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JUNE 2010 NEWSLETTER

From the Desk of the Rev. Carol A. Brown, NST

BELIEF IN THE BEYOND

The science, philosophy and religion of Spiritualism is being understood and accepted by more and more people as we have entered the twenty-first century.

Spiritualism and the continuity of life has been a part of humankind’s belief system in some form or another since the beginning of civilization. We have only to read our history books in order to understand how humanity’s modern and ancient belief systems and religions have shaped the course of history.

All religions have included the practice of Mediumship and communication with the so-called dead. Even so, the majority of people have not understood this communication is a natural, normal, ongoing occurrence.

Mediumship has been demonstrated and practiced in all religions at one time or another – by the Master teachers, by the founders of religions and by the words written in their sacred books.

Only the church leaders were allowed to know the esoteric teachings. The deeper, spiritual, ideal part of religions were kept within the inner circle – for they believed the common person was incapable of understanding – and the knowledge was kept secret.

Spiritualism is a religion that looks to Infinite Intelligence (God) and spirit for its understanding, its beliefs, and knowledge. It is also a religion that looks to scientific methods to prove the knowledge we have received from spirit is valid. It is a religion of truth and common sense.

Spiritualism declares and affirms that not only is life continuous, but that we can (and do) communicate with those in the spirit world. Indeed, the three main reasons for Mediumship are to prove the continuity of life, to bring comfort to the bereaved and to provide enlightenment to humanity.

During the late 1800’s some Spiritualist’s public lectures and Mediumship demonstrations drew thousands of people … compared to the smaller number of people who regularly sat in home circles.

Today, once again, we are experiencing a resurgence of humankind’s curiosity about life after life as well as his/her willingness to admit believing in spirit communication. We, as Spiritualists, must be aware that over fifty percent of all people believe “somewhat” in the two things that form the basis of our religion – the continuity of life and communication with those who live in the spirit world.

What another person understands today – you may understand tomorrow. What you understand today – another person may need to learn.

Be prepared to learn from others. Be prepared to share your knowledge and understanding. We are all students. We are all teachers.

Most importantly – we, as Spiritualists, must be prepared to intelligently discuss the history, science, philosophy and religion of Spiritualism with those who express an interest in our religion.

Reverend Carol A. Brown, NST

From the desk of: Rev. Lelia E. Cutler, NST, C.M.

WHAT CYCLE ARE WE IN?

When we think about the cycles of pheonomena as described by Emma Hardinge Britten, we wonder what cycle we are in at this time. We went through the first fifty years, 1848-1898, with physical phenomena, including the Fox sisters, D. D. Home, Leonora Piper, etc. Then we went through a cycle of skepticism, 1899-1948, when many mediums were exposed as resorting to fakery to “perform”. The pressure was very intense to provide physical phenomena, such as had been seen in the first fifty years, and some of our mediums resorted to “making it happen.” This was the cycle when we found books such as The Psychic Mafia, and exposure was rampant for those practicing less than truthful mediumship. The cycle of 1949-1999 seems to have focused on mental mediumship, with only a few mediums practicing physical phenomena. While clairvoyance, clairaudience, and clairsentience prove the continuity of life with their own descrip-tions and identification of spirit entities, many people still want to see manifestation. Most of us hear raps in our homes and see spirit lights around us, but we want to see materialized spirits and see the trumpet rise independently and circle the room. We also hear our names called when no physical presence is near.

For those who are sitting to develop these phases of mediumship, please continue. It is my belief that it is possible, and that spirit is manifesting in a myriad of ways. The electronic age is providing different means for spirit to make themselves known. To answer the topic question, I believe we are in the technological age when spirit takes advantage of new and different ways to prove they exist. “Orbs” in pictures, voices on the telephone and on recorders, and the movement of physical articles are exciting and allow us to appreciate the contact of our loved ones and teachers from the spirit side of life. Attend classes, research, and practice. Let’s enjoy this delightful cycle and share what we learn from it.

With Love and light, …. Lelia

From the President: Eugene T. Turner III

“VOICE”

We never hear the fire and brimstone speeches that sometimes rock churches. From our platform things are little calmer. We have heard humor and sometimes a little emotion affect our speakers.

More often our speakers use a warm even tone to teach us. Sometimes they tell us to get quiet and turn within. Listen to the small quiet voice that tries to communicate to us.

