THE SPIRITIST SOCIETY of FLORIDA
Organized in 1982

Edgar Crespo, Director

"Unshakable faith is that, which can stand face to face
with reason, in all epochs of humanity." Kardec


May 2004

EXCERPT FROM the book THE TRIP OF 1862 by Allan Kardec

Excerpt from the Chapter - Specific Instructions Given to Groups in Response to Questions, Section XI, [Regarding Spiritist practices at sessions]:

"Frequently, it has been asked of me as to whether it is convenient to start [Spiritist] sessions with prayers and ceremonies of a religious nature. The answer to this is not only mine, but from the Spirits who have addressed this issue. Without a doubt, it is not only convenient but thereby necessary, especially invoking through a prayer or by way of a request, for the assistance of the good spirits. This practice is in recognition that this is one of the special conditions for all serious sessions. The same does not hold true for exterior religious practices, although certain groups consider it necessary to open their sessions with these, no matter how good their intentions are, it is more than inconvenient."

"Everything within Spiritist sessions should be religiously conducted, this meaning with gravity, respect, and in an atmosphere of spirituality. But, it is necessary to remember that Spiritism is directed to instruct all those of every form of worship. Consequently, the formalities of any particular religion should not be adopted at a session. The enemies of Spiritism have gone very far in presenting it as a new sect, using this as a pretext to combat it. Then precisely we need not fortify this opinion with implementation of rituals, so these people do not leave our sessions saying that Spiritist groups are reunions of Protestants, Schismatics, etc, etc. As for the rest, it is foolish to assume that by using these rituals, it will help us to reconcile with certain antagonists."

"Spiritism, makes the call to men of all beliefs to unite them under the auspices of Charity and Fraternity, in that way, accustoming them to look at each other as brothers, no matter the particular way in which they show their adoration to God, for we should not injure the convictions of no one with the practices and ceremonies or rituals of any one religion......."
"Allan Kardec"

Later in this section, he further states...
"On the other hand, it can be understood that what is expressed above applies to those integrated groups or societies where newcomers may attend, and not to the intimate reunions of families, wherein naturally, each person is free to act in what they believe is proper, given that in that ambient one does not run the risk of offending anyone."

"Allan Kardec"

(NOTE: During this 1862 trip, Kardec visited more then 20 cities and assisted in 15 Spiritist reunions throughout France for about a period of 6 weeks. The book was his recollection of these visits and the advice he gave to some of the Spiritist Centers. The above translated by Y. Limoges from Spanish into English.)


REINCARNATION - THE GREAT EQUALIZER

Oh Humanity, when will you stop judging your fellow man? Why must you look for differences amongst yourselves instead of seeing how much you all have in common? You are all the children of the same Father, the Creator Who Loves and Watches over all of you!

You are all human beings! All of you have the same biological and spiritual heritage and all live on the same planet. What rights one has... should be the rights of all!

Those who would find fault with another no matter what the cause: whether race, religion, ethnic background, wealth or poverty, nationality, sex, or any other differences you may identify, woe unto you! Do not think you will not bring down upon yourself, the same animosity and prejudice and wrongful acts you have directed towards your own brothers and sisters! When you do harm in whatever form or violence towards others, you do it to yourself; such are the Laws of Reincarnation and of Cause and Effect.

Reincarnation equalizes all before God's Eyes! Who may now be a Protestant in this life, in another may be reborn into a Catholic family; a Jew may be reborn later as a Moslem; a Christian reborn as a Hindu; a man may be reborn as a woman; a person of one nationality may be reborn within his enemy's country; those who are wealthy may later be reborn in the midst of abject poverty, and vice versa, in all these cases. There are also many other situations that may apply.

You must view everyone solely as a fellow human being; the lowest common denominator amongst you all upon this earth! Love one another!

Spirit communication received by Y. Limoges


A POEM REGARDING SPIRITISM, by Amalia Domingo Soler, from Spain, a famous writer of seven books on Spiritism, including the Memoirs of Father Germain. She suffered much; her father abandoned the family before she was born, she was blind most of her life, and at age 25 when her mother died, she was left practically destitute. Translated from Spanish into English by Y. Limoges.

To the Materialist

They say that Spiritism
is a new sect or religion;
only an obscurantist*
gives it that definition.

We do not pretend to
form any religion,
only to unite knowledge of
death with life.

We want to fuse
scattered atoms;
we want to analyze
all past actions.

We want to know the reason,
and seek the cause of effects;
and in regeneration
we look beyond the grave.

We do not pretend
to have great wisdom,
because all reasoning humans
are still lacking!

But we have an intuition
of the universal law,
which is the assessment of
the struggle between good and
evil.

