So many ways to connect with us: We grow our reach together!
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February Global Theme: Radical Interconnection
Weekly Theme: Emptiness: The Wonder of Interbeing
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Your weekly newsletter for February 6, 2025
Stay informed, engaged and inspired with Centers for Spiritual Living
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Quote of the Week
“Cultivating reverence for the simple wonders of life is, in our times,
a powerful act of resistance. Choosing to step outside, to open
our eyes, ears and hearts to the presence of this beautiful planet
takes courage and freedom. Society has conditioned us against it.”
— Thich Nhat Hanh, “Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet,” page 102
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Table of Contents: In This Issue
Click a link below to visit a topic or enjoy the entire newsletter by scrolling down.
There is a link to "Go back to Table of Contents" at the end of each article.
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A Statement From CSL's Spiritual Leader
Rev. Dr. Soni Cantrell-Smith
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At Centers for Spiritual Living, we stand firmly in the truth that all people are divine expressions of Spirit, whole and perfect in their authenticity. We believe in the inherent dignity, worth and sacredness of every individual, and we affirm the right of all people to live their most authentic lives in peace.
We are appalled at the ongoing war on Transgender people — an attack on the fundamental spiritual truth that each person is a unique and unrepeatable manifestation of the Divine. Any attempt to deny, oppress or erase the sacred identity of another is an act of fear, not of Love. As students of Science of Mind, we know that Love is the only power, and we will not stand idly by while our siblings in Spirit are harmed.
In alignment with our core teachings, we affirm a world that works for everyone — a world where all are free to be who they are, express their truth and thrive in safety and joy. We call upon our spiritual community and all people of faith to stand in love, to rise in support, to speak truth and to act boldly in support of our Transgender family.
We speak a word of healing for any wounds caused by misunderstanding, rejection or harm. We affirm that every Transgender person is a perfect and whole expression of the Divine. Their identity is a sacred unfolding of truth, beauty and authenticity. There is nothing to fix, nothing to change — only the fullness of Spirit revealing Itself in infinite ways.
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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Honoring Black History Month
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In the United States, February is dedicated as Black History Month, honoring the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history. By actively participating in and endorsing Black History Month, CSL demonstrates its commitment to social justice, equity, and the recognition of the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.
Please take a moment to watch this video that includes a clip of Black history in Science of Mind.
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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Update on 2024 Conscious Giving
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At CSL Headquarters, we are committed to sharing our abundance and supporting individuals and organizations who embody the principles of Science of Mind and foster spiritual growth around the world. In the second quarter of 2024, we proudly tithed to two exceptional recipients who are making a significant impact:
Joezer Ejukwu: Spreading Science of Mind in Nigeria
Joezer Ejukwu is a powerful and transformative leader for Science of Mind in Nigeria. His dedication to sharing spiritual principles has resulted in the enrollment of 18 students in a current "Spiritual Principles" course. Beyond the classroom, Joezer's influence extends far and wide through three radio broadcasts that reach hundreds of thousands of listeners across his country. These broadcasts are changing lives, spreading the teachings of Science of Mind and inspiring the growth of other spiritual groups in the region. We are honored to support his work and the profound impact he is making.
NextGEN: Inspiring the Future of Spiritual Leadership
NextGEN's vision is to inspire and empower a new generation of spiritual leaders who live authentically, lead compassionately and foster a global community rooted in unity, justice and abundance. Serving adults 18 to 35 within CSL communities and the broader New Thought movement, NextGEN was born in 2014 out of a desire to cultivate authentic connections and personal growth. Through annual retreats and ongoing initiatives, the team creates transformative experiences focused on heart-centered leadership, meaningful discussions on social justice, fostering healthy relationships and unlocking financial prosperity. NextGEN is dedicated to empowering young adults to embrace their authentic selves and lead lives of purpose and impact. Learn more about NextGEN here.
