So many ways to connect with us: We grow our reach together!

Email us anytime: Communications@CSL.org

March Global Theme: El flujo del Vaivén
~ The Flow of Coming and Going

Weekly Theme: La Pequeña Vocecita de la Quietud*
~ The Still Small Voice

*The March Global Themes were written in Spanish and translated into English.

Your weekly newsletter for March 13, 2025

Stay informed, engaged and inspired with Centers for Spiritual Living

Quote of the Week

“When you recognize that there is a voice in your head that pretends to be you
and never stops speaking, you are coming out of the unconscious identification
with the stream of thoughts. When you notice that voice, you realize that you are
not the voice — the thinker — but the one who is aware of it. Freedom lies in
knowing yourself as the consciousness behind the voice.”

— Eckhart Tolle, “Stillness Speaks”

“Cuando reconoces que hay una voz en tu cabeza que pretende ser tú y que nunca deja de hablar, estás saliendo de la identificación inconsciente con la corriente de pensamientos. Cuando notas esa voz, te das cuenta de que tú no eres la voz — el pensador — sino quien es consciente de ella. La libertad estriba en conocerte a ti mismo como la consciencia que está detrás de la voz.”

— Eckhart Tolle, "La Quietud Habla" 

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.

Your Voice Matters for the CSL Affiliation Agreement: Help Shape Our Future

Espaniol aquí

We're excited to invite you to help shape the future of CSL! The CSL Affiliation Agreement hasn't been updated in 12 years, and now it’s time for change. Your input is crucial in co-creating a stronger, more inclusive CSL.

Join us for focus groups during the last week of March to discuss key topics like accountability, culture and what affiliation means for us all. These sessions will guide the next steps in CSL’s evolution, and your voice is essential.

How to participate:
1. Click to learn more.
2. Choose a session that fits your schedule.
3. Register and attend!

This is your chance to be part of CSL’s transformation. Don’t miss out — register today!

Thank you,
Affiliation Agreement Committee (formerly Task Force)
CSL International Home Office

Questions? Email AffiliationTF@CSL.org

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CSL Connection! Call on March 17

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 March call is Monday, March 17. 

Your questions and ideas are always welcome. If you can't attend, the recording is shared in this weekly newsletter.

At the March CSL Connection! Call, we'll announce the results of the 2025 elections and meet the members of the Member Council, Practitioner Council, Minister and Leadership Councils.
 
​​​​​​Add this Zoom link to your calendar and join us on Monday, March 17:
​​​​​​https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/j-933448796/djmdd2/1585927546/h/Kt6RnYOr4R7tJ-o2OnnYS5t5ZtrzTvm3Fmc39L2KpDA

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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Join Us For "Touchstone Thursday":
A Sacred Space for Prayer
and Connection on April 3

We are excited to announce "Touchstone Thursday," a new monthly gathering dedicated to 15 minutes of collective prayer for our organization and the world. Our first gathering on March 6 was a powerful experience! If you missed it, watch the recording here with passcode: FS@wJC1K 

Hosted by our CSL Member, Practitioner and Minister Council and supported by our World Ministry of Prayer, "Touchstone Thursday" provides a moment to pause, reflect and unite in spiritual practice. We invite all to join us in this shared intention of love, peace and healing.

Save the link and join us on Thursday, April 3. No registration required. Just 15 minutes, once a month. A simple practice. A powerful shift.

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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2026 Global Themes: An Opportunity to
Vision the Direction of CSL

Join us on Thursday, March 20

Are you ready to have input on shaping the future of CSL for the benefit of our global communities? Please join the Global Themes Committee on Thursday, March 20, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. MT (12:30 p.m. PT / 3:30 p.m. CT. 4:30 p.m. ET) to vision for the 2026 Global Themes.

Anyone is welcome to join us for this visioning session, and the insights that come through you from Spirit will be included in our distillation and creation process.

To join, use this Zoom link: https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/j-87169572175/djmddk/1585927546/h/Kt6RnYOr4R7tJ-o2OnnYS5t5ZtrzTvm3Fmc39L2KpDA. The form is in Spanish and English, and we especially welcome CSL members and leadership from around the world to attend this visioning session.

