Christian Science practitioner scope of services
Although not an exhaustive list, the following description is intended to clarify what to expect
when engaging the services of a Christian Science practitioner:
The services of a Christian Science practitioner include:
when engaging the services of a Christian Science practitioner:
The services of a Christian Science practitioner include:
- Providing specific prayer, upon request, for the resolution and healing of any of life's challenges - physical, financial, emotional, etc. This prayer is based on the Bible and is explained in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, founder of Christian Science;
- Responding with Christian caring and spiritual reassurance;
- Making recommendations, when appropriate, for the study of the Scriptures, the writings of Mary Baker Eddy, and other Christian Science writings that support a better understanding of each person's relationship to God;
- Answering questions about God, Christ Jesus, and Christian Science, when appropriate;
- Visiting the person asking for prayer, when possible and appropriate;
- Any form of psychological treatment, including counseling or therapy;
- Utilizing any form of medical technology or treatment, including diagnosis, prognosis, drugs (medicated, herbal, vitamin-based products or remedies), or physical therapy; but he or she may document reported conditions for insurance purposes;
- Any form of physical contact or therapeutic measures, such as laying on of hands or manipulation;
- Giving advice about, or assuming responsibility for, and kind of life decision, including decisions regarding finances, health care, or physical care;
- Giving advice about, or interfering with a person's choice in, the use of medical care;
- Claiming any personal healing power (God is the source of healing power);
- Any use of a formula for prayer;
- Obeying the laws of the land;
- Observing the confidential communication requirements in the Church Manual (Article VIII, Section 22). (This obligation does not prevent the Christian Science practitioner from making disclosures if required by law.);
- Using his or her own wisdom and judgement in deciding whether to agree to help a person through prayer;
- Discussing fees prior to the commencement of services and charging for services provided; and reducing fees according to the Church Manual (Article VIII, Section 22).