It is through your continued support that we are able to tithe and partner with these incredible individuals and organizations. Together, we are helping to grow and uplift the global community, one seed of prosperity and purpose at a time.
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Questions? Email CSL Spiritual Leader Rev. Dr. Soni Cantrell-Smith at SCantrell-Smith@CSL.org
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Informed Board Members
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Unlock your potential as a board member with "Board Member Essentials." Designed specifically for current and aspiring board members within CSL, this dynamic course provides everything you need to thrive in your role. From governance and financial oversight to teamwork and ethics, you'll gain practical knowledge to enhance your impact and strengthen your community's sustainability. Whether you're new to board service or looking to sharpen your skills, "Board Member Essentials" offers the foundational tools and insights you need to help your community thrive. Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your board service and contribute to lasting positive change!
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Questions? Email PD@CSL.org
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Nominate Someone Special for
the 2025 Conscious Giving Campaign
by February 15
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Tithing is a sacred spiritual practice we hold dear at CSL. It is with great joy and heartfelt gratitude that you are invited to participate in our 2025 nomination process.
We are seeking nominations for individuals or organizations that deeply inspire and spiritually nourish our world. Our goal is to honor those who beautifully exemplify the CSL vision of “A World that Works for Everyone” through their actions and presence.
Please note that tithe recipients do not need to be part of a CSL community or ministry; however, they should be shining examples of our vision made manifest.
Nomination Form
To nominate someone special, provide accurate contact information for your nominee, a heartfelt description of how they contribute to “A World that Works for Everyone” in 200 words or less, and three spiritual qualities or principles you feel your nominee exemplifies.
The nomination form is available online in both English and Spanish. Submit your nomination by February 15, 2025.
English nomination form
Formulario de candidatura en español
Next Steps
CSL's Committed Giving Committee will review all nominations and make recommendations for our 2025 tithe recipients. We share special gratitude for our Committed Giving Committee members: Alice Reid, Anthony Diaz, Luisa Rivera, Sanford Livingston and Chair Soni Cantrell-Smith.
Let us join together in prayer, envisioning the perfect nominees to be chosen and for divine wisdom to guide our selection process. Thank you for being a cherished part of our spiritual community.
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Questions? Email CSL Spiritual Leader Rev. Dr. Soni Cantrell-Smith at SCantrell-Smith@CSL.org
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February CSL Connection! Call
on Monday, February 17
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The connection is incomplete without you. The CSL Connection! Call is the third Monday of the month from 9 to 10 a.m. PT (10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET). The February call is Monday, February 17.
Your questions and ideas are always welcome. If you can't attend, the recording is shared in this weekly newsletter.
Add this Zoom link to your calendar and join us on Monday, February 17:
https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/j-933448796/djfggs/1538600576/h/shxwtPmEXeifjbiOWZ_r-M8N0tyLffzwlen3-4HF4qY
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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Updates From Camp Cedar Ridge
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Questions? Email KWilson@CampCedarRidgeOR.org
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CSL Field Services Updates
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Ministerial License Renewals 2025
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Ministerial professional license fee renewal begins January 2, 2025, and ends February 28, 2025. The annual fee is $150 now.
You can find your professional fee payment on the CSL "Our Community" website on the "Ministers Resources" page. Just log in and make your payment using the form that will populate all your information. Be sure to select your "country" in each section since that determines the fee rate for your location.
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Questions? Email FSMin@CSL.org
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Spiritual Practice of the Week:
The Practice of Ubuntu
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As we celebrate Black History Month, we look at the philosophy of Ubuntu. “Ubuntu” is not just a word; it’s a deeply ingrained philosophy that shapes communities, cultures and individual lives across Africa. The concept is simple yet profound: “I am because we are.” It stresses the importance of community and the interconnectedness of all human beings.
Key Principles
1. Empathy and compassion: The philosophy fosters empathy and compassion by encouraging people to consider the needs and happiness of others.
