How many thousands of lives have been touched over the past century—redirected, restored, healed, saved—by Mary Baker Eddy’s life? By her works of Christian healing, by published writings, and by her other accomplishments? It’s impossible to know exactly, but they are numerous. Many are those whose health, career path, care for the human family, understanding of God’s saving power, have been transformed by this pioneer in religion and healing.
How has your own life been inspired by Mary Baker Eddy’s? To begin a yearlong series aimed at answering this question, we’ve asked about 15 people around the world for their replies. Most are Christian Scientists, though some come from other religious faiths and have recently encountered Mrs. Eddy’s ideas and achievements. There’s an element of discovery in each of these spiritual journeys—of a 19th- and early 20th-century woman who had the courage to publicly preach Christ Jesus’ whole gospel message, including the demand to heal through prayer. They also discovered someone who wrote extensively on the divine laws she perceived as elemental to Jesus’ healing record.
One hundred years after her passing in 1910, Mary Baker Eddy’s words and works continue to inspire new generations. People on every continent and from all walks of life carve out time for daily study of her primary book, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, along with the Holy Bible. Since 1894 these two books have served as the pastor of the Church she founded, and as study texts for those who practice the teachings of Christian Science.
