Comparative Religion

ULC Comparative Religion

What I gained from this course:

The twenty-lesson course in Comparative Religion  was a validation of my beliefs. I have always thought that the various religions that developed around the world were based on the same basic belief in a higher energy, Creator, Source, Divine Bring or any other term developed by humanity's limited language skills that one would care to use to describe the underlying power of the Universe.

It has been my life long belief that all the religions of the world lead to one place, it is just a matter of how one gets there. A brief visual description may assist in understanding my point. Imagine a large mountain and the goal is the summit. Each person is located at the base. There are paths that spiral around the mountain climbing ever higher. There are some paths whose course takes them directly up the side of the mountain on a vertical ascent. These paths all start at different points at the base of the mountain, but all end at the summit. Some of these paths even travel the same course at times, some never meet. While all start at a different point, all take a varied route; all arrive at the same point in the end - the summit or to phrase it another way - reunification with Divinity.

I believe that the vast differences are there to accommodate the various level of spiritual development evident in each culture at any given point in their evolution. That is to say, an early pagan would have had a hard time comprehending the higher teachings of the Buddhist religion. Another example of this is the evolution from

Hinduism into Buddhism. This difficulty in comprehension is just as true for the modern day Christian. By that I mean that a Christian has trouble accepting that each individual is responsible for their own evolution on the wheel of life, death and rebirth. Most of the Christians that I have spoken with believe that unless one believes in Jesus salvation can never be obtained.

What I liked best and least about this course, and how to improve:

While I was pleasantly surprised to see the more obscure religions given the same basically fair treatment as the more commonly practiced ones, I would also have liked to have seen a more in depth comparison of each of the religions covered. Many times I was waiting in vain for the next religion to be explained to the extent that the last one had been discussed. This was true not only of the obscure ones, but even the common ones. The discussions (lessons 16 and 17) on Divine Messengers for example as well as the discussion on Religious Titles (lesson 18) serve to illustrate this point.

I would have preferred to see a systematic breakdown showing how each religion compared and contrasted with each other one during the course of each lesson. Using the above examples, if each religion's terms for angels had been laid out in table format and each religion's titles had been detailed side by side I believe it would

have more fully explained how they relate to one another.

Over all, this was an excellent course. I would definitely be willing to take another course from Reverend Kythera Ann; and am looking forward to Part 2 of this course. I am of course assuming there is a Part 2.

Theresa A. Bedwell

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.  
 

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Religion

Final Essay

Master of Religion

Rev. Tami

The study of Theology through the courses of faith and beliefs brings us back to our own back yard. Meaning often our structure and spiritual roots may be more of what is passed to us, and not necessarily always what resonates within us, as far as religion is concerned. Our Growth depends on our own inner belief and how it resonates through us and by us. This is how we grow spiritually. To personally re-examine, and break down the biblical texts more closely, it brought an array of clarity. To know ourselves and others more profoundly we can spread love and understanding, which can enable us to make a difference in our world by helping others - one person at a time if necessary. It makes us more complete in the service of ministry and missions.

Can we read the words and not embrace the meaning of the message? And yes, I think that can be so. Can we have religion and yet not have it resonate in our spirit? And yes, I think it can be so.

Ahhh but can we learn to grow? Can we learn to grow through understanding by embracing the deeper meaning of faiths as a whole? Yes, I think it can be so.

I found the course to be true to itself, on the basis of Christianity on a world wide perception. It opened the doors of biblical doctrines, through researching what has been written. Giving those, like myself, that selected this course something more to embrace and be compassionate towards within the biblical senses.

