Dear Friends

What will happen when the world wakes up to the Principle of Omnipresence?

Divine Science bases its teachings on the principle of the omnipresence of God, the changeless and eternal divine truth of God. God, in, through, and as, all. We can never be separated from this truth of our being, and the principle of omnipresence; it is in, and forever expressing through all creation.

We have been given the gift of LIFE that continues to LIVE us. Yet are we ever satisfied? Jesus indicated how we are to realize and experience all the blessings of LIFE: “Seek first the kingdom, and all these things will be added unto you.” And, of course the kingdom he referred to, is that kingdom in consciousness — not of the world. It is not a kingdom of worldly things, material possessions that do not last; and in realizing the truth about LIFE, is our discovery of the kingdom. It is an experience in consciousness; a deep knowing.

Robert Hastings in his essay, “The Station”, talks about the idyllic vision we hold in our minds of how things should be. We see ourselves taking a long train ride and instead of embracing each moment as we travel, we are thinking of arriving at the station where
everything will be as we have envisioned it.

It is forgetting to live now; always striving to be a different age, in a different position and situation in order to be happy. Then Hastings states: “there is no station!” The true joy of life is the trip.

We are not here to fix what humanity has caused in the world. We are here to raise consciousness. For each to realize truly their sacred birth right; and from that realization to know it for all, which is perhaps the most difficult, yet most necessary, task and challenge for each individual.

Spiritual law supersedes the physical and mental laws and it is only when we understand that there is a spiritual foundation in every circumstance can we make mindful choices.
Every day we are given the opportunity to purposefully work and interact with others from the reference point of truth. What will happen when the world awakens to the principle of omnipresence?

Let us together create awareness in our respective communities, and countries, as we unite in the Practice of the Presence of God. We are never apart from our Creative Source, whatever name we know It by; It is our very LIFE, that life-force within. In stillness we sense the Inner Presence in whom we live, move and have our being……

In Closing: I share with you a simple meditation

Right now, united in this moment, we breathe together the breath of Life, as we
acknowledge the originating Cause of all Creation.
As we share this sacred moment of Being, we feel reverence for all of Life.

We accept our individual roles on the stage of unfolding under-standing, knowing that
omnipresence is the equalizing gift to all.
And we hear the words: “ Behold, I make all things new!”

From this place of deep realization we are uplifted in consciousness, and with hearts
overflowing with love and gratitude we say:
“Thank you, O most gracious God, for the promise of your eternal Presence.”

Amen

Bountiful Blessings,
Mallory

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.”
Psalm 118:24

Dear Friends

The Consequences of Consciousness

In life today, seemingly throughout the world, we are experiencing the consequences of consciousness. And what generally seems to be held in consciousness throughout the globe is a sense of separation from our truth.

We are all ‘artists’ in life – creating all the time; and the medium we use is consciousness. Much of the time we do not even realize that we are creating pictures on the canvas of our lives. Are we happy with what we are producing? And do we realize that each and every moment our thoughts, actions, and beliefs have an impact on life’s canvas?

Each of us is a work of art in process – yet paradoxically, each of us is complete. As creations come forth from the Master Artist, our spiritual design or blueprint cannot be other than perfect. But this perfection is not able to be assessed by the human mind, because our human minds see either/or. Our human minds see good/bad, correct/incorrect; always caught up in duality.

The perfect blueprint that each of us is, come forth from the Master Designer, is beyond the level of duality. Creation in this pure, originating form, is absolute and has no opposite. We are responsible for impacting collective (or mass) consciousness, which in turn makes us responsible for the consequences. Are we experiencing the consequences of a belief held in consciousness that only Jesus, Buddha, Moses, for example, were endowed with special gifts of wisdom and truth, and were exceptions to us all? That belief has brought about such a sense of separation in consciousness that is clearly being out-pictured in life today.

Jesus and others have been made into messiahs, different and apart from us, (one of the most misleading ideas) and by believing this we are not living their respective teachings.

Let us joyfully accept our responsibility as we work on maintaining our focus on Truth; remembering who we are and turning to the Presence within instead of laying claim to a limited human belief and outlook on life.

Here at ACT we are about raising consciousness; and through our own uplifted consciousness we contribute to a way of life filled with love, joy, peace and understanding, as we share and experience God’s grace.

In closing…………

“Vision is the cause, the reason, the antecedent of thought. By keeping our attention on any one thing there will come back over the track of our vision the secret of our objective. Therefore let us keep our vision on the Supreme.

Vision is so subtle and so powerful that it determines the success or failures of our lives. No matter what we think, the eye of the mind had preceded our thought. We move to those conditions to which we have given our secret attention.”

In reading and re-reading, and contemplating the above passage from H.B. Jeffery, it makes so much sense. How many times are we not presented with a new idea, for example, and the first thing that comes to mind is: “that’s not possible, I cannot see it happening,” and so on. The thought supporting this ‘vision’ then comes in and together they ‘make it so.’

Bountiful blessings,

Mallory

Dear Friends

This too shall pass

We struggle so often with issues in life and mistakenly believe that it is the human mind that will resolve the very issues or conditions caused by the human state of mind in the first place. So we find our focus on the problem and not on God. We may say: “this too shall pass,” but then we do not let it go. Instead we feed whatever it is with our attention. When our focus is on God – the Presence within – we cannot at the same time be holding on to the problem.

We are told: “it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom,”…and most times instead of being still, to realize this truth, we go looking for it everywhere but within our very own consciousness.

We are not talking “religion” here, we are talking Life! We are talking about universal spiritual principles; about an omnipresent God, the One Source of all that can never be separate from us nor we from It. We have been steered toward embracing and practicing these principles of Life by various way-showers throughout the ages, and when we consciously connect with this truth of our being – that is our true religion – our connection in consciousness with the One.

It is all about consciousness and constant realization of the Inner Presence that is with us always. It (whatever name we know It by), is living us, breathing us, beating our hearts….is it not time we trusted It?

The things of the world come to pass never to stay. Currencies fluctuate, rulers of countries change, fashions come and go; all these things. But who we are in truth, is eternal. It is as our realization in consciousness grows and deepens that ultimately the crooked places become straight.

It is when we turn inwards and drop our focus on the problem that we can move toward it being resolved.

Whatever it is that you may feel challenged by, at this time, turn your attention to God, and know with gentle certainty: this too shall pass!

 

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. Childcare is available if arranged and booked before 10:00am on a Friday. There is no charge for childcare during the Sunday Service. CD’s of the Sunday Lessons are available to order @ R25-00.

