Christian Science emerged in the late 19th century as a distinct religious movement, founded on the principles of spiritual healing and the authority of scripture. The tradition, which emphasizes the power of prayer to heal physical ailments, was established by Mary Baker Eddy following a specific period of profound personal crisis and biblical study. Understanding the precise moment this movement began requires looking at the convergence of personal trauma, scriptural revelation, and the publication of its defining text.
The Foundational Crisis and Revelation
The genesis of Christian Science is inextricably linked to the experience of its founder, Mary Baker Eddy. In 1866, Eddy suffered a severe fall on an icy sidewalk in Lynn, Massachusetts, which left her bedridden with what was described as a serious internal injury. During this period of intense suffering and invalidism, she turned to the Bible for solace and discovered passages that reshaped her understanding of health and reality. This pivotal event, often referred to as her "great discovery," occurred in February 1866 and marked the moment she believed she grasped the divine principle of healing that would form the basis of her future ministry.
From Personal Healing to Public Teaching
Following her recovery, Eddy devoted several years to intensive biblical study and spiritual practice. She moved to Boston in 1872 and began teaching others about the healing method she had discovered. Initially, her work was associated with mental healing movements popular at the time, but she quickly sought to distinguish her teachings from mesmerism or hypnosis. Her early efforts focused on establishing a reputation as a healer and teacher, laying the groundwork for a formal religious structure. The practical success of her healings provided the credibility necessary to attract followers and build an institutional framework.
The Publication of Science and Health
The most critical milestone in the formal establishment of Christian Science came with the publication of Mary Baker Eddy's major work. Originally titled "The Science of Man" and published in 1875, the book was later renamed "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" in its 1879 edition. This text systematically outlines the theological and metaphysical foundations of the movement, explaining the nature of God, the illusory nature of matter, and the mechanics of spiritual healing. The year 1879 is widely recognized as the official founding date because it marks the public availability of this comprehensive doctrinal guide.