I have been on a personal journey of seeking not only my own truth, but the truths of divine faith by spiritual growth. This course afforded certain definite possibilities by illuminating the ideals that are presented in the holy written words. If you are open to see, I truly believe things can be allowed for you to see, no matter what particular faith you adhere to. Sacred Text- whether canonical, apocrypha, or those considered the lost ones, the scriptures personifies the purpose of life. Some are stories that provide powerful lessons in life, while others teach us the deep way the universal energies work. Scriptures give us instructions, teaching us how to be there for one other as neighbors, parents, spouses, and children. They advise us how to live and pray. Some scriptures were letters written to churches ministering to them how to have fellowship, by honoring God. These many letters written by prophets of long ago still hold honor today through these teachings. These sacred texts that have been passed down time and time again, give strength to those who are weak, give courage to those that are scared, give wisdom to those that are lost, and give hope to those that have none. We not only have the wisdom of the prophets, but lessons on their strength to persevere through the judgment of others, by embracing faith. Truly, this brings me to one of the most honored blessing given to us, and one we as humans tend not use as much as we should. I personally feel blessed by this most valued gift, and try to remind myself often not to forget to oblige it. "Judge Not" -- For we need not to judge others, as that is not our job, it will be done in accordance just as we will be judged too. It has given me a deep compassion for FAITH. Learning more so, to appreciate those who may walk a different path, and yet there is a correlation - a parallel within each that it brings us all together. We debate over differences yet seldom seem to embrace the likeness. Which is why I say this, "Though many faiths may use the ! same bib lical scriptures, I think it imperative that we try to find the common threads that bind us, rather than the differences that separate us." Even Christ washed the feet of bums in the street. Those less fortunate, those that where lost. He sought Them out. He did not look down on them, and only visited with those of like mind. No, nor did he bring fear, but to share love and hope. To me that is what it is all about. Whether we call it religion, beliefs, or faiths. It is knowing your own mission and being right with the divine powers that be. To work in the light and do that which is right.

Blessed Be

Always in the Light

Until,

Rev Tami

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As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

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Comparative Religion

Universal Life Church Seminary

Comparative Religion Part I

Michael Babb

I was raised in Texas, right in the middle of the “Bible Belt” where tolerance for other faiths and belief systems was virtually non-existent. If the belief system did not conform to the protestant ethic following specific denominational doctrines, then they were characterized as false and those who worshiped through different religions were eternally condemned. The sad fact is that from childhood, I was frightened into believing that if I deviated from my faith’s teachings (specific religion omitted on purpose) I would face eternal damnation and possible emotional recriminations from my family. Still, at a relatively young age, I did begin to wonder why one God would single out a specific religious orientation for salvation and shun the others. For a child, this was exceptionally confusing and as I grew, it was something that I knew was not rational but I could not shake the fear. Even today with more depth and breadth to my understanding of religions and hopefully a more highly evolved respect for other religious belief systems, a small remnant of that fear still resides within.

Throughout my adult life, I have acquainted myself with the bare basics of several other belief systems and do not presume to judge another’s connection to the divine. However, until I enrolled in The Comparative Religion Part I course, I truly had no idea the depth of similarity that exists within and among the range of cultures. Certainly there are differences, some of them significant, but there are too many customs, artifacts, symbols and other interactions exemplified by the universal use of crosses and circles, to make these cross-cultural religious commonalities more than mere coincidence. The Rev. Kythera Ann has very skillfully brought these together for comparison with a depth that has left me with more than just an elementary understanding of the origins of the world’s religious belief systems. I now posses a functional understanding of how most have had influences on other developing religions and if not influence, the amazement of being able to compare religions that evolved with virtually the same message entirely independent of each other.

As a human being and minister, understanding and tolerance of others should be central to our mission. The vast amount of information and topics presented by Rev. Kythera Ann has filled a needed void, specifically the knowledge of those who worship God through practices different from my own. I claim the Christian faith as my religious foundation. But, rather than allow religious dogma to cloud my vision, I have chosen to worship with a “Christ Consciousness” that disallows the judgmental aspects some denominations feel compelled to put forward. Now I realize that what I refer to as “Christ Consciousness” is a consciousness that exists in different forms within religions throughout the planet. This has long been a personal belief of mine based on what little I knew of the world’s religious practices. The material, both in lessons and outside references, that this course has exposed me to has provided a strong foundation not only for this belief, but hard evidence of it. This was an intricate course that should be required for seminary graduation. It excelled in each and every way. I can clearly see that by understanding how another believes and worships, I am able to understand myself that much better. Thank you for a blessing and spiritual uplifting.

