What is the Bible lesson-sermon in Christian Science?

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The Mother Church at the Christian Science Center in Boston stands beside a large reflecting pool, with its domed roof and ornate facade visible under a partly cloudy sky. — Christian Science The Mother Church and reflecting pool, Christian Science Center, Boston.

In Christian Science, the "Bible lesson-sermon" serves as the central element of both daily study and the Sunday church service.1

Designated by the church's founder, Mary Baker Eddy, in 1895, the lesson-sermon functions as the denomination's dual "pastor". It consists of selected passages from the Bible and the church's primary textbook, Science and Health, organized around 26 specific subjects.1

During Sunday services, this lesson is read aloud by two elected members of the congregation, known as the first and second readers. Because the lesson-sermon acts as the pastor, these services do not include traditional sacraments.1