Meditation: 09:30
Service: 09:45

SPEAKERS – 0CTOBER:

02 Rosemary Batchelor
09 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
16 Sylvia van Zyl
23 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
30 Rosemary Batchelor

DAILY MEDITATION: Our Sanctuary is open to all from Tuesday to Friday, noon to 13:00 for meditation. We invite you to join us for an hour or any part thereof. Come in, light a candle… Be Still… And know. The focus for this month is: Renewed strength. “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles.” Isaiah 40:31

THE SECRETS OF SYMBOLS: Part Two: The Sacred Bird Woman. Friday 07 October, 18:00 for 18:30. A social/supper evening with talk and power-point presentation by Louise Luders. Join us for a symbolic journey to the ancient past. Menu: Burgers (vegetarian available) salad and dessert. A complimentary glass of sherry or juice on arrival. Cost per person is R80.00. Call the office to book on 041-5813309.

MEMBERS’ MARKET: 16 October, after the Service.

ENNEAGRAM WORKSHOPS:

Introduction to the Enneagram. Identify your type. Begin a journey of self-discovery. Class fee R450.00. Individuals who have previously attended an Enneagram class at ACT, pay R250.00. Notes and refreshments included. 21 – 22 October (Friday evening & Saturday full day)

Enneagram Instinctual Subtypes: Our emotional patterns are acted out in three different areas of life: Self Survival, Social, and One-to-One (sexual) relationships. The agenda of the instinctual subtype is playing out in the background of our ordinary daily living – unconsciously. Once we have discovered our subtype, we begin to see how that activity is a conduit for the passion of our primary type. This is a gateway for spiritual realization transformation. Class fee: R950.00. Notes and refreshments included. 24 October to 14 November – Monday afternoons – 14:00 to 17:00 Enquiries and bookings: Sylvia van Zyl, an accredited Teacher of the Enneagram in the Narrative Tradition, 082-7082857 or s.vanzyl@telkomsa.net.

BRING ‘N BRAAI: Sunday 30 October after the Service. Jackie van Rensburg will be entertaining us with her guitar music and singing. Bring along what you wish to braai, your liquid refreshment and a salad to share. R60.00 per person includes fire, ‘braaier’, and dessert. There is a list on the notice board, or call Lynne on 063-2295738 to book. All welcome.

In Closing….

“There is no higher goal attainable on earth than an inner communication with this Presence that never leaves us or forsakes us. It does not send us food, clothing, or housing. It is food, clothing, and housing. It does not lead us to a fortress or high tower. There is no sending of anything; there is no giving of anything, except the giving of Itself.

When the realization of the omnipresence of God is attained, there is freedom from worry, fear, lack and limitation. If a need appears, we retire within and tabernacle with the Presence, and in due time, It will appear outwardly as the very form necessary to our experience.

As we come to this place in consciousness where we are able to relinquish human might and power, human opinion and judgement, a divine Grace, invisible, yet perfectly tangible to the person experiencing it, takes over.”

Joel S. Goldsmith – The Thunder of Silence.

 

Bountiful blessings,

Mallory

Dear Friends,

Awareness – Our Most Valuable Currency

Life offers us opportunities at every moment; opportunities to be mindful and alert or not. Today we are possibly feeling rather heartened as our currency gains strength on international markets. Yet it is only too obvious that the currency rests on world issues as to whether it gains or loses value.

The divine supply rests perpetually within us as a part of our spiritual nature, and cannot be measured with the yardstick of the world, because it is infinite. Awareness is our most valuable currency, as it is through awareness that we connect with, and know that it is part of our spiritual nature.

It is our awareness in consciousness that is so valuable as, according to spiritual law and principle, everything has its beginning in the invisible. Or we may say: “first in mind, then in manifestation” and whatever it is cannot come into being without it first being in consciousness.

Jesus and Isaiah (examples to us all) each gave their respective messages publicly to all who would listen, but it was also not about the messengers; it was the message (the teaching) that so few really understood. Neither one watered down the truth to suit the tastes or the mood of the masses, yet all were invited to partake and benefit.

When we pay heed to the teaching of truth first, then all else shall be added. But so often it is the pull of the “all else” that grabs us and we look so often for the ‘short cut’ to that.

When we are looking at making the world a better place, then we are paying heed to human evolution – not evolution in spiritual consciousness. Human consciousness alone has not yet “saved” the world.

It is time to count ourselves as part of Isaiah’s remnant who while experiencing life on the planet, know that there is no higher goal attainable than communion with the Inner Presence. Individuals make up the masses / majority; individuals make up the Remnant – individuals who realize that awareness is the most valuable currency.

Jesus’ teaching reminds us of our individual responsibility. In mindfully playing our part, we see past the things of the world to that which is truth, and in spiritual truth we do not depend on things of the world. Isaiah and Jesus served God not for personal glory but to be used to bring the message of truth to all who would hear.

Through awareness, let us invest in the Inner Presence.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

SPEAKERS –September:
04 Rev. Elizabeth Dugmore
11 Rosemary Batchelor
18 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
25 Sylvia van Zyl

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: Our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. We invite you to join us for an hour or any part thereof. Come in, light a candle…. Be Still and Know. Our focus for this month is: Purifying our motives. “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.” Matt.5:8

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held on Sunday 18 September. Once again the market will be held indoors. Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, but it is important that set-up is before the Service commences. Should you wish to participate call us on 041-5813309 for details. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation project.

THE SECRETS OF SYMBOLS: (Part One: The Water Symbol). Join us for a Social/supper evening at ACT for a talk and power-point presentation by Louise Luders. A Delicious simple meal will be served, with complimentary sherry, surprise dessert, as we take a peek at some of the world’s most ancient and well known symbols. Friday 09 September; time 6:00pm for 6:30pm. R60-00 per person. Space is limited and bookings have now almost exceeded the number we can accommodate, but we can put you on the list in case of last-minute cancellations.

WEDNESDAY MORNING MEDITATION: Join Mallory for the follow-on of the guided meditations in the tradition of the Kabbalah. The duration of the meditation is 45 minutes, to be followed by discussion and your donation includes tea / coffee. Commences: 14 September at 10:00am, and continues over a period of seven weeks.

TRIP TO ADDO ELEPHANT PARK: September, being heritage month here in South Africa, the park is open free to the public from Monday 12 September to Friday 16 September. We are taking advantage of this opportunity to enjoy the natural vegetation and wildlife right on our doorstep, and invite you to join us on a day trip to the park with a group from ACT. Seats in vehicles are limited and if you are able to use your own vehicle and offer someone a seat it will be appreciated. Please bring own packed lunches and water for a picnic lunch. For any more details kindly contact Sylvia van Zyl on: 083-7082857. Cost towards fuel for those getting a lift is R60-00 per person.

