1.
The Fatherhood Of God By
the study of Nature - that is, by trying to understand the Laws of Cause &
Effect which govern all that is happening around us - we recognise that there
is a creative force in the universe. This force, or energy, not only created
the whole universe, but also life itself in its many forms and is continuing to
create today. The effects of this eternal creation can be seen around us and
this leads us to the evidence that 'God' - 'The Creative Force' - manifests
directly, or indirectly, in all things. We know this power as God and as we are
part of the Life created by God, we acknowledge God as our Father.
2.
The Brotherhood Of Man Because
we all come from the same universal life source we are, in effect, one large
family, small individual offshoot from the whole. This means that all mankind
is part of a brotherhood. A brotherhood is a community for mutual support and
comfort. We are all members of the same divine family. We need to share our
joys as well as our burdens; we need to understand the needs of other
individuals in order to assist them as part of our service to each other. As we
learn to give so must we also learn to receive thereby achieving the necessary
balance for our life. We must look not only to the material necessities of our
fellow creatures but also to their spiritual needs and help those in need to
become strong and worthy of their relationship in the Family of God.
3.
The Communion Of Spirits And The Ministry Of Angels All
religions believe in life after death but only Spiritualism shows that it is
true by demonstrating that communication with departed spirits can and does
take place. Spiritualist Churches provide one of the venues where
communication, through mediumship, is possible and many loved relatives and
friends take advantage of this opportunity to continue to take an interest in
our welfare. There are also spirit people/teachers who are dedicated to the
welfare and service of mankind. Some (e.g. Silver Birch) bring inspiration and
teachings whilst others work within the healing ministry.
4.
The Continuous Existence Of The Human Soul It
is scientifically proven that matter (being part of the creative force, or
energy) cannot be destroyed; it merely changes its form. Spirit, as part of the
Creative Force is, therefore, indestructible. On the death of the physical
body, the spirit continues as an integral part of a world, which
interpenetrates our world but in a different dimension. This world is referred
to as the Spirit world. In spirit life we have a spirit body, which until we
progress far enough, is a replica of our earthly body. We are the same
individuals in every way with the same personalities and characteristics and we
change only by progression, or otherwise, as a result of our own efforts. Our
personal responsibilities do not stop at death.
5.
Personal Responsibility This
principle is the one which places responsibility for wrongful thoughts and
deeds where it belongs - with the individual. It is the acceptance of
responsibility for every aspect of our lives and the use to which we place our
lives depends entirely upon ourselves. It is not possible for any other person,
or outside influence, to interfere with our spiritual development, unless we
are willing to allow this. No one can put right the wrongdoing except the
offender. As we are given freedom of choice (freewill) so also are we given the
ability to recognise what is right from what is wrong. We are totally, as well
as personally, responsible.
6.
Compensation And Retribution Hereafter For All The Good And Evil Deeds Done On
Earth As
with all the other Principles, the natural laws apply and this one echoes the
law of Cause and Effect (as you sow, so shall you reap). One cannot be cruel
and vindictive towards others and expect love and popularity in return. It must
be understood that the compensatory or retributive effects of this law operate
now - on earth - they do not wait until we begin to live in the Spirit World.
7.
Eternal Progress Open To Every Human Soul In
every heart there exists the desire for progress and to every human spirit
belongs the power to progress in wisdom and love. All who desire to tread the
path that leads to perfection are able to pursue it. The rate of progress is
directly proportional to the desire for mental and spiritual understanding. If
we do our best in earth life to follow our inward prompting or intuitions; we
shall find progress very easy, on earth as in spirit; if not, every step in
advancement will follow a struggle against imperfections, which we ourselves
will have worked into our natures. Within the Family of God, with all the
advantages that our realisation of that state can give us, we are all given the
opportunity to be responsible for our own eternal progress.