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What is this place? What is Christian Science?

A woman came in and asked, “What is this place?” After telling me she’s searching for a new way to find peace in her busy life, we talked about Mary Baker Eddy, and why she wrote Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. She bought the book and took a Christian Science Journal. I earmarked a church near her home in Houston. She will try to stop in again on her way home.

While a man was waiting for his son to arrive, he came in and asked how Christian Science differs from other Christian denominations. First, we talked about similarities: studying the Bible; following Jesus’ teachings. Differences: our Pastor is two books; we expect healing to result from prayer. He left with a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A young man came in and talked about his Mormon faith, and described a dramatic healing of chicken pox he participated in. I explained how we understand healing in Christian Science and he felt we were in agreement on everything. He took a “What is Christian Science?” brochure and purchased a copy of Science and Health.

A traveler walked straight in. She was eager to receive literature. She asked, “What is Christian Science?” I began explaining what Christian Science is; she was quite receptive. I told her about the healing of deafness, sight impairment and tuberculosis in the March 1918 Christian Science Journal. We found the writeup in the bound volumes. She then read the Bible Lesson from our marked books, and left with a Christian Science Sentinel, Christian Science Journal, and full-text Christian Science Quarterly. She was here for over an hour.

A man from Winnipeg came in. He knew about Christian Science. I talked a bit about Mary Baker Eddy and Jesus’ teachings. He opened Science and Health randomly to page 108:12 and read the phrase “mathematical certainty.” He is a computer scientist. I explained how we use the idea of math principles to explain the unchanging law of God and His goodness. His eyes lit up. I showed him, from the Christian Science Journal, where a Christian Science church is in Winnipeg. He took a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A man came in to ask what a Christian Science Reading Room is. I spoke about how Reading Rooms are a worldwide outreach of Christian Science churches, and that the Reading Room at SFO is for travelers, and is sponsored by Bay Area Christian Science churches. I also spoke briefly about core religious beliefs. The visitor then asked about our view on evolution vs. creationism. I spoke at length about God’s spiritual record of creation in Genesis 1, and our view that God is the only creator. (The Bible Lesson that week was “God the Only Cause and Creator.”) God’s creation is totally spiritual, and not material or of matter. He was glad to hear of our perspective and felt firmly along similar lines. During this conversation, a large group of approximately 75 youngsters with parents and chaperones arrived just outside our door. (They were with the “Fly Compton Foundation” and were in San Francisco for the day.) They were all interested and it was standing room only in the Reading Room – elbow to elbow. All of these kids are in a program guiding them towards being airline pilots one day. We talked about God, the Bible, angels, love. The visitor asked the parents if we could pray for the kids, and the parents approved. He led us in a sweet, basic Christian petition for the kid’s safety and development. Two boys told me their names were in the Bible, but they didn’t know how to find them. I got CONCORD up and running to find their names (in I Kings and Acts). They were so happy and were running around showing everybody Bibles and the location of their names. Some of the kids studied in the “quiet” room; some played at the table in front. Tons of Bible quote cards were taken. There was much gratitude for our presence. The visitor took the “What is Christian Science?” brochure and a pack of Bible quote cards. It’s hard to describe the whole event in words. Note: before all this happened, I had been praying with the following: “To-day my soul can only sing and soar. An increasing sense of God’s love, omnipresence, and omnipotence enfolds me. Each day I know Him nearer, love Him more, and humbly pray to serve Him better” (My. 174:25–28).

A Buddhist monk came in and asked about the place. I shared what we are about. I also invited him to come any time to pray, meditate and study. He then asked about our literature. I showed him the periodicals and free pamphlets, and that we have a Bible in Chinese.

A Muslim woman came in to pray as part of her desire to pray five times a day. Then her husband also came to pray. While they were in the study room, a young man came in and asked, “What is this place?” I shared information about Christian Science and the purpose of the Christian Science Reading Room, Genesis 1 and Genesis 2, the Tenets, the definition of God, the first page of Recapitulation, page 468, the full-text Christian Science Quarterly and Fruitage. He bought a full-text Christian Science Quarterly and Science and Health.

A man walked in and asked, “What is Christian Science?” I gave him the “What is Christian Science?” brochure, and opened Science and Health to the Tenets, which I read aloud and we discussed. He was curious about the Christian Science Sentinel volumes in the Study Room. While he was here, he found Science and Health available as an audio book, bought it, and downloaded it to listen to on the plane.

A visitor came in to see what we do. I told her about Mary Baker Eddy and Science and Health. She is Christian and knows the Lord’s Prayer and the Bible. I showed her the Christian Science Monitor that I was praying with – an article on France – and using ideas from a Christian Science Sentinel. After staying a while in the study room, she got a phone call and needed to leave. She selected a Bible quote card from the table.

For over an hour, I spoke with a gentleman. He took with him a “What is Christian Science?” brochure. We read aloud the Tenets (p. 497), as well as pages from the chapter Recapitulation and the definition of God from the Glossary (both from Science and Health). He asked about gender and homosexuality. My response was that Jesus told us to “Judge not, that ye be not judged”; that the one who is without sin can cast the first stone. Referring to one of Jesus’ parables, we should remove the beam from our own eye before trying to pick out the splinter from our brother’s eye. We also discussed Genesis 1 and Genesis 2, and the comparison of Jesus healing the man at the pool of Bethesda with the man healed of blindness by washing in the pool of Siloam. This visit was the closest I’ve had to a Sunday School class. It was wonderful!

In the evening, a science teacher came in and stayed for an hour asking sincere questions. He said many of his family are in the medical profession, but even then, there is beauty and perfection found everywhere. He took a Christian Science Monitor, a Christian Science Sentinel and the “What is Christian Science?” brochure. During our conversation, we found that many of the chapters in Science and Health would be of interest to him, including “Science, Theology and Medicine,” “Physiology” and “Genesis.” His master’s thesis compared Genesis with Darwin.

A young man came in asking, “What is Christian Science?” I gave him the brochure “What is Christian Science?” He said he would be back. He returned two times later in my shift. The second time he stayed and we covered the basics: Genesis 1 and Genesis 2, the Tenets, and page 468 of Science and Health. I told him my dad was healed of all desire for drugs and smoking while reading Science and Health when he was in prison on drug charges. The man said he, too, would like to be free of smoking. I let him know that others have been freed from smoking by reading this book. He left with a copy to read on his flight.

A young man came in, wide-eyed. He had never heard of Christian Science but saw our sign and was curious. He follows another Christian denomination (Catholic) and knows the Bible. I gave him an overview of what Christian Science teaches and finished by talking about how Jesus healed and that Mary Baker Eddy used that healing as her guide. I shared a short physical healing. He said, “I can’t say that I disagree with any of this.” He took a “What is Christian Science?” brochure with him.

A traveler who had missed their flight came in and asked, “What is this place?” I shared the three main functions to provide a place where the public can: ask questions about Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy and Christian Science Reading Rooms; use the study area to read, study, pray, meditate regardless of denomination; purchase literature, including Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures and Christian Science periodicals. After showing her passages from the textbook, she left with a complimentary copy of the book.

Meeting an immediate need

A woman came in who was crying. She said she is a Christian Scientist and, due to her flight being delayed, she thought she wouldn’t make it to her destination in time for an important meeting. We talked about how God’s plan and love must fit (a paraphrase from Hymn 51: “Love’s work and love must fit.”) She was so grateful to find the Reading Room. After she walked over and talked with an airline representative, she came back to let me know she was rebooked for a different flight. She again expressed gratitude for the Reading Room being at the San Francisco Airport.

I noticed a female traveler who was pacing back and forth between the terminal and then sat down on a bench in front of the Reading Room and started crying. I went out and said I was here for her. Later she came inside saying she lost her luggage and needed to get right with God. She asked if I would walk with her to find her luggage. Eventually we found both pieces of her checked luggage, and the airport police were able to get her carryon from inside security. She took with her the “What is Christian Science?” brochure, a pack of Bible quote cards, and a printout of the Bible Lesson.

Someone came in to ask if he could charge his phone. He was visiting San Francisco to be a model for a GAP photo shoot. He asked what this place was, and I told him a bit about a Christian Science Reading Room, which led to sharing about Christian Science — including how I have been healed through applying its principles. He mentioned that he was a Christian but had not heard of Christian Science. By this time his phone had enough charge to book an Uber. I asked if he would like to take a “What is Christian Science?” brochure, which he did before he left.

While I was on the phone answering questions about the location and times of services for local churches, a traveler came to the door and asked if we had a printer. He needed to print out his visa. After finishing the call, I was able to print the document. During our conversation he told me he speaks Arabic. I was excited to share the “What is Christian Science?” brochure in Arabic, which he eagerly accepted. He took a photo of the page from the Christian Science Journal of churches in Brazil (where he will be traveling) and learned about churches near the area where he lives when he returns home to the United States.

Spiritual seekers

Two travelers came in. We talked about how Mary Baker Eddy was healed from the effects of a fall, and how my family heard of her when they lived in Lynn, Massachusetts, which brought our family into the Christian Science faith. Showing them our Pastor (the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy), I pointed out that the last chapter contains descriptions of healings that resulted from just reading the book. I related a healing of my own for a condition like an account in that chapter. One of them said, “I already have a Bible, but may I buy the other book?” He purchased the paperback copy of Science and Health that was on the desk. They live near the Reading Room, and plan to stop when they return home.

A man from New York came in. He works on Wall Street and manages properties across the country. He said he travels through SFO approximately every 3 weeks but had not seen our Reading Room before. He told me about his 98-year-old mother who is a life-long Christian Scientist and still reads the weekly Bible Lesson. He went on to explain that he had drifted away from Christian Science but was feeling the need to reconnect. His concern that his schedule was so full made him think he did not have the time to read or study. He was looking for something simple and short he could look to or listen to each day. I told him how to sign up for the “Daily Lift”. We talked a bit more about the need for more spirituality in today’s environment. He departed with gratitude and a full packet of the Bible quote cards (15 cards) and two full-text Christian Science Quarterlies.

A visitor stopped at the Bible quote card table, spoke with me briefly, and then went into the Study Room. Another RR attendant was in the Study Room and had a lengthy conversation with the visitor. At first, he seemed guarded because he felt that only the Bible is needed for our spiritual studies. The other attendant showed him Tenet #1 – the Bible is our “sufficient guide to eternal Life” (Science and Health, p. 497). He then asked about salvation, and the attendant pointed him to Tenet #4. Many more of his questions were answered. At one point both of us were talking with him, sharing healings we have experienced through our study of Christian Science. He left with a smile and the “What is Christian Science?” brochure in English and Korean (which he will share with his Korean-speaking parents).

Two visitors today came in and wanted to talk about the concept of “original sin.” They also both asked why we need a second book in addition to the Bible. I explained that the title, “Science and Health with KEY to the Scriptures” (emphasis added), shows the purpose. Just as a key doesn’t REPLACE a door, it OPENS the door. The textbook doesn’t in any way replace the Bible, it opens or unlocks the ideas for us to understand and apply to our lives.

