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| About spiritualism First - a definition
The spiritualists at the Cedars come from many walks of life. Some come from a background of 'conventional' religion (perhaps even as ordained ministers / priests). Others lean more towards pagan, or 'earth-religion' beliefs. |
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| One of the wonderful things about spiritualism is that it can happily accommodate this wide range of backgrounds. Unlike many of the other world religions, spiritualism is not exclusive - it does not declare that all those who don't follow the spiritualist way are miserable sinners! Many people are introduced to spiritualism when they are seeking comfort following the death of a close friend or family member, whilst others have been spiritualists all their lives. Spiritualism
doesn't feel the need to scare its followers into obedience by threats of hell
and damnation. Spiritualism at the Cedars is a simple, approachable way of living - there are no fancy robes, convoluted language, ceremonies or incense. We pray to a non-denominational 'Father God' or 'Great White Spirit'- and some may also worship 'Mother Earth'. Services are not conducted by remote priests or ministers - but chaired by members of the Church Committee. People visiting the Cedars for the first time are often pleasantly surprised. They may nervously expect some kind of a seance, maybe in a darkened room, possibly even with mystic symbols and chanting. Actually, none of this happens.... Instead, the service opens with a Prayer (usually delivered by the visiting medium), followed by the Lord's Prayer. After a couple of hymns, the medium will give their clairvoyance, assisted by their spirit guides and helpers. Different mediums work in different ways - some see spirit, some hear spirit, some feel spirit and some do all three. Regardless of how they work - mediums are usually able to give clear evidence of the survival of loved ones, friends and family (also pets!) - by acting as a 'channel' between the person receiving the message and those in spirit. Messages may simply recall a fond memory, uplift those who may be feeling low, or offer gentle guidance and encouragement. The service closes with a hymn and a prayer, followed by the singing of the Vesper.
Spiritualism encompasses far more than can be covered in this brief outline - why not come along to one of our services or other events and find out more for yourself. We
look forward to meeting you !
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