ACT LIBRARY: The Library continues to serve the members and books are being processed and catalogued continuously to add to the already vast selection on offer. Members may enjoy this facility during the hours of 09:00 to 12 noon from Tuesday to Friday each week, and after the Service on a Sunday morning. CD’s of the Sunday lessons are available to order directly after the Service in the Library.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL: Renewal reminders were sent out recently and we thank you for your enthusiastic response. We have also been approached by several individuals who have suggested that we include our banking details in the newsletter, making it possible for those who wish, from time to time, to make an additional donation or tithe. Your support in consciousness and kind, assists us in maintaining the Centre, and being here as a “pillar of truth” in the community, and we thank those individuals who are mindful of this. Banking details are: Account name: Association of Creative Thought; Nedbank account number: 1215008392; branch code: 121517.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com   Ph: 01892 752085

 

In Closing …..

 “Then there is Sir James Jeans, who says that the universe is “just God.” He says that there isn’t anything in the universe but God; that all the power there is, is God; that all the intelligence, all the substance there is, is God; that there is nothing else. So, you see, he quite agrees with the Apostle Paul, who said, “In Him we live, and move, and have our being.” We live in the One Power; we move in the One Substance; we have our being in the One Intelligence.

We are in the midst of a vast dynamic Power, which is greater than anything we can possibly imagine. That Power is in us. We are charged with It. It is not far off. There is no separation of It from us. It is in the midst of us and we are in the midst of It. It lives, and moves and has Its being in man. It works through man to will and to do. Nothing is impossible to this God Power.”

H.B. Jeffery – The Spirit of Prayer 

 

Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY  

Dear Friends,

God is Love

My message, from a very cold southern hemisphere, deals with the Alchemy of Love. Before continuing let us investigate the meaning of the word, ‘alchemy.’ Briefly it is explained thus:

“Alchemy is an ancient practice shrouded in mystery and secrecy. Its practitioners mainly sought to turn lead into gold, a quest that has captured the imaginations of people for thousands of years. However, the goals of alchemy went far beyond simply creating some golden nuggets. Alchemy was rooted in a complex spiritual worldview in which everything around us contains a sort of universal spirit, and metals were believed not only to be alive but also to grow inside the Earth. When a base, or common metal, such as lead was found, it was thought to simply be a spiritually and physically immature form of higher metals such as gold. To the alchemists, metals were not the unique substances that populate the periodic table, but instead the same thing in different stages or refinement on their way to spiritual perfection.”

But………..back to the alchemy of love, where we are not looking at gold as the result so to speak, but rather, through a deeper understanding, using love as the “catalyst” to perform the transformation. And we are going to look at doing this firstly in our own individual experience, and by doing so, discover then, that we, ourselves automatically become active transformers by being (or becoming) the conduits for inevitable transformation. We cannot expect from others what we, ourselves are not prepared to give. In other words, if we are not showing love, forgiveness and understanding then what is it that will be reciprocated? Do we perhaps keep looking to others to make things right, for the world to come right, or for something out there to change first, to fulfil us??

Joel Goldsmith says: “You cannot have an insufficiency of any kind if your source is God…that makes the source of it infinite.” So when we realize God to be our capacity then we have infinite capacity to love.

We are all vitally part of the huge transformation that is taking place in the seeming chaos that is being experienced in the world right now. Alan Cohen states it clearly in these words:
“Old systems and paradigms have to break down before they can be replaced. Breakdown is the precursor of breakthrough. The darkest time is just before dawn.”

In Jeremiah 17, we read:
“Cursed is the man that trusteth in man……..”
“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord….”
I understand this to indicate that it is up to us to choose whom we shall serve – God or man; it is up to us to decide to trust (get involved with) the material world of effects, and experience the consequences of that choice; or we can place our trust in our Source (whatever name we know It by) and experience the inevitable, unlimited, fruits of Spirit – the choice is ours. And I believe that through what is taking place around us now, we are being forced to sit up and take notice and realize – each one for him or herself: “I am responsible – it’s my turn to step up to the plate. And I am referring to stepping up to the plate in consciousness.

Let us take heed of what Goldsmith says along these lines in his book: “A Parenthesis in Eternity”
It is easy to be a human being full of trouble – that seems to be the easiest thing in the world to be. But it is not easy to be the child of God, spiritually free of troubles. The whole of the spiritual life has to do with an activity of consciousness, an activity of your consciousness and of mine.
To live as the son of God and not as a human being means to dwell consciously in the realization of an invisible presence; it means to live consciously in the awareness that God is the guiding and sustaining principle of our life. There must be a change of base; there must be a change of consciousness.

Every day we are faced with two powers, yet there is only one true power – the power of God, the power of Love. Interestingly, when we do focus on who we are – in truth, each one of us – offspring from the same Source of all Life, then we know that the love that we are responsible for giving, and sharing, is the love from that Source. It is the inherent love in all, and through our deeper understanding, we know it to be the pure, absolute love that is the most powerful force in the universe.
And we have a responsibility as (spiritual) alchemists to begin the process of transformation, using Love to purify and change fear and confusion so evident in the world around us.
What we are seeing largely in the media, in the struggle for power, between individuals, stems from titanic egos. Yet on the other hand we have the “iceberg” of Love; God’s Love. We know that two thirds of an iceberg is submerged, so the titanic egos do not really stand a chance. But it is up to us to wake up to the submerged gold of Truth within each individual; and bring this to the attention of all who are ready to embrace it.

As indicated in the initial simple definition of alchemy: “to the alchemists, metals were the same thing in different stages or refinement, on their way to spiritual perfection.” When acted upon, transformation takes place and the catalyst in question in this message, is LOVE.

Remember, God is being God, through you and me; and Love is using us as transformers; we are the transparencies for that Divine Love. The only separation from our Divine Source is in our own minds.
In Truth – in Spirit – all are one! It is only when we understand and know this for ourselves that we can understand and know it for another; and ultimately for all.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

SPEAKERS –August:
07 Sylvia van Zyl
14 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
21 Rosemary Batchelor
28 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: We remind you that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. We invite you to come in, light a candle, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of August, our candle will be lit for Love – Absolute Love flowing forth through individual consciousness.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held on Sunday 21 August. As previously indicated, due to the colder weather, the market will be held indoors. Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, but need to set up before the Service commences. Should you wish to participate call us on 041-5813309 for details. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space.

