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Why does Christian Science refer to the Bible and Science and Health as its dual pastor?

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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 1895, Mary Baker Eddy designated the Bible and her foundational text, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, as the dual "pastor" of the Christian Science church.1

This designation reflects the central role these two books play in the denomination's religious life. Together, they form the "Bible lesson-sermon," which consists of passages covering 26 specific subjects. This lesson-sermon serves as the essential foundation for both the daily study of individual members and the church's Sunday services. During these services, the text is read aloud by two elected readers rather than being delivered by a traditional clergy member. By establishing these texts as the pastor, the church emphasizes that its teachings and spiritual guidance are derived directly from the study of these works.1