The small quiet voice that is spirit. Not to be confused with loud tapes we replay of our moms and dads that remind us to do the right, polite thing.

We don't need to sit and meditate to replay the tapes. They pop up when we encounter a familiar situation.

The small quiet voice is the one we seek in meditation when the mom and pop tapes don't kick in.

We sit and meditate for an answer for everything from the mundane to the esoteric. Spirit seeks to give us advice. We have but to sit and listen.

How we prepare to listen is as varied as the number of people that seek to listen.

A few short minutes in your favorite chair. A little music and incense as we center our selves. A self affirming chant. Or a resonant Om along with a flickering candle. Or a mixture of all of these things.

Jesus and Moses went into the desert for days, then emerged with enlightenment.

I've sat on the beach on a warm summer’s day watching the waves. I felt the peace and energy flow as if carried in on the waves. The energy washing over me as the warm water washed the sand.

The small voice telling me to be at peace and adding clarity to the situations in my life.

During these moments just as the waves smooth the sand, so too are the dips in my spirit smoothed. The dings from life experiences and our frustrations are worn away.

Have you sought that quiet still voice lately. Get still and listen. Spirit wants to talk to you. Old friends need that special time alone.

Eugene T. Turner, III

From the Desk of Fred H. Brown, Vice President

We’re going to discuss the choir this month. As you can tell, we’ve been running short-handed lately, due to various albeit legitimate causes. This means we are looking for additional singers—people with at least some singing ability and a lot of dedication.

It has been said that only half the beauty of a picture is in the picture itself, the other half is in the appreciative eye. This is true of music, and has a vital application to the life and work of the loyal choir singer.

There is an inspirational value in music which is felt by the hearer only when it is first felt by the person who renders the music. Some people are born with an appreciation of good music, others are not so endowed.

One of the rich compensations of the choir singer is the growing appreciation for good religious music, and this increased appreciation qualifies the singer to do better work for Infinite Intelligence and the church.

All is not beer and skittles however—sometimes, no matter how much planning and preparation is done, things awry… In another church, possibly Baptist, the minister had preached a strong sermon on “sin” and had concluded his message with the teachings of Jesus about “hell”, saying that the results of sin may follow the soul into the next life. Then came the anthem. And what did the choir sing? “Oh, to be There Soon”

Another time, another church, after finishing their anthem, the choir was going down the steps on both sides of the rostrum, somewhat like ours, while the congregation was singing lustily “Courage, brother, do not stumble.”

If you find you don’t have a lot to do and an abundance of talent (?), consider our choir...we meet for practice on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. and usually sing during the Sunday morning services.

Fred H. Brown, Certifed Medium

THE ADULT LYCEUM

Our group has just started into H. Gordon Burroughs’, Becoming a Spiritualist. This small book has a wealth of information about Spiritualism as a science, religion, and philosophy and many great discussion points. Come join us each Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. for coffee, coffee cake, and conversation as we explore our Principles and core beliefs. We look forward to seeing you!

FINANCIAL NEWS

“The April month-end balance in the General Fund is $2,514.47, approximately $100 higher than the March month-end balance. This is after a successful Third Annual Spiritualists’ Expo which raised $1,059 during which new interest in our church was stimulated.

Non-typical expenditures of about $700 during April were Expo related, for candles, and our annual subscription to The National Summit magazine (which is available for purchase in the office.)

Our mid-May balance in the General Fund is close to $2500. Your constant generosity is so appreciated; it is your generosity that keeps us financially buoyant.

Charlotte Miller, Treasurer

COMING IN JULY

The fourth of July falls on Sunday. This is an opportunity for us to celebrate together. We anticipate having a picnic lunch following the morning service, with a patriotic theme. We will have some of the usual foods for a picnic, fried chicken, potato salad, veggies, and fruit with iced tea and sodas, but we will also have some “less usual” foods, including vegetarian salads, finger foods for the children, and some delicious desserts. Watch for other fund raisers—spaghetti dinner, a pound auction and other surprises.

REMEMBER JULY AND AUGUST

NO SUNDAY EVENING SERVICE

The Message Project

Granting Their Fondest Wish

Less than 50 percent of children of inmates are able to visit their parents in prison. Those children are seven times more likely to end up in the justice system later in life.

