Christian Science Reading Room Reopens in Westport After Construction Completion

The First Church of Christ, Scientist in Westport has recently completed the construction of a new reading room, marking a return to the town after a period of absence. The congregation, known as Christian Scientists, maintains a low profile compared to other local religious institutions. Their South Compo Road building is used primarily for Sunday services, Sunday school, and Wednesday testimony meetings.

The new reading room, set to open in September, will serve as a space where individuals can access books and publications, speak with staff, and explore spiritual inquiries. It is part of a broader effort by the denomination to provide community resources and support. The reading room will be open 4 to 6 hours a day, three to four days a week, and will face the parking lot, designed to be a welcoming space for walkers and bikers on Compo Road.

The project was led by Albert Jensen-Moulton, a church member and professional in sustainable home building. He collaborated with architect and developer Bill Shaffer, who had previously worked with Kris Barthelmess, a former Sunday School student who designed the Compo Road church in 1980 as part of his architectural thesis. The glass-fronted reading room is intended to be a comfortable and inviting environment for visitors.

This is not the first reading room in Westport. The denomination previously operated locations on Post Road East and further east, opposite Stop & Shop. The new facility aims to continue this tradition of community engagement and spiritual support. The church plans a soft launch next month before officially opening in September.

The reading room reflects the denomination’s approach to spiritual and educational resources, offering a space for individuals to engage with their teachings and practices. While some have raised concerns about the role of such spaces in promoting alternative views on health and wellness, the church emphasizes its commitment to providing accessible and supportive environments for its members and the broader community.

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