TRIVIA EVENING: By popular demand… the next one will be held on Friday 05 August. Time 6:00pm for 6:30pm. An evening of fun and laughter is promised as teams are quizzed on their general knowledge. R60-00 per person includes Hotdogs (vegetarian and non-vegetarian) with trimmings and a glass of sherry. Call us on 041-5813309 to book your space. To facilitate catering, we would appreciate an rsvp by 03 August.

HOLY WORKDAY: Saturday 20 August – a special workday to undertake maintenance activities at the Centre. This will not be an ordinary work party, but a morning of intentional and mindful activity where we work towards a common practical goal (restoring, cleaning and revitalizing material aspects of the Centre) while simultaneously practising “self-remembering”. There will be a theme for contemplation throughout the morning. An unconditional commitment to work together from 09:00 to 1pm will be required. You may phone in to be included and there is a notice on the board.

CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD: This 7-week course facilitated by Gillian Nutt begins Wednesday 31 August; time: 19:00 to 21:00. Cost is R500 for ACT Members; R600 for non-members. In this audio teaching and coaching course you will be guided in a step by step method in changing the way you speak to God. Book directly with Gillian on: 041-3655256 or dr.gillian@telkomsa.net and there is a list for names and all details on the notice board.

THE SECRETS OF SYMBOLS: (Part One: The Water Symbol). Join us for a Social/supper evening at ACT for a talk and power-point presentation by Louise Luders. Delicious simple meal, complimentary sherry, surprise dessert and at peek at some of the world’s most ancient and well known symbols. Book now for Friday 09 September; time 6:00pm for 6:30pm. R60-00 per person.

WEDNESDAY MORNING MEDITATION: Join Mallory over the next seven weeks for the follow-on of the next guided meditations in the tradition of the Kabbalah. The duration of the meditation is 45 minutes, to be followed by discussion and your donation includes tea / coffee. Commences: 14 September at 10:00am.

ACT LIBRARY: We are pleased to announce that some 30 “new books” are now available on our library shelves. These books were donated over the past few months, and we look forward to adding more in the next weeks. The list will be included / attached for your perusal, and we extend our thanks to donors and library volunteers.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com Ph: 01892 752085

In Closing …..
Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: love your neighbour as yourself.”
Matthew 22:37-39

Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY

Dear Friends,

Finding the Sacred in Daily Living

I begin the message this month with a question: Do we overlook the sacred in daily living?

Perhaps we feel swamped at times with so much going on around us, not only in our own families, communities, city, or country; but even in seemingly every country in the world. And in this state of information overload, being overwhelmed by the problems of the world, perhaps we could even state that we do not have time any more for sacred moments.

Yet, now more than ever, it seems, we will find stability in the simple sacred moments. In taking time, silently, to stand in the sun, listen to the breeze, observe the season around us following nature’s law as here in our southern hemisphere there is preparation for hibernation or consolidation of energy. Preparation for inner stillness on the part of nature is an example to follow, because when the time is right (when the season is right) out of that stillness, all will grow, unfold, and bloom in divine order.

Last week I mentioned that we are no longer operating according to the Old Testament laws of an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. And the reason for this is that we have evolved in consciousness, through the teachings of Jesus found in the New Testament, where the law of love supersedes the love of law. When there is such an explosion of human activity distracting us every day, it is so easy to fall back into the Old Testament way. We cannot stay stuck at the level of the old laws, and expect to experience a different world.

Jesus told his disciples: “what is that to thee, follow thou me.” And that did not mean follow the man, but the consciousness of the spiritual teaching and align with spiritual law. How many are ready to do that? Is it perhaps that the material world with all its happenings, is too exciting to give up?

I came across these words in a Christian Science article printed about five years ago:

“The human mind constantly projects images that it believes are true but that have no foundation in the face of spiritual reality. Rather than accepting a material picture, which can at times look hopeless, why not see that God has written the only screenplay, based on His view of reality as spiritual and good? This view exposes the emptiness of the material picture and its resulting malaise.”

In 1984, John Randolph Price together with his wife, Jan, put together the “planetary commission” with the idea of bringing folk together across the globe at the same time, beginning December 31 1986 at noon Greenwich time, in uplifted consciousness. A copy of the World Healing Meditation was printed in the back of some of their published books, and there was an audio tape available with the words of the meditation beautifully spoken. Here at ACT we were part of that first meditation and for a number of years after that. The intention behind this World Healing Meditation was to transform consciousness. And it is only from or through a transformation in consciousness that any lasting change will come about in individual experience.

Right now there is still a need – the only need; and it is a need in individual consciousness – a need within you and me – to maintain the awareness of the Inner Presence. It is not just something we do on a certain day of the year for a specific result, but a practice of BEING IN THE PRESENCE, daily. Everything in our outer environment responds to our thoughts. What are we sending forth each day? What are our responses to life around us? Are we fearing or embracing change? Is our need to be in control of every situation making us anxious?

Remember these words often: “What is that to thee, follow thou me.” And you will find that when challenged in some way perhaps, or indecisive about something, it will help if you stop and say them aloud to yourself. It just puts things into perspective.

Let us not get swept away by all the issues in the world. Let us rather take time to realize that every moment that we stop in awareness of Truth, we are experiencing a sacred moment. It can be the truth behind the creation in nature, or the Divine smiling through the eyes of a child. It can be acknowledging the invisible power of the wind; and it can be gazing at a star-filled night.

What are we seeing each day; are we even seeing the beautiful sunrises or sunsets, the clouds, and looking at the intricacies of colour and design in a flower? These are the things that should be stirring something in us, yet so often we overlook them and we miss valuable opportunities.

We are experiencing appearances of all kinds in the world today and it is up to us to restore peace and harmony, not by appealing to God or trying to use God to change negative conditions. God has nothing to do with what is going on. But when we accept God as the only power then our focus is automatically on truth and the discords on earth diminish. Let us not overlook the sacred in everyday life – the sacred that is always present.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.
 Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

 SPEAKERS –July:
03 Sylvia van Zyl
10 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
17 Rev. Elizabeth Dugmore
24 Rosemary Batchelor
31 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: We remind you that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. All are welcome to come in, light a candle, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of July, our candle will be lit for Inner Peace. The six-week guided meditations will end on Friday 08 July.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held on Sunday 17 July. For the next three months, (July, August, September) due to the colder weather, the market will be held indoors. Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, but need to set up before the Service commences. Should you wish to participate call us on 041-5813309 for details. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space.

TRIVIA EVENING: This function held on 17 June was a great success. Much fun was had with six teams trying to outwit each other in answering the general knowledge questions. Due to popular demand there will be another Trivia evening soon. Thanks to Lynne for the thought-provoking questions and to all who contributed to the supper.