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Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

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A Course in Miracles

Dr. in Metaphysics Final Essay

By Rev. Patricia Buben

A Course in Miracles is all about love and forgiveness. All situations can improve and miracles can happen when we open ourselves up to love and forgiveness in all areas of our lives.

The Miracle Worker course starts with explaining the function of the three parts of our mind: conscious, subconscious and higher mind. The conscious mind, which is the lower mind, is where we are consciously most of the time. It contains our personality and ego. Anytime we move to a different level of thinking, we move from servitude into freedom. As the Course states: “Freedom of choice is the only freedom that exists in this world”.

It goes on to discuss the nature of reality and how our being separate from God is only an illusion. Love is the only thing that really exists. When we choose to heal the separateness, we go back to the true reality of our oneness with God. The Holy Spirit is here to remind us that this world is only an illusion. When we let him in, he takes away all guilt and fear. He teaches us how to forgive.

Meditation is one way of going from the chaos of the world to true inner peace. It helps you to remove yourself from the attachment of the ego/false self and reconnect with who you really are inside. Meditation also has a profound effect on the body. It helps to reduce stress, induces the relaxation response and helps to balance out your body. This is the opposite effect that stress has on the body.

In order to create what we want, we need to focus on positive thoughts otherwise we will attract negative situations into our lives. Every thought we think creates our reality. Thoughts filled with fear and guilt will produce negative results. Thoughts filled with love and forgiveness will produce positive results. In order to have the life we want, we must have a desire to change and an intention to take action. These two things will produce the needed change and attract positive results into our lives. One thing that I found very interesting and thought-provoking was the definition of an addiction: “the giving away of our power to an outside source in order to hide from our guilt.” What a powerful (and true) statement!

Lesson 19 especially resonated with me. It discusses the purpose of life, which is to give of ourselves. This is true in every situation that we are in. For example, the purpose of work is not to obtain wealth, status and compliments from our boss. The purpose of work is to give of ourselves—to our coworkers, staff and boss. Work is a temple where we combine our talents with others’ talents and use them to meet the needs of others. We are at work to do God’s will and if we surrender ourselves to him, the Holy Spirit will be able to work through us. That is what creates miracles. God only wants us to be happy doing our work and doing what we love to do.

A quotation taken from the Course: “Our talents are diamonds reflecting the infinite talent of God” is one of the most beautiful statements I have ever read. It expresses beautifully how important our talents are and the genius that God must be.

Overall, the entire course was very powerful and I had many “aha’s” while taking it. I would recommend it for all students. It has made a big difference in how I look at life and how my thoughts have had such a powerful affect. I never realized just how responsible we are for everything that occurs in our lives.

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Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church  materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Universal Life Church

1. I wasn’t able to print my credential. Can I get another one?

I’m afraid that the program generates the credential at the time of ordination. To get another one, you’d need to ordain yourself again or order one from the site.

2. I don’t remember my ordination date. How can I get it?

To get your ordination date, send your request to generalcontact@ulchq.com Give them your full name and address at the time of ordination and they will give it to you.

3. I need a letter of Good Standing to do weddings. How can I get one?

You can order this from headquarters as well. Write to generalcontact@ulchq.com. Give them your full name and the address you’d like it mailed to. There is no cost for this.

4. How do I know if I need a letter of Good Standing?

Look at the Marriage Laws in the FAQ section and the training section. You can also confirm by calling the local county clerk where the wedding will take place and ask if you need to register.

5. I live in one state and I was asked to do a wedding in another. Can I do this?

Yes. You are legal to do weddings in all 50 states, as long as you’re at least 18 years old.

