Associations of students make a strong contribution to the dynamic difference of outlook that is characteristic of Christian Science. They help emphasize that the core of genuine religion is a living, active relationship to God and ongoing spiritual growth, which is expressed in practical spiritual healing for others as well as for themselves.

After completing an intensive two-week course of primary Christian Science class instruction, students become members of a continuing Association.

This Association of students meets together once every year in order to keep the spiritual lessons of class fresh and alive and to extend these lessons to a wide range of topics. For example, support and encouragement toward a public practice of Christian Science healing, what it takes to be a follower of Christ Jesus now, ethical standards related to Christian Science treatment, first-hand accounts of healing, economic issues and job security, finding place and purpose, relationships, overcoming grief, helping humanity, and many others.

A dictionary refers to an association as “an organized body of people who have some interest, activity, or purpose in common.” The word also implies a mental or spiritual connection, or relation between thoughts and ideas. And “to associate” means “to keep company,” “to be a companion or comrade.” So an Association of students meets once a year, but the connection, the purpose, the comradeship, goes on all year long.