Christian Science War Time Activities/Chapter 10
X
UNSELFISH LABOR RICHLY REWARDED
In the foregoing pages the outstanding features of the activity of the Christian Science War Relief Committee have been described. Into this final chapter have been gathered together various letters and reports from individuals, all indicative of some phase of the good accomplished. To make a complete estimate of such a work is, of course, an impossible task and these points are submitted only as indications of what has developed and may be expected to develop from the seed sown by the War Relief Committee.
First in interest, perhaps, to Christian Scientists is the great mass of evidence accumulated to show the physical healings resulting from the application of Christian Science to the treatment of disease. Some of these healings were brought about by the ministrations of War Relief Workers, some by the efforts of soldier Scientists in their own behalf or in behalf of comrades.
The first duty of the Welfare Workers was naturally to Christian Scientists although they by no means limited their attention to these men. The group of testimonials which follow are expressions from Christian Scientists in the service to whom our Workers were able to be of assistance.
“In loving gratitude to God, and to Mrs. Eddy, the interpreter of the beautiful teachings of Christ Jesus, I wish to tell of the many benefits which I have received through Christian Science since entering the army. Almost every day for the past eighteen months it has required the conscientious study of our textbook and the Bible to meet the seeming problems which have presented themselves.
“I am happy to say that my redeemer in every instance has proved to be the practical application of the words of Jesus, ‘Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.’
“I wish to tell of one incident which especially proved to me the ever-present help of divine Love. I was doing guard duty at one of our flying fields, and one day I felt a bit resentful for having to stand guard for three hour periods which I thought was a little too long for any one person. That night during my watch from 12 to 3 I became suddenly ill. I tried my best to realize the Scientific Statement of Being as given on page 468 of our textbook, but I soon reached a state where I was almost unconscious. When the guard relief arrived I was assisted to the squadron and when morning arrived I had been taken to the Post Hospital. After an examination by the medical officer I was told that I was suffering from a case of acute ptomaine poisoning.
“I had been hurried away to the hospital without a bit of Christian Science literature, to say nothing of my Science and Health, Quarterly and Bible. I realized that this was no place for me and that I must do my work in Science the best I knew how.
“This all happened on a Friday night. On the following Sunday, the Camp Welfare Worker missed me, as I was never absent unless he had received word in advance. Having inquired for me at the squadron the Worker soon located me at the hospital and found me there early the following Monday morning. I was so happy when I saw him appear in the doorway, looking here and there for someone and knowing that the someone was myself. I immediately asked for some Science literature and he thereupon went back to his car and brought me a Journal and some Sentinels.
“I realized how much better I felt after he had spoken to me, and had given me some good things to think about. I told him that I expected to be out of the hospital by the middle of the following week, but he only smiled and said nothing. That smile and the thoughts he gave me resulted in my being discharged the following morning perfectly well. It was indeed a lesson to me to guard my thoughts as well as the ‘Government property in view.’
“Since that time I have had many remarkable experiences showing the efficacy of Christian Science when its teachings are honestly practiced. The literature, consisting of the Monitor, Sentinel and Journal, has always been most welcome to the boys in the service, and how eager were those who knew nothing of Science for that wonderful and remarkable daily, ‘The Christian Science Monitor.’ In my training as a pilot I have never had a thought of fear and my work has gone on with much satisfaction, not only to myself but to my instructors as well. I am grateful for having had the privilege of being a reader at several of our army camps during the war, and it has given me an invaluable and helpful experience.
“I am indeed grateful for all that Christian Science has done for me, and only by loving obedience to our revered Leader's admonitions and by following the teachings of our textbook can I show my sense of gratitude.
“Cadet Alfred P. Pearson,
“As testimonial to the exceedingly good work a Christian
Science Welfare Worker did for me I wish to relate my
experience at Kelly Field, San Antonio, Texas.
“In the first place, I was flying every day, averaging about three hours a day. This lasted for approximately seven months. All of this time, through the guidance of one of the Welfare Workers and the help of the literature I was enabled not only to have a clean record as instructor but also to accomplish my work without accident of any kind.
“Last fall, during the ‘flu’ epidemic, I became suddenly ill. The day before I became unconscious, some Science literature was handed me, with the Welfare Worker's name enclosed. I refused medicine of any kind, and called on the Welfare Worker for help. The next day I was forcibly taken to the hospital and passed almost immediately into unconsciousness. The Welfare Worker was with me every day and several nights practically all night.
“It was at a critical stage, when the army surgeon at the hospital said I could not live until a certain hour. They had done absolutely all they could, and told my parents that I would probably be dead within a few hours. This condition lasted for over a day. The Worker brought me back into sunshine and life again, staying constantly with me.
“The case was considered a very peculiar one in the hospital, and the surgeon predicted all kinds of after effects, none of which developed, nor ever will, for this experience has shown me thoroughly what Science is and what it will do for one.
“I trust that this will be of some service and help to those in need of it. Words fail to express my appreciation of the wonderful help Science has been to me through the Welfare Workers at this camp.
“William Huttig, Jr.,
“While training at one of the large army camps I became
very ill. I was first sent to the camp hospital and then to the
base hospital, where the trouble was diagnosed as
tuberculosis. My condition gradually grew worse, and the surgeon
in charge notified my parents that my condition was serious.
“My mother wrote the Christian Science War Relief Workers, who visited me at once, leaving a copy of the textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, by Mrs. Eddy, and some other literature.
“After careful reading of this literature I began to see the truth. My condition was so improved in two days that I was allowed to put on my clothes and walk around. The hospital authorities changed the diagnosis of the case and made the record show that it was some kind of fever. In two weeks I was entirely well and felt as strong as ever, and was discharged from the hospital.
“The second day out of the hospital I rode my horse on a thirty-mile hike with no ill effects whatever.
“I am indeed grateful for my knowledge of Christian Science, and wish to express my sincere thanks to those Christian Scientists who helped me find the right road.
“Warren R. Whitehead,
“Upon several occasions during my service of over a year
in the army I found it necessary to call upon a Christian
Science War Relief Worker for help and it is my desire to
relate a couple of incidents wherein I did receive help and
to express my sincere gratitude both to the Worker and to
the organization.
“At the time of my enlistment, I was still unable to overcome entirely the belief that I was not in perfect condition and was somewhat afraid that I would be unable to pass so rigid an examination as is required in order to be accepted as candidate for commission in the Air Service.
“After talking with a Welfare Worker at Omaha and being assured by him that he would help me, I felt entirely different about myself and appeared before the examining board full of confidence. To make a short story of it, I did pass the examination and was pronounced physically perfect by all the doctors present and was accepted.
“Soon after reporting for duty, all men were vaccinated and inoculated. My second inoculation seemed to cause a high fever and, receiving a pass on the following day, I went home and went to bed. At the same time the influenza manifested itself, and at times during the first night in bed I was delirious. The next morning the Welfare Worker called and soon after he arrived I responded to his treatment and went to sleep. When I awakened the fever had subsided and I was much better. Next morning the authorities at the Post informed us that the ambulance was coming out and would take me to the hospital, which was of course against my wishes. But personal desires amount to very little in the army. I was kept in the hospital and by the next morning was perfectly well, but I had a hard time convincing the doctors of this, for they wanted to keep me in a few days longer. At about eleven o'clock in the morning I called up the Welfare Worker and asked him to help me with this problem. However, later the same morning the sergeant came to me, saying that the doctors had decided I could go back to the barracks.
“All through my two ground courses and the flying course, God, through my knowledge of Him as taught in Christian Science, was an ever-present help and I know I could not have come through it all so well as I did, without this aid.
“Soon after receiving my commission I was assigned to a company and was ordered overseas. Naturally it was hard to leave my wife and child, but with the help we received through the Welfare Worker we saw that everything was for the best and we felt confident that we would be united again and would be taken care of during our separation.
“Many others received the same help as I did through the Christian Science War Relief Committee and it certainly has proved to be a wonderful organization. I have command of no words with which to express my gratitude to God and to Christian Science for the many benefits and blessings I received before my entry into the army, during my service and since my return to civil life.
“Jere Van Rensselaer, Jr.,
“I wish to express my gratitude for the blessings I enjoy because Christian Science has entered into my experience. For the past twelve years, I have relied entirely upon Christian Science as my physician. However, while in the service of the government, though I was inoculated and vaccinated a number of times, because this was compulsory under medical regulations, I was never affected by these operations as I knew no harm could result to God's idea, since man in His image and likeness, needed no serums of any sort to sustain perfect health, because perfection is the natural order of man's being. The sergeant who gave me the last shot seemed somewhat annoyed because the previous shots failed to take effect, so he pushed the needle fully a half inch into the flesh of my arm, remarking as he did so, ‘I know you feel that anyway.’ Though the mark is still visible on the arm, it is perfectly healed over, and no ill effects followed from this treatment.
