divine service

We recite the Seven Principles as this reminds us of our obligations as Spiritualists. The Seven Principles were given to us by Emma Hardinge Britten, a wonderful orator, writer and medium. She is looked upon as the mother of Spiritualism and is held in high esteem; she was an advocate for the spirit world. We acknowledge the power of healing through prayer. For those names in our Absent Healing books whether human or animal are prayed for every time we meet, and on a Sunday the names are called out, both human and animal. We have the healing hymn which helps us to link our prayers towards those in need. 

We have a visiting medium who gives an address or philosophy. By sharing knowledge this helps us to open our minds and even challenge our own perceptions of the world around us. We are not guaranteed a message from our loved ones. But there is always a message contained within the philosophy that helps us through the coming days. 

The visiting medium acts as a doorway between the physical and spiritual world. Spiritualists’ look upon mediumship as sacred and therefore must not be abused. If a medium comes to you requesting dialogue all is required from you is a ‘Yes,’ ‘No’ or ‘I Do not know or understand.’ We discourage recipients from starting a conversation with the medium. This is important as the term used within Spiritualist circles, is ‘Don’t feed the medium’ Critics of mediumship are quick to claim that the medium is being fed with information. We cannot demand of the spirit world, but they have a set time for a loved one to come through and communicate with their loved ones in the physical world. We also discourage people from talking during the service as this distracts the medium and other members of the congregation. 

It can be an emotional experience especially if you have never received a communication from spirit before. Showing emotion is normal and you are surrounded by people who understand. A medium has a set time for their demonstration of mediumship. The chairperson always gives their thanks to the medium and the congregation. A request is made to the congregation to stand if they are able. This also signals to the congregation that the service is ending. The visiting medium gives the closing prayer which is followed by the vesper. The congregation are asked to remain standing whilst the medium leaves the sanctuary or the rostrum. 

To conclude a Spiritualist Divine service is a religious service with prayer, hymns, philosophy, and a demonstration of mediumship. If you are visiting for the first time come with an open mind and take the opportunity to chat with members of the church before and after the service. Birkenhead Spiritualist Church® is a friendly, confident, and forward-thinking church and we encourage Spiritualists and non-Spiritualists’ to attend our meetings.