6. I’m getting ready to do my first wedding, what do I need?

Aside from possibly needing a letter of Good Standing, you would do well to order a book of ceremonies and certificates. (Basic Wedding Pack, for starters.) You should also read the training section (under ‘classes’) that has wedding training, as well as the wedding FAQ section.

7. I want to start doing weddings, how do I get started?

Start by ordering the Wedding Officiant Training Kit. It has all the materials you’ll need. Then get business cards and later a website. If you are not in time to get into the phone book, start by going to all the wedding facilities in your area (or calling them) and ask to be put on their Preferred Vendor list. You will get calls this way. To get started doing funerals, you’ll want to go to Funeral Homes and do the same thing.

8. How do I know what to charge?

Call other ministers from the phone book. Look under wedding supplies and services and look for the ministers. Ask them and then determine your price from there.

9. I live in Canada. Is my ordination legal here?

In some provinces yes and some no. Get a letter of Good Standing and present it in your province to see. It varies greatly depending who you ask.

10. I want to start a group of ULC ministers in my area. How can I do this?

Ask for people to join you on the forum and look through the directory. We don’t handle the formation of the groups, but we’ll be happy to invite it on the discussion board.

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.  
 

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Comparative Religion

Comparative Religion Final Essay

By Rev. Patricia Buben

The course in Comparative Religion was very interesting and had a huge amount of information. I came out of it having a much better understanding of religion as a concept as well as amazed at how many similarities there are between religions and their stories. Most religions have associated with them sacred texts, some type of sacred space or church, stories, prayer, invocations/evocations and practices that do not change.

Many religions have very similar stories – such as the birth of Jesus and Krishna – even being similar to the point of them both having to escape from the clutches of an evil ruler. Many have the concept of a “golden rule” even though they may be worded a little bit differently. I think it is important for all of us to find and appreciate the similarities in religions rather than exploit the differences—especially as ministers.

It has always been my belief that there is truth in more than just one religion. Almost every culture on earth believes in a power larger than they are. Everyone has at least a concept of God. Therefore, I believe that there are many religions because there are many cultures. It only makes sense, but it doesn’t make one right and another wrong. Everyone needs to decide what works best for them.

I really enjoyed going through the comparisons and being exposed to so many rich faith traditions, their stories, architecture, similarities and differences. The bibliography for this course is one of the most extensive I’ve seen so far. Kythera Ann must have done a tremendous amount of research and study to put this course together. I would definitely take more courses written by this author if they were made available.

There is nothing that I did not enjoy about the course. It is very scholarly and requires a lot of concentration to get through it, but the ability to understand so many different traditions, how they came into existence and the history of each is very worthwhile.

This course could be enjoyed by anyone that has an interest in religious traditions outside of their own. I think everyone should be encouraged to understand as many religions as possible. It would encourage cooperation, collaboration and understanding among countries and possibly even prevent wars.

This course addressed many areas that I have always wondered about. I have a strong interest in other faiths and find a different perspective from each new one that I learn about.

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Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Four Gospels

Four Gospels Final Essay

By Rev. Patricia Buben

There are four gospels that are in the Bible: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The first three (Matthew, Mark and Luke) are synoptic gospels—that is their accounts agree with each other. The fourth, John, is a little bit different. Also included in this course is the study of the Gospel of Thomas. This is not included in the Bible, but is a gospel nonetheless.

Out of everything I studied in this course, I enjoyed the Sermon on the Mount the best. In particular, I liked the beatitudes the way they are translated from the Greek. They are much more understandable than traditional translation.

They are:

“The poor, in spirit, are in luck: the kingdom of the skies is theirs”. Although people might be poor in terms of money, if they are rich in terms of spirit that is what matters in heaven.

“The mourners are in luck: they will be consoled”. There is no need for mourning in the presence of God—spirit is eternal.

“The gentle are in luck: they will inherit the earth”. Love can cure all ills. Love is the only solution to changing a person’s heart. Eventually that will be the way of people on earth.

