Discover the world from a new perspective
The Christian Science Plaza in Back Bay, Boston, provides an exceptional and unique perspective into the world from 1935 to today. A one-of-a-kind Mapparium® globe brings student groups closer to social studies, including human rights and the founder of Christian Science.
Hands-on educational exhibits tell global stories through a lens of hope, progress and generosity
Visit the immersive How Do You See the World?® experience with the Mapparium globe at the Christian Science Plaza in Back Bay, Boston.
Step inside the globe for a new perspective on our world
Start your visit with a tour of the three-story Mapparium globe. Discover the world from an entirely different perspective as you walk through the stained-glass sphere. See the world as it was in 1935, when the Mapparium globe was completed. Study borders and territories from before World War II—and then see the progress we’ve made since 1935 during a 20-minute narrated light and sound experience.
Discover new stories that highlight the good in humanity
Next, explore “Our World: Mapping Progress,” featuring interactive stories from The Christian Science Monitor that celebrate humanity’s advancements in human rights, science breakthroughs, exploration, and more. The Pulitzer Prize-winning Monitor was founded in 1908 by Mary Baker Eddy with the object to “injure no man, but to bless all mankind.” You can also read the stories of individuals making a difference in their communities. Add a handwritten note to the colorful “Seeds of Hope” wall, where you can reflect on qualities such as joy, courage, forgiveness, resiliency, and compassion.
Learn about the discovery of a global religion and its founder
“Christian Science and Mary Baker Eddy” and “The Mary Baker Eddy Library and Exhibit” offer a short film, artifacts and electronic books that explore the life, ideas and achievements of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910), a pioneer in religion whose work touched the fields of publishing, education and business. Out of her lifelong love and engagement with the Bible, Mary Baker Eddy discovered and founded Christian Science and its global church.
An experience for all ages
These hands-on exhibits blend history, geography and art into one immersive activity, and an Explorer’s Activity Book for students mimics a scavenger hunt. You can customize your Mapparium tour to feature shorter narration presentations for younger students. The entire experience encourages students to reflect and think more deeply about how they see the world.
Tour The Mother Church
Groups can also tour The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, also known as The Mother Church. Explore the stained-glass windows in the Romanesque-style Original Edifice and listen to one of the world’s largest pipe organs in the Extension. Church tours are approximately 40 minutes but can be customized for your group. Afterwards, have a group discussion on the 13-acre Christian Science Plaza or take a moment to pause at the peaceful Reflecting Pool.
Tours are FREE for students under 18
Student group tours of the How Do You See the World? Experiences are free for students under 18. One adult chaperone enters for free with very five students. College or secondary education groups with students above the age of 18 have a group rate of $4 per person. Tours of The Mother Church are always free for all.
Photos ©The First Church of Christ, Scientist. Used by permission.
CONTACT:
- Group Tours Coordinator
- GroupVisits@christianscience.com
- 617-450-7330
- 210 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA, 02115
