Physicians and Christian healing (part one)

with contributions from William C. Morgan

The Founder of Christian Science had more than passing interest in medical trends of the day. She early recognized that thought-patterns within the medical field had immense bearing on the larger thought of society, on its theological views and legal systems—and its degree of tolerance for purely spiritual healing.

While she followed the evolution of medical theory in general, Mary Baker Eddy took particularly keen note of what she considered significant "signs of the times" within the medical field. She noted indications of openness to prayer, recognition of the effects of thought on the body, and acknowledgment of the shortcomings of a totally materialistic approach to medicine. That she recorded numerous instances of such observations by physicians in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures^{ See, for instance, pp. 149, 162-164 .} underscores her view of medical leavening. She saw this not in a narrowly denominational sense but as actual evidence of the Christ at work universally in receptive human consciousness, which would benefit both medicine and Christian Science. The uplifting of thought to the allness of God as Spirit, Christian Science teaches, is the basis of healing, bringing health to the body, to families, to nations.

Efforts in the United States over the past six years to prosecute those who rely on spiritual means for healing have brought forth response from a somewhat unexpected quarter. A number of physicians have spoken out in support of Christian Scientists, deploring their prosecution and supporting their right to practice their religious beliefs. Some physicians have expressed this support privately; others have spoken publicly—for instance, in letters to the press.

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Physicians and Christian healing (part one)

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access