Christian Science nurses provide skilled, practical care that is grounded in the spiritual healing method of Christian Science. Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of the Christian Science church, wasn’t philosophizing when she wrote, “An ill-tempered, complaining, or deceitful person should not be a nurse. The nurse should be cheerful, orderly, punctual, patient, full of faith, — receptive to Truth and Love” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, page 395). She spoke from experience, having suffered from serious health issues from childhood well into middle age. As a patient, she saw how thought attuned to God created an atmosphere conducive to healing.
The ministry of the Christian Science nurse was woven into the fabric of the Christian Science church when Mrs. Eddy added the by-law “Christian Science Nurse” to the Church Manual (Article VII, Section 31) in 1908. The requirements in this by-law are the source of the Christian Science nurse’s authority and scope of practice. The by-law reads:
A member of The Mother Church who represents himself or herself as a Christian Science nurse shall be one who has a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice, who thoroughly understands the practical wisdom necessary in a sick room, and who can take proper care of the sick.
The cards of such persons may be inserted in The Christian Science Journal under rules established by the publishers.
The Christian Science nurse’s standard of care rests squarely on the Bible, especially the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Christ Jesus, and on Mrs. Eddy’s writings. The Office of Christian Science Nursing Activities at The Mother Church, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, publishes a document called the Christian Science Nurse Scope of Services. Though not exhaustive, it is a helpful guide to the services that Christian Science nurses may and may not provide. Contact one of our member organizations or click here to learn more about Christian Science nursing qualifications and how to find a Christian Science nurse near you.