A former SFO employee was on his way to get his luggage when he saw our sign. He first came to check out the table with Bible quote cards and then walked inside. He was happy to see us and said it was meant to be. He took a Christian Science Sentinel and Christian Science Monitor from the free rack and thanked me for being here.

I had a wonderful conversation about the importance of God in our lives with a traveler from Virginia. She stayed here about 45 minutes. She is new to the study of the Bible, now on Revelation. She has read Romans, all four Gospels, and some of the Old Testament. We talked about a wide range of issues with family and raising children and being Christian – God first in thought and seeing evidence of His goodness. I read to her “A rule for motives and acts” from The Manual – to help watch and guard thought for what God would say and do. When I told her God is Spirit and does not create matter, she said her Pastor had said that in a sermon two weeks ago. We agreed that “holier makes heathier.” She said she hopes to come in and see me the next time she flies into SFO, and took the brochure “What is Christian Science?”

A young man walked up to the marked books in the window. He read ALOUD the Bible and Science and Health citations marked for the day, as well as the Golden Text and Responsive Reading. It was inspiring. He came inside and spent some time with Strong’s Concordance in the study area. He left with a copy of Science and Health, two Christian Science Sentinels, and a full packet of Bible quote cards to share with friends.

A visitor came in and said he loves to read. I asked him if he was interested in news or spiritual ideas. He said, “spiritual”, so I helped him select a Christian Science Sentinel. He sat down at the desk. I opened Science and Health to the definition of God. He liked that a lot. We discussed Genesis 1 and Genesis 2, as well as the man at the pool of Bethesda. He told me he was raised in the Christian and Muslim faiths growing up but raised his children in Christianity. He was planning a trip to Boston to visit his brother, so I told him where the church headquarters is located and gave him a Christian Science Journal so he would have the directory. He also took two sets of Bible quote cards, one for himself and one for his brother.

A man stopped by to read the selected passages from our Pastor displayed in the front window. I offered a pack of Bible quote cards. He said he is feeling down due to lack of work. I encouraged him that Love has a plan for him, that Love takes care of its ideas. I showed him the free pamphlets; he chose one about angels.

A young woman traveling home to Sweden was drawn to our store by the word “Christian” in our name. She attended a Bible college for 3 years and was surprised to see a Science and Health in the Swedish language. She took a Christian Science Journal.

A woman came in asking for a book of prayers – present day and present tense prayers. I showed her God’s Law of Adjustment, the Christian Science Sentinel, and both hymnals. She looked through and read several hymns and decided to purchase the words only version of the Christian Science Hymnal 430-603. Before she left, I showed her several special pages in Science and Health: the definition of God, and the spiritual sense of the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23. She also left with a Christian Science Journal, Christian Science Sentinel and Christian Science Monitor.

Literature leads to connection

A man came in and spent quite a bit of time looking at all the periodicals on the “free” rack, and all the pamphlets in both rooms. Eventually he asked if there was anything specific that might appeal to his college-aged daughter who was exploring religions. We talked a bit more, and I explained how our weekly Bible Lesson study might be a gentle approach to learning more about Christian Science. I showed a full-text Christian Science Quarterly to him, and how weekly study works. He was very interested and bought a full-text Christian Science Quarterly and a pamphlet. When leaving, he remarked at what a unique and wonderful place the Reading Room is and took several photos. He also selected a Christian Science Sentinel from our free rack and several Bible quote cards to take with him.

Seeing our rack of free literature, a woman came in and asked if she could have a Christian Science Monitor. After she sat down, I gave some background on the purpose of the Monitor — to injure no one, and to bless everyone. She commented on the depressing stories in the news. I mentioned Jesus’ instruction to let our light shine. People are attracted to light. Also, when bad news or anger get directed our way, how will we respond? Jesus told us if we listen and obey (see Matt 7: 24), our house (consciousness) is built on the rock. Then, in the words of St. Paul, these things don’t move us. She left with a Monitor in her hand and a smile on her face.

One evening a woman in a wheelchair was parked beside our store, facing the children’s books in our window. She was attracted to “My Little Book About God”, as well as the board books. She bought one book for her grandchild, and then her daughter arrived to pick her up.

A gentleman stopped outside at the table with Bible quote cards, and then came in. I asked if he knew about Christian Science. There seemed to be a language barrier at first, but I kept knowing that Truth is always understood. He was interested in the FREE rack, so I told him about the Christian Science Monitor. He picked up the Science and Health that was on the desk and glanced through it. He asked if there was a “Christian Science library” near where he lives in Southern California. I took a Christian Science Journal from the FREE rack and showed him the directory. He left with a Christian Science Sentinel, Christian Science Monitor, and of course a Christian Science Journal.

A woman with a cart stopped by. She walked into the Study Room and picked up the Science and Health marked with that week’s Bible Lesson. She told me she attended Sunday School, then stopped studying, but is now “reading it” again. After we talked a bit more, she selected a couple Christian Science Sentinels and Christian Science Monitors from our FREE rack to take with her.

Interest in Bible quote cards

A woman stopped at our table of Bible quote cards. I went out to speak with her. She took a pack of cards. I asked if she had ever been in a Christian Science Reading Room.  She had not, so I invited her in, showing her both the study room and the area for discussion and sales. She looked at all the translations of the Bible and Science and Health. I pointed out the spiritual sense of the Lord’s Prayer and Psalm 23, and the Tenets. She took pictures of each and a video of the study room. She seemed very happy that she came in.

A woman from Canada came in. She talked about being a Christian and exclaimed that she had never seen a Christian store in an airport before. We spoke about the purpose of the SFO Reading Room. She pulled out a Bible-study book, and we shared some of our favorite Bible citations. She left with a full packet of the Bible quote cards (15 cards).

A woman walked by and took a Bible quote card from the table outside. I got up from my chair and went out to offer her a Christian Science Sentinel. She was grateful to have it. I offered a complete pack of the quote cards (15 unique cards), and she said, “yes, please.”

A family of three walked up to the outside table that has Bible quote cards and started reading the various quotes. I went outside and let them know if they were having trouble deciding on a single card, they could take a complete pack of 15 cards. They thanked me, and two of the family members took a pack.

A woman was spending time reading the various cards with Bible quotes. She was thrilled to have an entire pack. She also accepted a “What is Christian Science?” brochure and some free literature. Our conversation led to me showing her the chapter “Science, Theology and Medicine” in the textbook. I assured her that the textbook doesn’t replace the Bible but illumines the Bible’s teachings, and Jesus shows us the way. She was happy to hear this.

A traveler from Cape Cod came to the quote card table. She selected about 5 cards that “spoke to her” and then came in and sat down. I offered the “What is Christian Science?” brochure, and she accepted it. She was happy to hear a testimony of healing from me, and to learn that the headquarters for our church is in Boston. I shared information about the Mapparium, Mary Baker Eddy, and Christian Science. As she was leaving, we both said, “You made my day.”

A young man walked up to our table of quote cards. It looked like he was reading each card, so I offered him a complete set.     I invited him inside. He said he was interested in being healed of smoking. I told him about my dad’s healing from addiction. I shared how Mary Baker Eddy wrote Science and Health before starting a church because she originally thought everyone would want to heal the way Jesus healed. He was eager to purchase a copy, so I showed him the various designs and formats. He decided to purchase the bright blue metallic copy. He also took with him copies of the “What is Christian Science?” brochure in English and Spanish, the list of synonyms for God, a full-text Christian Science Quarterly and a Christian Science Sentinel. He was grateful!

A mother and daughter were passing in front of the Reading Room. I got up to talk with them. They are from Ghana. I offered each a pack of quote cards, which they accepted.

Airport employees

An Airport Ambassador (retired SFPD officer) came in. After talking for a bit, he left with a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

Another Airport Ambassador came in. He had purchased Science and Health a few weeks prior. He ended up purchasing Christian Science: Continuing Evidence of Christ-Healing. He stayed to talk for at least 30 minutes.

An airport employee came in to talk. He shared an experience in which he felt time had not elapsed. That led to a discussion about eternity, and I spoke of the Christian Science concept that we live in eternity now, and that time is no part of eternity. He also indicated he had been reading the Bible Lesson from the full-text Christian Science Quarterly for a couple of months and wasn’t quite sure he was understanding everything. We spoke a bit more about how the weekly Bible Lesson blesses the work and all mankind, and that he was included in that blessing. He wanted to know if he could share the quote cards with other employees and friends. I told him “Of course!” and gave him a full packet to start with. He said he’d be back for more when he needs them.

An Airport Ambassador stopped by and said, “We like this place. It’s a good place to stop by.”

An Airport Ambassador stopped at the table with Bible quote cards. She said she is enjoying getting into her Bible. She accepted one quote card and a Christian Science Sentinel.

An airport employee walked past and then came in to talk with me. She said she appreciates so much that we are here. I offered a Christian Science Sentinel with the title “Worthy of Redemption.” We talked about the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, present, within. Every time we are kind, patient, and compassionate, we are experiencing the Kingdom of Heaven. I mentioned to her that she is blessed and a blessing, and that our whole job is to let our light shine – to reflect the light from the one divine Source. She said she will be back.

While I was reading the Bible Lesson from the marked books, a builder working at the airport came in. I shared information about Christian Science with him. He took a “What is Christian Science?” brochure and a Christian Science Monitor. He is familiar with the Bible, and very much agrees with eternal life.

An airport worker saw the window display. He was encouraged to learn about Christian Science. He took a pamphlet, a Christian Science Monitor, and a Bible quote card. He hopes to stop by again. He was impressed that we have been at the airport for 70 years.

An airport employee walked up to the Bible quote card table. She then came inside and we talked about Genesis chapters 1 and 2, Jesus and Mary Baker Eddy. She left with a pack of quote cards, and a Christian Science Sentinel.

An airport employee came up to the window and read the marked citations from the Bible Lesson. I went out to meet him and offered him a packet of Bible quote cards, which he accepted. He also left with a Spanish El Heraldo before heading back to work.

An airport worker stopped in. I shared printed copies of the Bible Lesson (Spanish) with him. He told me he appreciates what we do at the airport, and that God directed him to the Reading Room. I showed him several pages in a Spanish edition of Science and Health. He asked about a local church. I wrote down for him information about a local church. He hopes to attend on a Wednesday. As he left, he said he was feeling much better.

After I locked up and was about to head downstairs to my car, a maintenance worker and I started talking. He noticed the cross and crown I was wearing and liked it. We walked back to the Reading Room and I unlocked the door. He accepted three Bible Lesson printouts, the “What is Christian Science?” brochure, and a pack of quote cards.

Planned and repeat visitors

Travelers from the east coast of the United States walked straight to the Reading Room after their flight. “So glad to see your Reading Room. Thank you!” They made a donation and took a packet of Bible quote cards with them.

A visitor came in to study in the quiet room. She stayed about an hour.

A Christian Scientist and her daughter walked straight in and bought a full-text Christian Science Quarterly.

A Christian Scientist in town for their annual Association meeting came in to read, study and pray.

