The Seven Principles of Spiritualism (taken from snu booklet

By a study of nature and its laws, 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 life itself in its many forms. It is continuing to create today. Creating from nothing, but of itself. The effects this eternal creation can be seen around us today, even in the farthest reaches of outer space. This has been shown in its astounding grandeur by the remarkable photographs taken through the medium of the Hubble telescope. This leads Spiritualists to acknowledge that God, the creative force, manefests directly or indirectly in all things. Spiritualists know this power as God. As we are a part of life created by God, we acknowledge God as our Father.

We all come from the same universal life source. We are, in effect, one large family. That means that all mankind is part of a brotherhood. A brotherhood is a community for mental support and comfort; we are all members of the same divine family. We have 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 we must learn to receive, thereby achieving the necessary balance for our lives.

All religions believe in life after death, but only spiritualism shows it is true by demonstrating that communication with departed spirits can, and does, take place. Spiritualist churches and centres provide many venues where communication, through mediumship takes place. Many loved ones and friends take advantage of this opportunity to continue to show an interest in our welfare and us. There are also spirit people who are dedicated to the welfare and service of humanity. Silver Birch brought inspiration and teachings through the mediumship of Maurice Barbanell. Others work in the healing ministry, to bring support along the pathway of humanity.

Matter and energy cannot be created or destroyed. This is a scientific principle which continues to confirm. If we accept this, we need to know what happens when the present form of energy reaches the end of its viability. The simple answer that it changes manefestation. Spirit is energy and therefore indestructable.  On the death of the physical body the spirit continues as an integral part of a world which exists alongside ours: this world is referred to as the spirit world. In spirit life we are the same individuals in every way, with the same personalities and characteristics, and we change only by progression, and as a result of our own efforts.

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. The use to which we put 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. As we are given freedom of choice (freewill), so we are given the ability to recognise what is right and wrong for our own spirituality. We are personally responsible for all our words, deed and thoughts.

As with all other Principles, natural laws apply; this one echoes the law of cause and effect (what goes around comes around). One cannot be cruel and vindictive towards others and expect love and popularity in return. It should be understood that the compensatory or retributive effects of this law operate now, on earth, they do not wait until we begin to live our lives in the spirit world. With this understanding we can try to put right wrongs that we know we have done before we pass from this life.

In most humans there exists a desire for progress, and to every human soul belongs the power to advance in wisdom and love. All who desire to tread the path that leads to spiritual wisdom and understanding are able to do so. The rate of progress is supported by the journey towards mental and spiritual understanding. Spiritualists have come to the realisation that our soul is a part of eternity and the road to progress is open any time we choose to walk it. This can help us come to face and cope with the challenges of the world.