The Purpose of Spiritual Community

 

A spiritual community is one that shares a set of spiritual teachings/practices and creates a safe space for people to learn and grow into them together. Of course, having a safe space to gather is important but physical safely aside, let’s consider Rev. Jim Lockard’s definition of safe space in the context of a New Thought spiritual community:

 "A space where one is free to be disturbed enough to look at one’s own beliefs, knowing that the community itself is supportive and caring. A safe space which guarantees no disturbance is not ideal for personal and spiritual growth” (Being the Beloved Community, (2022), pg.11).

Uncovering our core beliefs is a key element of Unity’s basic teachings.
We teach that our thoughts, and beliefs along with their corresponding feelings shape our experience. As we begin to grow into the belief that the Divine (God) is the One, True source of all that is we first have to release some of our more childish beliefs about God as the good/bad parent off in the sky. From there, a more mature understanding of God as Life Energy and Intelligence can begin to take shape.
(If this is of interest to you, you might enjoy Rev. Lockard's article, (Do We Need A New Definition of God?)

Ultimately, we are growing in our knowing that the nature of God is Good-- life-giving, and creative, and that we (and ALL of life) are one with it. The nature of God is our True Nature. Growing into this belief requires us to come face to face with all of our thoughts and beliefs that are not in alignment with this ultimate Truth.

We often come to realize the power that we have given to limiting beliefs about who we are, and that we are both capable and worthy beyond belief!  This is a continual process because humanity has long associated its power and worth with external circumstances, events, under ‘the powers that be’ that seem to shape so much of what we experience whether we like it or not. Said even more accurately, whether we KNOW it or not. 

We are living in a time that is asking us to really step into who we are learning we are, as Spiritual Beings having a human experience.  This call is sure to be freeing in the end, but undoubtedly disturbing in the process as we uncover what we have taken into our mind that has caused us harm or caused us to harm others. 

Ultimately, I believe that an authentic spiritual community is one that holds the Divine Truth and Sacred worth of all people front and center while actively supporting its members in uncovering their own limited beliefs about themselves and others in order to grow through them. 

Even as we see the harmful limits of these beliefs, it can feel even more disturbing to realize how they have come to be so foundational in shaping our identity.

As a Unity spiritual community, we hold that the ultimate identity of all people is their Divine Identity. Our work together then is focused around releasing all that appears to stand in the way of this expressing in all aspects of our lives.  May Unity Spiritual Center Denver continue to be a safe place where we connect with Spirit, our self and each other, holding ourselves up in the Truth that we know, even when it may feel disturbing.

Consider for yourself:

• Which of your beliefs are currently feeling disturbed?
• Despite the discomfort, can you consider how the belief itself may be limited?

• What beliefs do you hold that feel in opposition to the teaching of Oneness—that you and all of creation are connected to, and through one Divine Source?

• Are some people harder for you to really welcome into that circle of Oneness?
• What belief may keep you for widening your circle?

• What aspects of yourself are harder for you to welcome into that circle of Oneness? In other words, what parts of yourself have you separated or estranged from God?
• What belief might be keeping you from including them?

 

In Spirit, there are no boundaries.  
We all belong.  
That includes all aspects of our self.

Join us this Sunday at 10am as we continue this exploration in community.