“The two largest words in the vocabulary of thought are ‘Christian’ and ‘Science.’

The former is the highest style of man; the latter reveals and interprets God and man; it aggregates, amplifies, unfolds, and expresses the ALL-GOD. Mary Baker Eddy, No and Yes, p. 10

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A college student stopped by and asked if he could charge his phone. While he waited, he asked, “What is this place?” The conversation moved to a description of the words “Christian” and “Science,” with most of the discussion focusing on “Science.” I picked up a pencil and asked him, “If someone 3000 years ago lifted a pencil above a desk and let go, what would have happened?” He replied, “It will drop.” I then asked, “And if I pick up a pencil now above the desk and let it go, what will happen?” “It will drop.” “Exactly! The same is true for God’s laws. The proofs of God’s care recorded in the Old Testament are based on God’s laws, and those laws are just as active and powerful today as they were then.” This led to a description of Mary Baker Eddy’s healing after a fall, and the founding of her church. I gave him the brochure, “What is Christian Science?” and showed him the list of churches near his college.

A man and his son spent some time looking at the table of quote cards. They both selected a card before leaving.

A couple from Guam who were headed to Chicago stopped at our “quote card table” during their layover and took a picture of it. After selecting some quote cards, they came in and asked if we had a Chinese Bible. I showed them a Chinese/English Bible from our Sales stock. They were happy to find us at SFO!

A flight attendant stopped by the table with Bible quote cards located outside the front door. She was looking through the single cards. I invited her to take one of the rubber-banded bundles. She said, “These are great! I’m going to take some for my friends.”

Great conversation about God, Christian Science, material science/observation with a young Muslim man. He took a picture of our textbook. He had 30 minutes while he was waiting for a friend to pick him up, so he came in to find out what Christian Science is.

A traveler stopped in to say how much she likes the Christian Science Monitor. She purchased the latest issue and took another from the FREE rack. She said one thing she loves about Christian Science is how no one tells you how to think. God speaks to each of us directly.

A man came in asking about the Christian Science Monitor. He asked if I was raised in Christian Science. I said I was, and related to him the first healing I recall from when I was in early elementary school. I had warts on my hands, legs, and even one on my nose. I asked my mom about how to pray. Each day after school we read a KIDS article from the Christian Science Sentinel. At some point my focus turned from the warts to God. As expected, the warts disappeared. He responded that the problems with the world today are due to our focus not being on God. Then he asked if Mary Baker Eddy said anything about angels. We discussed her writing about Gabriel and Michael in The Apocalypse, and the definition of ANGELS in the Glossary in Science and Health. He shared examples of receiving angel messages that directed him to safety when he was a boy. As he left, he asked me to pray for harmony on the family reunion trip he is about to take. I mentioned the account of Abram and Lot. “Let there be no strife between me and thee.” He smiled and said he will go with the expectation of harmony.

A man stopped in and, in a very thick accent, said he was Russian. He looked at the two Russian Bibles and the Russian translation of Science and Health we have. I also showed him a poster of the 10 Commandments that is in Russian. He left with a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A man came in asking for more information on what Christian Science is. I shared with him ideas and examples of healing. He left with a Christian Science Journal from our FREE rack. He said he has a copy of Science and Health somewhere.

A woman came in that is a Christian Scientist who goes to church in Livermore. She said she’s glad the Reading Room is here at the airport.

A woman came in after seeing the children’s books in the window. She is a frequent traveler and was glad to see we were open today. This was her first time to stop in. We had a good talk about Christian Science. Then she took a Christian Science Journal and Christian Science Monitor from the FREE rack. She is from Alameda so I told her there is a Christian Science Reading Room and Church there, and churches around the world. I also told her about the website ChristianScience.com. She also took some quote cards from the basket after I pointed them out.

A traveler from Wisconsin stopped in. She expressed her appreciation for our presence at SFO. She asked if we had any new children’s items (she teaches Sunday School at her branch church). We talked about church. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst.” Also, church is like a pile of charcoal briquettes. In a pile, they light each other and burn brightly. If one falls off the pile, it gets gray and dark. But as soon as it is returned to the pile, it lights again. She also asked if there are any churches near where she will be staying while in the area. Looking at a Christian Science Journal, we discussed possible locations.

A flight attendant came in to purchase two Full-Text Quarterlies. These contain the complete text of each week’s Bible Lesson. She told me how grateful she is that our Reading Room is at SFO. She added that SFO is the most peaceful airport she flies through, attributing this to our presence.

A man came in to find the Christian Science Monitor. He said he used to live in Boston, near the Mother Church. He hadn’t been in a Reading Room for many years. He spent some time in our Study Room and left with two issues of the Christian Science Monitor.

A sister from another faith tradition stopped in. She is on her way home after a mission in Taiwan. She left with a copy of the brochure, “What is Christian Science?”

A young man came in to say he has passed by many Christian Science Reading Rooms in his world travels but has never seen one open and he was excited to find this one open at the airport. We had a 2-hour conversation of questions and answers about God, Christ, the Bible, the world, man, etc. He took a selfie of the two of us and said he would look online for CS publications. He honestly did not want to take paper to cut down more trees. He took photos of some of Mary Baker Eddy’s writings in Science and Health. What is God? Definitions of Heaven and Hell; the church tenets. His take-away in a few words: “stay in tune with God” are the words he will write after my name in his journal for today. I’m so glad we were open for him!

A woman came in and asked if we had a printer. During our conversation I was able to tell her the basics of Christian Science. We looked in the Christian Science Journal and found churches near her home. She left with the brochure, “What is Christian Science?”

A man stopped by and asked what I thought about the controversy over the Old Testament. He shared an example of what he had read. In response, I shared my approach to Bible study: 1) What does the text say? 2) What does the text mean? 3) What does the text mean to me? As to if there were flying machines in OT times, we considered how Elijah was carried up into heaven, and Ezekiel having a vision of a creature that could move in all directions. The conversation then shifted to translations of the ancient texts, and the discovery at Nag Hammadi of texts dating back earlier than what is in the traditional biblical canon, and some other early Christian texts not included in the canon. How wonderful to engage in a discussion about the Bible at the Christian Science Reading Room at the airport.

A gal came in because one of her clients is a Christian Scientist. She teaches analytical reading. She took a free Christian Science Monitor and Christian Science Sentinel. She was surprised to see a Christian Science Reading Room at the airport. I told her it was the only one. I also mentioned that there are Reading Rooms wherever there is a Christian Science church. She was impressed.

A man with his suitcase and backpack came to the door and asked, “May I come in and read the Bible?” Of course I answered, “Yes!”

As two men walked by, I heard them say, “Christian Science Reading Room.” Then they came back to the door, and one said, “I’m Jewish. What is a Christian Science Reading Room?” I responded, “Jesus was Jewish.” I explained that Christian Science is based on Jesus’ teachings, which were based on the Old Testament/Torah. As they appeared to be headed to a gate to check in for a flight, I offered the brochure, “What is Christian Science?” which they eagerly took with them.

Two men walked in and started looking around. They told me they had been to a Christian Science church once, but they were both atheists. The more talkative of the two asked if “Science” referred to some sort of laws. I told him he could sit in my seat behind the desk, because that was exactly right! Jesus taught us how to apply the laws of God to any and every situation in our lives. We briefly discussed some differences between Christian Science and other Christian denominations but focused on the Bible and Science and Health being our Pastor (rather than a person). After discussing Mary Baker Eddy’s spiritual awakening after falling in icy conditions, and that the textbook was a result of her study and practice, he asked if he could buy “the book.” Of course! When asked why I am a Christian Scientist, I told him it is because the teachings work. I mentioned having had healings of warts as a child, an apparent kidney condition as a young adult, and a medically diagnosed fibroid tumor when an adult. He said he may choose to investigate the teachings further when he returns home, but he promised he’d come back the next time he is at SFO. Our conversation was cut short when the person meeting them texted to say they had arrived. Both men took the “What is Christian Science?” brochure with them.

A woman originally from Russia who now lives in Long Beach came in to ask about Christian Science. She was interested in learning more and took some free literature – a Christian Science Journal and a Christian Science Sentinel.

A woman came in after looking at the children’s books in the window. She had a layover and came in to use the Study Room for a while.

A lady and her teenage son came in to ask what this place is, and why our sign says CHRISTIAN and SCIENCE and READING ROOM. After explaining to her about Christian Science, she said she is not Christian, but loves exploring spiritual things, and liked the table outside with quote cards. I encouraged her to take some. As we kept talking, I explained about our literature. She looked through the free rack and took some. I also explained about Science and Health being Eddy’s primary work, and then she wanted to buy it and did. Her teenage son was mostly embarrassed, so she told him he could go walk around outside, which he immediately did. We talked about translations. She wanted to know if Science and Health was available in Hindi. I didn’t find one, but she was happy with English. She then rushed off to meet her ride.

A tiny little girl walked up to the outside table and selected a Bible quote card. She and I started smiling and waving at each other through the window. She walked inside and around the desk to see me. Her mom was surprised by this as she said the girl is usually shy around new people. The girl also walked into the Study Room and climbed up to sit on a high-backed chair. She looked very proud of herself! The family asked if we had any free literature. They left with a Christian Science Sentinel with the kids’ article “What Tony the Tortoise taught me about prayer.” Then they headed out for the girl’s first flight!

I greeted a man who was curious about the name “Christian Science.” He understood “Christian,” so we talked about the word “Science” as describing the laws of God that are always in operation — from Bible times through present times. We can judge the validity of the laws ourselves as to if we are able to put those laws into practice in our lives and see results, whether the results are freedom from physical problems, relationships, or work problems. He was interested to hear there are Christian Science churches and Reading Rooms in his hometown, and he took a Christian Science Journal with him, as well as the brochure “What is Christian Science?”

A traveler came in and asked if we had the Christian Science Monitor. I showed him the current issue which is for sale, and the older issues in our FREE rack. I learned that he works for the Monitor as a staa writer. We had a lovely conversation about branch church work and serving as a Christian Science Chaplain. We both remarked on the universality of the Christian Science church with the many translations of books and literature available.

Two travelers from Wyoming stopped in. They had never seen a Christian Science Reading Room, so wanted to find out more about it. They walked directly into the Study Room. After discussing the words “Christian” and “Science” (Jesus showed us how to demonstrate and prove the laws of God), one of the men began looking at our shelves of bound volumes. I shared with them that each issue of the weekly and monthly magazines includes inspirational articles and testimonies of healing. Our earliest volumes are dated 1898, which means we have over 120 years of healing accounts to which we can refer. They were impressed. Then we looked in the Christian Science Journal and found the location of Christian Science churches in their home state.

One of the SFO Police Department Ambassadors came by to read the Bible Lesson citations in the window. He then came inside and we talked about the importance of forgiveness, including forgiving ourselves. Our conversation concluded with a discussion of Jesus’ parable about the tares and the wheat. We typically do a good job with the first two instructions for dealing with the tares: gathering and binding them. However, we often neglect the final step in the process: burning them. The “burning” of the memory or problem results in complete forgiveness.

