Become a Religious Entrepreneur

Starting a Christian Science Church

Researching what it takes to open a Christian Science church? Read this article to learn what you need to start and succeed in your quest to open a church of your own.

Thinking about opening a Christian Science church? We tell you what you need to know to get started.

Christian Science Church Structure & Practices

Christian Science isn't as well known as many other faith traditions, though it has been in existence since 1879. Founded by Mary Baker Eddy, the church's historical and modern focus is healing with an emphasis on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The Christian Science denomination is the Church of Christ, Scientist. Denominational headquarters are in Boston, which Christian Scientists refer to as the Mother Church. At the local level, there are more than 1,700 branch churches and societies, each led by volunteers and equipped with a Christian Science Reading Room -- a community library where individuals can access resources and teachings related to Christian Science theology and philosophy.

The Church of Christ, Science is governed by a board of directors as well as several other boards based in Boston. Despite the fact that Christian Science services contain several elements that are familiar to Protestant Christianity, there are no professional preachers or clergy.

Christian Science Messaging

Much of Christian Science revolves around the distribution of church teachings through printed and/or online channels. Christian Scientists tend to be ardent readers with a voracious appetite for content that enhances their spiritual understanding.

Christian Science church planters need to pay close attention to the ways their branch or association will distribute information to church members and prospective attenders. Traditionally, Christian Science reading rooms have been hubs of learning, but in the Digital Age, it's equally important to explore online communication vehicles.

For some Christian Science church planters, online communication could mean embracing new technologies. If you're new to Internet marketing and communication, don't be intimidated by the technology or vocabulary. Many online communication techniques are relatively straightforward and can be mastered with the assistance of a skilled layperson.

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