Have you ever considered how a belief system born in 19th-century Massachusetts could find a home in the heart of Berlin? That’s the story of Christliche Wissenschaft. Christian Science, as it is also known, began with Mary Baker Eddy in 1866. She started writing about her discovery in 1875. These writings were initially in English. It wasn’t until later that they were translated.
Eddy authorized the first translation of her work into German. From 1912, her main book, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” was published with English and German on facing pages. This gave a boost to the Christian Science movement in Germany. Even before this dual-language publication, Christian Science had gained followers in Germany.
Let’s rewind to the late 19th century. Hans Eckert of Cannstadt was the first German to embrace Christian Science. Eckert studied Christian Science from 1889. He even took classes from an authorized teacher. By 1893, he became a member of The Mother Church. He returned to Germany in 1894. Eckert began sharing Christian Science. Interest grew slowly in Cannstadt and Stuttgart. After some years, those interested started holding Sunday services in Stuttgart. Eckert did the translating for these services.
In 1904, the informal services turned into the Christian Science Society of Stuttgart. This was a branch of The Mother Church. Eckert became the First Reader. In 1913, the society became First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Stuttgart. This church still exists today.
Christian Science also found fertile ground in Hannover. Frau Bertha Günther-Peterson began studying it in 1894. By 1897, she became a member of The Mother Church. Her father and husband were physicians. She had a strong desire to help people with disease. She learned about Christian Science from a German friend in Minneapolis. This friend had been healed by the Science after doctors had given up.
Now, stepping into the present, we see Christliche Wissenschaft. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Christian Science. The Berlin branch, like others worldwide, operates as a branch of the Mother Church in Boston. Each branch is self-governed. It is run democratically by its local members. The “Church Manual,” first published in 1895, guides the activities of the Mother Church. It also maintains the relationship with the branch churches. A board of five directors ensures Eddy’s teachings remain unchanged.
The Berlin church provides a space for worship. It also offers a reading room open to the public. Here, visitors can explore the Bible and Christian Science publications. The services here mirror those in other Christian Science churches. They center around readings from the Bible and “Science and Health.” These readings are delivered by two readers. They form the sermon.
Twice a year, the Berlin congregation participates in a Communion service. Here, members kneel for a spiritual communion. Notably, the church does not practice baptism or the Lord’s Supper. Consider how this unique approach to Christian practice. It blends with the architectural space around us. It offers a moment for reflection. It also provides a unique perspective on faith and healing.