Someone who was waiting to pick up a friend was in the section of the airport near the Reading Room. He saw our sign and decided to come in to ask, “What is a Christian Science Reading Room?” I started by sharing information about Mary Baker Eddy. She was a sincere student of the Bible who was severely injured from a fall; after reading an account of healing by Jesus, she herself was healed instantly; she studied the Scriptures for three years to understand what happened to her. She discovered that the healings by Jesus and the prophets were the result of God’s laws (the “Science” part of our name). After using this understanding to heal others, she shared her findings with the Christian churches, but they were not interested. So, she started her own church. The Reading Room is an extension of all Christian Science churches, and this one is jointly maintained by several local churches. Each Reading Room provides a place for people to ask questions, research the Bible and the writings of Mary Baker Eddy, and to pray quietly. Before he left, I mentioned that Christian Science churches are located all over the world, and he could follow up on the ideas we discussed in his hometown. He left with the brochure, “What is Christian Science?”

Following a cruise and awaiting his flight home, a man came in to study the marked Bible Lesson. He said he visits our Reading Room every time he flies through SFO. He enjoyed the Study Room for over an hour.

San Francisco International Airport hires retired airport police to serve as Ambassadors, who often stop by and say “hi.” An Ambassador came in and commented on how much he enjoys reading the marked passages from the Bible Lesson in the window. He mentioned having drifted away from Christianity for many years but returned around 10 years ago. We then talked about how stepping away provides an opportunity to make religion our own, rather than merely following what someone else told us to do or think.

The evening before my scheduled shift I became dizzy. Before going to sleep, I prayed. When I awoke in the morning, I was still a bit dizzy but was inspired to go ahead with my airport reading room duties. During my shift I was completely healed of the dizziness.

A lady came in who did not speak English. Somehow, she indicated by pointing to her phone and saying some words I could understand that she was trying to meet up with her daughter. I asked her to write her daughter’s phone number on a piece of paper. I then used my phone to call her daughter, who said she was circling around the airport trying to locate her mom. I said to meet her mom at Door 9 on the Departure Level of Terminal 1. I then took mom out the door where her daughter had just pulled up in her car.

A three-generational family came to the window. The grandparent was showing the toddler the magazines in the window. Eventually the parent asked if the toddler could come in and color at our kid’s table. Of course! They commented on the peaceful atmosphere in our Reading Room as they waited for their flight home.

A lady came in who had traveled from Australia to San Francisco. She had been in the terminal for two nights since her luggage ended up in Houston, and she was informed it could take another day or two for it to arrive. All her personal belongings were in her luggage, and she apparently did not have funds for a hotel room. She seemed pretty distraught. I spoke to her of the nature of God (the subject of this week’s Bible Lesson) as Father-Mother, and of God’s care for her every need. We read the 23rd Psalm together and talked of how there could be no “want” for any of God’s children. Since the lost luggage was the airline’s responsibility, I suggested she contact them and ask about care for travelers under such circumstances. She did so and was informed that the airline would pay for a hotel room until her luggage arrived. We prayed more with the 91st Psalm, and she departed with a Bible and Science and Health, and a packet of our spiritual quote cards. Divine Love certainly does meet every human need.

Two college students came in. They are from Spain but are studying at a school on the East Coast of the US. During their winter break, they decided to travel around the country. They arrived at SFO last night at 2 am, saw the Reading Room as they were walking around, and planned to return during our open hours. Their first question as they approached our open door was, “What is this place?” After describing the purpose of a Christian Science Reading Room, I shared information about Mary Baker Eddy. As we talked, they inched closer and closer to the desk. One of them took a picture of the Science and Health I was showing them and asked about the book. I mentioned the chapter on prayer, and how praying as described in the book helped an inmate at a jail where I serve as a Christian Science Chaplain. I also mentioned the last chapter, Fruitage, and the chapters on Genesis and Revelation. We looked at the definitions of Angels, Gethsemane, and God in the Glossary. After looking up in a Christian Science Journal where Christian Science churches are in Spain, they each left with the brochure “What is Christian Science?”

Our Reading Room is located near an outside door. A woman came around the corner of our space, holding onto the window as she walked. She said she needed help. I invited her to come in and have a seat. She said she had just fallen while walking outside. She was in awe that she looked up and saw us – not a coffee shop. We both remarked that her being near the Reading Room wasn’t a coincidence but was proof of God’s care. I was able to help her get in contact with someone who could help her get to her hotel. She expressed much gratitude for our peaceful environment and assistance.

One of the Airport Ambassadors stops by to say “hi” during his shifts. One week he saw travelers pick up a spiritual quote card from the tray outside and asked what it was. I gave him a bundled pack to take with him. The next week he stopped in and asked, “Who is Mary Baker Eddy? I saw her name on the quote cards.” I shared the account of her healing after a fall, and how she went on to record her findings and teachings in Science and Health and to start a church so her discovery would not be lost. He made the connection between the laws of God and the word “Science” in our name. I also shared the account from the September 1982 Christian Science Journal of the police officer who was healed through prayer of crippling injuries sustained on the job (see “A line-of-duty injury that retired me” by John P. Ondrak). The leaven of Truth is active!

An airport worker who had just finished his annual security training saw the Reading Room. He stopped to read the marked Bible Lesson passages in the window and then walked inside. After a lengthy and inspiring conversation, he asked where Christian Science churches are located, and left with a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A traveler stopped in while waiting for his ride. I shared a summary of Mary Baker Eddy’s healing, the establishment of the Christian Science church, and why I am a student of Christian Science. I told about two healings and showed him the chapter “Fruitage” in the textbook. In response to learning that people are healed by just reading the book, he said, “Oh, wow!” He left with a “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A foreign traveler stopped in for directions to BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit). After giving her help to find her way, she actually looked up, noticed where she was, and said, “A wonderful thing, a Christian reading room!” I explained that this is a Christian Science Reading Room. She asked, “It is about Jesus, right?” I then told her it was about God’s laws which can be applied today just as Jesus applied them in his day, and God’s laws are superior to material laws. She put her hand to her heart and said that made her so happy, and “to think I just walked into this place.”

Two attendants were working together on an administrative task when a young man came in and started asking questions. We both offered ideas on what Christian Science is. He was so attentive! One attendant marked a Christian Science Journal for him to show where churches are located where he is stationed (Okinawa). He said he will visit when he returns. He left with the Journal and the “What is Christian Science?” brochure.

A gentleman came in and asked what we do here. I told him about how Mary Baker Eddy was healed after falling on some ice, which led to establishing the Christian Science church. He had some good thoughts in return. I mentioned our weekly and monthly periodicals and the Christian Science Monitor, that there are churches around the world, and that every church has a Reading Room.

One of the SFO Airport Ambassadors always stops to read the marked citations from the Bible Lesson in our window. He came in and we had a nice conversation.

A traveler came in and asked if we were part of Scientology. I told him Christian Science is Bible-based. He asked if we had any literature he could take. He liked the listing of churches and left with a Christian Science Journal.

A United Airlines flight attendant came in. She is a Christian Scientist but doesn’t go to church. We talked for an hour about her spiritual journey. She had lots of great questions about different ways to pray based on divine law.

A young man from India was on his way back home. He was just walking by as he had a long time between flights. He is on his own spiritual journey. He looked around the Study Room and was impressed with the Reading Room.

Our table with quote cards attracted a traveler. After picking up a pack of the cards, he came into the Reading Room. He said he was going through a divorce and was looking for inspiration. He selected a Christian Science Sentinel from our “FREE” rack. I shared ideas on forgiveness and offered an invitation to an upcoming lecture, “Learning to love your enemies,” which was to be live-streamed. If Jesus could forgive while on the cross, we can, too. He took notes of some of the ideas shared on his phone, and said our conversation had been very helpful.

An SFO worker came in and shared stories of his understanding of God, and his questions for God. He is fascinated by the question, “Why did God create us?” And also, by all the things that can happen in our human lives. He recently accepted the idea that the earth must be older than 6000 years. To steer the conversation away from life in matter, I began to talk about how Jesus healed without any material means. He confessed that he has never read the Gospels, but that now he will. He has a Bible app on his phone.

A woman came in and wanted to read. She said, “I’m Episcopalian.” I said, “Same Bible, same Jesus.” I asked if she would like to select a Christian Science Monitor newspaper. Instead, she asked for a “Clia Notes” definition of what distinguishes Christian Science from other Christian denominations. I replied, “We start from the premise that God is absolute and entirely good, and that everything is made like God – quality control; that Jesus showed us how to be God’s children, how to treat each other, and that we cannot improve on or mess up God’s creation.”

As a woman was waiting for her husband to pick her up, she looked at the books on display in our windows and eventually came in and sat down. She is a member of a Christian denomination and was glad to see our store at the airport. We learned we are each active in prison/jail ministry. I shared information with her on how to get involved in Santa Clara County. She left with the “What is Christian Science?” brochure and an invitation to an upcoming lecture that will be live-streamed.

Text message to an attendant: “I had such a blast talking to you! I felt so much peace at the airport and on the plane. Having the Reading Room at the airport sure makes a difference. Thank you so much for sharing the illustration about the old/young woman perspective picture. That’s been really helpful.”

Please visit us on online at www.csreadingroom-sfo.org or call us at 650-821-0105

For comments, questions, or to send a donation, please visit our website or mail to our                NEW MAILING ADDRESS:

Christian Science Reading Room at SFO
San Francisco International Airport
Terminal 1, Departures Level, Door 9
San Francisco, CA 94128

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room. We have been at the airport for nearly 69 years, sharing Christian Science and its healing principles with approximately 2000 visitors each year, including travelers, airport personnel, and the local community.

Regular Contributions
Contributions are always welcome and can be made on our website at https://www.csreadingroom-sfo.org/donate or by check (made payable to: Christian Science Reading Room) to the mailing address noted above.

Matching Fund Giving
Last August, we initiated a $50k matching campaign to cover our operating expenses of approximately $20K per month. We are thrilled to announce the completion of that campaign. In the fall, another donor offered an additional $50k for a second matching campaign. Currently we have raised over $40,000, and encourage you to help us meet the full amount by May 31st.

You can reach out with questions to cs.readingroom.sfo@gmail.com

We thank the Participating churches that serve on our Board year-round. They are:

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Hayward
First Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Altos
First Church of Christ, Scientist, Oakland
First Church of Christ, Scientist, Palo Alto
First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco
Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco
First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Rafael

“The two largest words in the vocabulary of thought are ‘Christian’ and ‘Science.’ The former is the highest style of man; the latter reveals and interprets God and man;it aggregates, amplifies, unfolds, and expresses the ALL-GOD.”
— Mary Baker Eddy, No and Yes, p. 10

Click here to download this report as a PDF

A man came in asking about The Christian Science Monitor. He asked if I was raised in Christian Science. I said I was and related to him the first healing I recall from when I was in early elementary school. I had warts on my hands, legs and even one on my nose. I asked my mom about how to pray. Each day after school we read a KIDS article from The Christian Science Sentinel. At some point my focus turned from the warts to God. As expected, the warts disappeared. He responded that the problems with the world today are due to our focus not being on God. Then he asked if Mary Baker Eddy said anything about angels. We discussed her writing about Gabriel and Michael in The Apocalypse, and the definition of ANGELS in the Glossary. He shared examples of receiving angel messages that directed him to safety when he was a boy. As he left, he asked me to pray for harmony on the family reunion trip he was about to take. I mentioned the account of Abram and Lot. “Let there be no strife between me and thee.” He smiled and said he will go with the expectation of harmony.

