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May Global Theme: Raise Your Voice

Weekly Theme: Negotiating Peace

Your weekly newsletter for May 22, 2025

Stay informed, engaged and inspired with Centers for Spiritual Living

Quote of the Week

“When we are able to listen deeply to another person, we understand
more about ourselves and the other person. We can find common ground
and resolve conflicts more easily.”  

― Thích Nhất Hạnh, "Peace Is Every Step:
The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life," page 89

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.

We Are CSL: Member Council Video

Create Yours Today

CSL's Member Council created a video introducing the council and what it does to support new CSL community members. We are happy to present that video and provide a link for all CSL communities to share in newsletters, websites and groups. Spread the word of the good work being done by the Member Council.

Here's the "We Are CSL: Member Council" video link: https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/v0exyReZxtc/djypp1/1657621773/h/U7syP0hBzMgmzpQ22kD6Eelh3lLFcUBrXHavG-_YQ7c

Do you have a video highlighting your CSL center, community or ministry? Create one or send an existing video to Communications@CSL.org to be included in the "We Are CSL" playlist on YouTube. Let's powerfully join our voices in proclaiming "We Are CSL!"

June "Tune In Tuesday" Cancelled

Resumes July 1

The June "Tune in Tuesday" has been cancelled.

Dr. Soni hosts "Tune in Tuesdays" on the first Tuesday of the month, and the next one is set for Tuesday, July 1. Add your thoughts, insights and questions to the conversation at 9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT / 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET. A second call will be held at 5 p.m. PT / 6 p.m. MT / 7 p.m. CT / 8 p.m. ET. 

CSL’s “Tune In Tuesday” is an open, supportive space for CSL members, practitioners and ministers. Together, we cultivate a respectful environment where everyone feels heard and valued. We encourage participation from all levels of the CSL community, ensuring that voices from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives are included.

Everyone is welcome to attend. And stay connected with Dr. Soni and view her invite to "Tune In Tuesday" on the CSL Spiritual Leader Facebook page.

A Statement from the CSL
Spiritually Motivated Social Engagement Committee

Shining Our Light in Challenging Times

In times of global uncertainty, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face. Yet, history and human experience remind us that even small acts of compassion and resilience can illuminate the darkest times. As Clarissa Pinkola Estés writes, “We were made for these times.”

At the heart of our collective vision is a commitment to unity and interconnectedness. Our Global Vision articulates this beautifully:

We envision a world in which we live and grow as One Global Family that respects and honors the interconnectedness of all life; a world where this kinship with all life prospers and connects through the guidance of spiritual wisdom and experience.

This vision comes to life through the actions of CSL communities around the world, including those in Ukraine, where individuals have demonstrated remarkable resilience and compassion amidst adversity.

CSL Bela Tserkva: Embracing Unity Amidst Conflict
In February 2022, as conflict erupted, a group of women in Bela Tserkva were concluding their Practitioner Studies. Led by Lyudmila and supported by her daughter Anastasia, they chose to focus on the interconnectedness of all people, transcending divisions. They continued their spiritual practices, holding vigils for peace and offering support to their community, embodying resilience and unity.

CSL Cherkasy: Cultivating Community Support
In Cherkasy, under Olga's leadership, the CSL group initiated activities to support both civilians and soldiers. They organized community events, prepared care packages, and created spaces of solace and connection. Their efforts provided tangible support and reinforced the bonds within their community.

The Power of Collective Action
These narratives highlight that while we may not change the world single-handedly, our collective efforts can make a significant impact. By focusing on compassion, unity, and proactive engagement, we contribute to the healing and betterment of our communities.

As C.G. Jung observed, “As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being.” Let us continue to shine our individual and collective lights, fostering hope and resilience in challenging times.
 
Engage Thoughtfully, Act Compassionately
In these times, consider engaging in practices that promote unity and understanding. Whether through community involvement, supportive dialogues or personal reflection, each action contributes to a more compassionate world. Remember, it's not about grand gestures but consistent, heartfelt efforts that bring about meaningful change.