Carolyn LeCroy, Founder of ‘The Messages Project,’ has a wonderful solution to the problem. She utilizes her talents and skills as a media producer and enlists the help of other media professionals to help mothers make simple videotaped messages for their children. The tapes and DVDs of a parent far away, in an often frightening place, simply talking and reading to their children, became the substitute presence of that parent. The DVDs are often used over and over and in ways that attest to the power of the parent-child bond, like hugging the television set, turning down the volume and creating imaginary conversations, or just reassurance that Mom or Dad are okay.

Eventually the effort expanded to include incarcerated fathers. Since 1999, she and other volunteers travel regularly to Virginia prisons at their own expense to produce an estimated 3,500 videotapes under what is now known as “The Message Project.” Social workers report that the tapes are used constantly by the children -- demonstrating the importance of the parent/child bond in a child’s life.

The program has received national and international acclaim, including coverage on CNN and recognition by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. Carolyn had the courage and the perseverance to make a difference by helping families maintain their bond and move beyond the mistakes of the past as they should -- together.

You can help by: Donating a new or gently loved book

Each child receives a book along with the video from their parent. Often the parent reads a book to their child as part of the video. The books help them read a story - together. (For ages 6 and under)

More information is available on our website: www.TheMessageProject.org

Please place donations in the wicker basket on the table in the meeting room.

Thank you for your help! What goes around comes around!

With love and appreciation, Karen Simon

July 2010 Newsletter

July 4th Celebraton

On Sunday, July 4th, we will have our regular church service at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Lelia Cutler as speaker and clairvoyant. Following the service, at 12:30 p.m., we are having a pot-luck picnic on the church grounds with a patriotic theme. Think of an old-fashioned picnic with fried chicken, potato salad, fresh veggies, fruit, and delicious desserts. Just bring a dish that you would like to share, and join us for a real time of fellowship and good food. The theme is red, white and blue.

July 30th-Pot Luck Dinner

A pot-luck dinner will be held on July 30th for a chance for fellowship and sharing. We have a saying: "When two or more Spiritualists gather together, there shall be food." We have two opportunities in July to share food together, plus the social on July 14th. Fellowship is so important and the opportunities to ask questions or share opinions are available at these functions. Come join us.

7:00 PM Service on Wednesday, July 14th

We are having an early evening social in the clasroom prior to the 7:30 pm service, which is a little different. We are having a "Discussion and Message Service" with Rev. Carol Brown and Rev. Lelia Cutler. Good food and communication.

Development class goes to Lily Dale in August

We used to have "Virginia Week" at Lily Dale each August. It is being revived to some degree when eleven members of the Development Class go to Lily Dale for a long weekend in August. For some, it will be their first trip; for others, it will be reviving memories and enjoying the beauty of the grounds and the fellowship of the people.

The Psychomanteum-Portal to the Other Side

On July 24th at 1p.m., Ernie Leard will present a free workshop on the Psychomanteum. The Psychomanteum was developed by Dr. Raymond Moody, noted author, researcher, and pioneer in Near-Death Experieince studies. It is based and designed on his study of the ancient Greek Necromanteum-the Oracle of the Dead. Experiencing the Psychomanteum can facilitate the acquisition of an altered state or a trance state, and frequently leads to contract or communication with the spirits of departed loved ones. Following the presentation, attendees will be able to enter the Psychomanteum and have the opportunity to experience contact with spirit.

If you are interested in attending the workshop, please call or stop by the church office to sign up. You may also want to sign up for a limited number of 30-minute sittings which will be available from 1:30 to 6 p.m. for a $15 donation. Porceeds will be donated to the church.

A pamplet discussing the Psychomanteum will be available in the church office. You can contact Ernie at this home phone, 757-340-1231, if you have any questions.

Dealing with Addiction

'Choices and Changes'

Dealing with any type of addition is very tough. Normal problem solving behaviors just don't work. It seems that the harder people try, the worse things get. As more and more energy and time become focused on the person who is using drugs/alcohol - or the latest crisis - the less time and energy are left for the rest of our lives.

This workshop is about helping you understand what addiction is and what impact it has on relationships and family life. It's about learning how to develop a recovery plan that wooks - for everyone.

The workshop will be held on Sunday, July 25th at 12:30 p.m. following the morning worship service. Bring a bag lunch and take time to get to know those attending. Free-will donation.

