The Seven Principles of Spiritualism (Explained)

1. The Fatherhood of God.

2. The Brotherhood of Man.

3. The Communion of Spirits and the Ministry of Angels.

4. The Continuous Existence of the Human Soul.

5. Personal Responsibility.

6. Compensation and Retribution Hereafter for all the Good or Evil Deeds done on Earth.

7. Eternal Progress Open to every Human Soul.

The Fatherhood of God.

Modern Spiritualism would interpret this to mean a reverent union with the Divine. We recognise that there is a creative force or intelligence held within the Universe. This force, or energy, not only created life in both the physical and spiritual realms, but manifests itself directly or indirectly in all things. A supreme plan is in existence of which we are a part and its source is a vibrant spiritual intelligence that we cannot always fully comprehend. We know this power as ‘God’ and as we are part of the life created by Spirit, we acknowledge God as our father.

The Brotherhood of Man

As we all originate from the same Source, and are in essence spiritual beings, we are all equal. We have all chosen to incarnate into the physical earth realm in order to learn and to experience what it is to be human so that we may grow in love and wisdom. We may have chosen different physical manifestations as in gender, race, sexual orientation and even our social circumstances but ultimately we are all members of the same divine family. This means that all of mankind is part of a spiritual brotherhood. This confers upon us a dual responsibility – to God and to each other, which can be summed up in one word – service.

Communion of Spirits & the Ministry of Angels

Spiritualist Churches provide one of the avenues where communication with loved ones who have passed over can take place through a medium. Channeling of Spirit Guides and Spirit Teachers also help to bring inspiration and teachings to us from the realm of Spirit while other spiritual beings work in the ministry of spiritual healing. While Spirit guidance is available to all, it can only be effective when the individual seeking it 'does so with sincerity' and at the same time retains his own initiative and judgment. Endeavoring to develop our own personal communication with Spirit also brings to the surface spiritual gifts such as clairvoyance, mediumship or healing abilities.

Continuous Existence of the Human Soul

Our existence is eternal. We always have been, we are now and always will be. We are eternal souls and upon death of the physical body, the spirit continues as an integral part of the spirit world, which interpenetrates our world, but in a different dimension. Eternal life in all its successive phases provides every soul with opportunities and incentives for continuous spiritual progression until we achieve complete oneness with the Divine.

Personal Responsibility

Every action we take, every thought we think, every word we speak is our responsibility. Spiritualism asserts that no one can save us from our wrong doing but ourselves. Man, through his conscience knows the difference between right and wrong and is given the free will to choose. Spiritualism recognises the teaching of Jesus and other great Masters but has no fixed creed or dogma, therefore personal responsibility encompasses our spiritual beliefs as well.

Compensation and Retribution hereafter for all the Good & Evil Done on Earth

This follows on what was stated above. Our code of ethics and values on this earth will determine our spiritual status in the world of spirit. This is the principle of Cause and Effect and is a natural law which applies to all aspects of Life. ‘As you sow - so shall you reap.’ It is our everyday deeds as well as our motives that must be understood and taken responsibility for now on earth. It is not the case that we may do as we please here on earth and wait until we return to live in the Spirit world to be held accountable for our actions in this life.

Eternal Progression of the Soul

We can progress to higher and higher planes of development in Spirit when we have learnt our lessons and repaid our dues, but the rate of our own particular advancement will depend upon ones desire to do so, remembering that we shall have free will in Spirit as we do here on earth. 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