This spring break, while thousands of college students migrated south for sun, sand, and decadence, 14 Principians made a different type of pilgrimage. These students opted instead to travel to Boston, expanding their spiritual horizons and deepening their relationship with Christian Science along the way. They even walked in the footsteps of Christian Science discoverer and founder Mary Baker Eddy.

Accompanied by Spiritual Life Director Roger Gordon and Associate Professor of Music Dr. Rose Whitmore, the group visited The First Church of Christ, Scientist; the Mary Baker Eddy Library; and Mrs. Eddy’s home in Chestnut Hill. They were even treated to a rousing and virtuosic postlude on The Mother Church’s iconic organ on Easter Sunday, thanks to Dr. Whitmore.

While the two-week itinerary was loaded with unique Boston activities, ultimately it was the spiritual experience that left the greatest impact. “The goal of Spiritual Life is to nurture and support the spiritual development of all Principia students,” explains Gordon. “The Boston trip serves that goal by connecting students more closely to the Christian Science movement, both its history and the work of the movement today. Each day of the trip provided students ample opportunities to make spiritual discoveries about Christian Science and how they might play a role in it.” 

The impact was felt acutely. “Because I did not grow up in Christian Science and I recently became a Christian Scientist in the last few years, learning about Mary Baker Eddy has always felt surreal to me,” reflected sophomore Hannah Wymer. “Having this opportunity to see where Mary Baker Eddy started this whole movement and started the Mother Church is really fascinating and thought-provoking. I’m so grateful to be here.”

For senior Gloria Flowers, the visit to Chestnut Hill was transformational. “It’s been great to see Mrs. Eddy’s progression—from her humble beginnings, renting rooms in Swampscott to Chestnut Hill. It gives you more historical context and helps you understand how she discovered it.”

Junior Wyatt Shipp, also on the trip, summed up the sentiments: “It’s been an awesome opportunity to connect with Christian Science and deepen our spiritual identities in a real way. It’s been a great experience for all of us.”

For his part, Gordon is already looking to next year: “My hope is for the trip to take place annually, subject to funding and available resources. We are already planning a trip again next year!”