As Christian Scientists, we are a faith community that relies on God’s loving, all-powerful care to heal and uplift us. In this context, nursing is a spiritual ministry — a way for members of the church to share in this healing power by providing skillful, practical assistance to individuals who are relying on Christian Science to restore health and well-being.
Nursing training at Christian Science nursing facilities (also known as “hospitals”) includes classroom study, a practicum or internship and individualized side-by-side mentoring by qualified Christian Science nurses. The training is designed to be comprehensive and thorough, with a minimum of 2-3 years of instruction.
Training for Christian Science nursing training nurses is offered at many locations around the country and worldwide. Each facility has its own distinctive character, but they all provide a rich learning experience for those who are committed to the full practice of Christian Science.
Unlike other types of nursing, Christian Science nursing is not focused on physical healing, and it does not include hands-on care, injections or medications. Instead, Christian Science nurses use the Bible and the writings of Mary Baker Eddy as the foundation for their spiritual healing work. Their prayerful affirmation of everyone’s innate spirituality and responsiveness to God’s harmonious government forms the basis for all their actions.
Christian Science nurses are trained to support the prayerful healing activities of their patients, but they are also able to offer a wide range of additional services, including “rest and study” rooms for those who wish to spend time reading and praying, or to have short-term respite care while family members or caregivers are away. They may also provide regular or special nourishment for patients, assist with mobility needs and change bandages or dressings as needed. In addition, they are available to listen together to online Christian Science Church services, lectures or podcasts.
If you or someone you know is in need of a Christian Science nurse, we encourage you to contact CSN Connections. This service connects those in need with Journal Listed CSNs who are available for private duty nursing. You can browse CSNs by availability or search for a specific nurse using the advanced search options.