“During the period when a number of the men in Vancouver Barracks, Washington, were under medical treatment, suffering because of the epidemic, I had listened to so much talk of the disease that I was caught napping, for I was not standing ‘porter at the door of thought’ (Science and Health, page 392), and as a result there was evidenced the symptoms of the ‘flu’ in all its fury. I tried for two days to overcome it, but on the third day it seemed that a trip to the hospital was inevitable. I managed to get away from the tent and found a Camp Worker who talked with me for an hour and a half and made clear to me the thought that God gave man dominion over all error and therefore I was the master over any evil that tried to attack me, and he held this thought so firmly that I was suddenly freed from all discord and returned to camp rejoicing and slept well all night. I ate very heartily at breakfast and resumed my duties as acting mess sergeant.
“The many blessings I enjoyed through the efforts of the War Relief Committee of the Christian Science movement will ever remain a fond recollection never to be blotted out. The free distribution of literature, especially The Christian Science Monitor, that wonderful paper disseminating the constructive news of the world, is a source of much gratitude.
“Christian Science is surely my greatest possession.
“August Brauns,
“On the evening of May 3, 1918, while cranking a car, the
engine kicked and broke my right arm at the wrist. The
shock was so severe that I lost consciousness for a few
moments and was taken into the Christian Science Camp
Welfare building, where I was given immediate attention by
the Worker.
“After I had recovered from the first shock I was taken to the infirmary and had the bone set. Later, permission was given me to remain at the Welfare building all night. Much work was done for me that night and in the morning the sergeant who dressed the arm told me that I was making such excellent progress that the splints could be taken off in a couple of days. The surgeon said the arm was doing splendidly but the splints must remain for seven weeks, as that was the customary time.
“On the fourth night the splints came off during my sleep and in the morning I arose and dressed myself, using the arm that had been broken without being conscious of it. I slipped my arm back into the splints and reported for examination but did not tell the surgeon that the splints had come off and that I was able to use my arm. He commented upon the excellent progress I was making but insisted that the splints be worn for several weeks more.
“I was confident that my arm was healed and used to amuse the men at the Welfare Room by waving my arm, splints and all, in the air when they would ask how I was progressing. It was apparent to everyone that my arm was well and I know that I could have used it in the regular way had the surgeon permitted me to remove the splints.
“Three days after the splints were removed I was doing typing for the officer in charge. In fact, three days after the arm was broken I was using the typewriter although under difficulty because of the splints.
“After the first week no treatments were given because we were confident that the healing was accomplished. For this demonstration, as well as for a great many others, I owe a debt of gratitude to Christian Science.
“George H. Anderson,
“I am indeed most grateful for all the good that has come
to me through the study of Christian Science. At this time
I am particularly grateful for the great work that has been
done for us who have been in service.
“I was stationed at Camp Johnston, Jacksonville, Florida, and during my stay there, the love and loyalty of the Christian Science Welfare Workers brought to me an understanding of joy and peace that I had never before thought it possible to possess.
“One day there seemed to be with me a sense of being without my usual strength, which became more and more marked as the day passed, until in the evening I was indeed in great distress. Not realizing the need for immediate work, I did not ask for help until I had retired, and after ‘lights out’ I realized that I was very quickly losing all control of my body. I was unable to raise either my arms or legs. It happened that the boy who was next to me was a Scientist, so I asked him to dress and telephone to the Welfare Worker in Jacksonville for help. He did so but before his return I had also lost my voice and was unable to thank him. I remember his return but in the darkness he was not able to see that I was still awake, and as I could neither move nor talk, he supposed me to be sleeping and went to bed once more. I was, however, very much awake but paralyzed by fear. I remember nothing more until the bugle sounded in the morning, waking me, and I was perfectly healed.
“A few weeks later I was called to my home in Canada, where my mother was passing out under medical treatment. My grief and the sense of separation, together with the hatred and resentment toward those I thought responsible, seemed almost too great for me to bear. Christian Science again met my need. It taught me to know and love my only Father-Mother God, as I never had before, and I realized that in knowing who is my mother and my father that I was healed of all that seemed so real. I shall never forget the beautiful way our Welfare Worker stood with me during this trial.
“It was my privilege to be one of the readers in the Christian Science meetings held in camp. This position awakened me to see what it is to be a real Christian Scientist, and I am rejoicing daily in increased understanding.
“Christian Science is such a simple, demonstrable, practical religion. As each day passes and I know more of God who is Love and of man's relation to Him, my gratitude increases. I realize, however, as our beloved Leader writes on page 3 of Science and Health: ‘Gratitude is much more than a verbal expression of thanks. Action expresses more gratitude than speech.’ My great desire is that I may so grow in the understanding of Christian Science that my life by my actions may prove true gratitude and that I may be found worthy of the name of a genuine Christian Scientist.
“Ralph E. Carson,
“A new name for an ailment affects people like a Parisian name for a novel garment. Everyone hastens to get it,” says Mrs. Eddy on page 197 of Science and Health. Never was the truth of these words more conclusively proved than in the epidemic of fear, called Spanish Influenza, which raged through the United States and Europe last fall. To those who are used to looking for the mental cause of all physical effects, it was not surprising that this gust of evil should have swept most violently through our army and navy training camps. Certain it is that as one of our Workers wrote, “If this thing had been called German instead of Spanish no one would have taken it for each would have said, ‘Away with it; we're not afraid of anything German and never will be.’ ”
In any event during those weeks of stress and fear, Christian Scientists everywhere were grateful for a knowledge of God's goodness and for a calm assurance of protection, and through this understanding they were able to be of immeasurable help to those who were suffering in this dream of sickness. Probably the helpfulness of our Camp Workers was brought home to more families at that one time than at any other during the activity of the Committee.
In some of the camps with the placing of the quarantine, Christian Science services were abandoned perforce. In one camp through the faithful effort of a woman Worker permission was granted by the camp surgeon and our services went on uninterruptedly.
Elsewhere our Workers being told that the entire district was under quarantine and if they entered they would be obliged to stay in the camp, elected to follow this course, entered and remained inside, bringing healing and comfort to many. In a camp of this sort such good work was done by the soldier Scientists that the Worker wrote of them as follows:
“One of the things for which we are most grateful is the fact that our boys were able to help the others during the recent epidemic. One of them had charge of thirty-six others. The first night he went to each patient and tried to allay his fear and to reassure him. The doctors soon began to turn to him and he was put into a position of considerable responsibility and usefulness. Another boy read the 91st Psalm to his patients, and although only a beginner in Science, through using what he knew of the truth, was able to overcome a very high fever for one of the boys.”
Similarly, a soldier writing from England says:
“I was placed in a hospital unit and sent overseas. This took place while the fear of the so-called influenza was on. . . . If you will remember I am just a beginner in Science, and so I held to the truth as best I could during that season. I did not use any preventives or medicine as did my associates. I had no fear and felt it my duty to serve instead of being served.”
Our Camp Workers themselves at this time were working day and night and in many places, being unable to care for all the cases presented to them, they were obliged to ask for assistance from other practitioners who gladly volunteered their services. Perhaps the following letters will indicate the appreciation with which their efforts were met. The first is from the surgeon of the Air Service Mechanics School, St. Paul, Minnesota:
“The Surgeon desires to thank Mr. G. and the members of the Christian Science Welfare League for their great kindness and thoughtfulness in caring for the men sick in our hospital during the recent epidemic. The care and trouble taken in providing for the comfort and welfare of the patients have been very much appreciated.
“You cannot realize how much such helpful, practical service as yours has meant to the patients. Your splendid cooperation and ready, willing service throughout the very trying emergency have meant much more than can be expressed. The medical officers are extremely grateful to you, and are very appreciative of all that you have done."
The second is from a medical officer at the hospital in Camp Beauregard, Louisiana:
“I take the means of this letter to express to you as best I can, my appreciation of your help and assistance during this trying situation in camp.
“When you offered your services in the beginning of this critical situation, we needed help upon whom we could depend. We were a little surprised at your offer, not at all on account of the man from whom it came, but we did not know how your people's views were along the lines of such humanitarian work as you have done here.
“I felt that everything was as it should be in my absence with you as Ward Master. One thing I want to say to you, a thing that I appreciate, while your position as Ward Master would have safeguarded you against any orderly duties of the hospital,—the thing necessary to be done, was the thing you did.
