Greetings, and welcome to the web page of Circle of Light Independent Spiritualist Church based in St Louis MO!
We are a non-for-profit religious organization that is aligned with the principles of Spiritualism, but we are not part of the traditional Spiritualist current. We operate specifically on the mental plane and higher, and thus work towards individual spiritual development.
The first question of course, then, is “how are you different from the Spiritualism churches that I read about online and in books?” There are very few ways that we differ from them, and thus this will be a short explanation. The first and biggest point to note is that we don’t put the same emphasis on the same perspectives as other Spiritualist churches. In most Spiritualist churches, the emphasis is on contacting loved ones in Spirit. While our message bearers have been trained in techniques to communicate with them and are thus competent to do so, that is not the focus of Circle of Light. The focus of Circle of Light is on personal development, mixed with a dash of practicality. For example, science has already proven many times over, particularly in the latter part of the 19th century and the early 20th century, that consciousness continues after the change called death, and therefore whether or not it does continue is a moot point. There are those reading this that may wish to contact loved ones in Spirit but in our weekly church services we do not generally give messages of this type. Most messages given have to do with spiritual and personal development. And let’s face facts. If there’s a particular family member that was a jerk that transitioned into Spirit; just because they are in Spirit doesn’t mean that they are any less of a jerk. This is the biggest difference between Circle of Light and other Spiritualist churches.
One other difference that is minor overall is that we give messages to all those that give us billets ahead of time. In most Spiritualist churches, there are only some that receive messages, but here we believe in giving all that are seeking what they need for their greatest growth and good because Spiritualism honors all traditions.
Our ordained ministers have completed a three year seminary program of intense study, coupled with service requirements, in order to assure the best quality we at Circle of Light have to offer to the community.
There are also a few other things to be aware of that may be of interest. Usually once a month we hold an activity instead of a meditation to keep the current fresh and alive, so if you are uncomfortable in a group or guided meditation setting, there are other ways to be active in the church, as well as to meet people of like minds. Another option that is available is the use of our library. Our library is open twice a month, and available for all. However, only church members can check out books and take them home. Perusal, though, is always an option.
If one is interested, they can also become a church member. The requirements for this include: 1. Being 18 years of age or older. However, there is also a junior member option available, so simply ask a Board Member for more information. 2. You must attend church services on a regular basis for approximately 6 months consistently. 3. You must be voted on and accepted by the Board of Directors. After a year, during which time you can work closely with your sponsor, you have the option to serve on the Board of Directors to assist in the growth of the church, as well as an increased role of being of service to the community. After all, the more we give, the more we receive from Spirit.
I encourage all that are interested to contact us through here for further information!
Blessings~
Rev Bill Duvendack, President, September 1, 2012
