Resources by Bednarowski, Mary Farrell

In her review, Bednarowski describes Gottschalk’s study as “a provocative blend of intellectual history, theological analysis, cultural interpretation, and religious conviction” (213). He focuses on the latter, controversial years, in which Mary Baker Eddy was compelled to articulate more definitively for herself and her students the distinctive way that Christian Science should combat various forms of materialism: medical, philosophical, and ecclesiastical. 

Bednarowski compares Christian Science and Scientology, two religions often confused. Both Christian Science and Scientology radically seek an understanding of God and reality which the physical world obscures. Mary Baker Eddy’s Christian Science emerged from Christ-centered revelation and a deep study of the healing message of the Bible. L. Ron Hubbard’s Scientology and terminology is more psychological, taking the form of self-help.

Bednarowski analyzes the roles of women in 19th-century marginal religious movements (including Christian Science) considering these movements’ perception of the divine, interpretation of the Fall, need for a traditional ordained clergy, and women’s roles other than marriage and motherhood. Regarding Christian Science, Bednarowski notes women were present as writers, preachers, teachers, and healers. They also found independence through opportunities for leadership.

Bednarowski explores themes of healing in the theological work of women since Mary Baker Eddy, whose quest for healing served as an entry into the construction of an entire religious worldview. Following Eddy’s accident from a fall, a moment of insight into the nature of reality sparked the emergence of her textbook, theology, healing method, and church.