“Again thanking you for your faithful and fearless work during this serious time, I am,
“Your friend.”
At a camp in Colorado our Worker, upon volunteering the services of himself and his car, was told that everything was well organized in the hospital except in the diet kitchen, where he might be useful. Upon visiting the kitchen he was told that the patients craved ice cream and as the result of an appeal to the women of the near-by Christian Science churches our Worker was able to deliver a daily supply of ice cream and fruit to the hospital during the period of need. Sincere expressions of gratitude came to him from the members of the Medical Staff for this service. Through the activity of the Comforts Forwarding Committees at various other points bathrobes, convalescent gowns, and other much-needed garments were supplied to the hospitals at this time.
From among countless others the following testimonies have been chosen as representative of the healing work accomplished at this period.
“To whom it may concern:
“I wish to express my gratitude for the benefits I have received through Christian Science, especially for a wonderful demonstration which I have but recently had.
“On the evening of November 28, 1918, I felt very ill and as I am a member of a military organization, was required to report to the medical authorities. There I was told that I had a very high fever and was suffering from laryngitis. I was ordered to bed, rapidly becoming worse till I was delirious. The medical authorities then pronounced my illness as being pneumonia.
“I had read a little about Christian Science but had not advanced very far. It became known to our Camp Welfare Worker that I had been somewhat interested in Christian Science so he at once came to the hospital and asked if I wanted help. I answered, ‘Yes.’
“The third night after the Worker had first seen me, the doctor in charge made the assertion that I could not possibly live till morning, but the healing Truth triumphed and four days later the doctors declared me absolutely out of danger. The doctor in charge of my case made the statement to me that in all his practice, he had never seen so sick a man as I had been, become absolutely well.
“The sickness left me without a trace of any other affliction such as it often does. My healing was perfect. The doctors' only comment was that they could not understand it.
“I am unable to express all the gratitude I feel for the many blessings I have received and also for the wonderful work the Christian Science War Relief Committee has done in our camp. In the reading room maintained by them, we have a nice, quiet place to study, write letters and read all authorized literature, which has been a great help.
| “Very sincerely, |
| “Cpl. W. R. Hoppenstedt, |
| “Hdqrts. Detach., |
| “8th Reg., U. S. M. C.” |
“Christian Science War Relief Committee, Boston, Mass.:
“I am more than grateful for a healing of an attack of influenza, which took place last February. At that time I was located in a Marine camp at Galveston, Texas. It took considerable discretion to keep from being sent to the hospital for several weeks of confinement. This was avoided through the ever-ready helpfulness of the Camp Welfare Workers. They asked me to stay in their own home during the first afternoon I could get off from camp. I accepted their invitation and was at their home about the middle of the afternoon. By nine o'clock of that evening the perfect healing came and I walked back to camp knowing confidently that I was well. This is one of the many healings I received in camp which I am grateful for.
| “Fred R. Brooks, |
| “Sgt., U. S. M. C., |
| “Discharged. Nardin, Okla.” |
“Christian Science War Relief Committee, Boston, Mass.:
“I have been somewhat interested in Christian Science for about six years and have received some benefits from the study thereof, but it was not until after entering the army that I was brought to realize the great power of divine Love.
“Recently I was obliged to go to the base hospital as I was suffering from double pneumonia. While there I was examined one evening by the assistant chief of staff and they decided that what was called fluid was on one of the lungs. They said that I should be X-Rayed the next morning to determine at what point the operation of aspirating should take place.
“A few minutes later the Christian Science War Worker came to see me. He told me to remember the fact that God was closer to me than the air I was breathing and that nothing could affect me but good and that he would give me treatment.
“The next morning when I was X-Rayed there was not any indication whatever of fluid, and there was no operation.
“I am very grateful for the blessings given me through Science and I trust that each day will bring me to more fully understand the Truth as obtained through the teachings of Christian Science.
“Joseph Fidel,
“Christian Science War Relief Committee, Boston, Mass.
“Dear Brethren: I thank you most sincerely for the comfort received through your splendid Committee in a recent experience.
“Our son was in training camp near Boston, and we received word that he was in the hospital, a victim of the recent epidemic. Having had no further news for some days, and with the papers telling of so many cases of fatalities, we felt we must know how he was. I wrote to the Editors of the Christian Science periodicals, and my request was handed by them to your most worthy Committee. I at once received a message that our son was well enough to be leaving with his company for a flying field in the South.
“There is no Christian Science organization in the little frontier town where we are living at present and I had not known of the work before this experience. I am enclosing a check to help further this work of love.”
“I wish to express my gratitude for Christian Science
especially during the time I was in the army. During a year's
service I had many proofs of the protection of divine Mind. “One healing I wish to tell about was during the so-called
influenza epidemic. I was stationed in an embarkation camp
awaiting orders to start overseas. These orders were received
and we boarded the transport, but after two days and a
night out we were brought back, the reason being that the
epidemic had broken out on board.
“I was placed in the hospital with many others and was said to be in a very serious condition. As soon as possible I had one of the boys in my company call up the Camp Welfare Worker and ask him to come to me, which he did, making the trip at night.
“In the meantime, I had been placed out on the porch where all the hopeless cases were cared for and was not expected to live. Through the kindness of the nurse, the Welfare Worker was allowed to come to my cot. Work was done and the healing was instantaneous.
“In two days I was released from the hospital in a normal condition but was later placed in what was called the observation ward because the doctors could not understand how I had recovered so quickly. I spent twenty days in this ward, perfectly well, during which time the Welfare Worker visited me often, always bringing me a good supply of literature, for which I was thankful.
“I wish to express my appreciation of the good work done in the camps where I was stationed by the Christian Science Camp Welfare Workers. They were always willing and ready.
“Herman F. Grant,
From the innumerable letters at hand the following have been chosen as typical of what was done for men who were not Christian Scientists before entering the service, but who, through physical or spiritual need, turned to Science for help.
“It is a pleasure to be able to add my testimony to those of the many who have found cause for gratitude for the Christian Science Camp Welfare work.
“I was stationed at Camp Johnston in Florida. Before entering the army I knew nothing of Christian Science. A lecture was given in Jacksonville, which made me realize that this was the sort of religion I had been seeking. I borrowed a copy of Science and Health from the camp library, but after reading it I did not feel that I had been benefited. I knew, however, that the fault was mine.
“About two months later a Christian Science Welfare Worker was stationed at my camp and one day he and his wife called at my barracks for me. I was given a copy of Science and Health, a Quarterly, a Song Book and several pamphlets. The Workers assured me of their desire to help any one interested, to a fuller understanding and realization of the benefits to be derived from Christian Science. They very kindly explained to me many points which had troubled me. The remainder of my stay in camp was made pleasant by their friendship and untiring interest in my welfare.
“I was given treatment and cured of a stomach and bowel trouble which I had come to believe was chronic and incurable. Glasses which had been worn for years became unnecessary and were laid aside. The desire to smoke left me, much to my surprise, as I was smoking almost continually and believed that I received pleasure from it. Many other minor troubles disappeared and every problem connected with my work seemed to be solved with benefit to me.
“The weekly meetings were a source of comfort and inspiration. They were well attended and greatly enjoyed by the boys who were interested in Science. I am deeply grateful for all the benefits I have received and give thanks for the love which made possible the work of the Christian Science Camp Welfare Committee.
“John W. Farr,
“I want to express my gratitude to God for healing I received while in Camp McArthur, Waco, Texas. At first the doctors at the base hospital said it was necessary that I be operated on for hernia. Then it was decided that my physical condition would not allow me to undergo an operation, asthma and consumption being the other ailments. On meeting the Camp Welfare Worker, I asked him if anything could be done for me and he, of course, explained that everything was possible with God. My healing took place in a few days and from that day to this I have never seen the hernia, nor felt any effect from the other so-called diseases. I also was troubled with a stomach complaint before leaving home, which has disappeared.
“Since my return I have put on weight so rapidly and look so well that all my friends remark what good the army has done for me, but I know that it is my faith in God and the light I have gained through Christian Science which, has brought this improvement. I make the best use of the little khaki Science and Health, reading it every morning on my way to work. My wife is also greatly interested. I am very grateful to God and to our Leader.