Your Workshop Leader

Karen Simon has worked in the field of addiction for over ten years in the areas of prevention and treatment. She completed her internship for her certification in addictions counseling at North Arundel Hospital in Glen Burnie, MD and at Hope House, a non-profit, thirty-day rehabilitation center in Crownsville, MD. Karen served as Family Program Coordinator at both Hope House and Meadows Recovery Center in Gambrills, MD where she deveoped a number of innovative programs for patients and family members.

But, most importantly, Karen has been there. She has coped with a family member's addiction ahd has felt the fear, the pain, and the heartache. By working a program of recovery, she experienced the miracles that a recovery plan can bring. In this workshop, she shows you how you can have that same experience too. Come on-join us - What have you got to lose?

An Esoteric Discussion of The Death Experience

Rev. Simeon Stefanidakis has had to cancel his visit due to unexpected circumstances. The seminar on Death and Dying has been cancelled. We hope to re-schedule in the future.

From the desk of: Rev. Carol A. Brown, NST

FREEDOM

DID YOU KNOW the Objects of Spiritualism promote and encourage freedom?

This Fourth of July, we Americans celebrate our freedom. We ive thanks for beig citizens of a democratic nation with freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of speech, freedom to dissent, and the freedom to move, unencumbered, toward a greater understanding of Infinite Intelligence and spirit. From the NSAC Spiritualist Manual:

OBJECTS

The object of the organized movement of Spiritualism as represented by the National Spiritualist Association of Churches may be stated in part as follows:

To teach the truths and principles expressed in the Declarations of Principles and in the Definitions of "Spiritualism," "A Medium" and "A Spiritualist Healer" as adopted by the National Spiritualist Association of Churches of the United States of America.

To teach and proclaim the science, philosophy and religion of modern Spiritualism, to encourage lectures on all subjects pertaining to the spiritual and secular welfare of mankind. To protest against every attempt to compel mankind to worship God in any particular or prescribed manner. To advocate and promote spiritual healing and to protect and encourage spiritual teachers and mediums in all laudable efforts in giving evidence or proof to mankind of a continued intercourse and relationship between the living and the so-called dead. To encourage every person in holding present beliefs always open to re-statement as growing thought and investigation reveal new truth, thereby leaving every individual free to follow the dictates of reason and conscience in spiritual as in secular affairs.

Spiritualism is a religion that is progressive-not stagnant. We recognize that as humanity progresses, more and more "truths" will be revealed. "Truth" does not change - it is our concept of the ruth that changes. Natural Law does not change - it is our understanding that changes.

As we give thanks for our many freedoms this Fourth of July, take time to re-read and study the "Objects" of Spiritualism. They reinforce the importance of the freedons our religion gives us.

Reverend Carol A. Brown, NST

From the desk of: Rev. Lelia E. Cutler, NST, C.M.

Patriotism - Alive and Well

I am hopelessly and helplessly patriotic. I tear up at the sight of the United Staes flag, and I proudly stand with my hand over my heart when "The Star Spangled Banner" is played. I remember attending the Marine Corps Ball with my husband may years ago, and some of the pride and patriotism are from those days. To see our Marines in dress blues and marching to the sound of a band playing "Stars and Stripes Forever" just sets my mind aflutter. Growing up in Norfolk, Virginia, a military town, there has always been a lot of pride in our armed services. As a U.S.O. hostess, we always lined up and cheered when one of our Navy ships returned to port. What a sight! So many guys in white uniforms (or blue in the winter), lining the rails of the ship after serving in foreign places. Just watching our planes come home (I lived near the Naval Base), sent a chill down the spine. I loved tham all, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marine Corps, the Army, and our Coast Guard.

Our military are what we thank for our freedoms. If it were not for our service men and women, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have. It is important to remember that freedom is not free. We have the opportunity to worship as we please, the freedom to express our opinions when and where we please because we have men and women who are ready to put their lives on the line for those freedoms. When we celerate our country's anniversary, let's take the time to review the Bill of Rights, our Constitution and all the amendments which give us the freedoms to enjoy a peaceful existence every day.

As Spiritualists, we know that the freedom of worship is very important. There are many countries where we could not practice our beloved Spiritualism openly. Many thanks to our forefathers, and to God for our liberties and our lives in these United States. Thank you!