Warmly,
Rev. Kris Alexander (she/they) & Louise Tallen, Ph.D., RScP (she/her)
CSL Global Themes Co-Coordinators

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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Updates From Camp Cedar Ridge

Questions? Email KWilson@CampCedarRidgeOR.org

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CSL Education Updates

Reminder of Upcoming Changes to Certificated Courses

As part of our ongoing commitment to the evolution of spiritual education, we want to share an important update. Beginning June 1, 2025, the following certificated courses will be retired and will no longer count as prerequisites for Practitioner Training:

• Foundations of Science of Mind
• Meditation Is More Than You Think
• 5 Gifts for an Abundant Life
• Power of Your Word
• From Whence We Came

If you currently have the curriculum for these courses, you are welcome to continue teaching them; however, after June 1, 2025, they will no longer be certified, and the curriculum will no longer be available for download in "Our Community." 

We deeply appreciate the impact these courses have had in supporting spiritual growth. As we continue to evolve, we are committed to expanding and updating our educational offerings to better serve our communities. In the coming months, we are excited to introduce three new certificated courses. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

Questions? Email SpiritualDevelopment@CSL.org

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Unlock Your Teaching Potential
With "Education Reimagined:
Transformative Teaching​​​"

Ready to elevate your teaching and make a lasting impact on your students? Step into the next phase of educational mastery with our advanced course, "Education Reimagined: Transformative Teaching."

This course builds on the powerful foundations of transformative learning, empowering educators with the skills to:

• Master Dynamic Facilitation: Create engaging, inclusive and adaptive learning experiences for diverse student needs.
• Enhance Curriculum Development: Learn to modify CSL curriculum for specific audiences while aligning with your purpose as a teacher.
• Cultivate Effective Communication: Master communication techniques that foster connection and clarity in every classroom.
• Innovate with Experiential Learning: Discover cutting-edge strategies for managing classroom dynamics and enhancing student engagement.
• Optimize Time Management: Develop skills to keep your classes on track and maximize learning outcomes.
• Collaborate with Teaching Assistants: Gain practical tools for working with teaching assistants and assessing student progress.

You'll leave equipped with everything you need to create a transformative learning space where students thrive.

Pre-requisite: While it is suggested to take "Education Reimagined 1: Transformative Learning" first, it is not required.

Step into the fullness of your teaching potential and deepen your impact today! Click here.

Questions? Email PD@CSL.org

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CSL Global Support Services Updates

Exciting News! Introducing the
Global Support Services Department

• Rev. Nan Bankston: Director of Global Support Services
• Rebecca Hiraoka, RScP: Director of Global Programs

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U.S. Ministers: Enhance Your Retirement!

Enhance Your Future with Clergy Advantage Retirement Accounts

CSL Field Services is excited to share a valuable opportunity that can significantly benefit your financial future! The Clergy Advantage 403(b) program uses pre-tax dollars and provides a housing allowance when you retire. In simple terms, with proper setup, your retirement dollars are never taxed. 

Clergy Advantage has navigated the legal requirements to bring you this exceptional benefit, already used by CSL International Home Office.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity! For more information, reach out to Noah Brown at Clergy Advantage:
📞 Phone: 970-342-2382
✉️ Email: Noah@ClergyAdvantage.com
Secure your financial future today!

Questions? Email FSMin@CSL.org

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Youth & Family News

CSL Teen Camp: In-Person Advisor Training Retreat
Southern California at Buckhorn Camp in Idyllwild on May 16-18, 2025

We invite all youth group teen advisors, ministers, practitioners, youth directors and those adults planning to attend our Teen Summer Camp to participate in this community-building and empowering weekend.

• Starting: Friday, May 16 with registration from 4 p.m. PT – 5:30 p.m. PT followed by dinner
• PLEASE BE ON THE GROUNDS NO LATER THAN 5:30 p.m. PT
• Ending: Sunday, May 18, at 10 a.m. PT
• Registration: $95 (Registration includes training, lodging and meals from Friday night through Sunday’s breakfast.)
• Registration deadline: Friday, April 25, 2025
• Although there is no penalty for late registration, forms received after this date may preclude our ability to accommodate due to necessary advanced planning and preparation.

Click here to register: CSL Teen Camp Advisor Training


Calling All Campers! Save the Date for CSL Summer Teen Camp 2025
Saturday, July 19 - Friday, July 25, 2025
Camp Cedar Ridge in Vernonia, Oregon

Teens ages 13 to 18 are welcome to join us for a fun week of community, connection, self-discovery, spiritual empowerment and more.