R5000-00 DRAW WINNER: Our congratulations to Kathleen Vincent (in England) who won the draw!!! Jannette Robertson, Kathleen’s Mom, accepted the prize on her behalf.

THANK YOU: We extend gratitude to those who so generously support the Centre in different ways. The enthusiastic participation by folk in support of ACT and the Teaching of Truth is heart-warming. Come summer, our patio will be put to good use for outdoor functions and we acknowledge the time and talents of Judie Stringer who kindly varnished the benches, they are really looking good.

FORTHCOMING CLASSES: Please keep a watch on the noticeboard, and our face book for regular announcements.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com   Ph: 01892 752085

In Closing …..

 As Joel Goldsmith states it:

“Coming into the awareness of the infinite nature of God as Love, makes it virtually impossible for there to be a condition apart from God. Standing fast in this oneness with God, we find the negative appearances disappearing – not because He has healed or removed them, but because, through the realization of the presence of Truth, these negative appearances have been revealed as nothingness, as universal beliefs without substance, without cause, without law, and therefore, without effect.”

 Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY  

Dear Friends,

Be Still and Know

“There is an answer: Let IT be.” The inspiration for my lesson this morning is supported by the well-known Beatles’ song which I am sure many of you know – “Let it be”.
Although the words in the song are stating that in times of trouble we should “let it be”, my main focus in this message today is on taking these words of wisdom a step further, so that we ‘let what IS (in truth) be, not only in times of trouble but constantly through mindful practice of the Presence of God. Interestingly, and before going any further, every day we are “letting what is not, be.” All around us, on a daily basis, we are seeing evidence of what is not true.

Irwin Gregg, who died in 1982, and was Minister Emeritus of First Divine Science Church, Denver, stated:
“The human misconceptions in the world today, commonly accepted, have resulted in all of man’s problems. In the light of our new spiritual knowledge, these misconceptions present a continual challenge. As Divine Scientists we propose to meet the challenge by rising above the human sense and applying our spiritual knowledge to every negative condition. Jesus promised, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” The powerful action of spiritual truth provides the answer to every problem, individual or world-wide. Our work lies in spiritual re-education. In the face of appearances, we remember that God is all-powerful, present everywhere, and working always for good. Only the power that we call God can modify our consciousness. And only the altered consciousness can change human conditions.”

That is what we need to remember and essentially what is required of us is aligning in consciousness with God. But it seems that we are letting our human misconceptions…BE – and although this was stated by Irwin Gregg some years ago, … has it really changed?
So, what is it we are really letting be in our lives today – or allowing, may explain it better. When we are in fierce opposition to something; resisting change in life or challenged by someone, we are letting or allowing that to be our focus. All around us in the world today we are seeing evidence of people rebelling against being constrained or oppressed. On one side the more that groups of people are pushing forward or rising up in protest, so they are being opposed or pushed back by others. It is like an endless tug of war that is spiralling out of control with no-one giving way.

There is a time and place to take a stand and move toward change but there is a non-violent way. In a Christian Science article from some years back relating to issues of that time, I find it applies today.

“As much as humanity is struggling to find peace and empowerment for all, God hold the facts about His creation and unfolds the specifics of those facts to us. The calm heart of the revolution is a quiet heart in protest. It can find peace and rest in eternal promises and can unfold the dignity, worth, strength, and safety of everyone as God’s beloved, protected son and daughters.”

More than ever we need to find that calm deep within. How easy do we find it to be still, when all our senses are on full alert to what is going on around us? Holding to that inner peace within seems at times to be one of the most challenging choices. Yet the answer to all our situations in life (in the world) will come from this inner stillness and the voice of wisdom.

Despite the teachings of Jesus, giving us universal spiritual principles as a way of living life, we still look to the world for healing and abundance. and as one author stated it: “We still leave our bodies to the drug stores to be healed, and our souls to the pulpits.”
Jesus said: “I am come that you might have life, and have it more abundantly.” Are we any closer to realizing and understanding that this promise requires of us to surrender to the inner Christ in consciousness. And this brings us back to letting that truth which is within us, be.
Malinda Cramer, one of the founders of Divine Science, said in an article, that the teachings of Jesus are still a new doctrine in life today and will continue to be so, until we give up on what it is we want, humanly, and become what we are spiritually.
We let what is, be, when we understand that each of us, as individual consciousness, is the instrument through which God expresses and manifests in life.

We are living in a spiritually complete universe which we cannot embrace, see, or know, with our human senses or understanding. What happens though, is that we try humanly to enjoy our spiritual heritage; so we end up with the human trying to be spiritual, when all the time we are already that.
The destiny of each of us is to know who we are in truth and the seeming chaos must ultimately birth something new……something that is always ready to be experienced when consciousness is ready for IT.
And the “something new” is the recognition of the Truth. And this birthing can only occur at the core of our being; in that inner, sacred, silent place of utter, convinced, knowing……… And even in an hour of darkness, we will hear the words of wisdom …..
LET IT BE….. LET IT BE…AND THAT WHICH IS, WILL BE OUR EXPERIENCE.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

SPEAKERS –June:
05 Sylvia van Zyl
12 Rosemary Batchelor
19 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann – Thanksgiving Service
26 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: We remind you that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. All are welcome to come in, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of June, our candle will be lit for Gratitude. For the next six weeks beginning Tuesday 31 May, we will have guided meditation in the tradition of the Kabbalah (40 minutes) followed by 20 minutes of stillness. The meditation each week will be repeated daily for that respective week.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held a week earlier on Sunday 12 June.
Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, and set up in the outside venue. On this Sunday tea will be served out on the veranda. Members who wish to participate can call us on 041-5813309 for details. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space. We have had some very good “tea-times” during the market each month, as folk enjoy the garden and browsing through the books, plants, and wonderful edibles on offer.

DIVINE SCIENCE CLASSES: The Meditation Class, and Higher Training and Consecration Class, respectively, are currently underway. Please keep an eye on the notice board as we have plans for daytime classes and workshops in the forthcoming months. A Basic Principles Class is scheduled for August.

SPEECHCRAFT WORKSHOP: This has been postponed and details of new date to follow.

TRIVIA EVENING: Join us for an evening of fun, laughter and testing your wits! Friday evening 17 June 6.00pm for 6:30pm. Bring along family and friends and make up a team to pool your general knowledge. R60-00 per person includes home-made soup, bread and a glass of sherry. Phone to book your space, (041-5813309) or put your name on the list on the board.

