Episode #27 of Spirituality and Christianity.com is a discussion about the relationship between Christian Science and New Thought.
Across the aisle from each other in the Exhibition Hall at the Parliament of the World’s Religion in Melbourne, were the booths (or, “stands”) of Christian Science and Association of Global New Thought. Christians Scientists think of their distinction from New Thought, whereas New Thought representatives welcome their origins in 
Christian Science.
Although we were all busy running around listening to talks on Buddhism, Islam, peace, pluralism, and a mind-boggling array of topics, we also thought it was important to take time to listen to each other! Indeed, Peggy Price surprised me with the similarities I wasn’t familiar with. The description of her healing practice sounded quite familiar to aspects of my own. Her motives – to love, to heal, to care for humanity – resonate with me. Also her commitment to the goodness of God and God’s whole creation is very close to my heart.
Peggy was easy to talk with, and following our initial conversation, I began to wonder if we could plunge a bit deeper. I went back to the booth and found other people willing to engage in conversation too. We dug into questions about the meaning of spiritualism and medicine. Also the role of Christ Jesus in our faith journeys. We discovered the place where we agreed to our disagreement, but this clarification did not diminish our mutual appreciation for each other’s commonalities.
Christian Science was a participant in the first Parliament, which took place in Chicago in 1893. New Thought wasn’t recognized as a religion at the Parliament in Barcelona five years ago, but the Alliance has grown, highlighting especially their love for youth and for interfaith activities at this year’s Parliament. It was good for us to become better acquainted.
The following websites are rich resources for both New Thought and Christian Science:
- New Thought sacred texts
- New Thought Movement Home Page
- International New Thought Alliance Declaration of Principles (includes all New Thought denominations as well as the agreement for adherents, as amended January, 2000)
- Official Christian Science website with discussion forums
- Daily Lift (two-minute inspirationals)
- TMC Youth (Christian Science activity and discussion for youth and young adults)
#1 by don on January 31st, 2010 - 11:06 am
I think semantics is so over done. New Thought is just a newer “word” for the non changing non dual reality of thought.
don
editor
spiritnewsdaily.com
#2 by Bob Schwaller on March 5th, 2010 - 12:19 pm
Shirley, thanks for this posting. As a practitioner at the Dallas Center for Spiritual Living, a Science of Mind community (Ernest Holmes) I’ve found that the similarities between New Thought and Christian Science are no coincidence. Holmes studied in Boston with Christian Scientists, and with Emma Curtis Hopkins. Most New Thought founders and early teachers studied and/or were healed by Christian Science treatment, then went on to start their own movements.
Today, I’m learning that there are differences, but there aren’t any hurdles, in doctrine or current practice that can’t prevent a healthy productive dialogue.
Thanks for all you are doing building bridges!