Christian Science

Christian Science (officially, the Church of Christ, Scientist) is a religion that focuses on spiritual healing through prayer. Its stated purpose is to restore the healing works of the early Christian church. Founded in the late 19th century C.E. by Mary Baker Eddy, Christian Science teachings agree in many ways with Protestant theology while also significantly differing from that theology. In 1875, Eddy wrote about Christianity and healing in her major book, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, which is meant to explicate the Bible and especially the healings of Jesus. These two books are the joint Pastor of the Christian Science church, in place of clergy. Both are read in individual prayer and communal services. Some distinctive Christian Science teachings include the idea that the creation is entirely spiritual and whole, while matter and sin are the illusive "mist" that befogged creation. Jesus saved humanity from this "mist" of sickness, sin, and death and was therefore the "remedy for Adam." Heaven and hell are not literal places. "Heaven" is being in complete harmony with God and "Hell" is being outside that harmony. God is referred to as "Father-Mother" and Jesus is considered divine, but not God. Although there is no clergy, some members participate in full-time healing ministries. These "practitioners" treat and heal through prayer those who request help.