SMSE Committee
Rev. Dr. Sunshine Michelle Coleman, Chair
Rev. Dr. Soni Cantrell-Smith, CSL Spiritual Leader
Lusia Rivera, RScP
Rev. Beth Linguri
Ayodele McClenney, RScP,
Rev. Obakeng Gaitate

CSL Connection! Call Rewatch

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 June call is Monday, June 16. 

Your questions and ideas are always welcome. If you missed the May call, the recording can be found here. 

At the May CSL Connection! Call, we important information from the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity on what to do if ICE comes to your spiritual community. Watch for additional resources to come in this newsletter. Acting Executive Director Dr. Tye Minckler gave an update on CSL finances.
 
​​​​​​Add this Zoom link to your calendar and join us for the June call on Monday, June 16: https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/j-933448796/djyppf/1657621773/h/U7syP0hBzMgmzpQ22kD6Eelh3lLFcUBrXHavG-_YQ7c

Change to the Weekly Newsletter

Based on suggestions from the field and to limit mailbox impact, beginning June 2025, your "We Are CSL: Consciously Connected" newsletter will move to every other week for the summer. Check in every other week for all the information you've come to count on from CSL international home office.

Updates From Camp Cedar Ridge

Questions? Email KWilson@CampCedarRidgeOR.org

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Practitioner Application
Period Opens June 1

Get Ready: Practitioner Training Applications Open June 1
If you’ve completed the six certificated Science of Mind prerequisite courses, you’re eligible to apply for Advanced Consciousness Studies (ACS) through CSL Online Education. The application period opens June 1 and closes July 15, 2025.

ACS is the first course in the Professional Practitioner Training sequence, but it’s also open to students who wish to deepen their personal spiritual growth — whether or not they plan to become a Licensed Practitioner.

Students who wish to continue on the path to becoming a Licensed Spiritual Practitioner must complete ACS before applying for the second course, Professional Practitioner Studies (PPS).

• 👉 Apply for ACS: https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/pment-becoming-a-practitioner-/djyppq/1657621773/h/U7syP0hBzMgmzpQ22kD6Eelh3lLFcUBrXHavG-_YQ7c
• 👉 Apply for PPS (after completing ACS): https://pub.csl.org/e/1087013/itual-development-ppt-courses-/djyppt/1657621773/h/U7syP0hBzMgmzpQ22kD6Eelh3lLFcUBrXHavG-_YQ7c

Licensed Spiritual Practitioners are individuals of high spiritual consciousness and dedicated service. They are trained in Science of Mind principles, skilled in affirmative prayer, and they uphold a sacred code of ethics.

If you are not currently affiliated with a CSL member community, you may qualify to hold your license through the CSL Virtual Practitioner Program after completing both courses.

Questions? Email SpiritualDevelopment@CSL.org

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CALLING ALL CHAPLAINS!

SAVE THE DATE: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

On behalf of the CSL Chaplaincy Committee, we would like to invite our CSL chaplains – active or retired – to join us for a Town Hall on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET.

This is an opportunity to meet the newly formed Chaplaincy Committee and get to know one another. Let's share the good work you're doing in your communities.

Watch this newsletter for more details and a registration link.

CSL Chaplaincy Committee
Rev. Susan Overland
Rev. Toni Cormier
Rev. Jim Rigsbee
Rev. Judy Ann Young

Questions? Email SOverland@CSL.org

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Spiritual Practice of the Week:
"I Am at Peace" Meditation

Join the "I Am at Peace" Meditation from Ernest Holmes' "This Thing Called You" with Rev. Dr. Trish Hall, member of CSL's Global Heart of Peace Initiative.

The Heart of Peace Initiative, comprised of members from all over the world, is a subcommittee of the Global Outreach Committee and is also dedicated to carrying the message of Science of Mind through peace to our international communities. In addition to providing peace meditations, they also sponsor yearly events like day-long meditations supporting the International Day of Peace and the New Year’s Eve morning meditation for World Peace.