We admit to an indefinite
progressive life;
Eternity poised
over all Creation!

We see God in the flowers
in their precious aromas,
in the nightingales
and in the white doves.

In the lake, in the rushing
stream, in the valley, in the
woods and in the sea
which quietly murmurs.

And in the waves
where it seems to chase after
something upon the sand, we
discover the complete proof
of the Grandeur of God.

Moreover, we do not make
altars nor worship idols;
Our temples are the myriad
stars and worlds we admire.

The giant cathedrals
with their covered arches,
with vacillating lights
and its solemn melodies.
They are nothing more than
misunderstandings of human
comprehension, for the people
have given God their own
passions and offered only
vain luxuries.

What are these temples of
admirable construction made
of rock, if within them is
entwined like ivy, both envy
and ambition!

It is preferable a simple
hermitage on a solitary
summit, where a faithful
believer elevates his prayers
to God.

Moreover, we do not form
any temple in this world,
because within us we carry
something much more
grand and profound.

That is why Spiritism
is neither sect, nor religion,
it is the Essence
of God Himself
developed within Reason.
written by Amalia Domino Soler

From her book published in 1903, Bunches of Violets
(Note: the state religion of Spain at that time was Catholicism)

* obscurantist - "one who opposes the spread of
knowledge" from Webster's Dictionary


SPIRITISM - what it revealed

In The Spirits Book, Allan Kardec stated that "the fundamental principle of Spiritism is the relation of the material world with spirits." Allan Kardec coined the word "Spiritism" to name the science for the study of Spirits (Spirit Science). Spiritists believe that Kardec's books represent the most complete, concise, and scientific compilation explaining spirit interaction and the material world in all its aspects. The information compiled by Kardec for these books was based on a scientific study of the spirits (entities with their own freewill) and their actions. The information collected in his books on spirit and material world interaction has been corroborated by study, observation, and practice, since the 1850's when they were all first published and even up to the present time. The Spiritist Practice (i.e. how to properly hold a session or seance, how to develop serious, productive, and proper mediumship, how to conduct spiritual healing, information on the behavior of spirits, how to deal with spirit obsession, the qualities of the soul, etc.) was developed based on the principles learned from Kardec's books.

Besides the scientific mechanics of spirit interaction with the material world, the spirits themselves, relayed intelligent information which had universal religious and philosophical ramifications for humanity. One could call that which they provided were "Spiritual and Moral Laws."Some of these laws can be found in all major religions and many philosophies, and in many books on various aspects of them as well, but we feel they are incomplete. In addition, just as Sir Isaac Newton discovered and explained the laws of gravity and other natural laws which had always existed, so did the spirits intelligently explain what universal natural laws (which also always existed) rationally explain the purpose of material and spiritual life and their serious ramifications. Just as the Law of Gravity does not belong to Newton or physicists alone, but to all people, and affects us all... so do the Universal Spiritual and Moral Laws given to us by the spirits themselves, belong to all, and affect us all, as well.

Spiritists do believe that Kardec was the first to methodically study, present, and compile in the most fully clear, scientific, and concise manner what these currently known Moral and Spiritual laws are and their consequences to mankind(as relayed by the spirits), to date. This was his special mission. And, as mankind morally, spiritually, and intellectually matures, more Universal Truths will be revealed to us... as our level of comprehension improves.

In conclusion, 1) what Kardec and his Society and other Spiritist Societies discovered through scientific observation, practice, and study, are the rules and principles regarding the interaction of the spirit world with the material world and how better to obtain a more serious, informative, and beneficial interaction; 2) then there is what the spirits themselves revealed, which were the Universal Moral and Spiritual laws AND the universal applications of these laws; and, finally, 3) Kardec took all this information and put it all together in the books he published: The Spirits Book, The Mediums Book, The Gospel According to Spiritism, Heaven and Hell, and Genesis being the most important ones. Now all are in English. Written by Yvonne Limoges

(Addendum: I have found that the same information that was relayed to Kardec and his Society is extremely similar to much of the concepts transmitted recently by the spirit world to an American medium James Van Praagh. He relayed this information in a book published in 1999 entitled Reaching to Heaven - A Spiritual Journey Through Life and Death. For me, this book proves the Universal Control of Spirit Communications to mankind (that they are coordinated) that Kardec spoke of many times (regarding corroborating the truth of spirit communications). How wise the Divine Will is... for this book, regarding Universal Spiritual Truths, is directed to all peoples no matter what religion, sect, or belief or non-belief they have. The ideas expressed in the book are not presented under a particular belief system or "ism,"for this country, this makes sense, for America is religiously diverse. What better way to reach more people? All they have to do is review and decide whether to accept one, some, or all, of the specific scientific, spiritual, and moral facts and laws presented!- Y. L.)