“G. E. Mayhew,
The following was written direct to a Worker:
“I was taken to the naval base hospital on November 28, 1918, with spinal meningitis. This is considered to be a very deadly disease, in 1918 ninety-five out of a hundred cases proving fatal. I lay suffering in its worst agonies for nine days. I did not know at the time even that you had been there, for I was too far gone. My mother, who was by my bedside, told me you had promised to do some work for me. On the next day after your visit my suffering left entirely and it was only a short time before I was out of bed. I have had the quickest recovery on record and am today sound and whole in every sense of the word. Indeed, so good is my condition that I will be sent back to duty, whereas the others will get medical discharges from service.
“Christian Science has worked wonders for me and shown me the truth. I am banishing what we term fear and feel that armed with this new truth I can cope with everything.
“Earl P. Andrews,
“I am indeed thankful for the great healings which came
to me while in the army through Christian Science. To Mrs.
Eddy, the author of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,
I owe a great debt of gratitude.
“According to materia medica I had lost my reason and was put behind bars with others of my fellow comrades. When I asked for an interview with the attending surgeon I was refused, and for a couple of days I was made to mop the floor, do kitchen work and carry heavy bundles of linen, under guard.
“Prior to this I had attended a Christian Science service and had been given a copy of Science and Health. The attendants seeing I had it, instructed me not to read it and tried to take it away from me.
“In the meanwhile I got in touch with the Camp Welfare Worker. He visited me and explained man's relation to God, telling me: ‘Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.’ In this ward were three boys, two of whom were often in the strait-jacket, who always wanted to know who the man was that came to visit me. I told them and through the Camp Welfare Worker they also were beautifully healed.
“During this time a large boil appeared on my face, which was very painful. The Camp Worker noticing it, asked me if I wanted help. After treatment all pain left me, proving that ‘There is no life, truth, intelligence, nor substance in matter’ (Science and Health, page 468).
“My healing was so complete that my commanding officer recommended me to be raised to a higher rank.
“Since leaving the service Christian Science has helped me out in many problems. For the literature, the services and the help received, I am very grateful.
“Deveney Gerald Wilson,
“While I was serving in France as a lieutenant in the 118th
Engineers an arterial tumor developed, medically known as
an aneurism of the aorta, supposedly due to the exertion
and exposure of the service. The best medical authorities of
the army, both in Europe and America, declared that the
case was incurable and that they could not do anything to
relieve it. I had long been friendly to Christian Science, as
my wife has been a student for years and I had been
impressed with the air of progressiveness and success of the
average Scientist, but there had never seemed to be a
sufficiently urgent reason for me to study Christian Science until
the army physicians in France told me that they could not
heal me and advised me to put my affairs in as good shape
as possible, as they did not expect me to survive the trip
home.
“I then began reading in earnest the vest-pocket edition of Science and Health, which had been given me by the War Relief Committee, and was helped by Scientists in my company. Also I met a Y. M. C. A. Secretary who, when he found that I had been given up by the physicians, recommended Science, without knowing that I was already studying it. With the help mentioned, I made a safe return trip and at the base hospital to which I was assigned in this country, I came directly in contact with the Christian Science War Relief work. My recovery has been a marvel to the army specialists, and a large number of them examined me before I was discharged. At a meeting of one of the examining boards, soon after my return, one officer expressed surprise that I got back alive, so I told them that it was due to Christian Science. I am glad to say that I received only the best and most considerate treatment after, as well as before, my avowal of Christian Science help.
“There is still much to be accomplished but the overcoming of fear, weakness and distress has been very convincing and inspiring. I am glad to tell what Christian Science has done for me and of the help I have received through the Christian Science War Relief Committee, both to express my gratitude and in order to benefit others.
“Robert James Weston,
The letters which follow are of unusual interest, showing as they do, the experiences of three men, in different branches of the service, who are convinced that their understanding of Christian Science preserved them from danger and brought them through situations of grave peril to safety and health.
“Christian Science came into my life a short time before I joined the United States naval service, but the actual study of this Science did not commence until about the time I was called into active duty, two years ago. Instead of the hardship and unpleasantness which seemed to be my portion in the early days of the war, gradually a change took place in conditions, until, at the time of discharge, I could look back and say, ‘I am most grateful for my period of service during the war,’ for it gave me an understanding of Christian Science, a demonstrable knowledge of it, a changed outlook on life, a new hope. Gratitude fills my heart each time this period comes to thought.
“During the early days of the war I was put on one of the German vessels, taken over by our government to be converted and used for carrying troops over to the other side. At that time the work seemed very hard and laborious, especially as previous to that period I had had no experience of that sort. We would work all day and sometimes late into the night carrying heavy crates, barrels and boxes containing supplies for the ship. At that time too, it seemed as though I was not enjoying good health, so conditions soon seemed to become unbearable. However, I continued to read at any spare time I had and the thought came to me to do the work in hand the best I could and to know that faithful work would surely bring its own reward. And it did, for one day a chaplain came aboard and as Christian Science teaches us to be helpful in any way we can, I offered my services to do his typewriting or anything which might be helpful to him. About two days afterward he sent for me and in a short time I was made his assistant, helping to provide entertainment and amusement for the soldiers we were carrying across, as well as the crew. This proved to be a most congenial employment.
“About a year ago, while returning from one of our voyages abroad, we were torpedoed by a German submarine, about nine o'clock in the morning, nearly six hundred miles from the French coast. As was my custom in the morning, I had been reading some of the literature, when a short time before the first torpedo struck, something prompted me to go to the other end of the ship, which leading I obeyed. A few minutes later a torpedo struck the vessel only a short distance from where I formerly had been, killing several men.
“By this time our general alarm signal had been given, which meant for us to go to our lifeboat station, and only a few seconds after I obeyed this order, another torpedo exploded not far from the spot where I had just been, accomplishing its errand of destruction.
“The ship by this time was listing considerably and becoming rapidly filled with water, the order was given to abandon ship, which we did, and in the short space of twenty-seven minutes, one of the largest of the American transports was swallowed up by the waves.
“We floated around in the water for about three-quarters of an hour, when an object, which looked like a sail, made its appearance upon the horizon and as it drew nearer we perceived it to be the submarine which had fired on us, returning to see to what extent it had accomplished its unholy purpose. It circled round about the lifeboats and rafts several times looking for our captain and not being able to find him, evidently decided to follow other plans. The officers motioned to the lifeboat in which I happened to be to come alongside and tie up to them, which order we obeyed. After making our officer in charge a prisoner and taking our pictures, they gave the order to shove off, which we did with alacrity. Then they calmly proceeded to load up their gun and make everything in readiness to fire. They took what appeared to be perfect aim at our lifeboat. It seemed the end. Complete silence reigned, and the boys, with white faces, waited for the shot which would end this phase of mortal existence. During this time it seemed to me that I could realize only short, incoherent snatches of truth, but in this grave moment the thought came to me: ‘Be not afraid, these Germans are, in truth, as much God's children, perfect ideas, as you Americans. All God's ideas, even now, are in perfect unity and God's ideas cannot work to destroy one another but work together to help each other in love.’ Afterwards I learned that at least one other of my comrades had been trying to realize the truth at that time. The shot was never fired, but instead the submarine soon submerged.
“It was getting late in the afternoon and there was no sign of anything, upon that mighty expanse of ocean. Hour after hour passed and toward dusk, our captain had all the lifeboats and rafts tied together to make things as safe as possible and there upon the broad bosom of the sea, beneath the stars we waited, not knowing what was in store for us, but knowing that the good God who had cared for us during all the day, would not leave us in the blackness of the night. About one o'clock the following morning, a light blinked near us. At first we thought it was another submarine, but it proved to be two American destroyers which had picked up the wireless S. O. S. from another ship in the convoy and had come to our rescue.
“After two days on the destroyers we finally arrived back in France, where the lads suffering from exposure and wounds, were sent to the hospital, but not one of the four students of Christian Science aboard our ship was injured in the slightest way. As for myself, I had not even got my feet wet during the entire experience.
“When we landed back in America, after our journey, I soon learned that there was a Christian Science War Relief Room in that port, and it was my greatest desire to secure a new Science and Health, Bible and Quarterly. When I went in one of the Workers, seeing I had not come to write, asked if he could be of any assistance and when I asked for the books and related how I had lost my others, he remarked, ‘It would indeed be a pleasure to give you a new set.’
“All I can say is thanks be to God for this wonderful Truth, for Jesus the Wayshower, and for our beloved Leader.
“Eugene A. Oppenheim,
“I am very appreciative of the broad thought and kindliness
of the Christian Science Board of Directors and all who
supported the Christian Science Camp Welfare Committee
and made this work possible. It has helped the army at
the front. It has helped those in the rear. It has helped in
the camps at home. It has helped the men in the hospitals.