“Those hungering and thirsting for justice are in luck: they will get their fill.” God has made provisions for justice through Karma. We do not have to enact justice—God has taken care of it.

“The merciful are in luck: they will be treated mercifully”. This sounds like the golden rule... treat others the way you want to be treated.

“The clean-hearted are in luck: they will see God”. Those who are honest and see the good in situations already see God. Those who lie, cheat and steal will only see the bad and not be able to trust others.

“The peacemakers are in luck: they will be called God’s sons and daughters”. Bringing peace to the world, even in your own sphere of influence helps to contribute to world peace.

“Those persecuted for the sake of justice are in luck: the kingdom of the skies is theirs”. When you work for justice and speak out for something you believe in, even if it’s not popular, it will bring you harmony with God.

“You are in luck: when they blame you and persecute you and tell lies of you, because of me, be happy and delighted, because you will be well paid in the skies. After all, they persecuted the prophets before us the same way. Don’t be discouraged if your message isn’t welcomed. It’s difficult for people to hear the truth sometimes.” This is looking at the positive side of a bad situation. 

This course helped me to view the gospels with a different perspective and helped me understand how these could be interpreted in a new way.

The Gospel of Thomas is a collection of the sayings of Jesus. Many of these sayings are new; many are stated similarly in the other gospels. It is enlightening and interesting although when they are taken out of context, they are more difficult to understand.

Overall, I found the course easy to follow and understand and would recommend it to anyone who is interested in studying the gospels to gain a better understanding.

Rev. Patricia Buben

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Ordination with the Free Online Ordination button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Metaphysical Healing

Metaphysical Healing Final Essay

By Rev. Patricia Buben

I really enjoyed the course in Metaphysical Healing and came out with much more knowledge about the Chakra system, how the chakras align to the glands, the layers of the aura and the function of the aura.

It is interesting how similar metaphysical healing is to Reiki. The big difference is that there are attunement processes in Reiki that help to balance, align and open the chakras. Both methods align to the Universal Energy Field and can be bring Universal Energy into the body systems to cleanse and heal the body. The aura and energy anatomy are actually the blueprint for the body. Illnesses and imbalances show up in the energy field first, before they affect the body through disease. In this way, disturbances can be felt by the healer while scanning the auric field and can be remedied by bringing in Universal Energy even before the physical body is affected.

Hands-on healing has been used for many centuries by spiritual healers inside and outside of religion. It is referenced in the Bible and is the most ancient of healing techniques. It seems to be making a comeback in the forms of Therapeutic touch, Polarity therapy and Reiki.

The metaphysical healer has many tools in helping a client heal. Positive affirmations, visualization and meditation techniques help to prepare a client for healing and puts them into a higher energy state which can help to make the hands-on healing session more effective. Healing is strongly connected to spirituality as it is believed that Universal Energy Field is directly from God.

There is also the concept of absent or distance healing where the healer uses a representation of the client (can be a picture) and performs the healing service without the client being in the room.

As a Reiki practitioner, there are many techniques I can add from this course. I like the idea of using affirmations, visualizations and meditation to the practice of Reiki to help the client get into the right frame of mind for healing and also to use them on an ongoing basis to help the client relax when under stress.

In summary, this class was very well written, presented much detailed information about the body systems and integrated everything very well. Hands-on healing has become very popular over the last 10-15 years and I think it is important for people in the healing professions and ministers to understand how it works so that they can advise their parishioners as to the value of it as well as include healing services into the churches.

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Ordination with the Free Online Ordination button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Spirituality

Dr. of Spirituality Final Essay

Rev. Dennis Zerull

I first once again wish to thank the ULC Seminary for having the insight and forethought in offering this wonderful course written by Dr. Loretta Siani. Dr. Siani has a great God given gift as a Spiritual Teacher and Counselor and I am grateful to the ULC Seminary and to her for providing me with the opportunity to become ever more enlightened on my spiritual path.

