According to Christian Scientists, the answer is yes. A New York Times report states that “[t]he church has been lobbying in recent years to convince lawmakers that its approach is an alternative way of tending to the sick, and that its costs should be covered by insurance companies and included in health care legislation.” But while the group primarily known for its rejection of conventional medical treatment still considers prayer the best way to combat illness, church leaders are increasingly recognizing the difficulties of their position in the modern world. With shrinking membership and a negative public image, some Christian Scientists are seeking to stress their methods of healing as the best way, but not the only way, for adherents to address health issues. Leaders claim that over the past year, they have increasingly told members to seek a physician’s care if they deem it necessary.
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