 A couple came in after browsing the windows.  They asked first what Christian Science was and I spoke briefly about its founder and history.  They asked next what a Reading Room is, and we talked about its role as a church activity and what it offers for visitors.  They departed with the brochure “What is Christian Science”, a Christian Science Sentinel, a Christian Science Monitor, and cards with quotes from the Bible and the book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.

Since the Reading Room is located near an exterior door, people will stand nearby while arranging their rides.  After a young man finished on his phone, he came in and asked “What is this place?”  In answering his question, I shared with him an overview of Mary Baker Eddy’s discovery of the timelessness of God’s laws including how she found freedom from injuries by reading an account of healing from her Bible.  When Christian churches of her day didn’t embrace what she discovered, she founded the Christian Science church.  I pointed out that this church is different from other Christian denominations in that our Pastor is two books from which a weekly Bible Lesson is read.  I also mentioned that people don’t need to go through a hierarchy of elders to reach God, but can turn directly to Him. He asked where I got my faith.  I told him that while I was raised in Christian Science I made it my own through a healing I had in my high school/college years. Asked how to pray for a problem he was having, I explained that there are no formulas but to start with perfect God and perfect creation, and gratitude. As he was leaving he said he wanted to pray about a sore ankle but (he wiggled his foot around) it no longer hurt.  He left with a Christian Science Journal so he can follow up with the church in his hometown.

A man saw the pamphlet “Freedom from Addiction” in the window.  He came in asking if he could have one. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the money for it.  I showed him the basket of free pamphlets, and he spent some time picking out 4 or 5.  I gave him a Christian Science Journal with pages marked to a local Reading Room.

An East Indian gentleman who lives in the East Bay came in.  He had just dropped off his son.  He just happened to be walking by and stood at the door.  I welcomed him in and we had the most interesting conversation for about an hour.  He didn’t think Christian Science is a religion, but I was able to show him our pastor and tell him about Mary Baker Eddy and her book Science and Health.  I showed him a Journal and talked about churches around the world.  I suggested he find a church and Reading Room near him.  He wants to learn more.  I also told him about christianscience.com.

A couple came in after reading items in the windows.  They asked what Christian Science is and wondered if the Bible Lesson marked in the window is for daily study and if it can be purchased here.  I gave them the Quarterly.  The woman had picked up a Sentinel from the turnstile of free literature.  The gentleman asked if the Lesson and Monitor could be subscribed to so I showed him how to do that.  We agreed that knowing God better changes us and if we love our neighbor as ourselves, we are keeping the Ten Commandments.

A man from New Zealand came in.  He took the free Full Text Quarterly and several periodicals.  He was very grateful for our Reading Room.

A woman was spending quite a long time reading from our windows. I asked her if I could answer any of her questions.  She said that she was from Oak Forest, near Chicago, and that there is a Christian Science church in that community. She said she found the marked books in our window “spiritually inspiring” and that she is seeking a deeper understanding of God.  We discussed his healing ministry of Jesus who brought the Christ, the word of God to the world. We discussed Mrs. Eddy’s discovery of Christian Science based on the healing of Christ Jesus and discussed the Bible Lesson.  She left with a new June Full Text Quarterly to read on her flight home.

Two people came in.  I learned they just completed their graduate program in data analysis and are headed home to South Korea.  The woman was looking at Bible reference books in the study room.  The man and I began talking.  I was able to share an explanation of our Pastor, the Bible and Science and Health by Mary Baker Eddy.  Before they left, the woman asked if she could take a copy of the “What is Christian Science” brochure.  Yes!  We looked up information in The Christian Science Journal for the location of the Christian Science Society in Seoul.

A man came in and asked about the word “Science” in our name.  I explained the term refers to God’s laws, which are changeless.  He took a “What is Christian Science” brochure with him and a packet of quote cards.

A traveler from New York stepped inside for a brief moment and commented how nice it was to see a Christian Science Reading Room at the airport.

A man popped in to choose a magazine from our free rack.

A young woman came in.  Her parents were students of Christian Science. We prayed the Lord’s Prayer together.

An airport volunteer came in and asked if she could take literature from our free rack.  She took two Christian Science Monitors and commented on the high quality of the publication’s writing.

A young man read our window Bible and then popped his head in and said “I’ve never heard of Christian Science”.  Get this — he lives in Boston!  I gave him a very brief intro and he asked to take our “What is Christian Science” brochure.

A gentleman came in asking about his lost phone, which the device he was holding said was right in this vicinity.  After searching, we suddenly realized it must be downstairs at the police station’s lost and found.  I note this in case this happens again.  The gentleman returned to thank me and say his phone had been successfully retrieved.

An airline attendant came in — touched by walking into the Reading Room. She said her mother had been a Christian Scientist.  It was apparent that it was “a moment” for her.  Now she knows we are here.

A woman who volunteers in the info booth at the airport came in to find what kind of place this is. She thought it was so “cool” that there is a Christian place at the airport where anyone can come in to read. She said she is a Christian herself.  I showed her that our textbook has a section “Key to the Scriptures” and we have Bibles in different languages and invited her to come in anytime we are open or to read some of the week’s Bible Lesson in the windows.

A young woman from Kazakhstan (now living in Dublin, CA) came in.  She was raised Muslim but doesn’t practice or follow it.  She says she’s “looking” for something.  I told her a bit about Mary Baker Eddy and our two books and why I am a Christian Scientist.  She listened carefully and took some of the quote cards with her.

A Delta flight attendant came in asking “What is this place?”  I began by saying that our pastor is the Bible and the book Science and Health. I then told her how Mary Baker Eddy was healed by reading the Bible, and then she wrote Science and Health. I mentioned that we believe in the first chapter of Genesis which describes man as made in the image and likeness of God.  When she said she is a flight attendant, I suggested she check out our church headquarters if she is in Boston.

A curious traveler came in and asked, “What is this place?”  As we talked, I learned that he is a serious student of the Bible. He agreed that healing is to be expected as we pray. After sharing the basics of how Christian Science is different from other religions (e.g. no intermediary between us and God) he mentioned that his wife was suffering from a painful condition.  We walked over to our free rack and quickly found two Christian Science Sentinels containing accounts of healing of pain. He was thrilled to take the Sentinels home to his wife.  He also took a Journal marked for churches in his hometown.

A flight attendant came in to purchase two Full Text Quarterlies.  She was grateful for our convenient location.

An airport employee came by to ask about the Reading Room. Our discussion led to the basic teaching and healings by Christ Jesus, how Mary Baker Eddy discovered the truth of Christ Jesus healings. She asked me for a Bible quote and I suggested she take one from the tray in front of the Reading Room, which she did.

A woman came in asking for prayerful help with some personal concerns, including alcohol issues, a breakup with her fiancée and financial problems. We discussed concepts of God’s qualities and of the importance of keeping our focus on the Christ. As she left, I gave her a Sentinel from our display rack with an article on connecting with God.  She gave me an appreciative smile and a hug.

As a young family walked by, one of the children saw the sign about talking a spiritual thought and asked if she could have one.  Of course, I said yes.  Then the younger brother came in for one.  The adult with them asked if we had rosaries. Since we do not, he took a quote package from the basket.

A man came in – didn’t know anything about Christian Science. He said he was a Christian. I explained that Christian Science is the “Science” of Christianity, that it is based on rules that can be applied for healing.  He took lots of pictures and some free literature.  He wanted to tell his wife.  He is a frequent traveler and said he’d be back next time he is at the airport.

A woman dropped in to get a couple of Sentinels from the free rack.  She said that 14 years ago her daughter had a healing which she relayed with great gratitude.

A man and his son spent some time looking at the table of quote cards. They both selected a card before leaving.

A couple from Guam who were headed to Chicago stopped at our “quote table” during their lay-over and took a picture of it. After selecting some quote cards, they came in and asked if we had a Chinese Bible. I showed them a Chinese/English Bible from our Sales stock. They were happy to find us at SFO!

A flight attendant stopped by the table with Bible quote cards located outside the front door. She was looking through the single cards. I invited her to take one of the rubber-banded bundles. She said, “These are great! I’m going to take some for my friends.”

I had a great conversation about God, Christian Science, material science/observation with a young Muslim man. He took a picture of our textbook. He had 30 minutes while he was waiting for a friend to pick him up, so he came in to find out what Christian Science is.

A traveler stopped in to say how much she likes The Christian Science Monitor. She purchased the latest issue and took another from the free rack. She said one thing she loves about Christian Science is how no one tells you how to think. God speaks to each of us directly.

Please visit us on online at www.csreadingroom-sfo.org

Telephone: 650-821-0105

For comments, questions, or to send a donation, please visit our website or mail to:

Christian Science Reading Room at SFO

San Francisco International Airport

Departures Level, Door 9

San Francisco, CA  94128

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room. We have been at the airport for nearly 68 years, sharing Christian Science and its healing principles with approximately 5700 visitors each year, including travelers, airport personnel, and the local community — with over 60 copies of Science and Health sold annually!

Regular Contributions

Contributions are always welcome and can be made on our website at https://www.csreadingroom-sfo.org/donate or by check (made payable to: Christian Science Reading Room) to the mailing address noted above. 

Matching Fund Giving

In August, we initiated a dollar-for-dollar campaign to cover our operating expenses of approximately $20K per month. We are pleased to announce that the initial $25K goal has been met, unlocking an additional $25K. But that’s not all! Thanks to another generous anonymous donor, we now have an extra $50K in matching funds, bringing the total matching fund to $75K matching fund available through December 15, 2025.

You can reach out with questions to cs.readingroom.sfo@gmail.com .

We thank the Participating churches that serve on our Board year-round. They are:

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Hayward

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Altos

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Oakland

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Palo Alto

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Rafael

“The two largest words in the vocabulary of thought are ‘Christian’ and ‘Science.’
The former is the highest style of man; the latter reveals and interprets God and man;
it aggregates, amplifies, unfolds, and expresses the ALL-GOD.” 

— Mary Baker Eddy, No and Yes, p. 10

Click here to download this report as a PDF

A woman from Atlanta came in and browsed around the study room, commenting on our many Bibles written in several languages and even took a photo of them! She sat down and read the 23rd Psalm from the Bible that was highlighted in the study room. We discussed Lamentations 3:22-23: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” We discussed Mary Baker Eddy’s quote, “Divine Love always has met and always will meet every human need” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures 494:10-11). She was thrilled because her Bible class in Atlanta was using the exact same passage from Lamentations.

