Christian Science Reading Rooms provide a quiet space for reading and reflection. They were established in 1888 to encourage reading and introduce people to the faith. Today, there are over two thousand reading rooms in the US, offering religious materials, local newspapers, and the Christian Science Monitor. Rooms are typically located on busy streets and staffed by volunteers or paid attendants.
As one of the ways Christ the Scientist Church chooses to give back to the community, the Christian Science Reading Room provides a place for people to escape the noise and business of life and enjoy a quiet place to read and reflect. Here is some background on the Christian Science Reading Room and how this Christian Science Church ministry continues to benefit many cities and towns.
Christian science reading rooms are nearly as old as the denomination itself. First established in 1888 in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, the purpose of the first reading room was simple. First, the reading rooms served the dual purpose of encouraging people to take time out each day to read. There was already concern that the faster pace of life would eventually lead to a decrease in the literacy rate among the population. With strategically placed reading rooms in the business districts, it was easy for busy people to stop by for a short break and enjoy a quiet moment with a book or flyer.
The second function of the reading room was to introduce people to the faith of the First Church of Christ the Scientist. The reading rooms were regularly well stocked with the various works of Mary Baker Eddy, founder of the movement, as well as pamphlets and pamphlets that pertained to the teachings of the faith. Over the years, many people have discovered the church and its teachings through the Christian Science Reading Room. Even today, rooms continue to be an important means of advertising the faith, since Christian Scientists are not known to be aggressive in their commitment to new members.
The typical Christian Science Reading Room is located on a busy street. The interior will feature shelves for books, leaflets and newspapers, and occasionally reading tables and chairs. Most rooms will also feature a comfy chair or two along with reading tables. Decor is usually simple and may feature photography or artwork by local artists that are considered to be in keeping with the purposes of the space.
There are over two thousand reading rooms in the United States today. In addition to traditional Christian Science religious materials, most reading rooms today also house local newspapers, as well as the journal established by members of the faith, the Christian Science Monitor. There is no charge for using the rooms and there is no time limit on how long anyone can settle down and read.
A typical Christian Science reading room will have an assistant who can help any visitor find particular reading material provided by the room. Local congregations usually staff the rooms, as well as maintain an inventory of reading materials. Depending on the circumstances, the attendant may receive pay for the position, although in many cases, volunteers rotate to staff the reading room.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