R5000-00 DRAW THIS MONTH: We are doing a final drive to sell tickets. You may still wish to put yourself in line to win the prize and assist in bringing in funds to support the Centre. Your support and participation and enthusiasm in this venture is appreciated. The draw will take place directly after the Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 19 June.

LIBRARY: Books are being processed weekly for inclusion in the library, through cataloguing and capturing on computer. Our sincere thanks to Jean Baz and Doreen Price.

ACT AGM: The Annual General Meeting will take place directly after the Service on Sunday 05 June.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com Ph: 01892 752085

In Closing …..

Hebrews 12:28

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken,
let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably
with reverence and awe.

Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY

Dear Friends,

The Lord (Law) is my Shepherd

We all yearn to connect with Truth and meaning in life, don’t we? Yet perhaps what holds us back more than anything is our resistance to surrendering or giving way to a different way of being; maybe another way would to put it, is we resist losing control, even if all we seem to be controlling right now is our unhappiness or discontent.

Each day that we are here at the Centre, the candle on the altar is lit to remind us of our focus or intention for the month. This month of April, our lighted candle represents and brings our attention to FAITH; and our daily meditation is also in line with this purpose. Faith requires surrender to something greater than we are, and I am going to share with you a way to do this using these words from Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.” For me it makes sense to substitute the word “Law” for Lord, because for the purpose of understanding the message we are not referring to a physical man as shepherd, but Law – spiritual law.

A meaningful way to depict the first verse of Psalm 23 is: the law is my shepherd, (and when I follow) I do not want. Are we ever satisfied with what we have, or are we always desiring something that we believe is out of our reach? Are we happy and content and trusting, in the present moment? You see, our belief has a “knock-on” effect – something that results inevitably but indirectly from another event or circumstance. Our thoughts and beliefs have energy that moves into manifesting in our world of experience. Just as the following of the law (spiritual law) has a “knock-on” effect in our lives; and we are either living our Truth or we are not. Do we realize the effect that one tiny, seemingly insignificant, thought carries? We are either working with the law (following the shepherd, so to speak) or we are not.

God is not a static being somewhere (a noun) distanced from us. God is an activity in consciousness. And, when we understand this, then we are truly in the promised land. In that moment of realization (for that moment) we understand that the kingdom is within. But it is a process and we need to keep practicing being aware of the Presence.

Jim Rosemergy, in his book, “Even Mystics Have Bills to Pay”, states that God is not supply. God is our source. A consciousness of God is supply. He says that this subtle difference accounts for much misunderstanding of the spiritual realm, and tells us to remember that God does not act through needs. The open door which allows the expression of divine power is spiritual consciousness, an awareness of God. He continues, and I share this briefly: that a consciousness of God is supply. And the divine supply, an awareness of God, is available to everyone. It is not scarce, and can never be depleted so does not have to be stored for the future. Are we prepared to trust this? Or do we still think that our monthly salary is our supply?

In line with this we have the following words from Joel Goldsmith:
“What is spiritual consciousness? Spiritual consciousness is faith and reliance on the Infinite Invisible for all things. Spiritual awareness or consciousness reveals that there is only one God and that there is only one Life, one Love, one Substance, one Law, one Activity, one Cause, and one Effect — every synonym of God that you know. A material consciousness relies on something in the outer world.”

We look at situations in the world and we may even doubt the existence of God in extreme cases of poverty and hardship – and yes, these are evident in the world. And we realize that earthly riches are not available to all. It is the kingdom (in consciousness and not of this world) that is our divine birthright and is available to all.

And when this all becomes clear in individual consciousness, then it is inevitable that it will also be out-pictured in the world – it is spiritual law. First in mind, and then in manifestation; and then, most interestingly, the needs we thought we had, no longer exist or matter.

Emily Cady in her book, “Lessons in Truth,” states it in these words:
“Do you stop to think, really to comprehend what it means to be heirs of God, joint heirs with Christ? (Rom8:17). It means ‘every man is the inlet, and may become the outlet, of all there is in God.’ It means that all that God is and has, is in reality for us, his only heirs, if we only know how to claim our inheritance. This claiming of our rightful inheritance, the inheritance that God wants us to have in our daily life, is just what we are learning to do. It is through Christ, the indwelling Christ, that we are to receive all that God has and is, as much or as little as we can or dare to claim.”

Once again we are being advised to turn to the shepherd – the Christ Consciousness indwelling each one.
The Lord is my shepherd – stated in the present tense, always now. And the “I shall not want” means: I shall not want in consciousness, when I am guided by, connecting with, and aligning with the law. I shall not want for God’s love, wisdom, guidance, joy, understanding and supply.

Throughout this whole psalm the message that comes across is the promise that God is. We need to be still and know this. As our understanding grows, so we become more aware of God as an activity in consciousness, and then we are ready to trust the Law as our shepherd.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

SPEAKERS – May:
01 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
08 Rev. Elizabeth Dugmore
15 Sylvia van Zyl
22 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
29 Rosemary Batchelor

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: We remind you that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. All are welcome to come in, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of May, our candle will be lit as a reminder of our Oneness in Spirit.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held on Sunday 15 May.
Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, and set up in the outside venue. On this Sunday tea will be served out on the veranda. Members who wish to participate can call us on 041-5813309 for details. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space. We have had some very good “tea-times” during the market each month, as folk enjoy the garden and browsing through the books, plants, and wonderful edibles on offer.

DIVINE SCIENCE CLASSES: The Meditation Class, and Higher Training and Consecration Class, respectively, are currently underway. Please keep an eye on the notice board as we have plans for daytime classes and workshops in the forthcoming months.

ACT WORKPARTY: We thank the enthusiastic participants who last month contributed their time and energy to the three hours of nurturing the garden, and building. Your enthusiasm is appreciated.

SPEECHCRAFT WORKSHOP: Saturday 07 May. Make the most of this great opportunity.
Everyone at some time in their lives is called upon to stand up and speak. It may be at a school PTA meeting, a Wedding, Gardening Club or to speak about something meaningful.
Speaking in public is a terrifying thought for many of us so let NEVILLE DUGMORE, a toastmaster for more than three decades, lighten the load by offering some skills, solid tips and to help us along this road.
• All are welcome
• Time: 2:00 to 4:30pm
• Cost: R60-00 per person includes refreshments
• Venue: Association of Creative Thought,
Space is limited to 12 participants so please call us on 041-5813309 to book.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – We look forward to continuous connection with our friends and associates in Truth, in the U.K., and remind anyone now residing in England, or visiting there, of the contact details:
Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com Ph: 01892 752085

In Closing…..

I share with you these words from Dr. Al G. Salazar:

“Life has already placed within each one of us great laws. Laws that we maintain with love and with care, for these laws have the power to bring into our environment situations and conditions that are worthy of a child of God.”