An airport IT worker came in and spent all of his time reading the Bible in the “quiet room.” We talked about some of the healings in the Bible and I gave him a card with Bible passages and quotes from Science and Health.  He asked to take photos of the Reading Room to share with his church members and said he would be back.

A woman from Arkansas stopped in briefly and praised Christian Science and our Reading Room. She left after taking a Christian Science Sentinel from our literature rack and a “quote card” with a quote from the Bible and Science and Health.

A Christian Scientist from Allentown, PA, popped in briefly and expressed appreciation for having a Reading Room at SFO.

A gentleman came in wondering what a Christian Science Reading Room was. After an explanation he asked, “How come I never heard of it before?” He purchased a Science and Health and took a complimentary Christian Science Journal so he could locate a church and Reading Room near his home in another state.

A man came in to look through our “Complimentary” literature stand and selected a Sentinel. He stayed in the study room to read the Bible Lesson and when he came out, I mentioned to him that the Journal had listings of churches and reading rooms around the world. As he left, he said he had found a Reading Room near his home. God’s outreach is continually unfolding spiritual ideas.

A woman came in looking for a newspaper to read before her flight. I told her we could do better than that, and briefly described the periodicals displayed on our “Complimentary” literature stand. She selected two issues of the Christian Science Monitor and the pamphlet “What is Christian Science?”

A fellow stopped in and asked if the Monitor was still in print and I assured him it certainly was. He left with a recent Monitor and a Bible quote card.

A woman came in and said she has never seen or heard of such a place. I gave her a thumbnail sketch of a Christian Science Reading Room. She sat down in the quiet room and read the Bible for about half an hour. She was most appreciative upon her departure in knowing more about Christian Science.

An individual called in asking for help with a painful condition. We talked about God’s spiritual creation in Genesis 1, seeing his status as a perfect, painless idea of God. He felt relieved and grateful.

A gentleman came in while waiting for a delayed flight. He wanted to “know more about this place.” We had a wonderful conversation about the power of God’s love and its benefit to us all. He left with a smile of appreciation.

A traveler walked in and said he had seen Christian Science Reading Rooms in many places and didn’t know what they were. As we began to talk, he asked, “What is Christian Science?” We talked about the basic concepts of Christian Science that extended to a longer discussion of our religion in how it follows the healing ministry of Christ Jesus. He picked up the pamphlet “What is Christian Science?” and a Sentinel from our literature rack as he exited.

A young man came in and sat down and began expressing suicidal thoughts and other troubled thinking. He questioned God’s plan for himself, and I urged him to “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart.” We talked about God’s ever-present love and that he is the beloved child of God, as we all are. He departed a bit more at peace.

A man from Ireland was waiting for a late flight and was looking in our window. He walked in, saw the picture of Mary Baker Eddy’s childhood home, and asked what it was. As I was explaining, he wanted to know more about Christian Science. While I was sharing the basic concepts, he picked up some literature on Christian Science and also a Journal on the way out the door.

A man came in and asked, “What is this place?” I showed him our quiet room for reading the Bible and praying, and another area for discussion. I shared that Christian Science is a Christian denomination. The founder originally hadn’t planned to start a new church but thought that what she had learned when healed of severe injuries could be incorporated into the teaching of existing churches. When those ideas were not accepted, she didn’t want the revelation to be lost, so she started a church. I explained that Christian Science teaches that God’s laws, as practiced by prophets and by Jesus and his disciples, are still just as powerful today. He agreed and said it was nice our church offers this kind of space, though he is from Australia. I pulled a Journal from the free literature rack, found the listings for Australia, and showed him his options. I also mentioned Christian Science lectures as another way to learn more. He thanked me and went off to his flight.

Click here to download this report as a PDF

Regular Contributions

Contributions are always welcome and can be made on our website at csreadingroom-sfo.org or by check (made payable to: Christian Science Reading Room) to the mailing address:

Kathi Riley, Treasurer
PO Box 340235
Sacramento, CA 95834

Endowment Fund Giving

We have established a Reading Room Endowment Fund to support both short- and long-term operations at the airport. Please consider contributing via our GoFundMe campaign, or reach out with questions to cs.readingroom.sfo@gmail.com.

We thank our participating churches that serve on the board year-round. They are:

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Hayward

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Altos

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Oakland

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Palo Alto

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Rafael

“The two largest words in the vocabulary of thought are ‘Christian’ and ‘Science.’
The former is the highest style of man; the latter reveals and interprets God and man;
it aggregates, amplifies, unfolds, and expresses the ALL-GOD.” 

— Mary Baker Eddy, No and Yes, p. 10

The post Fruitage Report Spring 2025 first appeared on Christian Science Reading Room.]]> 1008 https://csreadingroom-sfo.org/2024/11/18/fruitage-report-spring-2023-2-2-2/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:14:12 +0000 https://csreadingroom-sfo.org/?p=977 “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)   Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a ...

and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

A woman came in and proceeded to the study room for an hour of reading. Before departing she exclaimed, “The last time I visited I read from the Bible and that ‘other book’ and by the time I arrived home, there was no longer discomfort in my legs. I was completely healed!” Sharing in the gratitude of her healing, I asked if the “other book” she mentioned was Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. She responded, “Oh yes!” I was so grateful she shared her healing with me. She then exclaimed, “I’ll be back!”

An airport employee briefly stopped by to share how much he appreciated our display stands with the daily posting of Bible verses and passages from Science and Health that correspond with the Weekly Bible Lesson. He said he routinely stops by to read the open books and inspiring passages through our large front glass window, accessible to passersby anytime of the day or night.  Selecting and sharing these passages from our Pastor, the Bible and Science and Health, is always an enjoyable and rewarding activity of serving as a Reading Room attendant.

During attendance at an out-of-state Christian Science Bible study event, I mentioned serving as a Reading Room volunteer attendant at the airport to a man who recently moved to San Francisco. That topic prompted another event participant to tell me that someone from their church in Southern California learned of Christian Science through the Reading Room at the airport and eventually became a church member. His entire family now attends the same church. Although this visit to our jointly maintained Reading Room took place years ago, it’s lovely to hear of the impact the visit made.

A traveler visited with her dog. There had been some airline-related issues that led her to rebook her flight and so she was looking for a quiet place to pray before her delayed check-in. Sensing some impatience and frustration due to the delay, I saw an opportunity to share with her an experience and lesson on grace and patience. I told her about my mom and how she would prepare to host the ladies bridge group. The day before she would make floral arrangements with flowers from her garden to place around the house. She would store the flowers in the refrigerator overnight to keep them fresh. One time, however, she was a flower short and decided she would “help” a flower open so it could be beautifully displayed along with the other open ones. The next day when she moved the flower arrangement from the refrigerator, that forcibly opened flower had shriveled and wilted. I then shared with her a spiritual perspective and lesson from the experience: It is otherwise helpful and more useful for us to forgo self-will and to let our activities progress in accordance with the natural unfoldment and timing of God’s plan and qualities through each of us as His creation. The woman thanked me for sharing these ideas and departed with a complimentary Christian Science Monitor taken from the literature basket. I was later reminded of this quote from Science and Health, “The only intelligence or substance of a thought, a seed, or a flower is God, the creator of it.” (509:5-6)

A traveler stopped in because he had heard about Christian Science and our Reading Room location at the airport. He wanted to spend a few minutes prior to his flight reading healing testimonies. I handed him a copy of a recent Christian Science Sentinel and showed him where he could find weekly testimonies from individuals who relied on Christian Science prayer for healing.

A traveler visited who appeared to be quite pressed for time but was determined to learn about Christian Science before checking in for her flight. She first asked a question our attendants hear a lot, “What is Christian Science?” After explaining to her that it is a Bible-based religion which adheres to the words and works of Christ Jesus through the daily demonstration of those practical truths, she asked a follow-up question about what she could personally do each day to practice Christian Science. I was led to share with her this passage from Science and Health, “Self-forgetfulness, purity, and affection are constant prayers. Practice not profession, understanding not belief, gain the ear and right hand of omnipotence and they assuredly call down infinite blessings.” (15:26-30) We talked briefly about these three activities and how they improve our spirituality and morality which leads to healing both sickness and sin. She was so grateful for our brief discussion and her introduction to Christian Science and Science and Health.

A visitor came in and walked into the study room and began to read from the “oversized” Bible that was opened to the 23rd Psalm. Shortly thereafter he came out to the attendant’s desk to comment that he was feeling very sad due to the passing of a family member. He then shared that he received a great deal of comfort and inspiration reading Psalm 23:4 and 6, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me,” and “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” We discussed Jesus’ overcoming the belief of death by his understanding and demonstration of life eternal, as God’s child created in His spiritual image and likeness. (Gen. 1:26) We also recalled the Bible verse from Isaiah 60:1, “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” I then shared with him a passage from Science and Health, “Life is eternal. We should find this out, and begin the demonstration thereof.” (246:27-28) As he was leaving, I gave him a Christian Science Sentinel from our literature basket which included an article addressing the false claim of death. He departed with a smile and a wave.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room. We have been at the airport for 67 years, sharing Christian Science and its healing principles with approximately 5700 visitors each year including travelers, airport personnel, and the local community–with over 60 copies of Science and Health sold annually!

Regular Contributions

• Please consider giving during our donation matching campaign!
• Every dollar, up to $50,000, is being matched with contributions made between April 1 and July 1, 2024.
• Contributions are always welcome and can be made on our website at csreadingroom-sfo.org or by check (made payable to: Christian Science Reading Room) to the mailing address:

San Francisco International Airport
Christian Science Reading Room, Terminal 2
San Francisco, CA 94125

Endowment Fund Giving

• We have recently established a Reading Room Endowment Fund to support both short-term and long-term operations at the airport.
• Our $4.5 million dollar endowment goal is ambitious, but necessary for sustained operations in an expensive operating environment – we need your financial support today for tomorrow!
• Please consider giving to the Endowment Fund as part of individual, church, or CS Association outreach, or a future financial commitment through personal estate planning.
• If you are interested in giving to the Endowment Fund, please contact us by email at csreadingroomsfo@gmail.com.

We thank our participating churches that serve on the board year-round. They are:

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Hayward

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Altos

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Oakland

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Palo Alto

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Rafael

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

“The two largest words in the vocabulary of thought are ‘Christian’ and ‘Science.’
The former is the highest style of man; the latter reveals and interprets God and man;
it aggregates, amplifies, unfolds, and expresses the ALL-GOD.” (No and Yes, 10:6–10)

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

A traveler, who was talking on his cell phone, approached our front window to read the daily Bible lesson citations marked in the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. After a few moments, I realized he was reading aloud from both books, sharing the citations with a friend through his phone. What blesses one blesses all! (S&H 206:15)

A San Francisco police officer came by one day while on duty, and exclaimed, “I love your daily Bible selections in the window, I read them all the time, thank you!”

