Why did Boston ministers criticize Mary Baker Eddy and Christian Science?

Boston ministers criticized Mary Baker Eddy and the Christian Science movement primarily due to the success she experienced in the 1880s, particularly her ability to convert mainstream Protestants to her cause.1

Beyond the loss of congregants, the tension was rooted in fundamental theological and practical disagreements:

• Theological Divergence: While Eddy utilized Christian language, critics argued that she used it to create an entirely different religion. Her view of creation as being "wholly spiritual" represented a decisive break from traditional Christian cosmology and the core belief in the Incarnation of Jesus.2
• Practical Challenges: Eddy’s teachings posed a direct challenge to conventional religion and medicine. By emphasizing spiritual healing as a central ministry, her movement questioned the established practices of the time.12

These factors, combined with her growing public stature, fueled mounting controversy and led many religious leaders to oppose the church.12