It has shown Christian Science to the world.
“The welfare work in this country was carried on in the most efficient way in order to prepare those seeking help for the great trials and corresponding demonstrations of Truth overseas. This work was done in such a loving manner and the daily visits were so helpful that all of our needs, while in camp, were met. We were supplied with Science and Health and other literature when we needed them most, and were assisted along the paths of Truth by the Workers.
“The Christian Science services were of the greatest benefit, also the Camp Welfare Rooms with their wealth of literature. All who were interested in the study of Christian Science at the camps became acquainted through the meetings and met at the homes of the Workers. This proved to be a great blessing at the front, where no Science help was available. It allowed us to consult one another, to assist one another, and to lend and borrow Christian Science publications. After three months at the front, when I was finally stationed where there were Welfare Rooms, it was a great happiness to enjoy the regular Christian Science services. It was like arriving at home again. The generous help of the Workers cannot be adequately described. Many have told me of assistance given. I myself was helped to find my right activity and the proper attitude towards my work.
“As a regimental commander I had charge of the equipping and transportation of thirty-three hundred men for overseas duty. This was done without the least trouble and with the lowest sick rate. On board the transport a case of scarlet fever was found, and the fear of the spread of it was met by the thought, ‘Divine Love casts out all fear.’ None of the so-called contacts ever manifested the slightest sign of the disease. Likewise, the almost immediate trip across France was accomplished without mishap, through constant reliance upon omnipotent Mind.
“While I was instructing some men in the firing of grenades, a rifle tromblon from which these rifle grenades are discharged, was blown to fragments. Instantly came the thought of great thankfulness that our protection was with the Lord; for not one of the ten men standing about was hurt, although large fragments of the grenade and discharger were found all about us.
“In September of last year, my division was selected to participate in the initial drive in the Argonne. Here again the demonstrations of the power of Christian Science were almost hourly in occurrence. I was constantly led aright. My duties at one time required me to find the positions of some machine gun emplacements in the front lines in the dark, without a guide. This was accomplished without great difficulty, by knowing that the problem was a purely mental one, and that man is controlled by divine intelligence.
“When the orders came for the assault of the German lines, I was enabled to work continuously for several days and nights with little or no sleep. On the third day of the drive, my immediate superior having been injured, I was placed in command of the regiment. Turning to God, the unfailing source of help, I was able to work out all of the many problems that arose.
“On the night before we were relieved I was called to Brigade Headquarters from the front. A heavy fire of Austrian eighty-eight shells was sweeping the road which I must follow to keep my direction. Having constantly in mind the scientific application of the 91st Psalm, I accomplished the trip. My clothes were torn somewhat by the shells; but no injury came to me. On returning to my headquarters I was again hit by shells. This time the blows were so hard as to render me unconscious for several hours; but again I was not hurt, beyond feeling the force of the blows of the shell fragments, which did not penetrate my body. Upon reaching my headquarters I was informed that I had again been sent for by the Commanding General. I made the trip again under the same conditions, and was again uninjured, although my clothes were very much torn and one of the staff remarked that my first-aid packet, worn on my hip, had been shot away.
“I owe my deliverance to Christian Science. This was not only true in my own case, but in that of every one of those near me whose dependence was on God in these hours of peril. Not one of them was injured.
“ ‘Whatever holds human thought in line with unselfed love, receives directly the divine power.’ (Science and Health, page 192.)
“(Signed) Karl I. Best,
“During the many months I have been with the colors I have had great cause to be grateful for the beneficence of The Mother Church and the branch churches around the world.
“While doing duty with my regiment on the western front in France we were caught in a barrage. After several hours with my comrades falling all around me, I too fell exhausted; but with these words on my lips, ‘Here, Lord, I fall in Thy arms,’ and repeating the Scientific Statement of Being from Science and Health, together with a verse from the 91st Psalm, ‘A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand, but it shall not come nigh thee.’
“When I regained consciousness I was in a field hospital, receiving the best of attention and recovering from the effects of poisonous gases. Later, together with two hundred other disabled soldiers and convalescents, I was placed aboard the steamer Mount Vernon bound for the United States. Some two hundred miles out from port we encountered a nest of German submarines and were torpedoed, the shot striking amidship. Taking my place in the lifeboat, I began to realize that divine Love is present at sea as well as on land and protects all His children. When I opened my eyes it was to behold the love that exists between the overseas boys and the sailors, for the marines took big men in their arms, carried them up a flight of stairs and tenderly placed them in lifeboats. There was no excitement. The enginemen were able to disconnect the broken boilers, resume steam in the others, and we returned to port under our own steam.
“I was treated at three different army hospitals in the United States. After many examinations and X-Ray pictures, materia medica diagnosed my case as pulmonary tuberculosis, active in the upper lobes, caused by the poisonous gases I had inhaled. They administered maximum treatment without appreciable results and apparently did not understand the case. I asked for Christian Science treatment which was cheerfully given and my improvement was very rapid. The speedy recovery was even a greater mystery to the doctors and they were very slow to concede it. Here again Christian Science freed me, for I was finally passed by a board of doctors and given my discharge.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude to the Christian Science War Relief Worker, that I remember the journey he made from a distant city to come to me; and I am most grateful to the others who throughout my confinement in the hospitals have always been my kindest friends. When I seemed to be despondent, the War Relief Worker was there with his word of cheer and was ready with his car to take me to and from the services on Sundays and Wednesdays. For all these blessings I will ever give thanks to God, and be grateful for our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, who gave to the world this blessed truth through which I have been saved.
It is pleasing to be able to say a word also about the cordial cooperation and sincere appreciation our Workers received in almost every instance from the representatives of other welfare organizations.
Says a Y. M. C. A. Secretary at Hempstead, Long Island:
“Dear Sir: Just a few lines to speak of my appreciation of your work in the camps.
“I think from a disinterested standpoint, and yet from the standpoint of one who has felt the spirit of cooperation, that the work conducted by the Christian Science Camp Welfare League is to be commended in the highest terms.
“From my own observation I desire to say that I have seen no indication of any attempt at an introduction of sectarianism, but your work appears to be marked by a willingness to serve the boy in uniform, regardless of sect or creed.
“As a minister of another denomination, I have no hesitation in expressing my opinion thus unreservedly.
“With every best wish for your success in the work,
“Sincerely yours,
| “W. Norman Libby, |
| “Building Secretary, Y. M. C. A.” |
The Post Chaplain at Paris Island, South Carolina, writes:
“Gentlemen: It gives me great pleasure to tell you of the excellent work that your representative has been doing in our Camp on Paris Island. He has been very courteous and tactful in all his relations with the authorities. His ministry to the men has been most gracious and has been very much appreciated. In every way, he has contributed to the inspiration of the men and has been building them up in faith in God and in devotion to the cause of righteousness.
“With much personal appreciation of the Worker as a friend, I am.
| “Yours sincerely, |
| “George S. Rentz.” |
The librarian of the A. L. A. branch at Camp Lewis, Washington, sends this hearty commendation:
“Gentlemen: Permit me to say a word in appreciation of the fine work of your Committee. I consider your work in Camp Lewis one of the most active and potent factors among civilian efforts to maintain the morale of our citizen army. Maintaining morale is only a question of preserving a normal attitude of mind, which in turn means making a soldier's life as nearly like that to which he has been accustomed as is possible and consistent with the service. This seems to have been the theory upon which your work has been based and your success has been marked.
“Your Workers here have been devoted and untiring, and in the time they have been here they have accomplished wonders. They are cheery people, whom to meet is a pleasure and to know a privilege, and many there are in camp who know them. Your little building is without exception the most homelike place I have seen in camp. You can little guess what a fireplace and ‘real’ furniture, a rug on the floor and a picture on the wall, mean to a soldier. They are precious things, once lost, now found again.
“Permit me to offer you my congratulations and best wishes for your continued success.
“Very truly yours,
| “Albert R. Powell, |
| “Assistant at the Camp Library.” |
The representative of the Jewish Welfare Board at Camp Mills writes to our Worker there:
“My dear Sir: Since I expect to leave on Wednesday next for a period of about a month, may I take this opportunity of again assuring you that my associates, who will be in charge of the work during my absence, hold themselves in readiness at all times, to serve and cooperate in every way possible.
“It has been a genuine pleasure to work with you, particularly since your interpretation of service has been one, not alone of service to Christian Scientists, but to all men in khaki. This feeling I know is shared by the various agencies in camp and it is no longer a question that the work you are doing is a decided contribution to all welfare work. Your building is popular, your interest in the men genuine and your personality—the reason for it all.
