Over the past year, the Church Activities Department of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston has expanded its support to Christian Science informal groups. Informal groups (or meetings) have existed since the early days of Christian Science, often formed in areas with few Christian Scientists and as a first step toward becoming a society or branch church. The groups provide a way for Christian Scientists in these areas to gather and support each other, as well as connect their communities with easier access to the teachings of Christian Science.
William Pappas spoke with Ariana Herlinger, Manager of the Church Activities Department, and Brian Abbott, who works directly with informal groups, about the intent and scope of this expansion, how the project has unfolded, and the role prayer has played.