2. Interconnectedness: In the Ubuntu worldview, individual actions have wider implications for the community, driving a sense of responsibility toward the collective well-being.
3. Coexistence and peace: Ubuntu promotes peaceful coexistence, tolerance and harmony, serving as a moral compass in interpersonal relationships and community engagements.
4. Shared resources: The belief in collective ownership and sharing of resources is another cornerstone of Ubuntu, challenging the capitalistic view of private ownership.
Learn more about this philosophy here.
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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February DEI Committee Webinar on
Building Belonging in Tumultuous Times
Saturday, February 15
9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET
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Recent executive orders have impacted DEI initiatives within the U.S. federal government, leading many U.S. organizations to reduce or eliminate their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Some of these policies directly affect the Transgender community and undocumented immigrants, raising urgent questions about belonging and support in our communities.
Join the CSL DEI Committee on February 15 at 10 a.m. MT (9 a.m PT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET) for a webinar where we come together as a spiritual community to reaffirm our commitment to unity, inclusion and belonging. Is seeking to create belonging within a diverse community still relevant? How do we stand together in love and not allow division to separate us?
This webinar will begin with a brief discussion of current challenges affecting members of our community, followed by breakout sessions designed for connection and sharing. Rather than focusing on education, this gathering is an opportunity to be in meaningful conversation and solidarity.
Registration is required. Use the link provided to reserve your spot.
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Questions? Email Inclusion@CSL.org
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Season of Peace and Nonviolence:
Discussion Circles January 30 – April 4, 2025
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Passionate about peace? Want to do something fun and meaningful during the Season for Peace and Nonviolence (January 30 - April 4)? Sign up to host a study group and we will send you all the documents you need to facilitate amazing discussions. You will receive weekly discussion guides and PowerPoints to help create powerful discussions, either virtually or in person, around the daily topics that will be shared on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Ready to sign up? Email GlobalHeartofPeace@Gmail.com. We look forward to working with you on this exciting program.
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Questions? Email GlobalHeartofPeace@Gmail.com
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Join Us on Thursday, February 20:
Science of Mind Archives
"Lunch and Learn" Event
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Join the Science of Mind Archives and Library Foundation on Thursday, February 20, beginning at 11 a.m. PT (12 p.m. MT / 1 p.m. CT / 2 p.m. ET) for an hour with our founder Dr. Ernest Holmes. We'll listen to and discuss his talk, "Cosmic Consciousness Experience."
Many of Holmes' talks are newly digitized and regularly added to our website. Holmes released some of his talks on 45s (records albums), and his thoughts on affirmative thinking are some of his most life-enhancing.
Rev. Dr. Martha Quintana will facilitate this engaging conversation. Enjoy your lunch with us and bring your questions about Holmes and/or the Science of Mind Archives and Library Foundation.
This series is free and open to the public on the third Thursday of the month.
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Questions? Email Info@SoMArchives.org
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Investment Committee Annual Presentation
Friday, February 21
1 p.m. PT / 2 p.m. MT / 3 p.m. CT / 4 p.m. ET
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Each year, the Science of Mind Foundation Investment Committee presents an update on our investments and the health of the Foundation.
We invite you to join a special meeting for all centers with endowments and those thinking about establishing an endowment, on Friday, February 21, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. MT. During this session, the Science of Mind Investment Committee will provide an overview of the Foundation's financial position, discuss centers' endowment performance, speak about the Foundation's mission and address any questions you have.
The presentation will last 60 minutes.
Join us by Zoom: https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/j-92072503340/djfghl/1538600576/h/shxwtPmEXeifjbiOWZ_r-M8N0tyLffzwlen3-4HF4qY
If you have questions or concerns before the meeting, contact Michael Schlut at 720-279-1629 or MSchlut@SoMFoundation.org.
Sincerely,
The Investment Committee of Science of Mind Foundation, Inc.
