Christian Science has been enormously influential in our religious history, and the church is very powerful. It has won an extraordinary number of legal battles in this country. It has succeeded in passing a number of what are called 'religious exemption laws.'

In this quote, Caroline Fraser discusses the significant influence of Christian Science in the religious landscape of the United States. She points out that the Christian Science church has had a profound impact on the nation’s religious history, particularly through its legal victories and political influence. The church’s power is reflected in the number of legal battles it has successfully won, especially those related to its religious practices, which often conflict with mainstream medical and legal standards.

Fraser highlights the church’s success in passing religious exemption laws, which allow individuals or groups to bypass certain laws or regulations based on their religious beliefs. These laws are often controversial, as they can grant exemptions from healthcare requirements, such as immunizations or medical treatments, when they conflict with the tenets of the Christian Science faith. By mentioning these legal successes, Fraser draws attention to the ongoing influence of religious organizations in shaping public policy and legal frameworks, particularly when it comes to issues of freedom of religion and individual rights.

The quote underscores the power of Christian Science as an institution in American society, particularly its ability to navigate the intersection of religion and law. The church's influence has allowed it to secure legal protections that support its unique beliefs, often at the expense of broader public health policies. This speaks to the broader tension in American society between religious freedom and the enforcement of public health laws.

Ultimately, Fraser’s statement illuminates the significant role that Christian Science plays not only in the religious sphere but also in the legal and political domains. Through its legal victories and advocacy for religious exemptions, the church has shaped public policy in ways that continue to spark debates about the balance between religious rights and public health.