Article May 17, 1952 Issue

FROM ANNUAL REPORTS OF CHRISTIAN SCIENCE COMMITTEES ON PUBLICATION

Making Our Religious Position Known

London, England

It is a cause for gratitude that the position of Christian Scientists under the National Insurance Act of 1946 is gradually being established. In view of the concern in medical circles regarding the acceptance of certificates of incapacity given by unorthodox or medically unqualified persons, it seemed desirable to write to the secretary of the All Party Parliamentary Medical Group in the House of Commons, placing before him the position of Christian Scientists and of Christian Science practitioners under the National Insurance Act. It was pointed out that because the National Insurance Act is based on the contributory principle, insured persons are entitled under its provisions to claim sickness benefit as a matter of right. It was explained that Christian Science practitioners do not grant certificates of incapacity; that when a Christian Scientist makes a claim for sickness benefit, it requires to be supported by lay evidence of his incapacity, which is generally given by himself, or by others when necessary.

The purely spiritual method of Christian Science treatment was emphasized, and the reason why it is not helpful to a Christian Scientist to submit to medical examination and treatment was explained. Since then, this Committee has seen no further public statements on this matter.

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