There are abundant opportunities for sharing and worshiping together at MSC---join us when you can.

With Love and light, . . . Lelia

From the President: Eugene T. Turner, III

"Summer breeze makes me feel fine, blowing through the jasmine in my mind." A line from the song by Seals and Croft.

Summertime is here. Vacation, the beach, picnics, and the sunshine.

Just like the Sunflower that the NSAC uses as its Symbol. We look for the light.

In our everyday life, we look for the sun to light our summertime activities.

In Spiritualism, we look for knowledge and confirmation from our spirit guides to shed light on our lack of understanding.

Ever sit on the beach and watch the water while basking in the sunlight? You relax and slip into meditation without intending to.

The still quiet voice talks to us. We replay moments in our lives and find a little clarity.

We sit and revel in the quiet, calm, vibration--not wanting to move. Spirit talks to us, taking advantage of the time. We finally have sat quiet for a moment and allowed ourselves to listen. Enjoy your day at the beach.

During July and August, we are not having Sunday evening services. Sunday morning and Wednesday night, the air will be chillin', the music moving, and the topics hot. Breeze on in and sit a spell.

From the Desk of: Fred H. Brown, C.M., Vice President

Summertime is here. . . Take a walk on the wild side . . . go exploring!

Visit another church. Yes, visit a church of another denomination. Seewhat they're doing.

I recently attended the funeral service for an old friend of mine. Somebody I've known since 1954. The name of the church gave no clue to the type of services they did, but it turned out to be radically different from ours in more ways than one.

Apparently the church body was affluent, as they had a beartiful building, lovely furnishings and a lot of equipment. A piano was used, the organ not, also a set of drums sat on the back of the platform. Microphones sprouted up everywhere; they had recorded accompaniment for the soloists songs. (I have been since told it was a karaoke machine.)

It was the service that was interesting; the minister got started and built his talk to a pitch. It was hard to tell if he was conducting a memorial service or holding a tent-meeting revival. At one point he announced to the congregation they were to feel free to shout!

If you visit another church, you may come back with some ideas which we could use. Or some we would not want to use.

Whatever . . I'm sure upon your return to your home church, you will feel relieved that our services do well in the purposes intended: Inspire us on how to live our lives, and the three main points of Spiritualism mediumship -- prove the continuity of life, console the bereaved, and receive knowledge from those in the spirit world.

Fred H. Brown

Coming in the future:

We have booked the Rev. Richard Schoeller from Happauge, Long Island, New York to return to MSC in March, 2011. Richard has a busy travel schedule, but he is now committed to serving our Norfolk church in March. We are also making arrangements to schedule the Rev. Marian Boesen and the Rev. Arsenia Williams from Chicago, Illinois. If you have a favorite minister you would like to see in Norfolk, please let your Pastoral Committee know.

Musicians note:

Choir practice will also be suspended during the months of July and August. Those interested in singing in the choir mark you calendars for September--we will start practice on Tuesday following Labor Day.

Adult Lyceum

H. Gordon Burroughs tells us in Becoming A Spiritualist that poise is a great tower of strength to the body and to spirit and is the controlling power of all our acts. Poise is produced by knowing how to live and by expressing true sympathy for others. Burroughts further tells us that knowledge, sympathy and poise, wisely used, make for success, health, happiness and true greatness as we are enabled to conserve out forces so that each act counts and each deed accomplishes it purpose.

Come join us at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning as we focus our discussion on thoughts such as the one above. The conversation is always stimulating, the coffee is always hot, and there is always an available chair waiting for you. Hope to see you soon.

Financial News

For the month of May, our spending wwas about $480 more than was received in General Fund offerings. Our month-end balalnce as of May 31st in the General Fund is $2,033.02. The Building Fund and Lyceum Fund balances remain the same as April.

It is your continued generosity that keeps us financially viable and for that we are truly grateful. It is the combination of your time, talent and treasure from all who love this Church that make it such a special place. Thank you for all the heart-felt blessings that you bestow. As you give, so you will receive.

Thoughts from the Internet

I believe that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I believe that you can keep going long after you can't.

I believe that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I beleive that heroes are the people who do what has to e done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I believe that either you control you attitude or it controls you.

I believe that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Sames goes for true love.

I believe that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be the ones to help you get back up.

