Praying, Studying
What CoCC Advocates Do -
1. Praying, Studying
1. Praying, Studying
Christian caring in the tradition of Christian Science always begins with prayer. We learn from our study of the Scriptures that our Father in heaven comforts as a Mother. (Isa 66:13) His lovingkindness is proclaimed throughout the Bible as inseparable from His children. So, it is natural that we always start in prayer to God. From that communing with divine Love comes the inspiration and discernment that leads us to the natural manifestation of God’s love - a simple need being met, the tender word, a good deed, a helping hand, or healing.
Here are some ideas to help you prepare for your calling!
The Bible
“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:16)
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15)
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy
The test of all prayer lies in the answer to these questions: Do we love our neighbor better because of this asking? (S&H 9:5–7)
“What we most need is the prayer of fervent desire for growth in grace, expressed in patience, meekness, love, and good deeds.” (S&H 4:3–5)
“Desire is prayer; and no loss can occur from trusting God with our desires, that they may be moulded and exalted before they take form in words and in deeds.” (S&H 1:11)
“What are the motives for prayer? ... Are we benefited by praying? Yes, the desire which goes forth hungering after righteousness is blessed of our Father, and it does not return unto us void.” (S&H 2:1 (only), 4)
Helpful Resources
for Prayer
The Ethics of Caring for Others
“The Ethics of Impersonal Prayer”
Ways to Pray
“Christian Caring and Impersonal Prayer”
Handling Impositions
Impersonal Prayer and Handling Impositions
Blog Posts
A Christian Fellowship Ministry:
“Seeking and finding what is true” (9/1/2023)
Prayer Ethics
“The Ethics of Impersonal Prayer When Caring for Others” (4/16/2025)
Self Awareness:
”Know Thyself” (5/6/2024)
Self Care:
”The Easy Yoke” (4/14/2025)
CSPS Articles from the Periodicals
“A helping hand,” Ingrid Peschke, Christian Science Journal, April 2006
“Compassion – divinity embracing humanity,” Tricia Chantha, Christian Science Sentinel, Sentinel Watch, MARCH 9, 2020
“Serving God: caring for others in need,” Barbara Vining, Christian Science Sentinel, April 6, 2015
AT HOME in the love of our neighbor, Ruth Elizabeth Jenks, Christian Science Sentinel, September 1, 2003
A Spiritual Approach to Care-Giving, Ginny Luedeman, C.S.B. and Cate Vincent, Christian Science Sentinel, March 15, 2011