“Keep up the good work and don't hesitate to make us prove that we are with you—heart and soul.
“Very sincerely yours,
| “Arthur K. Deutsch, |
| “Field Representative in Charge.” |
A Red Cross director says:
“1. On behalf of the two hundred and fifty boys who have been confined to the hospital at Fort George Wright, those unfortunate ones who have passed and those happy ones who are well or convalescing, permit me to thank you and through you, the members of the War Relief Committee for the splendid aid rendered during the Emergency Epidemic at this post.
“2. The liberal quantity of fruits, preserves, jellies, grape juice, etc., furnished by your organization contributed immeasurably to the comfort and welfare of the sick and eased the suffering of those poor patient boys whom we lost. The generous, willing help in nursing, letter writing, and janitor work, which was given without evidence of pride or reserve by the many kind friends sent to the hospital by your Committee, relieved a situation which, without this aid, would necessarily have been most acute.
“3. Will you kindly convey the assurance of my sincerest appreciation to all those who gave of their time and energy through you as Camp Representative and who, in their splendid spirit of unselfishness, have neither sought nor received personal credit or thanks.
“Cordially and sincerely yours,
| “R. C. Steeple, |
| “Field Director, A. R. C.” |
At a time when there was some talk that others wished to restrict the activities of this Committee, many officers were willing to go on record as believing that the Christian Science War Relief Committee was a helpful organization, whose activity they desired to see continued. Several of the letters written at this time follow:
“Dear Sir: I wish to thank you for the kindness extended to me since coming to this camp. I am also very thankful for the help I have received through the medium of the Christian Science Welfare Committee in the form of literature, Sunday services, etc.
“Although I am not a member of the Christian Science Church, I have been the recipient of all these favors, for which I am very grateful.
“The Christian Science Welfare work has been an agency for good in this Camp to many others besides myself, and is conducted altogether along non-sectarian lines.
“I hope that this work can be continued in the army camps in this country and abroad, because of the good it is bringing to our soldiers.
“Sincerely yours,
| “David S. Patterson, |
| “2d Lieut., 16th Cavalry, U. S. A.” |
“I have not been in this camp a very long time but while
I have been here I have been struck with the quiet restfulness
of your welfare building and the cheerful atmosphere of
helpfulness that pervades it. I have also observed your readiness
to assist any soldier in any way, both in your building and
throughout the camp. I have heard it said that when there
was an important service to be rendered or quick
transportation needed about camp the Christian Science car was
always at everyone's service. And I would like to thank you
on behalf of my men and myself for what you are doing for
the morale of the army, or in other words—‘for the good of
the service.’
| “William R. Randall, |
| “1st Lieut., Inf., U. S. A.” |
“1. Concerning the value of the activities of the Worker
at this Camp, I desire to say that in the distribution of The
Christian Science Monitor he is doing a work of great merit
and value to all officers and men, from a non-sectarian
standpoint.
“2. His personal touch with those of Christian Science belief is a real personal service of great value. The Christian Science faith is so entirely different from other beliefs that men who are in trouble naturally seek, and should be entitled to, contact with persons of their own way of thinking.
“3. Personally I should be extremely sorry to see the Worker's activities brought to a close for any reasons whatever.
| “J. B. Chaffey, |
| “Major, Q. M. C.” |
“1. Having been stationed at Camp Wheeler with the 31st
Division where I observed the activities of the Christian
Science War Relief and Camp Welfare Committee for about a
year, and also for one and a half months in Hoboken, New
Jersey, I feel that I can heartily endorse their work.
“2. Their camp reading rooms provide facilities for reading, writing, and lectures, aid in cases of distress, and entertainment for soldiers and their friends.
“3. I am not a member of this faith, but I have been greatly impressed by their generosity, earnestness, and their excellent welfare work.
| “H. L. Butler, |
| “Lieut. Col., U. S. A.” |
At the beginning of this chapter the healing work accomplished by the War Relief Committee was mentioned as being first in interest to Christian Scientists. Second, perhaps of equal importance, has been the effect of the War Relief activities upon the Christian Science movement as a whole.
Christian Scientists have sometimes been charged with being self-centered and lacking in interest in that which concerns the general welfare. While they themselves knew the falsity of such statements it is, nevertheless, cause for gratitude that such misconceptions have been largely corrected in public thought by the war time activities of our movement. As one of our State Committees has phrased it:
“The community of interest which was made manifest in the effort to carry the message of Truth to soldiers and sailors has brought out permanently the thought and ideal of the brotherhood of man. It has been a source of gratification everywhere to know that our church has been able to stand before the community as a Church Militant in a great cause.”
Another note of gratitude is added by the Committee who wrote:
“The Christian Scientist not only found that he could enter the war work and still keep ‘within the wide channels of The Mother Church’ (Church Manual, page 45), but he learned the joy of giving. In this work many have been healed of the belief that only the activity of the branch church had any demands on them, and are grateful for a closer relationship and a clearer understanding of what The Mother Church stands for, thus gaining a broader sense of what a humanitarian is.”
More important than the attitude of the public at large towards Christian Science, is the good which has come to Christian Scientists themselves through this joint activity. One of our State Committees puts the matter very well in the following words:
“The Christian Science movement in our state has experienced immeasurable benefits, as a result of the War Relief activity. Not the least of these is the cordial cooperation and closer Christian fellowship that has been brought about through its agency. The churches and societies have responded generously and cheerfully to the call for funds and help of various kinds. This willing and helpful spirit has served to unite hearts and hands in the maintenance and upbuilding of our beloved cause. As one church writes: ‘The oneness of purpose in this work has developed a unity and friendliness between our neighbors and ourselves, which is one of the blessings not to be overlooked. The War Relief work has been a great blessing not only for the present but for the future. We are grateful for the channels provided by The Mother Church, through which our branch church has been able to express its love and gratitude and to demonstrate a better understanding of substance; which better understanding has been the impetus to raise our church debt during the next two years, instead of seven years, as the plan was before the War Relief work began.’ Those churches and societies which have manifested the deepest interest in this War Relief work have noted an increased attendance at their Sunday services; a more spontaneous response to the invitation extended Wednesday evenings to give testimonies of healing through Christian Science; a larger attendance at lectures; a quickened activity in the Reading Rooms and in the distribution of the literature, as well as a more generous support, financially and otherwise, of all church activities.”
Another State Chairman writes:
“The effect of the War Relief and Camp Welfare work upon the Christian Science movement in our state is the development of a consciousness of greater unity among Christian Scientists and a sense of power of action, the consciousness that we can, if called upon, do a great work well, each doing his part.”
Still another writes:
“There has been a distinct broadening and quickening of spiritual thought here. This has come from the enlarged view of the true idea of brotherhood that was gained through acceptance of this opportunity for loving service to the stranger within and without our gates, as well as those of our own household. Evidences of this are to be found in the closing up of the ranks where disunity had seemed to exist, in increased activity for the cause, in more spontaneity in testimonies and in a growth of attendance at branch churches.”
Universal participation in the War Relief work was one of its most helpful features. On this point one Committee says:
“Besides the activities in the organized branch churches of The Mother Church, individuals and groups of Christian Scientists in isolated parts of the state lovingly cooperated. Churches and societies both large and small expressed great joy that this privilege had come to them.”
The natural result of this unity of thought and action was in quickened activity throughout the Field. In one of our larger cities the sense of fellowship established by joint participation in War Relief work, together with a deeper gratitude for Christian Science, prompted a united effort to raise sufficient funds to dedicate all the church edifices in that city within a short period of time.
The larger giving which was stimulated by the needs of the war work, quickened the sense of abundance in a church of another state and brought forth the following:
“Since starting the War Relief fund and working out this problem of supply, our attendance has increased and we have been able to meet our regular expenses much more easily than before.”
Still another evidence of good resulting from the cooperative activity of Christian Scientists in working for the War Relief Committee is contained in these words:
“Through the affiliation of the members of the State Committee, which brought together each month representatives of the seven largest churches, and through the constant communication with all the churches and societies by correspondence and visits of the members of the State Committee, a fellowship and common purpose and interest now exist which will no doubt be perpetuated by means of the cooperative work throughout the state by the Literature Distribution Committees which have now been organized by all the churches.”
Another Chairman writes along the same line:
“A greater interest has been manifested in our periodicals by reason of this War Relief work, and I believe we have a better appreciation of the missionary work accomplished through a systematic and intelligent distribution of our literature by our local organization.”