Ero Johnson, Chair
Members: Dr. Walter Drew, Mr. Ray Marvin and Rev. Dr. Kenn Gordon
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Questions? Email PKeens@SoMFoundation.org
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Save the Date
For Practitioner Council's
Sensational Saturday
Saturday, February 23
9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET
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The CSL Practitioner Council hosts "Sensational Saturday" the fourth Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET for CSL practitioners. Save the date for February's gathering with Marylyn Kirk, who will be discussing "5 Wishes."
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Questions? Email PractitionerCouncil@Gmail.com
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Save the Date for Golden Hour
Tuesday, February 25
4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
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The Power of Storytelling in New Thought: An Invitation to Share
As retired ministers and dedicated carriers of the New Thought message, we have spent our lives inspiring, teaching and uplifting others. Yet, in the golden years of our service, we find that one of the most powerful ways to continue this sacred work is through storytelling. Our stories woven with experience, wisdom and divine insight are treasures that can illuminate the path for generations to come.
At the recent Elders Speak gathering, we were reminded of the profound impact storytelling has within our movement. Special thanks to Rebeka Piña, whose heartfelt reflection on the importance of sharing our journeys resonated deeply with so many of us. It is through our stories that we offer living proof of the principles we have taught: the power of thought, the presence of Spirit and the ever-unfolding journey of awakening.
With this in mind, we invite you to join us for the next Golden Hour, where we will come together to share the stories that have shaped our ministries, our faith and our lives. Whether humorous, profound or deeply personal, each story holds the potential to inspire, connect and remind us of the beauty in our collective journey.
If you would like to share a story, reflection or moment of insight, show up at the next Golden Hour gathering. Let us continue to be the storytellers of this great teaching, ensuring our wisdom remains alive in the hearts and minds of those who follow.
Golden Hour details:
Date: Tuesday, February 25
Time: 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
Theme: The Power of Storytelling
GOLDEN HOUR ZOOM LINK
https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/JiRFBxUE1sR21LM2VWUHN6aFlHdz09/djfghp/1538600576/h/shxwtPmEXeifjbiOWZ_r-M8N0tyLffzwlen3-4HF4qY
ID:885 5831 6768
Passcode: 610044
CALL FOR MINISTERS: "Spiritual Buddy" Volunteers Needed for January 2025 Launch
We're excited to announce a new opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our upcoming ministers! We’re seeking retired ministers who feel called to serve as mentors/"Spiritual Buddies" in a new program launching in February 2025. This initiative is a partnership with the School of Spiritual Leadership, where ministerial students will have the chance to be paired with seasoned ministers who can offer guidance, support and spiritual companionship.
If you're interested in volunteering as a mentor or would like more information, contact Lari Goold at LGoold@ATT.net or reach out to ministerial student Julia Mattis at JuliaMattis@Hotmail.com or 410-303-7010.
Thank you for considering being part of this transformative program and lending your wisdom to those walking the same sacred path you once walked.
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Questions? Email the Retired Ministers Committee at RevJB18@Gmail.com
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Q&A on Updating the ODM and Bylaws
Monday, March 3, 2025
9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET
or 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
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Rev. Dr. Alice Reid will host a daytime and evening Q&A Zoom meeting on Monday, March 3 for delegates to ask questions about the the Organizational Design Model (ODM) and Bylaw restatement resolution.
Voting on this resolution will occur during the annual business meeting on March 12-13. You can find the ODM and Bylaws information here.
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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Be a SOAR 2025 Sponsor
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Would you like to support SOAR 2025? Discover sponsorship opportunities or ways to advertise your ministry or business at SOAR here.
Terms & Conditions:
- The deadline to become a CSL SOAR 2025 sponsor or advertiser is June 30, 2025.
- All supporters are subject to review and approval by the CSL Events Team to ensure the company and/or individual is in alignment with the retreat.
- Payments must be received by July 15, 2025.
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Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org
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