 

Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY

Dear Friends,

“Be still, and know”

In our experience of living in the world, we cannot kid ourselves that there will always be peace, joy, and love when we devote ourselves to following a spiritual path. So what does it really mean for us when we talk about peace in the midst of confusion, and following the Christ Way of life?

So often we read words of wisdom, or hear them spoken, but we do not relate to them ourselves. In other words, perhaps, do we not set ourselves apart from (or aside from) recognizing that all are included in the story of Life? We need the connection to who and what we are in Truth.

This little story will, I trust, explain further: It was a cold winter morning in the metro station in Washington D.C. and commuters were hurrying to their various destinations. A man was playing a violin next to one wall, and had the case open at his feet for donations. He played six Bach pieces over a period of 43 minutes. A few people stopped and listened for a moment or two then hurried on their way. The most attentive listener was a three-year-old boy who stopped, but his mother tugged him along.

The musician finally counted $32.00 from the case, put the instrument away and disappeared into the crowd with no applaud or thanks. No-one had realized that the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the world’s greatest violin virtuosos. Only days earlier he had played to a sold-out crowd at $100.00 a ticket.

This impromptu concert had been sponsored by the Washington Post as a social experiment to see if people could perceive greatness in their midst, if they were not informed of it beforehand. The commuters had not expected genius, so they completely overlooked the gift of a free concert. They were too busy!

Can this be said of us as well? Are we too busy to recognize greatness in our midst, to hear music beautifully played, to drink in wisdom from words read or heard, to absorb the beauty and mystery that nature offers every day? In other words, what is it in bypassing these things, that we hope to achieve?

When we investigate the Christ Way of living, we realize immediately that Jesus was not bound to the world. He was bound to Truth, and lived out of that truth in all that he did and set the great example for each of us. So we are not speaking of the Jesus way, but the Christ Way of living. It is not about the man, known as Jesus, but about the consciousness through which he expressed himself and lived his life. So really his human name is not as relevant as his knowing of truth and living that truth.

You know, life is evolving at all levels and my focus in particular is on evolving consciousness. We are these days hearing of, or reading articles about, and maybe even talking about “mysticism” and living the mystical life. It is becoming the norm. Because even with all the distractions of the world there is that deep, deep need within us all, calling us to something more.

To answer that call and be part of the “something more” in life, we have to give up control. It is about understanding that life is a process of unfolding in understanding and awareness. Earlier this week in speaking with someone who was advising us on our website, it was said that we need to keep the message simple for the masses. And at the risk of sounding facetious, we are not about the masses. We are not trying to sell something; we share a message for those ready to hear, ready to recognize, and ready to be.

And the message (Truth) cannot be watered down. It is the message or teaching of universal spiritual principle applicable to all, no matter background, age or creed. Truth is truth and cannot be changed. Jesus never watered down his message, that is why with some he was none too popular. He proved his truth, which we were told is the same for all, yet how many are following and living this truth?

There is an urge deep within us all to: “Be Still, and Know.” And it is knowing in consciousness. Once we have discovered Truth (even to a miniscule degree) in consciousness, we cannot lose it or ‘un-know’ it.

Humanly we have studied the teachings of Jesus, and his great “double-love” commandment to love first God and then our neighbor as ourselves. In order to love God, we need to experience God – experience being in the Presence – in the stillness without taking human thought.

So, maybe finally, we will give up the human beliefs that distract us from Truth and realize the value in taking time to Be Still. The story of the violin being played by a master violinist for all to stop and enjoy, so well illustrates how our scurried busyness takes us away from moments of shared greatness. In the hectic moments and pace of daily human living it requires that we practice awareness of the Presence within until it becomes a habit. Stop and put God first. This is the solution to every problem.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

SPEAKERS –April:
03 Rev. Elizabeth Dugmore
10 Rosemary Batchelor
17  Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
24  Sylvia van Zyl

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: We remind you that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. All are welcome to come in, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of April, our candle will be lit for Faith.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The market this month will be held on Sunday 17 April. Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, and set up in the outside venue. On this Sunday tea will be served out on the veranda. Sellers to provide own table cloth and please book a table by Friday 18 March, 11:00 – call the office 041-5813309. Set up must be before the Service, to avoid any disturbance, and enable venue to be locked during the Service. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space. We look forward to enthusiastic participation by all.

DIVINE SCIENCE MEDITATION CLASS: You are invited to join Mallory for this 10 week course of instruction, using the Lord’s Prayer as a guide to the practical application of meditation in our daily lives. We will also investigate Meditation and Concentration Techniques that quieten and focus the mind.
Commencing: Wednesday 13 April at 7:00 pm.
Investment: R550.00 for course
There is a list for names on the notice board, and you may also phone to book your space in the class.

ACT WORKDAY: We look forward to you joining us on Saturday 16 April from 09:00 to 12 noon. The usual gardening activities are open to volunteers as well as some painting and repair work. We would like to restore our now ‘antique’ round (fibreglass) tables which have acquired a few chips and chunks off their rounded edges. Any suggestions on how these can be repaired and maybe painted, would be valued. Call Sylvia on 083-7082857, ahead of time to discuss your tasks. Tea/coffee and muffins will be served and for those who wish to linger and socialise, you may bring a lunch to share and cool refreshments.

WE EXTEND CONDOLENCES TO: Lesley Rielly and her family. Lesley’s husband Ed, passed away last Monday and I know you join me in supporting her with love, knowing that Ed’s soul has been released to its next experience of living.

THE R5000.00 DRAW: The draw date has been extended due to tickets still needing to be sold. The draw will now take place after our Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 20 June. Please rally your support so we meet our target of at least R5000.00 being made for ACT, after awarding the R5000.00 cash prize. We sincerely thank those who have participated thus far.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – We look forward to continuous connection with our friends and associates in Truth, in the U.K., and remind anyone now residing in England, or visiting there, of the contact details:

Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com   Ph: 01892 752085

In Closing…..

 I share with you these words from “The Spirit of Prayer” by H.B. Jeffery

“Our prayer is a state of intense inner activity, though we experience it in stillness. The out-bound perception is stilled and all the outer senses are quiet, inert, inactive. But within, there is the intense action of the Spirit, which is the living energy, the mighty force, the moving power of the Divine Presence.”

Bountiful blessings,

MALLORY  

 

 

Dear Friends,

“Let your light shine – on purpose”

The focus of the message this month, is especially chosen because I believe that in all things in life we need purpose, and to be purposeful. Firstly, whether we are aware of it or not, each of us is a light; we come forth from the One Source of all Light and Life, most of us know as God. So that originating light is present in each of us. It is the Light of the I AM which shines through us into the world; we are the instruments which the Light uses.

