About Our Work

The first known Christian Science institutional work in Oregon began in 1900.  In the Salem area, institutional services were handled by the church’s care committee through the 1960s.  Members rotated through the duties of holding regular or semi-regular services at the Oregon State Penitentiary, but services were sporadic.  During the 1970s, a paid chaplain was employed and a wholly volunteer steering committee was set up to support this work.  Some written reports were provided, but the main form of communication to the churches was from the chaplain's once-a-year visitation to the churches. 

In the 1980s the paid chaplain position was dissolved, and the committee was re-organized to consist of volunteer chaplains and a volunteer Executive Committee.  At this time, a quarterly 'IS' newsletter was sent to all the churches.  This would be the vehicle by which the committee would communicate their activities and needs to the Oregon branch churches, and in which fruitage from the field would be shared.  Volunteer chaplains were scarce; for many months, there was only one working chaplain, sometimes two.  Twice in the years from 1986 to 1988 an agenda item appeared: "Should this committee be disbanded?"  Much metaphysical work was done.  Each time the question arose, the parable of the "one lost sheep" was an important consideration, and each time disbanding was ruled out.

1n 1990, the prayerful work toward opening the field really began to take hold.  Many new volunteers came forward, and many new institutions were being served.  One very diligent volunteer was able to make the first trip into a youth facility whose doors had been firmly shut to this committee before.  Today we are actively participating in nine correctional facilities, four youth facilities, and three county jails.