I believe that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celerated.

I believe that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.

I believe that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help.

I believe that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.

August 2010 Newsletter

From the desk of:

Rev. Lelia E. Cutler, NST, C.M.

VACATION TIME

August seems to be a month of vacations. It is the time before the beginning of the school year, and people want to get a time of relaxation and fun into their schedules before autumn. I am looking forward to a trip to Lily Dale, New York with the Development class, and to a trip to Long Island, New York to serve the Summerland Church of Light in Happaugue. Lily Dale will be a time of excitement for those who never have been to this largest Spiritualist camp, and the many wonders of that environment. The Healing Tree Stump, the Forest Temple, the Healing Chapel, services in the Auditorium, and just the comraderie of people of like mind. There is the opportunity for messages, readings, and of course, the workshops and seminars which are so popular at camp. It will also be a chance to visit with two of our ministers, the Reverends Sylvia and George Kincaid, who reside in Lily Dale.

My trip to Long Island will be an opportunity to share with their congregation and friends. I will be presenting a workshop on “The Language of Spirit—Symbolism,” serve the church as lecturer and clairvoyant, and participate in a fund-raising afternoon of clairvoyance. The pastor of the church, the Rev. Richard Schoeller, is a Trustee on the National Board, and a good friend. It will be nice to see my friends in Happaugue on my second trip to their church.

I will be at home for all four Wednesdays in August, and will be presenting the special series of lectures on Anthony Borgia’s Life In The World Unseen. This is one of my favorite books since it describes the world of spirit beautifully and creates an anticipation of that transition called “death.” I will also refer to his other two books on that subject, as well as the Blue Island by W. T. Stead. Come join us for this special series.

The Pastoral Committee meets on Thursday, Aug. 12th. If you have ideas for us, please let us know. There are abundant opportunities for sharing and worshiping together at MSC—join us when you can.

With Love and light, …. Lelia

From the desk of:

Rev. Carol A. Brown, NST

OUR DIVINITY

There is no need to search the world over to find Infinite Intelligence (God), great wisdom, “the truth” or the divinity we are seeking.

We need but to stop and look around us To see the divinity in nature.

The beauty of the mountains and plains

The deserts and rainforests

The vastness and power of the seas and oceans.

The awesome power or the gentleness of the wind and the rain.

The splendor of the stars in the night skies

The magnificence of the known universe

We need but to stop and listen

To hear the cooing of a baby, the laughter of small children

We have but to look around us To see the evidence of Infinite Intelligence at work in our physical surroundings.

We have but to listen To hear the inner voice of Infinite Intelligence and the wisdom available to us

The sounds of nature – babbling brooks, rustling leaves, melodies of birds

The musical compositions – voices singing in harmony

We have but to look around us To see the evidence of Infinite Intelligence at work in our physical surroundings.

We have but to listen To hear the inner voice of Infinite Intelligence and the wisdom available to us

When we begin to recognize the divinity in nature we will begin to recognize the divinity in our own self – and eventually learn to recognize the divinity in others

We will develop a greater respect for nature, for our self and for others.

Suspicion will give way to Tolerance,

Hate to Love, Gossip to Silence,

Jealousy & Slander to Self-Reliance, Confidence and Cooperation.

Worry and Fear will change to Serenity and Peace.

And Ignorance will give way to Wisdom.

When we truly recognize the divinity within self, in others and throughout nature – and act accordingly – we will, moment by moment, be expressing that divinity here on earth.

Reverend Carol A. Brown, NST

The Lord’s Prayer

(An Interpretation by a Spiritualist)

Our Father which art in Heaven Our Creator, Infinite Intelligence, which are within us

Hallowed be Thy name Blessed by Thy name

Thy Kingdom come Thy Kingdom will come as we listen to the still, small

voice within and learn of Universal Law

Thy will be done Help us to live by those Laws of Nature

In earth as it is in heavenIn this physical plane of life as in the spiritual realms

Give us this day our daily bread We give thinks for the knowledge of abundance for

there is truly no limitation

And forgive us our trespasses We give thanks for our knowledge of the Golden

As we Forgive othersRule, "As we do unto others, so shall we receive"

And lead us not into temptation Let us ever be mindful of our personal responsibililty

But deliver us from evil to always choose wisely.