When one lights a candle and sets it down, the flame burns straight and unmoving, casting the light evenly around. Someone moves through the room or opens the door, causing a draft, the flame wavers and may in some instances even be close to being extinguished. We are like the candle flame burning straight and steady until someone or some event perhaps, appears on the scene and causes a draft; and this is the challenge. How do we cope with the so-called “drafts” in our lives? Is it not enough just to keep that flame burning anyway? Yet, so often, it is the very thing that we would rather avoid, that can be our most important lesson; a divine impulse urging us forward, moving us to change, even showing us another way to deal with life’s issues.

Each of us exists as having come forth from the Divine Spark, God, and forever remains part of the Source. This is true for each of us yet so often in our human states we rely on, or look to human substance and values to nurture us. We come to believe that these alone will kindle our flames and keep them going. We look for human gurus in the world and give them permission to dictate to us about how good or bad our lives are, and will be, according to them. There is a lovely story told by Joan Borysenko, about a Mrs. Finegold from Brooklyn, who booked a trip to a remote village in Nepal. The travel agent warned her about the difficulties and challenges she would be faced with to get to the destination, but Mrs. Finegold was determined.

So off she set with a backpack filled with provisions and bottles of water. She finally arrived at the cave of the great guru and was told there was a three week wait to see him. Seekers from all over the world came looking for the meaning to life and how to have a mystical experience.

Mrs. Finegold settled down to wait and at last the great moment arrived. It was her turn, and she was told she could only speak three words to the guru. Then she was ushered into the cave where she found a bearded man right at the back who seemed to be meditating. She was filled with joy and rushed forward, grabbed him by the shoulders, and uttered her three words: “Morris, come home!”

We do not have to go chasing after gurus or mystical places. The mystical place is where we are at any given moment when we take time to stop and just be aware of the Inner Presence. When we still our flame and are not bent towards good or evil, rich or poor, these things will still be in evidence in the world, but not in the stillness that for that time removes us from them.

So our purpose in shining our lights is to steady or centre ourselves: Be Still and Know. It is like the lighthouse that carries the light and shines the beam far out to sea. Neither the weather nor the tide is the business of the lighthouse; it is simply the light-bearer. And so are we: lights unto the world.

The purpose of the lighthouse is to shine its light; our purpose is to be the instrument through which God’s light is expressed to all. But it is not our business to be concerned whether it is being perceived or not, in the world. We just need to be purposeful lights.

Our purpose is to know God; to experience this Presence that is with us always. When we know and understand that nothing more can be added unto us, our lights will always shine on purpose. But the added things (gifts of spirit) are not perceived by the human eye. Our awareness of our Truth is perceived and understood in consciousness.

We have come into this world as extensions of the Source, carrying that divine spark from which we originate. Now we have the responsible task of letting our lights shine. As we fan our flames with growing understanding in consciousness of the blessing of life, we may say then: THUS ARE WE IN THE WORLD AS UPRIGHT FLAMES CASTING THE LIGHT OF TRUTH.

SUNDAY SERVICES: All are welcome to join us each week as we take time to Be Still, in Silent Meditation, and then share a Lesson in Truth Principles. NB. Childcare is available if you phone us on Friday before 10:00am to arrange.

Meditation – 09:30 to 09:45
Service – 09:45 to 10:30

 SPEAKERS – March:
06 Rosemary Batchelor
13 Rev. Mallory Kretzmann
20  Sylvia our van Zyl
27  Rev. Mallory Kretzmann – Easter Service

12:00 NOON – MEDITATION: A reminder that our Sanctuary is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 1pm for meditation. You are welcome to come in, and Be Still for any part of the hour. In this month of March, we light a candle focussing on gratitude for all of Life.

ACT MEMBERS’ MARKET: The first market held in February went well with all enjoying tea in the beautiful weather we are currently experiencing. The next market will be on Sunday 20 March.
Members who have “wares” to sell are welcome to do so on the allocated Sunday, and set up in the outside venue. On this Sunday tea will be served out on the veranda. Sellers to provide own table cloth and please book a table by Friday 18 March, 11:00 – call the office 041-5813309. Set up must be before the Service, to avoid any disturbance, and enable venue to be locked during the Service. Sellers to tithe 10% of their sales towards the renovation of the “new” venue space. We look forward to enthusiastic participation by all.

DIVINE SCIENCE MEDITATION CLASS: You are invited to join Mallory for this 10 week course of instruction, using the Lord’s Prayer as a guide to the practical application of meditation in our daily lives. We will also investigate Meditation and Concentration Techniques that quieten and focus the mind.
Commencing: Wednesday 6 April at 7pm
Investment: R550.00 for course
There is a list for names on the notice board, and you may also phone to book your space in the class.

RAFFLE TICKETS FOR THE R5000.00 DRAW: A reminder that the draw date for this fundraiser is Easter Sunday, after our special service, so please return sold ticket stubs in good time and let us pull out the stops to sell more tickets. We are raising funds for our garage conversion into a beautiful space for our own use and for bringing in revenue through venue hire.

SOCIAL EVENT WITH ENTERTAINMENT: When Lynne Mackenzie returns from Du Bai on 20 March, she will be doing the final arranging for this event which promises to be great fun. Set aside Friday Evening, 1 April in the meantime – details to follow.

LIBRARY NEWS: Jean Baz has kindly “come on board” regarding the library, joining the “crew” of volunteers, and we look forward to many books being fed onto the shelves in the coming months.

CD’S OF THE SUNDAY SERVICES: These may be ordered after the Sunday Services. The cost is now R25.00 per CD prepaid with order.

DIVINE SCIENCE U.K. – We look forward to continuous connection with our friends and associates in Truth, in the U.K. and remind anyone now residing in the England, or visiting, of the contact details:
Revs. Dave and Ishbel Bailey – e-mail: divinescienceuk@hotmail.com   Ph: 01892 752085

 

In Closing…..

 I share with you these words from “Divine Science: Its Principle and Practice”

“It is the destiny of mankind to express the Christ, for this cosmic principle within each individual soul is “the way, the truth, and the life.” The true individual life is an expression of the Infinite Life for by the law of expression like produces like, and thus is made plain the principle of omnipresence. – All is One.

 Christ is the divinity, “the light that lighteth every man,” and, being universal, and formed in all, makes everyone a son. This does not lessen the divinity of Jesus but reveals the divinity of all mankind.”

  

Bountiful blessings,

 MALLORY