• Early Bird Registration if registered by May 1: $575
• May 2 – June 1: $625
• Late registration June 2 – June 10: $675
• Roundtrip shuttle to/from Cedar Ridge from PDX (Portland): $110
• Registration will be open March 15 to June 1, 2025.

For more information and to register, visit CSL.org/TeenCamp or contact Rev. Michelle Scavetta, Teen Camp Director, at YouthServices@CSL.org.

New to CSL Teen Camp?
If you are new to CSL Teen Camp and would like additional information, please join us for one of our Camp Information Meetings listed below. Please register in advance for this meeting. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Thursday, April 3, 2025, 4:30-5:30 p.m. PT (5:30-6:30 p.m. MT, 6:30-7:30 p.m. CT, 7:30-8:30 p.m. ET)
https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/egister-jY2LijvwQyWpUbnKOMNqgA/djmdf5/1585927546/h/Kt6RnYOr4R7tJ-o2OnnYS5t5ZtrzTvm3Fmc39L2KpDA

Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 5:30-6:30 p.m. PT (6:30-7:30 p.m. MT, 7:30-8:30 p.m. CT, 8:30-9:30 p.m. ET)
https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/egister-78UwDawYTKOD4vhud2ftyA/djmdf8/1585927546/h/Kt6RnYOr4R7tJ-o2OnnYS5t5ZtrzTvm3Fmc39L2KpDA


Youth and Family Collaboration Invitation
Y&F Program Questionnaire

• Aims to connect and empower our vibrant CSL communities dedicated to youth and family programming.
• Six dedicated ministerial students have come together to cultivate a vision for collaboration and support among CSL communities with existing youth and family programs and those aspiring to develop such initiatives.
• We envision this collaboration as a powerful platform for youth and family leaders to connect, share resources, ideas, and approaches as well as collaborating on programing, curriculum development, and much more.

If you are interested in participating in this exciting initiative, please click this link and complete the Y&F Program Questionnaire: Y&F Program Questionnaire.

Should you have questions or require further information, reach out to Rev. Michelle Scavetta at YouthServices@CSL.org or Julia Mattis at JuliaMattis@Hotmail.com. You can also contact Julia directly at 410-303-7010.

Questions? Email Rev. Michelle Scavetta, Youth & Field Services Program Manager at YouthServices@CSL.org

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Spiritual Practice of the Week
Day of Stillness: Embracing the Flow

Host a “Day of Stillness” meditation/mindfulness retreat for yourself and/or the larger community. Create a space where participants can experience the power of stillness and silence through various spiritual practices, allowing them to reconnect with their True Essence amid life’s constant changes.

Event Outline: Opening Circle and Intention Setting

• Begin with a brief welcome and an introduction to the day’s theme: “The Flow of Coming and Going.” 
• Share quotes and insights from the month’s theme, focusing on the importance of stillness and silence in spiritual practice. 
• Invite participants to set a personal intention for the day, reflecting on how they wish to connect with their inner stillness. 

Guided Meditation and Silent Sitting: 

• Lead a guided meditation that encourages participants to focus on their breath, allowing thoughts to come and go without attachment.
• Follow with a period of silent sitting, where participants can practice mindfulness and experience the quiet presence within themselves.

Mindful Walking in Nature: 

• Organize a mindful walking session in a nearby park or natural area. Encourage participants to walk slowly and attentively, noticing the sights, sounds and sensations around them.
• Emphasize the practice of being present in each step, allowing the natural world to inspire a deeper sense of peace and connection.

Creative Expression Through Silence: 

• Provide materials for creative activities such as drawing, painting or journaling. Encourage participants to express their feelings and insights from the morning’s practices in silence, without the need for words. 
• This allows a different form of meditation and self-reflection, tapping into the flow of creativity that can emerge from stillness.

Sacred Sharing Circle: 

• Host a sacred sharing circle where participants can share their experiences and insights from the day in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. 
• Emphasize that sharing is voluntary and that listening can be as powerful as speaking, honoring the silence that has been cultivated. 

Closing Ceremony: 

• End the day with a closing ceremony that includes a short reading or reflection from one of the supporting quotes or stories of the month. 
• Invite participants to take a moment of gratitude for the stillness and peace they have experienced and to carry this sense of inner calm into their everyday lives. 