SPIRITISM - IS IT A SCIENCE OR RELIGION?

Many Spiritists call Spiritism strictly one or the other. Some say it is both. Some consider it a science and a religious philosophy. It has been the subject of much debate over the years between some Spiritists. We received the following spirit communications on the topic:

number 1:

Words are devices for humans, spirits use thought projection. We care little whether you use the word "religion" to describe Spiritism or not, as long as you make yourselves understood to each other. For that matter, the word "Spiritism" is also a human invention for your own convenience as well. The Spiritual Laws of the Universe exist whether you name them or not. The main points of what you call the Spiritist Doctrine are: evolution of the soul through reincarnation, the laws involving the interaction of the spiritual and the material worlds, and, most important...the moral, spiritual, and intellectual implications of this knowledge. Spiritists should concentrate their efforts on studying, practicing, and spreading these realties.
- Spirit communication received by Yvonne Limoges
number 2:

We in the spirit world, salute you who are trying to bring the message of Jesus to the world. It matters not what name is used, what matters is the message.
Your planet needs more of you who wish to bring our two worlds together. Our mission is to help you help yourselves, and others, to put into practice that which Jesus tried to teach...LOVE. In all corners of the world, in all beliefs, in all languages, from all masters comes the same request...LOVE.

- Spirit communication by Jacqueline Benenati
number 3:

Spiritists, you say you have the answers to the enigmas of Life - well spread the word united and do not waste time parsing words regarding "the Doctrine" which makes no difference in the grand scheme of things!
There is no death, we have an immortal soul; there are two worlds, a material and a spiritual one; and, Reincarnation is the Law. Finally, the key to moral progression is to always do good, and be good. This is what must be spread!
So many suffer on your planet due to a fear of death! So many fear God's Judgement! But, you judge yourselves, for God is All Love!
If Spiritists cannot unit among themselves, what hope is there for humanity?
The "Workers of the Last Hour" have much to do, do not fritter it away in polemics or, discussing the Doctrine only among yourselves!
While in society, don't be afraid to share your beliefs, the people are hungry for answers to Life's many questions and its perceived injustices!
Spiritists unite!
-Spirit communication received by Yvonne Limoges
number 4:

The Word of God does not come in one form, or one name. As man's understanding progresses so the form and name changes but the Truth is always the Truth. God sends His Messengers to all worlds and none can claim they were solely responsible for bringing what God Has Ordained.
Each world and its inhabitants has their own level of understanding and language. God's Wisdom and Love made it possible for His Word to be revealed to all and not to just a select few. It is man who has placed labels and names on it and has tried to withhold it from those who he thinks unworthy.
Once mankind matures enough, there will no longer be names or labels for what is simply God's Word.
- Spirit communication received by Jacqueline Benenati

(Note: no matter what one calls Spiritism: a science, a religion, or a philosophy, because of either context, situation, culture, or personal preference... the basic principles of the Doctrine and what it teaches is the same, and I humbly believe... that is the most important thing to concentrate on. - Y. Limoges )

FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE AND THE BEST DOCTRINE

Excerpt from Kardec's The Gospel According to Spiritism, Chapter 28, Item 51. Preface -
"Of all the liberties, the most inviolable is that of thought, which includes the liberty of conscience. To cast a curse against those who do not think as we do is to demand that liberty for ourselves but refuse it to others, which is a violation of the first commandment of Jesus, which is that of charity and love towards one's neighbor. To persecute others for the beliefs they profess is to attack the most sacred rights of man, which is to believe whatever he wishes and to worship God as he sees fit…..Truth is sure of itself; it convinces and does not pursue, because there is no need."

Excerpt from Kardec's The Mediums Book, chapter XXVII, Item 302:
Question: While awaiting the time when unity of belief will have been arrived at, every one believes himself to be in possession of the truth, maintaining that he alone is right: an illusion which deceptive spirits generally try to keep up in the minds of men. On what, then, can the impartial and disinterested inquirer rely on, as a sound basis of judgment?