For Thine is the Kingdom For the totality of God encompasses all things

And the Power Let us use the power of Infinite Intelligence, of God

only for Good

And the Glory And remember we are instruments of Infinite

Intelligence

Forever Forever

Amen Amen

WEDNESDAY SERIES

We are trying to present different services for our Wednesdays during the summer. In August, we will have a series of lectures by Rev. Lelia Cutler on the book, Life In The World Unseen by Anthony Borgia. Mr. Borgia gives an account of what the spirit world is like and some of the experiences of a new arrival in that world. He also has written More About Life In The World Unseen, and Here and Hereafter. For those who are interested in the information received from the spirit realm by those who have made the transition, this series should be informative. Quotes are also included from a favorite volume, The Blue Island by W. T. Stead channeled through Estelle Stead. Death is a natural part of living. Leaving the physical body behind and arriving in the peaceful world of spirit is a very natural phenomenon. Come out on Wednesday evenings and share in this series.

COMING IN SEPTEMBER

Virginia Beach Healing Circle practitioners will be sharing their gifts of energy healing from 10:00 a.m. until noon on September 11th at MSC. This is prior to the Psychic Fair which begins at 1:00 pm. If you plan to attend, bring a sandwich or bag lunch and stay for the fair.

Four accomplished healers will be explaining and then demonstrating the exciting healing modality called Quantum Touch. Quantum Touch is a method of natural healing that works with the energy in the body to promote optimal wellness. It has been proven a very successful method for reducing pain, realigning structure, relieving sinuses, healing injuries, and much more. During the afternoon, the practitioners will be adding their additional healing specialties which include Matrix Energetics, Reiki, Sound Wave Therapy, and Enjoy

FROM THE PRESIDENT:

EUGENE T. TURNER, III

SCHOOL

As we move into August, the children are counting down the last days of freedom, before they start school.

In life, we as Spiritualists know we are in school until we learn all the lessons we have before us.

Some, like myself, are a little hard headed and repeat the lessons a few times until we get it right.

Sometimes it’s not how we react to our challenges, but how we understand them.

When you get a little extra money—and of course that's when the car, the washer, or some other necessity breaks down.

We generally bemoan the expenditure of the little extra money we thought we were going to be able to use for play time or some neat new thing.

We might want to express gratitude that the money was there when needed. I know I changed my thought process that way.

An attitude of gratitude can take you a long way. Putting the positive thoughts out there makes the universe respond with positives.

I'm positively grateful to see all the new and old folks that come to learn with us.

SUMMERTIME… and the Living is easy...

That’s where are now, right in the middle of summertime. Traditionally a time for the farmers between the planting and the harvest. A time for vacation travel and a time to visit relatives and friends. A time to take it easy.

The board of directors of the Memorial Spiritualist Church combined with the pastoral committee have worked up a more relaxed, less formal summer for us...suspending the Sunday evening services, making the Wednesday services feature an interesting variety of subjects, and in general, taking things easy.

The board recently made changes in the dress code for the platform workers to make it easier for the workers and more relaxed for the congregation. Previously the men were required to wear suits or blazers and slacks, with shirts and ties. The ladies were required to wear “Business attire” dresses. Now, the gentlemen do not need to wear jackets and ties; the ladies may wear dress slacks. This will give a more relaxed representation to our congregation, members, friends and visitors.

After much discussion, a vote on this was taken...although not unanimous, it was carried by a substantial margin.

It would be good to have some feed-back from the people in the congregation—how do you feel about this? Do you like the more casual attire? Do you prefer the more dressed-up look. (This is not a referendum, just a survey.) Please let me or Lelia Cutler know which you prefer.

Oh, I’m supposed to report on the building...Kevin has patched the hole in the east wall and expects to paint it soon, he’s waiting for the plaster to dry thoroughly.

Fred H. Brown, Vice President

AUXILIARY NEWS

Thank you for supporting the drinks and snacks in the church. The Auxiliary raises money through the sale of these items, along with special dinners and functions. In return, the auxiliary sponsors many functions by providing the table cloths, plates, cups, cutlery, and paper goods for the church. When we have raised sufficient funds, we often make a donation to the various funds of the church, including the building fund and the convention fund. Thanks again,

Lelia Cutler, Auxiliary Chairperson.

