The Church of Christ Scientist is a Christian denomination that was founded in the late 19th century in the United States. Also known as the Christian Science Church, this denomination teaches that physical illnesses and the problems of life can be overcome through prayer and the understanding of God's spiritual laws. Other terms that are used interchangeably with the Church of Christ Scientist include the Christian Science Church, the Church of Christ Science, the First Church of Christ Scientist, and the Mother Church. These synonyms all refer to the same religious organization and its foundational teachings, which emphasize the power of spiritual healing and the importance of living a life guided by Christian principles.