I was raised in another denomination, but I did not acquire any particular interest in religion. As a young man, I led a happy-go-lucky life amid all the enticements of a big city. During that time I became ill and had to take medicine daily.

As I very much wanted to expand my knowledge of English, I found a language teacher who had lived in England for many years. He was an excellent instructor. It was evident to him that I didn't feel well. One day while we were talking, he told me about Christian Science.

When I learned that God governs all of His creation, it was as if scales fell from my eyes. My thought opened up to undreamed-of opportunities. After I had begun to study Christian Science and had had some meaningful conversations with my friend, I grasped that God is forever near and all-powerful, and that we can turn to Him for healing. I no longer took medicine, and my health was restored.

When I saw a copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy, I recalled having seen it before and found it on my father's bookshelf. The book had been sent to him by his brother in America, but it had remained on the shelf, unread. My uncle had been healed by this Science, had become a Christian Scientist, and was now delighted to learn that I was interested in this teaching.

My life at the time revolved around the office and the soccer field. I applied my newly gained understanding of God's all-embracing power and care of His child right away. Consequently, when there were injuries I was healed and back on my feet again very quickly.

As children, my sister and I had lost our beloved mother early on. When I then left to work and learn an occupation away from home, I encountered the conflicts and misunderstandings commonly associated with the business world. As a result, I longed for comfort and came to feel the loss of my mother especially keenly. Then one day after I had begun the study of Christian Science, it suddenly became clear to me that God, our true Father-Mother, is enveloping us in His tender love and we can always turn to Him. This recognition released me from all feeling of loss.

During the years I was forced to spend in Russia as a soldier, I knew that I was really in the service of God, who is Love, and who sustains and preserves His children. I realized that this was true for my comrades and even for my opponents. I found out how true it is for all that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (Psalms).

I have been deeply grateful to have always found a suitable place to live in this country or abroad, even during critical housing shortages. This has been possible because of my understanding of the divine fact that "in him [God] we live, and move, and have our being" (Acts).

Without Christian Science I would never have learned of the spiritual treasures contained in the Bible, which gives us instruction and examples for overcoming all difficulties in daily life. An understanding that we are in reality the sons and daughters of God enables me to refrain from constant faultfinding and enables me to see all people in their true nature as the spiritual children of our divine Father-Mother. How can we ever cease to give praise and thanks to God?

Karl W. Keferstein
Überlingen, Germany

The Mother Church is The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts. Its branches are called Churches of Christ, Scientist, and Christian Science Societies.