SUMMER

June and July were hot enough for me, thanks. Now we have August trying to make it more humid and muggy and hot!

How did we ever do it as children? We never had air conditioning. We’d run around all day and evening, playing and laughing with friends, the freedom of Summer—our joy.

No school, no books, no homework.

Every evening we’d get our baths, and put on our pj’s and once the sun went down, Mom would lug that big square fan up to the living room window and set it on exhaust.

That one little appliance would drag “cool” air in through three different bedrooms on two separate levels and we’d all sleep comfortably.

I think about it now, and I need to turn the ac down more. Spoiled? Well yes. But I deserve to be pleasantly cool. I am no longer 10 years old and out of school for the Summer, enjoying my freedom and playing the days away.

So many things we used to take for granted, years ago, are now not even a dim memory. We deserve our newly acquired comforts, and can’t even imagine how we used to exist without them.

Cars had no ac then either. Yet every Sunday, all year long, be it freezing cold or hot and humid, we’d put on our “good” clothes and head on out to church. Things were much simpler then. Jesus died for our sins. We celebrated his birthday, his crucifixion and resurrection and we were done. Saved.

Not so simple now, as Spiritualists. We don’t relegate that responsibility to someone else that lived so long ago. We are all responsible for our own lives, our own decisions and actions. It’s a tad more complicated than it used to be, but infinitely more challenging and gratifying when you get it right.

We have laws that inform us of how to live, Natural Laws that afford us information and guidance on how to conduct our lives. Apparently, they’ve always been around and will continue to give us the knowledge we need for many years to come. Even after we cross over.

Apparently we can find our own happiness as we seek and comply with Natural Law. Good to know. I guess the fact that we’re all trying is evidence of the power of the Laws and our intent to get them right while we’re still here.

Remembering the simpler times of my childhood brings back many warm memories. Living the truths of Spiritualism is hopefully creating many new experiences and changes in my life that will bring the joy and peace that I’ve looked shard for.

I ask for the same healing and joyful existence for all of us.

Lynn Streeper

ADULT LYCEUM

Our group is accelerating its discussion of topics in the last half of Becoming a Spiritualist by H. Gordon Burroughs by focusing on the point each group member found stimulating in the assigned chapters.

Burroughs tells us that our lives are often cluttered like an old attic, full of things, old and new, that we may never use. If we were going on a trip to a foreign country, we would select our luggage and the items we were to take very carefully. We would review our selection again to further eliminate the unnecessary. So must we review our lives for excess baggage and remove those attitudes that are heavy and not needed or useful for our present happiness.

Come join us each Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. as we explore thoughts such as the one above. There is always a chair available and the coffee is always ready.

We look forward to seeing you!

FINANCIAL NEWS

Our financial balances remain constant with an ending balance in the General Fund as of June 30th of $2,066.02. The Building Fund’s balance on June 30th was $4,021.38.

We are continually grateful for the generous donations received in our weekly offering plates and through the mail. During the months of August and September, we will be having some fund-raising events to help support our delegates going to the NSAC convention in October. Your support of these events not only enhances the opportunity for fellowship, but supports another facet of our charge as Spiritualists. Please join in these up-coming events as we all share what we love about Spiritualism.

Charlotte Miller, Treasurer

Something to think about:

“Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed a butterfly’s erratic flight or gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on the fly? When you ask ‘How are you?’ Do you hear the reply? ...Life is not a race. Take it slower. Hear the music before the song is over.

FELLOWSHIP IS IMPORTANT

Having the opportunity to fellowship with other people of like mind is very important. Let us know what you like and we will try to provide the opportunities.

SPECIAL WEDNESDAY SERIES OF LECTURES:

AUG. 4, 11, 18, AND 25

AUG. 14: PSYCHIC FAIR 1:00—4:00 P.M. $15.00 DONATION FOR 15 MINUTES

AUGUST 21ST: 7:30 PM TRANCE CIRCLE WITH REV. LELIA E. CUTLER $15.00 DONATION

AUG. 27TH: 6:30 P.M.

BARBEQUE DINNER (HOMEMADE) AND A MOVIE:

THE DaVINCI CODE WITH

DISCUSSION

FREEWILL DONATION

PICTURES FROM THE 2009 NSAC CONVENTION

PICTURES FROM THE

2010 THIRD ANNUAL SPIRITUALIST EXPO