The outcome of this activity, roused and stimulated by the unselfish desire to bring the blessing of Christian Science to the men in uniform, was inevitable. Services were inaugurated in many places where they had never previously existed. Informal organizations were established and in a few instances what had been informal gatherings became regularly organized churches or societies. The following cases will illustrate this point:
From Port Townsend, Washington, our Worker wrote:
“I am happy to tell you that on last evening the Christian Scientists of Port Townsend voted to continue the War Relief Rooms as Christian Science Reading Rooms, and to organize a Christian Science church. The meeting was a very helpful one, a spirit of love and unity pervading all. We feel that the real church has appeared in consciousness and that we are building on Principle. I have promised to stay here two or three months and help get established; also I have offered my services in the Reading Rooms for that length of time, so there need be no break in the work already started. Tonight we hold our first civilian services and the indications are that we will have a crowd. I know you will rejoice with me over this unfoldment. It has occurred to me that the War Relief work was the bud and the new church the flower. . . . You will be glad to know that our first Sunday morning service was full to overflowing, several people having to sit on the window sill. After the service there were expressions of joy and thankfulness on every side for the new organization. Upon seeing all the chairs occupied and people filling the window sill, I realized that we would have to make different seating arrangements in the future, and you can imagine my joy at being approached after the service by some one whom I had not met before, who told me that he had about twenty-five folding chairs that we were welcome to use. This man proved to be the local undertaker. With our ex-gambling tables, our ‘undertaking’ chairs, and an ex-saloon converted into a church and Reading Room, we feel that we have indeed ‘turned swords into ploughshares.’ ”
Of the work in Deming, New Mexico, a report says:
“The value of the work in Deming and the surrounding country has been marvelous. There had been a small band of students here who had struggled along several years and many who were looking for proofs. As a result of the activities the local congregation is now located in a store building which has been attractively decorated by the Sunday School, at small cost. The congregation bought and paid for the furnishings that were formerly in the Welfare Rooms and is now buying a piano. The attendance has increased noticeably and there has been a great demand for work.”
In an Oregon report we read:
“As a direct result of the Spruce Camp work one new Christian Science Society has been formed and reported to us. Undoubtedly there are others formed as neighborhood groups that conduct a regular service in the way that so many societies start, but which we have no means of knowing about. We cannot help feeling very sure that growth along this line will be externalized in the future out in the smaller places in our thinly peopled state.”
In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, there had been no organized Christian Science services. Our Worker at Camp Shelby wrote us in June, 1918:
“It is indeed a privilege to be able to inform you that during the past week the writer has been of service to the Christian Scientists here in Hattiesburg in getting them together for organized work. This morning we held the first Sunday morning service with an attendance of at least twenty, in the home of one of the Scientists and it was much appreciated by all.”
When the War Relief work at that camp was closed the Committee Room was turned over to the little group of local workers. They were presented with the books used in the Reading Room and purchased the furniture and fittings at a nominal sum. They wrote:
“Through the spiritual uplift and encouragement thus realized we are going forward and shall, thanks to your great kindness, continue to keep the room in the Carter Building and meet there on Sundays and Wednesdays and every day in the Reading Room. The money for the furnishings has all been raised and was mailed to you day before yesterday. For this help, and also for the set of fourteen volumes, we thank you many, many times. The good seed has been sown here and, in appreciation, we shall endeavor to be good reflectors of Truth and sow the seed to help others."
In Alexandria, Louisiana, near Camp Beauregard, the work of the local Scientists received a great impetus through the advent of the War Relief Committee. When the soldiers' room was closed the furniture, literature and supplies were presented to the Scientists for use in the Reading Room. In their reply they said:
“We find ourselves quite unable to express our gratitude for this gift of Love. During the past year we have received such a wealth of comfort, inspiration and light through immediate contact with the activity of the War Relief work that we are indeed unspeakably grateful. This added gift of good conveys the idea of abundance better characterized in the words of the Master as ‘good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.’ ”
When the War Relief Committee first sent a Worker to Camp Wadsworth, South Carolina, rooms were opened in Spartanburg, a near-by town, and services were inaugurated to which the civilian Scientists were invited. There was much interest shown and the result has been the continuance of the work by the local Scientists who bought the equipment of the War Relief Room and are now holding their services in the room formerly occupied by the Committee.
In Pennsylvania likewise an incident of this kind occurred. Rooms were opened by the Committee in Gettysburg for the use of the men training at Camp Colt. The civilians began to attend and interest increased. When the War Relief work came to an end, the State Committee wrote to the Scientists in Gettysburg:
“By unanimous vote, the State Committee of Pennsylvania contributes the furniture and all equipment belonging to the Committee that is in the room in the Kadel Building at Gettysburg, to the local Christian Scientists, to help them carry on the work that was begun there by the enlisted men of Camp Colt. We will ever consider this little Society our beloved child. Knowing that its growth will be sturdy, we send it forth with loving thoughts, and with gratitude that the privilege was ours to give this necessary equipment.”
The Chairman of the Texas Committee in one of his recent reports says:
“One outstanding feature of the work along the Mexican Border has been to start a number of new unorganized Societies in places where there had never been any before, and the rejuvenation of others which had lapsed or were about to lapse. This was brought about largely by the fact that the passing of our car with the name of the Committee painted on the side caused those interested in Science to stop the Worker, and in a short time he was able to make these people acquainted with others in their town who were also interested but who had not known of the presence of other Christian Scientists there.
“While helping to start the work on the Border, one instance of this kind came under my own observation. We had stopped at a garage in Mercedes, when we noticed a car draw up a few feet away. A lady got out and approached us. She lived just two miles from Mercedes, where a few Christian Scientists had been holding services in the home of one member, but she had been going to San Benito, eighteen miles away, because she knew nothing of the service in the town near at hand.
“In another instance a Society had suspended services in January and their card had been removed from the Journal. There was a Border camp at this place and through letters to the former First Reader, interest was finally aroused in helping any boys who might be interested in Christian Science at this post. Finally the Chairman was able to visit this town on one of his trips along the Border and four or five Scientists met him. After talking about the need of maintaining a service, which any soldiers interested in Christian Science might attend, the Scientists agreed to start the work again the following Sunday and did so. A recent letter states that there is now a comfortable roomful at every service.”
*****
In submitting these pages we have endeavored to make an interesting and readable story and hope that the incidents selected and the testimonials of healing and gratitude quoted will convince all those who have supported the War Relief work of its practical and far-reaching nature.
In bringing this report to a close, the compilers wish to make it clear that the story has not been written with any thought of glorifying Christian Scientists, or of overemphasizing their part in the great war. No better words could be found to express their motive in preparing this history, than those of Malachi 3:16, “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name.”
The Tent used in Camp Hancock, Georgia, before Building was constructed
At Camp Beauregard, Louisiana
A War Relief Tent, Ellington Field, Houston, Texas
A Christian Science service at Camp Hancock, Georgia
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Interior views, Christian Science War Relief Building, Camp Hancock, Georgia
The Little Cottage by the Lake, Camp Wheeler, Georgia
Christian Science Building, Camp Fremont, California
Christian Science War Relief Building, Camp Mills, New York
In the Reading Room at Camp Mills, New York
Christian Science Building, Camp Kearny, California
Ready for the service, Camp Kearny, California
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A Few of Our Boys
CAMP WORKERS
The following is a list of the Camp Workers and Welfare Room Attendants employed by the Christian Science War Relief Committee during the period between November, 1917, and June, 1919. The rapid changes which the camp work sometimes demanded made it difficult to keep a full and accurate record of the Workers, but this list has been made as complete as the information at the disposal of the Committee permitted.
