A Walk Around the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, USA

If you visit Boston and you love architecture like I do, then you must take a walk around the First Church of Christ, Scientist.

First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston U.S. front view — View of the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Photo by Verayea LLC.

It’s a beautiful church in Massachusetts and is the global headquarters for the Christian Science denomination.

A walk around the First Church of Christ Scientist — Walking around the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Photo by Verayea LLC.

I remember the first time I saw this structure. I was visiting a friend who lives nearby, and as I approached the church, it felt as though I’d been transported to a grand European city. The church is beautiful not only in the daytime but even more so at night when the building is illuminated.

It has a big outside area, a reflecting pool, and a splash pad or fountain where children can play in the summer. During Christmas, it is beautifully decorated and lit.

I haven’t had the chance to step inside the church to admire its architecture or see if it matches the exterior’s beauty. However, every time I pass by, I capture an image that I truly cherish.

Fun Facts about the First Church of Christ, Scientist

The church has a Reflecting Pool that is adjacent to it that spans 686 feet. The reflecting pool is so beautiful and reflects the surrounding architecture.

A walk around the First Church of Christ Scientist. Photo by Verayea LLC.

The Mary Baker Eddy Library, part of the complex, houses the famous Mapparium, a three-story stained-glass globe you can walk through. The Mapparium was actually constructed in 1935 and provides a one-of-a-kind view of the world. Naturally, the map of the world has since change since it was built.

The Mapparium is located in the building next to the church and you can take a tour to see it. When you are inside, you can’t help be drawn to the locations from around the world where you have family roots. My eyes immediately went to the map of Africa and specifically to Nigeria and also to the United States.

The Mother Church complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance.

View from Top First Church of Christ, Scientist

Admission and Visiting Details

Admission:
- Visiting the Mother Church and Reflecting Pool is free.
- Admission to the Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library requires a small fee: Adults $6, Seniors/Students $4, Children under 17 are free.
Hours:
- The church and grounds are open daily, generally from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- The Mary Baker Eddy Library is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed on major holidays).
Tickets: No tickets are required for the church; Mapparium tickets can be purchased at the library.

Nearby Attractions

The First Church of Christ, Scientist is located in Boston’s Back Bay area, a neighborhood rich in cultural and historical landmarks. Just a short walk away is the Prudential Center Skywalk Observatory, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Boston’s skyline.

It is also a stroll away from the Boston Symphony Hall, which is the home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. If you enjoy good music then you can combine your visit between these two locations.

Sports fans can explore Fenway Park, the iconic stadium of the Boston Red Sox, which is also nearby.

Additionally, Copley Square, a historic and architecturally stunning area, is close to the church and features landmarks such as Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library.

Have you visited this area? What do you think of the architecture of this church?

Author

Ufuoma Akpotaire

Ufuoma Akpotaire is a passionate book, movie and music reviewer with a love for travel and culture. She combines her enthusiasm for storytelling with her experience exploring new places and stories. Through her reviews, she celebrates creativity and inspires readers to appreciate the connections between books, movies, music, travel, and global cultures.