A Christian Science retirement community is a housing option for individuals who want to remain independent while embracing the teachings of Mary Baker Eddy and her church. These communities, also known as senior apartments, retirement homes, or 55+ communities, offer a range of care services and an environment where residents can focus on spiritual healing. They often include housekeeping, linen service, and scheduled daily activities to keep residents engaged and entertained. Some even offer move-in coordination to help ease the transition into a new home.
The history of Christian Science began in 19th-century America, where Darwinism and other secularizing influences weakened the supernatural structure of Protestant orthodoxy. A group of disillusioned Christians, divided between what Eddy called stern Protestantism and doubtful liberalism, turned to Christian Science for a fresh start. The movement was based on the belief that health and disease were caused by incorrect beliefs, and that one could overcome them through prayer.
To prove this principle, Christian Science developed a system of sanatoriums and nursing homes where patients could be prayed for to heal their ailments. These facilities, known as Christian Science nursing organizations or houses, are separate from registered and licensed nursing and provide skilled Christian Science nursing care 24 hours a day to individuals who depend on spiritual healing through prayer. They do not administer painkillers or respond to emergencies, and they are prohibited from interfering with the spiritual practice of prayer.
In addition to providing Christian Science nursing care, some of these homes also offer assisted living and memory care for seniors who require additional support with daily activities. For example, a facility called Glenridge in St. Louis, Missouri, offers assisted living for Christian Scientists of advancing years who want to remain active in the practice of their religion and maintain their independence. The home has been in operation since 1987 and is staffed by members of the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Applicants are required to have active membership in the Mother Church, and a spouse is not allowed to live at the residence.
Another residential care home that supports Christian Science is Olive Glen in Sacramento, California. Founded in 1987, Olive Glen provides assisted living and memory care in a family-like setting. The home is staffed by Christian Scientists who are dedicated to promoting an optimistic and supportive atmosphere for their residents. Residents can enjoy a variety of amenities, including inspirational talks and annual meetings.
While the FEHB Program does not cover Christian Science care, some private health plans do. The extent of this coverage varies from plan to plan, and the best way to determine your eligibility is to contact your health plan. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit Christian Science Provider Network was created to assist Christian Science nursing homes in becoming in-network providers for health plans that offer this benefit. Its Board includes members with extensive experience in Christian Science, business, and health insurance. To learn more, click here. To find a Christian Science retirement community in San Francisco near you, use our free search tool.