Additional Elements

• Silent Tea Ceremony or Meal: Include a time for participants to share a meal or tea in silence, fostering a sense of community and shared experience without the need for conversation. 
• Interactive Stations: Set up stations with activities such as mandala coloring, sand raking or stone stacking, where participants can engage in quiet, meditative practices at their own pace. 
• Take-Home Reflection: Provide each participant with a small booklet of quotes, reflections and suggested practices to continue exploring stillness and self-awareness at home. 

This spiritual practice was taken from CSL's March 2025 Monthly Global Themes.

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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CSL Practitioner Council
Sensational Saturday

Saturday, March 22, 2025
10 a.m. PT / 11 a.m. MT / 12 p.m. CT / 1 p.m. ET​​​

Our March "Sensational Saturday" event will showcase the Science of Mind Archives and Library Foundation, taking us into the world of Dr. Ernest Holmes. Learn how we can joyfully carry on his legacy in our lives.

Questions? Email PractitionerCouncil@Gmail.com

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March Golden Hour/Open House

Tuesday, March 25
at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET

As the seasons turn and we spring ahead, March brings a golden opportunity to gather, reflect and share the wisdom that has shaped our journeys.

This month’s Golden Hour will be a special OPEN HOUSE, inviting not only retired ministers but also those who wish to listen, ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with us. It is also an opportunity to hear more about the matching program between ministerial students and retired ministers. 

Our years of service have given us deep insights, not just about teaching spiritual principles, but about living them. This is our time to offer guidance, tell our stories and remain a vital presence in the CSL community. Whether you feel called to mentor, share a cherished experience or simply be present in the conversation, your voice matters.

Join us for this special gathering, where we'll open the space for heartfelt connection. Your wisdom is a gift, and in sharing it, we continue to uplift and inspire.

Mark Your Calendar
GOLDEN HOUR on Tuesday, March 25
Time: 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
Location: Zoom link
Theme: "Sharing Wisdom in Community"

CALL FOR MINISTERS: "Spiritual Buddy" Volunteers Needed
We are 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 soon.

This initiative is a partnership with CSL's 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. The Spiritual Buddy Program is designed to be a steady source of support as these students navigate their studies and face the personal and spiritual challenges that often arise on this path.

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

Questions? Email RevJB18@Gmail.com

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Member Council Forum:
Join the Conversation

Thursday, March 27
at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET

The CSL Member Council invites you to join our Member Forum. We meet the fourth Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET. We want to hear your thoughts on expanding our reach, sharing best practices and creating a world that works for everyone. We look forward to seeing you there.

Email us at CSLMemberCouncil@Gmail.com to receive the link and to be added to the forum email list.
 

El Consejo de miembros de CSL lo invita a unirse a nuestro Foro de miembros. Nos reunimos el cuarto jueves de cada mes a las 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET. Queremos escuchar su opinión sobre cómo ampliar nuestro alcance, compartir las mejores prácticas y crear un mundo que funcione para todos. Esperamos verte allí.

Envíenos un correo electrónico a CSLMemberCouncil@gmail.com para recibir el enlace y ser agregado a la lista de correo electrónico del foro.

Questions? Email CSLMemberCouncil@Gmail.com

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Science of Mind Archives Grand Opening

Thursday to ​​​Sunday, April 24 to 27, 2025

You are lovingly invited to attend the Science of Mind Archives and Library Foundation's grand opening celebration weekend at Unity Village: Thursday, April 24 through Sunday, April 27. 

Please check out the Archives website for more information and sponsorship opportunities, and be sure to RSVP by March 15, 2025!

Questions? Email Kathy@ScienceOfMindArchives.org

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SOAR 2025 Summer Retreat
Early Bird Pricing Ends March 31​​

Early Bird Pricing Ends March 31

Only two weeks left to take advantage of Early Bird pricing! Register soon to join us in Banff for "A Journey of Revelation, Restoration and Grace." Find all you need to know about registration, lodging, travel, speakers and more at https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/csl-soar-2025-summer-retreat/djmdfr/1585927546/h/Kt6RnYOr4R7tJ-o2OnnYS5t5ZtrzTvm3Fmc39L2KpDA.
 

Sponsorship Opportunities

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.

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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