too young to grasp anything of its teachings. These were gradually unfolded to me as I grew up. I was healed of many ailments from which I had suffered for several years previously,—in fact, was lifted out of the effects of almost every disease which came on me in childhood; and to-day I know it was nothing but Christian Science which saved me from the "slough of despond" and the grave.

It was my privilege in my younger days to attend a Christian Science Sunday School. I tried always to rely upon what I had been taught, trusting God, the great deliverer, to lead me onward to higher attainment of the understanding of the power of Truth to heal and save. I could hardly begin to tell of all the wonderful experiences which have come to me through Christian Science. I wish to relate, however, a few of the most interesting ones, as proof that Christian Science has not failed me whenever and wherever I have tried to apply its rules, as laid down in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy.

Early in 1913 I met with a serious accident when standing over a machine I was operating. The middle finger of the left hand was caught in the machinery and cut off just below the nail. I instantly applied what I understood of the truth; and how wonderfully Truth did work! I left at once to have the finger bandaged; and I did not experience the least pain or pass any restless nights. I returned home, never for a moment believing that my finger could not be healed, knowing and holding steadfastly to these words from page 259 of Science and Health, "The Christlike understanding of scientific being and divine healing includes a perfect Principle and idea,—perfect God and perfect man,—as the basis of thought and demonstration;" and on page 477, "Were it otherwise, man would be annihilated."

It was necessary every third day to change the bandage, but nothing was done in a material way to heal the finger. I knew it was Mind that would heal it; and I held to our Master's counsel, "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." It was the ninth day when the bandage was removed, and never since has it been necessary to have the finger cared for. it was healed—grown out new as the other! Only a slight mark is to be seen, when one examines it very closely, where it mended.

I have had several instances of mental dentistry, and have not had any dental work done in filling since 1914. My teeth are sound, and never give me the least trouble. I have also seen, under personal observation, severe fevers, colds, burns, malignant ulcerations, pneumonia in one of its worst forms, and many other ills "that flesh is heir to," wholly and quickly overcome through the demonstration of absolute Christian Science. I should like to add one word more in gratitude for class instruction.

Frederick L. Degener, Elgin, Ill.

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