Answer: "…The fundamental principles of Spiritism are everywhere the same, and should unite you all in a common bond; that of the love of God and the practice of Goodness. Whatever you suppose to be the mode of progression and the normal conditions of your future existence, the aim proposed is still the same, to do right; and there is but one way of doing that."
"If important differences should arise, you have, even in regard to doctrinal principles, an infallible rule for deciding between them; here is this rule:
"The best doctrine is that which best satisfies the heart and the reason, and which offers to men the most powerful incentives to doing good; that doctrine, you may be fully assured, is the one which will ultimately prevail."
"The Spirit of Truth"
(spirit guide to Kardec's Spiritist Society of Paris)
EDITORIAL - OUR TRUE INTENTIONS ARE WHAT COUNT

We are all human beings on one planet searching for Universal Truths to give meaning and purpose to our lives. In light of this, what truly counts is our most humble, sincere, serious, and honest intentions and efforts (in thought, word, and deed) in regards to this search; for each soul must choose their own path, and evolve in their own way, for we are all at different levels of intellectual, spiritual, and moral development. There are many individuals who believe many of the principles of Spiritism but call them by different names. In addition, there are many, many organizations (i.e. Spiritualists, Scientific Psychic Societies, etc., etc.) with similar beliefs which have the same serious goals we do, but approach their search for Universal Truths from different perspectives.

One day, all on this planet will be united in one Universal Belief because it will be based on universal facts, not on blind faith. Much Peace, Courage, and Spiritual Strength to all of us on our spiritual journeys! Written by Yvonne Limoges


SPIRITIST PRACTICES REMINDERS:

1) Personal Practice: Praying daily to keep in tune with your spirit guides and protectors, to provide you with a more serene, harmonious, and spiritual atmosphere about you, to sustain you in your own personal trials and tribulations, and, to assist you in acquiring and sustaining improved right moral conduct.

2) Home Practice: Weekly and/or monthly study and prayer in the home with your family and/or close friends to attract and provide for a more moral and spiritual ambience within the home environment, prayer to assist loved ones in the spirit world who have disincarnated (so they know we still love and remember them and to help facilitate their transition back into spirit life), and, also help facilitate honest and open communication amongst the members within your home.

3) Center Practice: Attendance at a Spiritist Center (one you have an affinity for) to learn and study the Spiritist Doctrine; to attend a Spiritist seance to learn from information received by the various spirit communications as to what may await us when we return to the spirit world; to gain a glimpse into that spirit world in other areas; to receive beneficial spiritual fluids in the ambiance of the Center; to receive spiritual healing as appropriate; to receive inspirational messages from the superior spirits and to hear communications from loved ones from the spirit world; to receive spiritual sustenance for Life's trials; and, if one is a medium... to practice one's faculty to the best of one's ability.

4) Mediumship Orientation and Education: Those responsible in serving as instruments via the faculty of mediumship for the transmission of moral and spiritual teachings AND for transmission of spirit communications, and spiritual healing... should properly orientate and educate themselves for these sacred acts. There should be no charging for the use of this sacred faculty as it comes from God and can be taken away at any time. Attend mediumship education classes, prepare personally beforehand for the work to be performed by spiritually attuning yourself to higher spiritual vibrations, continue personal reading and study, contemplate on Spiritist principles in order to fully comprehend them, and continue to have a serious and sincere intent to carry out your sacred duties. Take care of your physical body as much as possible. Be aware of your surroundings (where you are and who you are with) as you may pick up unwanted spiritual vibrations and entities. Strive always to improve yourself in the use of your faculty. Keep in mind that your own intellectual, spiritual, and moral level and attitude has an effect on spirit communications.

5) Spreading Knowledge of Spiritist Principles: It is the responsibility of every one who considers themselves a true believer in Spiritist principles to instruct others around them as they are able. First, we need to start with the members of our own family, then our close friends, and then anyone else who may bring up a similar or related topic wherein you may interject gently and diplomatically (taking into consideration the intellectual and moral level of the person you are speaking with) what principles you believe in, starting with a belief you both have in common as a starting base. You will usually be pleasantly surprised to find on how many people believe in reincarnation and/or have had an unusual experience which they could not explain or had an encounter with a deceased relative's spirit or have had a relative, an aunt or grandmother etc. who "had the sight" or could tell about future events. In speaking with people who don't know the word "Spiritism" it is usually better to start with only the basic beliefs and you can mention the name at a later time. To start, I say: I believe in God, I believe in the morality that Jesus taught, I believe in a material world, and in spirit world that we can communicate with, and, I believe in reincarnation and soul evolution. Spiritists, don't be afraid to stand up for your beliefs! People are very interested in hearing about them! Written by Yvonne Limoges


SPIRITIST NEWS

The International Spiritist organization, Pan American Spiritist Federation (CEPA), has now begun translating their information into English. You can check out their website at: www.cepanet.org

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Newsletter edited by Yvonne Limoges
email: ylimoges@aol.com
The Spiritist Society of Florida
5042 22 Avenue North,
St. Petersburg, Florida U.S.A.
Our website: www.ssfl.faresinsights.com Our partner website: www.geae.inf.br/en/