The foundation for Christian Science nursing is securely established in the Bible, and in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy. The standard for Christian Science nursing is set forth by Mrs. Eddy in the Church Manual By-law (Article VIII, Sect. 31):

“Christian Science Nurse. SECT. 31. A member of The Mother Church who represents himself or herself as a Christian Science nurse shall be one who has a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice, who thoroughly understands the practical wisdom necessary in a sick room, and who can take proper care of the sick. The cards of such persons may be inserted in The Christian Science Journal under rules established by the publishers.”

This By-law is a deep spiritual guide for members of The Mother Church, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts to draw on. For individuals representing themselves as Christian Science nurses, prayerful and thoughtful consideration of the requirements Mrs. Eddy established in this By-law is fundamental.

Christian Science Nursing Arts training provides an opportunity for individuals to look more deeply into the By-law and to see its relevance to their own demonstration and practice of Christian Science. The training supports individuals’ growth in meeting all of the Church Manual By-law requirements and in the expression of the qualities of the Christian Science nurse that our Leader specifies (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, 395:17–20). In the classroom and in mentored on-the-job training, ethics, sound judgment, principles, and skills are taught, demonstrated, and practiced on this foundation. The on-the-job training period follows each classroom segment of a course in order to help ensure a continuing, sound practice of Christian Science nursing in keeping with the Manual By-law requirements and consistent with the Christian Science nursing arts taught in the classroom. Training provides an avenue to ensure a demonstrated readiness to respond compassionately to the needs of mankind. It supports the individual in learning the art of ministering to one’s neighbor and his needs with Christian Science nursing.