Christian Science Apartments

Christian Science apartments are housing arrangements for senior citizens who wish to live independently in a community supportive of their continued study and practice of Christian Science. These communities may also be known as retirement homes, residential care facilities, or assisted living facilities. These housing arrangements vary in size, location, and services provided. Regardless of what they are called, these communities provide residents with a satisfying combination of independence  freedom from human restriction and dependence on God, Love.

These communities offer a choice of apartment sizes and floor plans, and they can be located in suburban or urban areas. The majority of these communities have common spaces and some type of activities, but the focus is on individual spiritual growth and health rather than socializing or recreation. Some offer services such as meals, housekeeping, and laundry while others do not. Whether the community is independent, co-ops, or a section of a larger facility, it is important that the residents feel safe and secure and that the environment supports their continuing study and practice of Christian Science.

Founded in 1987, Olive Glen is a non-profit residential Christian Science nursing facility that has been providing care since its inception. Located in Sacramento, California, the two acre complex features a home-like atmosphere with six rooms available for those needing care. The home offers three levels of care – Terrace – independent living, Courtyard – assisted living, and Hilltop – skilled Christian Science nursing. Residents live with friends and family members in a friendly, supportive atmosphere where they experience the uplifted thought of Christian Science and receive loving care from dedicated Christian Science nurses and staff.

Generally, Christian Science reading rooms are storefronts in busy parts of town or are situated within the local church building. They are open during retail business hours and staffed by Christian Scientists. They offer, among other things, religious reference books and organizational periodicals. The reading room is usually supervised by the pastor.

In the early 1900s, Chicago’s Christian Science churches adhered to Solon Beman’s Classical Revival design template. Columned porticos and domes sprouted up in wealthy neighborhoods throughout the city, fitting into the rationalizing City Beautiful movement of the Columbian Exposition’s Director of Works, Daniel Burnham. Despite the hefty cultural influence these churches held, their membership never rose much above a quarter million.

The Mission of Glenridge is to provide a place where Christian Scientists, and their spouses, can enjoy life in an environment that encourages the pursuit of spiritual truth and promotes independence. The home is set within Garden Villas, a retirement community in suburban St. Louis, and is run by the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Applicants must be active Mother Church members in good standing and their spouses do not have to be Christian Scientists. Interested parties can learn more about Glenridge by visiting the website or calling the office.