CAMP WORKERS—UNITED STATES
| Richard H. Allen |
| Walter Lone Anderson |
| Noblit A. Avery |
| Levis C. Babcock |
| William Pennington Baker |
| W. S. Baker |
| Quilter C. Ball |
| Albert E. Belk |
| Miss Simita Benatar |
| M. L. Bidwell |
| Franklin Blake |
| H. Graham Bleakly |
| Walter Thane Boyden |
| Charles A. Brand |
| Charles Henry Carby |
| G. Herman Carl |
| Leonard Tillotson Carney |
| John Robert Carr |
| Ralph Castle |
| Herbert E. Cather |
| Albert M. Cheney |
| Joseph Coffer |
| Jacob H. Cook |
| Royal A. Cooke |
| William E. Cooper |
| George Henry Cox |
| Henry H. Creighton |
| Edward Earle Daniell |
| Charles E. Davies |
| Thomas Harold Dexter |
| Louis E. Dill |
| Arthur W. Eckman |
| Durand Felter |
| Harry K. Filler |
| Benjamin L. Foster |
| William O. Freeman |
| Mrs. Jeanette George |
| William Templeton Giles |
| Arthur J. Lee Gillard |
| Harry C. Goddard |
| William J. Govan |
| Louis A. Gregory |
| Henry Higby Gutterson |
| Charles F. Hackett |
| Mrs. Rosemary B. Hackett |
| Mrs. Ida May Harvey |
| Roy L. Harvey |
| F. Carmon Herrick |
| J. Grant Hinds |
| Thelvin Howard Hobbs |
| Adam O. Hoppes |
| Fred W. Indermille |
| John Paul Jones |
| M. Phillip Jones |
| Miss Irene Campbell I. Jones |
| William Lawrence Keller |
| William E. Kellogg |
| Richard M. Kendall |
| Mrs. Henrietta L. King |
| Earl M. Knatvold |
| Frank C. LeBlond |
| Benjamin H. Leighton |
| Melville C. K. Little |
| Thomas W. Luce |
| Arthur W. Marriott |
| Herbert G. Mauch |
| E. Perry Maxfield |
| Mrs. Edith Gray Mayo |
| Earl McCloud |
| Clarence M. McDaniel |
| Sidney S. Morgan |
| John L. Mothershead |
| Horace Ambrose Negus |
| William Weaver Nott |
| William Merritt Pardue |
| Oscar Graham Peeke |
| Elmer H. Pepper |
| William H. Pevear |
| Archie Benson Pickell |
| Israel Pickens |
| William Leander Post |
| George Wilber Reed |
| Joseph W. Reynolds |
| Harry L. Rhodes |
| B. A. Robison |
| Clair D. Robison |
| Charles J. Roesser |
| O. Louis Saal |
| Charles Sapp |
| Samuel L. Schoenfield |
| Charles F. Schram |
| Mrs. Louise Severance |
| Floyd C. Shank |
| Charles F. Southworth |
| John G. Spangler |
| Mrs. Zilpha Ann Stack |
| Mrs. Edith S. Stearns |
| Robert S. Stearns |
| Ralph W. Still |
| Paul Stinchfield |
| Henry G. Streight |
| George H. Tangeman |
| John Beach Tillotson |
| Carl W. Tuerke |
| C. Fred Verleger |
| Mrs. Lillian G. Webster |
| Robert L. Weed |
| Lloyd E. Whitney |
| Edward Hartley Willard |
| Morris W. Wilsey |
| Charles V. Winn |
| Charles C. Wolcott |
| Robert A. Wood |
| Mrs. Lora C. Woodbury |
| Mrs. Laura C. Woodruff |
| Fred Yould |
WELFARE ROOM ATTENDANTS—UNITED STATES
| Mrs. Marion G. Barney |
| Mrs. Sophie Affron Becker |
| Miss Una Bedichek |
| Mrs. G. Harriette Blake |
| Mrs. Amanda Bodine |
| Mrs. Mary E. Boyce |
| Miss Laura M. Burroughs |
| Miss Missouri Cawthon |
| Mrs. Helen Coffer |
| Mrs. Ella Cooke |
| Mrs. Mary S. Cowan |
| Mrs. Clara J. Cunningham |
| Mrs. Marguerite Dexter |
| Mrs. Hattie L. Edmondson |
| Mrs. Charlotte E. Filler |
| Mrs. Shirley Flager |
| Mrs. Benjamin L. Foster |
| Mrs. Birdella G. Foster |
| Mrs. Lillie C. Gibson |
| Mrs. Helen A. Gutterson |
| Dr. Meta Haley |
| Mrs. Kate C. Hamilton |
| Mrs. Alberta C. Hinson |
| Miss Hettie Hutchinson |
| Miss Emily Jones |
| Mrs. Paul Kamanski |
| Mrs. Gertrude M. Keller |
| Miss Margaret B. Kinnane |
| Miss Mary E. Kline |
| Mrs. Scileta F. Langworthy |
| Mrs. Martha J. Loeber |
| Mrs. Gladys H. McCloud |
| Mrs. Evelyn Depew Miller |
| Mrs. Edith L. Morgan |
| Mrs. Eleanor L. Morgan |
| Miss Mary Radcliffe |
| Mrs. Emilie P. Reed |
| Mrs. Lucy Hays Reynolds |
| Mrs. Mattie E. C. Rhodes |
| Mrs. Charlie Salley Sanborn |
| Mrs. Elizabeth R. Saunier |
| Mrs. Charlotte Schoenfield |
| Mrs. Dora Searing |
| Mrs. Mary H. Seawright |
| Mrs. Helen L. Spangler |
| Mrs. Grace Nixon Stecher |
| Mrs. Flora Stinchfield |
| Mrs. Eunice Maud Talcott |
| Mrs. Mae D. Tangeman |
| Mrs. May Thompson |
| Mrs. Anna C. Tonielli |
| Mrs. Maude B. Whitehurst |
| Mrs. Marcia Wilson |
| Mrs. Zoe Z. Woolery |
WAR RELIEF WORKERS—FRANCE
| Miss Josephine E. Bowditch |
| Mrs. Mary E. Young Brown |
| William E. Brown |
| Mrs. Anna McCoy Campbell |
| Miss Agnes F. Chalmers |
| Mrs. Edith M. Coffman |
| Elbert G. Coffman |
| Louis J. Dubois |
| Mrs. Genevieve L. George |
| Herbert M. George |
| Mrs. Ida Nelson Higley |
| Mortimer J. Higley |
| Mrs. Edna H. Howe |
| Irving B. Howe |
| Everett W. Morgan |
| Mrs. Elmina A. Potter |
| Alden F. Potter |
| Mrs. Caroline S. Rowell |
| James G. Rowell |
| Miss Bird Stewart Scotland |
WAR RELIEF WORKERS—CANADA
| Mrs. S. Cornfield |
| S. Britton R. Foster |
| Major H. B. Stairs |
| Mrs. Alice Wheeler |
WAR RELIEF WORKERS—GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND
| Miss Kate E. Andreae |
| Miss Mary Elizabeth Belcher |
| Miss Evah Bolton |
| Miss Burlingham |
| Miss Amy J. R. Burton |
| Miss Susan F. Campbell |
| Mr. Eric Walter Carr |
| Mrs. Christabel M. Charlton |
| Mr. Samuel Clarke |
| Miss Leonora de Vere Condon |
| Mrs. Lily Mary Courtier |
| Mr. Cousins |
| Mrs. Annie M. Crawford |
| Mrs. Florence Davies |
| Miss Maud Fisher |
| Miss Ellen Graham |
| Miss Margaret J. Harding |
| Miss Dorothy Eileen Heywood |
| Miss Hicks |
| Miss Florine M. Hill |
| Miss Aimee Hochstetter |
| Mrs. Eugenia E. Ingles |
| Miss Jane T. Irvine |
| Miss Amy J. Jasper |
| Miss Mary Isabella Langrishe |
| Mrs. Grace Crosland Lawson |
| Miss Margaret A. Martin |
| Mrs. Anne McAlister |
| Miss Helen Mildred |
| Miss Evelyn H. Newton |
| Mrs. Annie Parker |
| Miss Margaret Philipson |
| Miss Elizabeth Pierce |
| Miss Caroline M. Primrose |
| Mrs. Violet Rhodes |
| Mr. Frederick R. Rhodes |
| Miss Mary L. Richmond |
| Lady Charlotte E. Rodney |
| Miss Alice E. Rose |
| Miss Roy |
| Mrs. Evelyn Smith |
| Mr. Charles W. Swift |
| Mrs. Marguerite Scott Till |
| Mrs. Alice Muriel Tripp |
| Mrs. Clara Waller |
| Mrs. Margaret Grant White |
| Miss Kate Williams |
| Miss Gladys Wheldale Wilson |
| Miss Lilia Witherby |
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE ARMY CHAPLAINS
| William M. Bartlett |
| Herbert W. Beck |
| George R. Bonner |
| Walter S. Cross |
| Edward W. Dickey |
| Harry K. Filler |
| Don C. Gilman |
| Martin F. Jackson |
| Gustavus S. Paine |
| Arthur C. Whitney |
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE NAVY CHAPLAIN
Richard J. Davis
SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE IN FRANCE
Arthur P. DeCamp
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE WAR RELIEF COMMITTEE
OF
THE MOTHER CHURCH
MANAGER
Paul A. Harsch
ASSISTANT MANAGER
Arthur J. Wallace