An airport employee stopped by to specifically express and share his appreciation and receptivity to the Christian Science Tenets he saw hanging on the Reading Room wall in a picture frame. I shared with him that the Tenets were included in the Christian Science Textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, authored by the religion’s discoverer and founder, Mary Baker Eddy. He took a photo of the Tenets with his phone and was happy to have them for future reference and reflection. He said he would be back to pick up a copy of Science and Health!

A man walked up to read the Bible lesson citations from the marked Bible in the front window. He came to the door and told me how thrilled he was to read them. He went back to take a picture of the verses and said he was eager to call his father to share the passage. After he departed, I thought about how wonderful it is that our pastor, the Bible and Science and Health, is available 7 days a week, 365 days a year. “So shall the glory of God be revealed, all flesh shall see it and all shall be healed; in word and deed declare Him and adore Him. God’s will is done, and all is plain before Him.” (Christian Science Hymnal, No. 246:3)

A visitor came by and started to read the weekly Bible lesson citations from our window and kept looking to his cell phone. After several minutes outside, he entered and went into the study room and pulled one of the bound Christian Science (CS) Journal volumes from the shelf. Shortly thereafter, I went into the study room to offer some assistance and found him with tears in his eyes. He mentioned hearing that Christian Science was a cult religion and wanted to see for himself if this was true. When he was reading the weekly Bible lesson citations out front, he also began reading about Mary Baker Eddy and The Mother Church on his phone and decided to come in to learn more. He randomly grabbed a 1952 CS Journal (Volume 70), and started to read an article on page 169, “The Baptism of the Holy Ghost.” He shared that his wife had lost their son during childbirth, and they were very distraught about it and couldn’t understand “why God had allowed this to happen.” But he said the article immediately consoled and comforted him as he realized more about the truth of God’s love for all mankind, including his son who had passed away. His tears were actually tears of joy from his realization of God’s unyielding love for all His children as expressed in the CS Journal article. The gentleman said he initially came to the Reading Room with the intent to criticize and could only find the love of Christ. He stayed for over two hours asking many questions and departed with several complimentary periodicals, including a recent CS Journal so he could locate a Christian Science church near his home. “Ear hath not heard, nor hath lip spoken, the pure language of Spirit.” (S&H 117:14-15)

An airline employee, who seemed very hurried, entered and asked if we had a Bible for him to read. I showed him to the study area, and he sat down to read an open Bible already marked with the 23rd Psalm. After an hour of additional study, he arose and asked if he could come back. I told him he was always welcome here!

A young man and woman entered and asked if they could read quietly in our study room while they waited for a connecting flight home. They mentioned having just flown in from their honeymoon at a Pacific resort destination. They both reached for a flyer off the attendant’s desk titled, “What is Christian Science?” and sat down to read in the study room. Over the next two and a half hours they read Bible verses from a large reader’s edition and the husband began to share with his wife financial and scheduling concerns about his returning to university this fall. It reminded me of the universal passage from the chapter titled, “Marriage” in Science and Health, “Fulfilling the different demands of their united spheres, their sympathies should blend in sweet confidence and cheer, each partner sustaining the other, — thus hallowing the union of interests and affections, in which the heart finds peace and home.” (S&H 59:11-16) The wife lovingly discussed each concern with her husband until he appeared reassured and confident in moving forward—the time then approached for them to connect with their last flight leg home. The couple departed outwardly expressing much gratitude for the quiet time of study and reflection they experienced, and I audibly expressed gratitude for the divine progress that unfolds daily in each of our lives.

A young man came by to visit, exclaiming he had some time before his flight departed and wanted to “check us out.” He asked about Christian Science and after explaining to him that it is a Bible-based religion which adheres to the words and works of Christ Jesus through the daily demonstration of those practical truths, he shared that he was very conflicted about his own religious beliefs. He proceeded to explain that one of his parents was Muslim and the other Christian. We talked about the universality of God and man. I read to him the respective definitions of each from the glossary in the Christian Science textbook and he really appreciated hearing the ‘connectedness’ between God and ‘his image and likeness,’ man. (S&H 591:6) He couldn’t stay long, and before departing asked rather sheepishly if I would give him a hug. I did so and then shared with him the spiritual universality of brotherhood and love, despite humankind’s individual beliefs. He took one of our Reading Room information flyers and said he would return on subsequent flight connections through the airport.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room. We have been at the airport for 66 years, sharing Christian Science and its healing principles with approximately 5700 visitors each year including travelers, airport personnel, and the local community–with over 60 copies of Science and Health sold annually!

Endowment Fund Giving

• We have recently established a Reading Room endowment fund to support both short-term and long-term operations at the airport.
• Our $4.5 million dollar endowment goal is ambitious, but necessary, for sustained operations in an expensive operating environment – we need your financial support today for ‘tomorrow!’
• Please consider giving to the endowment fund as part of individual, church, or CS Association outreach, or a future financial commitment through personal estate planning.
• If you are interested in giving to the endowment fund, please contact us by email at csreadingroomsfo@gmail.com.

Regular contributions are also always welcome.  Please return to our main website page to do so, or mail a check to our Treasurer at:

Harley Bennett, JMRR Treasurer
23871 Willows Drive, #384
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

We thank our participating churches that serve on the board year-round. They are:

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Oakland

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Palo Alto

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Altos

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Hayward

First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Rafael

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

A young traveling couple came by saying they had seen our signs in the terminal area, and the words “Christian Science” piqued their curiosity. The young man indicated he was having challenges with addiction. I told him that God loves all his creations unconditionally and cherishes us as His perfect image and likeness. We discussed Jeremiah 17:14, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.” We also discussed Psalms 30:1, “I will extol thee, O Lord, for thou hast lifted me up, …” We then discussed a passage from Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, page 393, “Be firm in your understanding that the divine Mind governs, and that in Science man reflects God’s government.” This young man asked if there were Reading Rooms in the area where he lived and so I shared with him a recent Christian Science Journal with the listings of numerous Reading Rooms in his hometown area.

A traveler from Ohio came by saying, “I saw your sign!” She said her late mother-in-law was a devoted Christian Scientist who helped to heal many with their challenges. She sat down in the study room for an hour and read the week’s Bible lesson which had been marked for study. I gave her a copy of the Bible lessons from the previous month, and she picked up some complimentary literature from our basket on her way out.

A woman came in and asked if she could charge her phone and I said “of course” as I showed her to the study room. When I later looked in on her, I found she was reading the week’s Bible lesson. She looked up and said, “What kind of place is this?” I explained there are Christian Science Reading Rooms all around the world and this one is the only one located at an airport. I further explained that the Reading Room is a quiet place for people to come and pray or to read the weekly Bible lesson as she was doing. I shared that the church’s pastor is the holy Bible and the book she was reading from, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. I also explained how Mrs. Eddy discovered the religion and how our church structure was laid out as we went over the church tenets. I also gave her an introduction to some of the healing teachings. She departed with a pamphlet titled, “What is Christian Science?” and a Christian Science Journal to help her to locate a Christian Science church in her area.

One of the airport police officers came in. He said he’s been in the Reading Room several times and this time asked how we might pray for his ill brother in Ireland. We prayed together affirming that all mankind is under God’s loving, healing presence.

A telephone call was received requesting the page number of a poem in a recent Christian Science Sentinel. I was able to provide the caller with the information and the individual happily expressed appreciation.

A man who works at the airport came in and, after a brief glance at our window displays, sat down in front of the attendant’s desk. This man said he had visited our Reading Room months earlier and explained that he was an alcoholic. He shared that he recently had a relapse and was seeking help to overcome the temptation of liquor. We talked about the importance of having God in our lives as a basis of handling challenges. We discussed John 8:36, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed,” and from Science and Health 260: 19-20, “Mortals must change their ideals in order to improve their models,” and 262:27, “The foundation of mortal discord is a false sense of man’s origin. … Divine Mind is the only cause or Principle of existence.” Our conversations continued with return visits.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room. We have been here for nearly 66 years, meeting the spiritual needs of travelers, airport employees, and our local and global community. We are always looking for more volunteers willing to staff the Reading Room, as well as prayerful support and financial contributions.

To make an online donation, please return to our main website page, or mail a check to our Treasurer at:

Harley Bennett, JMRR Treasurer
23871 Willows Drive, #384
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

A former airport policeman stopped in indicating that he was in town for a meeting. Our conversation turned to the Bible when he asked, “What is Christian Science?” I began by explaining that it’s a religion based on the word and works of Christ Jesus and the examples of Jesus’ teachings that we can apply and demonstrate in our lives each day. I handed him a Christian Science brochure on the topic, and we agreed that if everyone were to live by the Sermon on the Mount, our country and world would be a very different place.  We also appreciated together the value and power of living that life for ourselves and following the example of Christ Jesus in everything we do. He spoke of the devil and so I asked him if he had seen the Disney movie “The Little Mermaid” to which he had.  I then described the scene where Ursula’s (the sea witch) two eels talked with Ariel, the Mermaid, suggesting for Ariel to go to the sea witch for a solution to her problems. Of course, Ariel says “no,” then the eels say, “It’s only a suggestion,” and Ariel accepts it and fatefully goes to Ursula. The visitor agreed that error’s claims are false and can’t suggest we do anything we don’t want to do. But, if we are alert to rejecting these false claims and replace them with thoughts of God, good, we are victorious and will stay on the straight and narrow path with Him. He said he used to get a beverage from the café opposite the Reading Room, but never ventured in to talk. He was glad he came in for the visit.

A young woman came in to ask if she could charge her cell phone, and immediately asked, “What kind of place is this?” I told her it is a Christian Science Reading Room, a quiet, peaceful place where people of all religions can come to study, pray, and be closer to God. She walked into the study room and as she charged her phone, she began reading recent copies of the Christian Science Sentinel and Journal. After an hour, she came out and asked if the testimonies of the healings she read were true, and I assured her they were. I further explained to her that a Christian Science Reading Room is a place to study and pray in a quiet, healing atmosphere and is part of the Christian Science Church, a religion that bases its teachings on the healings and lessons of Christ Jesus, the Way shower. I shared with her that all the healings she read were from Christian Scientists around the world, and there are Reading Rooms, as well, open to the public for spiritual discovery and support. I discussed Jesus’ healing ministry and, through study of the Bible, the lessons it taught Mary Baker Eddy, the discoverer and founder of Christian Science.  We talked about Mrs. Eddy turning to the Bible and reading of Jesus’ healing of the palsied man in the book of Matthew when she seriously injured herself after a fall on the ice.  Her clear understanding of how Jesus healed the man, seeing that God created all of us in His image and likeness, spiritual and perfect, led to her immediate and complete healing of all injuries from the fall. I then turned to Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy and read to the visitor the first few words on page 1, “The prayer that reforms the sinner and heals the sick is an absolute faith that all things are possible to God, — a spiritual understanding of Him, an unselfed love.” She asked how she could learn to pray for healing, and I told her she could learn more by reading Science and Health and that there were many practitioners listed in the Christian Science Journal who would support her desire to heal herself and others.  She readily purchased Science and Health and picked up a brochure titled, “What is Christian Science?” Upon her exit, she smiled as I handed her a copy of the previous month’s Christian Science Journal from our complimentary literature basket.

