“Church of Christ, Scientist: Adherent Essay”

Paulson, Shirley. “Church of Christ, Scientist: Adherent Essay.” Pages 494-97 in Handbook of Religion: A Christian Engagement with Traditions, Teachings, and Practices. Edited by Terry C. Muck, Harold A. Netland, and Gerald R. McDermott. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2014.

This is one the essays in a collection of articles intended to serve as an introduction to religious traditions in the world. This adherent essay by Paulson accompanies the main article on Christian Science History, Beliefs, and Practices by John K. Simmons. Paulson describes her childhood experience growing up in a home of devoted Christian Scientists. Her religious practice wove together with daily experience and was her primary source of comfort and healing. Adult experiences deepened her faith and commitment. Paulson describes the role of Jesus Christ and the discoverer of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy, as they shaped the foundation for Paulson’s religious experience. She recognizes distinctions between Christian Science and orthodox Christianity and explains why she thinks the typical orthodox view of Christian Science’s similarity with Gnosticism is misleading. Her ecumenical perspective grounds her hope that further research in early Christianity will unveil a path for more profitable conversations between Christian Scientists and other Christians.

ISBN-10: 080103776X
ISBN-13: 978-0801037764

See also annotation:

“Church of Christ, Scientist: History, Beliefs, Practices” by John K. Simmons.