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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CSL Member Council: Join the
Conversation on Thursday, May 22

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 monthly 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. Use this link.

Questions? Email CSLMemberCouncil@Gmail.com

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Practitioner Council Sensational Saturday

Saturday, May 24 at 9 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. MT /
11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET

Español acquí

Questions? Email PracCouncil@CSL.org

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Retired Ministers Golden Hour

Tuesday, May 27 at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT /
6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET

We’re thrilled to share what’s blooming within the Retired Ministers Committee this season. Together, we continue to honor the legacy of our spiritual pioneers, uplift those in transition, and deepen our connection as wise and vital contributors to CSL.
 

Program Spotlight: The Partner Program
The Partner Program pairs ministerial students with seasoned elders for connection, companionship and support. Whether it's a simple phone call or ongoing mentorship, this initiative ensures no one walks the path of ministerial training alone. Interested in becoming a partner or being matched with one? Reach out to Lgood@Att.net or JuliaMattis@Hotmail.com.

Celebrating Our Own: Emeritus Recognition
We’re delighted to celebrate our newest Emeritus Ministers who have given decades of faithful service to our movement. The recent honorees were acknowledged with a special blessing at our monthly gathering. We extend deep gratitude for their lifelong dedication. 

Golden Hour: A Monthly Virtual Gathering
Our April Golden Hour was a special treat. We welcomed ministerial student Richard Jarvis as a special guest. He introduced us to Rev. Paul Domanski and PrayersRadio.com, a focused ministry project that is bearing beautiful fruit. 

Prayers Radio streams Science of Mind talks 24/7 and offers dynamic video content across YouTube and other platforms. Using AI, Ernest Holmes quotes and music, they create engaging learning videos and have recently added a SOM AI coaching platform to the website. Their weekly show, "Prayers Radio Conversations," explores the practical application of Science of Mind principles. They are actively inviting ministers to join them and share how they apply affirmative prayer in everyday life. This is a great opportunity for retired ministers and those who have moved from pulpit to other spiritual adventures. We encourage you to check it out and support this inspired project.

The Golden Hour continues every fourth Tuesday of the month. Bring your beverage, your truth and your heart. In May, we'll open the floor to share what the RMC is doing, what more we can do and what we want to be known as. See you there.
 

Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Time: 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
Location: Zoom Link
Theme: Honoring the past. Supporting the present. Inspiring the future!

Wisdom Shared: Elders Speak (October 2025)
Elders Speak is an annual event spotlighting the voices and vision of our elder ministers. From early CSL history to lessons learned along the way, these heartfelt conversations offer treasure for the whole movement. If you are retired from pulpit ministry and would like to serve on our panel, contact Revjb18@Gmail.com. Stay tuned for Elders Speak details!

Coming Together: Retired Ministers Breakout at SOAR 2025
Join us at CSL's SOAR 2025 Summer Retreat in Banff to connect with other retired ministers. During a coffee connection break, we’ll share updates, enjoy fellowship and dream forward together. Dr. Deborah Gordon will be available at the gathering to help support this time together. If you are retired and you are going to Banff, let her know at RevGord@Shaw.ca.

Make Your Voice Heard: Committee Participation
Your voice matters in shaping the future of this sacred circle. If you would like to serve on this committee, contact LGoold@ATT.net

With love and appreciation,
CSL Retired Ministers Committee
Together, we are creating a spiritual legacy rooted in wisdom, service and belonging.

Questions? Email RevJB18@Gmail.com

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Join Us for Touchstone Thursday

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

The next "Touchstone Thursday," a monthly gathering dedicated to 15 minutes of collective prayer for our organization and the world, is June 5. This sacred time will be held on the first Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. MT / 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET

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.

Stay connected and uplifted — let’s create a ripple of transformation together. Save this link. No registration required.

Questions? Email Communications@CSL.org

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