An airport worker was on his way to the airport ‘Lost and Found’ desk and stopped in to ask, “How is Christian Science different from other Christian religions?” After some discussion of Mary Baker Eddy’s discovery of Christian Science, the visitor agreed that healing is possible as he shared examples of answered prayer in his own life. He asked for something he could take with him to better understand how Science and Health serves as an interpretive companion to the Bible and how both are recognized as our pastor.  I also explained how Christian Science churches around the world hear the same Bible lesson each week.  Prior to departing, the visitor purchased a copy of the Bible lesson, and he picked up a Christian Science Sentinel from our literature basket as well as an invitation flyer to an upcoming local Christian Science lecture. The visitor retuned 15 minutes later and shared that ‘Lost and Found’ was unable to locate his item. He then smiled and said he must have been led to this part of the airport terminal to stop and visit the Reading Room!

A gentleman who works at one of the airport Information booths stopped by to say that he has read The Christian Science Monitor since he was in college and how much he appreciated its “fair reporting.” He only had enough time to read a current article on Ukraine, but he gratefully accepted a recent Monitor from our literature basket on his way out.

I was getting ready to close and looked up when I was greeted by a young pilot from a regional airline, who asked “What is this place?” After mentioning that Christian Science is a religion based on the word and healings of Christ Jesus, I gave him a copy of a brochure titled “What is Christian Science?” and he took some free literature as he exited. I hope he might pass by again and visit sometime!

A man walked by the Reading Room a few times and I asked him if I could help him. “Is this the Reading Room?”, he asked. When I confirmed that it was, he said he saw our sign down the hall, that he is a Buddhist Priest, and was seeking a place to pray. We started to talk about some of the basic understandings of the world’s religions and, especially, the effect of Jesus’ ministry on the world. I told him our Reading Room is open to visitors of all backgrounds and practicing religions as a place for study, sharing, and learning more about Christian Science.

A visiting traveler went into the study room to read through the Beatitudes in the book of Matthew. Upon exiting, he mentioned heading to Iowa to conduct a memorial service for his grandfather and that he found what he needed for the service.  He said he would stop by the Reading Room on his return to San Francisco.

An airport electrician came by to read passages from an open Science and Health and Bible displayed in the front window. Upon leaving, he stuck his head into the doorway and said, “My father is a minister and I always like to tell him of the Bible passages in your window for us to discuss.”

An airport police officer came in for the first time and appeared to have a certain sadness about him. I expressed how wonderful it is to have so much of God’s abundant love around us, as a source to draw from when in need. We discussed the 91st Psalm in the Bible and how God’s love embraces us all. The visitor then appeared to be more at peace and, upon leaving, said he will be back. Shortly thereafter, I learned the visiting officer was so despondent because he shot and killed a criminal in the line of duty six months prior. I felt blessed to have been able to discuss some of the healings in the Bible with him that resulted in broadening his awareness of Christ in his life.

A man came in who shared he was raised in Hong Kong and that he now lives next to a Reading Room in San Francisco which he’s visited several times. He also shared that he has attended three services at a local Christian Science church. He had several questions about how to pray without being distracted. I shared some ideas with him when it occurred to me to call my daughter who manages The Mother Church department in Boston, MA that handles the language translations of all of Mary Baker Eddy’s written works. She told me how to find the link to the two Chinese translations of Science and Health at the website, christianscience.com. He seemed very pleased to know where to find and purchase a Chinese translation of the Christian Science textbook.

A traveler on a long layover followed the airport maps to our location.  After arriving, she explained how she found us and remarked how surprised she was to see a Reading Room in an airport.  She was even more surprised when I explained we had been at the airport for nearly 66 years.  She said, “I am a Christian and feel such a sense of peace knowing you are here, and I know it has to be a blessing for all travelers arriving and departing the airport.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room.  We have been here for nearly 66 years, meeting the spiritual needs of travelers, airport employees, and our local and global community. We are always looking for more volunteers willing to staff the Reading Room, as well as prayerful support and financial contributions. 

To make an online donation, please return to our main website page, or mail a check to our Treasurer at:

Harley Bennett, JMRR Treasurer
23871 Willows Drive, #384
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Click here to download the Fruitage Report as a PDF.

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Click here to download this Fruitage Report as a pdf.

A visitor came out of the study room and was excited to talk about the passages he had just read in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. He came in, sat down, and began reading through the textbook and was so pleased because it answered many of his questions.  He said he would like to come in again and learn some more about Christian Science. I said, “Why don’t you purchase a copy of Science and Health? It is only $13.” He was then shown a new copy of both the marble and the mid-sized Sterling editions. He said, “Oh, I’ll purchase one of each.  Science and Health is in the hands of a new reader who will learn and heal with our textbook.”

An airport employee came in and asked a question many attendants hear very often, “What is Christian Science?” We talked about Mary Baker Eddy’s discovery of Christian Science through her study of the Bible and Jesus’ teachings and healing works which led to her deeper understanding of God as infinite Love. This spiritual understanding and the demonstration of God’s qualities in our daily lives and in prayer can heal, redeem, and restore anyone. He then asked some good questions and departed with a pamphlet that further explains the origin of Christian Science, church activities, and the role of both Christian Science practitioners and nurses in healing. He also purchased one of the themed booklets titled, Freedom from Addiction, and then returned to his duties at the airport.

A young man came in wondering what Christian Science was all about.  He was given a copy of “What is Christian Science?” and then we discussed the basic truths of our religion as “the law of God, the law of good…” as defined by Mrs. Eddy in the book Rudimental Divine Science.  He departed with some Christian Science periodicals and a better understanding of God as “. . . all-knowing, all-seeing, all-acting, all-wise, all loving, and eternal;…” (S&H 587:5-6) and man as “…the spiritual image and likeness of God;” (S&H 591:5-6)

A woman came in for a long visit as she had a lengthy wait for her next plane.  She knew nothing about Christian Science nor Mary Baker Eddy, so I started by giving her a handout titled, “What is Christian Science?” I also pointed out our weekly Bible sermon as she was provided a past copy of the Christian Science Quarterly Bible Lessons. We talked in the study room and when she asked for some prayers, I gave her some of our free pamphlets, including one on the Scientific Statement of Being, which we discussed.  She also asked about ‘mesmerism’ which led to pointing her to chapter 5, “Animal Magnetism Unmasked” in Science and Health which she then eagerly read.  We had several thoughtful chats resulting in her taking from the free literature basket several past copies of periodicals, including The Christian Science Sentinel and The Christian Science Journal as she happily departed.

A telephone visitor called in asking to pick up two printed articles and a testimony that were in previous editions of Christian Science Sentinels. I was able to locate one article dealing with a serious skin condition and the other overcoming challenges of alcohol abuse.  In reading through the testimony, I learned the author was arrested many times, but his discovery of Christian Science and Science and Health enabled him to overcome both challenges and eventually led to Christian Science class instruction and church membership.  I was inspired by the account and know this wonderful proof of spiritual progress will meet the needs of our visitor as well.

A young woman came into the Reading Room exclaiming, “Oh great, you’re open!” She was from Boston and said the last time she visited San Francisco was just before the airport’s shutdown due to the pandemic. She said she was working on a challenge and needed time and a quiet place to study.  She was able to spend over an hour in the study room, and then picked up some periodicals and departed with a smile.  I was so happy knowing the Reading Room is serving its purpose “to disseminate our Leader’s revelation for the enlightenment of the world, and providing comfort, spiritual inspiration and a place for prayer and study, for travelers and others.” (Jointly Maintained Reading Room Bylaws)

“Hey, what is this place and what is Christian Science?” a visitor exclaimed as he walked in and took a seat in front of the attendant’s desk. His enthusiasm prompted an hour-long discussion on the teachings and healing efficacy of Christian Science, beginning with the answer to his first question, “Christian Science is a religion based on the words and works of Christ Jesus.”  During the hour, we read aloud the opposing accounts of creation in the first and second chapters of Genesis, reaffirming the absolute truth of the first account as man spiritually created in God’s image and likeness. (Gen. 1:26) The following passage shared from Science and Health helped the visitor further understand his relationship to our Father-Mother God, “As a drop of water is one with the ocean, a ray of light one with the sun, even so God and man, Father and son, are one in being.” (361:16-18) When the visitor then asked what he could specifically do each day to put into practice the teachings of Christian Science, we discussed how to pray for himself and others and turned to a guiding principle in Science and Health that he truly appreciated, “Self-forgetfulness, purity, and affection are constant prayers.” (S&H 15:26–27) As the visitor departed, he selected some Christian Science periodicals from our literature basket to take with him.

“What kind of place is this?”, a visitor walked in exclaiming.  I explained the Reading Room was an extension of Christian Science Bay Area churches and a place to pray and connect with God.  I further shared that the premise of our church is based on the healings of Christ Jesus as given in the Holy Bible.  We read from the book of Job 23:13-14, “He is one mind and, who can turn him? . . . For he performeth the thing that is appointed for me:” This led me to introduce Mary Baker Eddy and her textbook, Science and Health.  I read aloud the first sentence in the Preface, “To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings.” (S&H vii:1-2) I pointed out that Jesus’ healing ability and ministry is just as possible for us today as it was in his time.  I gave him an older Bible lesson Quarterly to study from and explained that our church’s pastor was the Bible and Science and Health.  As we read over some of the Bible lesson citations, he was provided the pamphlet titled, “What is Christian Science?”  He also took some periodicals from our literature distribution basket when I explained they contained accounts of healings through reliance on Christian Science.  After about an hour, our visitor departed spiritually enlightened and eager to find a Christian Science church in the local area.

A couple standing outside our front door looked lost so I went out to offer some assistance. After directing them to the right airport location, the man looked up at our sign above the door and said to his wife, “He works at the Christian Science Reading Room!”  This is a very common experience shared by all our attendants. An act of kindness and outreach resulted in an acknowledgement of appreciation and receptivity.

A young woman came limping into the Reading Room complaining of a leg injury and how one leg was visibly swollen.  I said to her compassionately, “Who said so?” The question captured her attention and receptivity as I mentioned the importance of seeing and accepting God as perfect and her likeness as His perfect expression.  I read to her from Science and Health, “Jesus established in the Christian era the precedent for all Christianity, theology, and healing. Christians are under as direct orders now, as they were then, to be Christlike, to possess the Christ-spirit, to follow the Christ-example, and to heal the sick as well as the sinning.” (S&H 138:17-18) She went into the study room for over an hour and when she came out the limping and swelling had both disappeared!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many Christian Science churches and individuals for their interest in and support of this Reading Room.  We have been here for 65 years, meeting the spiritual needs of travelers, airport employees, and our local and global community. We are always looking for more volunteers willing to staff the Reading Room, as well as prayerful support and financial contributions. 

To make an online donation, please return to our main website page, or mail a check to our Treasurer at:

Harley Bennett, JMRR Treasurer
23871 Willows Drive, #384
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Click here to download the Fruitage Report as a PDF.

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)