When Mary Baker Eddy established the Church of Christ, Scientist, she offered committed students of Christian Science the privilege of playing an active part in church organization through membership in The Mother Church and one of its branch churches.
Joining The Mother Church and uniting with its members worldwide is a symbol of an individual’s commitment to the Cause of Christian Science. Whereas, that step requires the member to discipline his or her thought and life in accordance with the provisions of the Manual of The Mother Church, it does not involve committing to specific duties within the church.
However, branch church membership does. In order for a branch to remain vital, hold Sunday services and Wednesday evening testimony meetings, maintain a Sunday School, staff a Reading Room, host at least one annual lecture, maintain a building, and so forth, the church depends upon the participation of all its members.
