Christian Science and healing in Canada

Abstract

Christian Science is one of several religious groups with doctrines that suggest that medical use hinders spiritual development and/or is ineffective. Because of the beliefs, Christian Science has faced controversy in both Canada and the United States, and experiences difficulty maintaining a committed following. In some cases, Scientists who choose to rely on Christian Science risk increased pain or death for themselves or their children. This study seeks to identify the influences that Scientists face when deciding upon a healthcare option for themselves and their children. I applied interpretative phenomenological analysis to eleven interviews with current Canadian Scientists and one interview with a former Scientist. In addition, I analyzed biographies, church policies and doctrines, Canadian laws, and relevant court cases to contextualize my data. I concluded that Scientists use diverse forms of healthcare (some of which may be risky).