This course has taught me a great deal about prayer and I can more effectively use prayer in my life of form on this Earth. Jesus prays frequently in the four gospels, addressing God personally as his Father. Jesus tell us that we too can ask God for anything, and that our prayers will be answered. I have found this to be true. I have had my prayers answered and have experienced miracles by becoming more miracle minded. I do try and change my mind about the world and

let go of ego which serves no purpose but to create a false identity and separates me from God. Sometimes the answers to my prayers I thought were no. This used to be of great concern to me because of ego but then I realized that prayer is clearly a powerful communication tool. It serves as my way to tell God not only what I want in terms of guidance but allows me to communicate with Him at the most personal and sacred level. The level at which I know that I am his Son and that his mercy and miracles are at hand for me to experience.

Often times man uses prayer for all things today, yet in an age of doubts, it is difficult to believe that prayer can achieve as much as Jesus claims. For Him, prayer has no limits. whether one prays to the Father or to the Son, Jesus is absolute that no request will be denied which is demonstrated by the most famous prayer in The Bible, the Lord's Prayer. The Lord's prayer in

essence asks for Heaven on earth. Deepak Chopra in his book The Third Jesus

states "That God could grant this seems idealistic to the point of impossibility. Our world may have progressed since the first century, but the Lord's Prayer hasn't delivered Heaven on this material plane".  This may be true but he further states "that one thing that can make the

Lord's Prayer real is enlightenment". I could not agree more.

The basis for A Course in Miracles and other enlightened materials written by either revelation or inspiration from God points to the fact that a person in God-consciousness would address the Father exactly like Jesus does. The basic principle of prayer is "ask and you shall receive" is the theme that Jesus comes back to time and time again. In this course my prayers have changed as I have progressed on the spiritual path, becoming more powerful on the basis of consciousness. As I stated before I thought that God gave me answers of negative content but I now realize that God doesn't grant or deny prayers, nor does He hear some and turn a deaf ear to others. These were appearances seem from my level of awareness. I know that Jesus put the blame for unanswered prayers on the one who prays rather than God. This is an acceptable fact for me and one I have discovered while taking this course.

Prayer is not magic. It is however applied consciousness. One cannot expect God to fulfill requests unless there is an intimate connection with spirit. "Jesus was keenly aware of this, since he lived from the source of reality and therefore could change reality at will". The Third Jesus by Deepak Chopra. I have a knowing that the closer my connection with God, the greater my spiritual power becomes. In Buddhism, "mindfulness" has a central meaning of being aware. Remembering who we truly are, living to be worthy of God and praying so that we will be connected to Him. I have learned or and am trying to learn to speak from the heart instead of using rhetoric. To be sincere as Jesus tells us. To pray in faith. "Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive." Matthew 21:22

It seems that for centuries that prayer has been the litmus test for faith. In the past it has been hard for me to utter a prayer without feeling a twinge of guilt and doubt. This is once again because of the level of my God-consciousness. At the lower levels I always begged for help and at the highest level my prayer is no different from any other thought because all thoughts bring about a result with focused attention and surrendered doing. Jesus knew this and knows this because he tells us to believe that our prayers will come true. What a valuable lesson to be learned at any level of consciousness. I know that Jesus is telling the truth because Jesus is truth. Therefore prayer is meant to be answered. Further if prayer is meant to be

answered then praying can bring about two results. Either prayer brings about results or there will be obstacles that block a response. Obstacles and resistance to what is exist in ego and unconsciousness and therefore can be cleared away. So instead of being a litmus test for faith, prayer shows us what we need to do on the spiritual path. that is to open the channels of communication with God. Jesus assures us that the channel is never cut off but only temporarily blocked.

I cannot attest as Dr. Siani say's that A course in Miracles is a revelation from God. But the broader implication is that spirit communicates not through words but through direct experience. We all learn this from the time we are infants as we begin to experience life. Yet we sometimes believe that we can learn about God secondhand through authority and scripture. Jesus underscores the need to be in the presence of spirit, God consciousness or being yourself and to be affected by it personally. I can tell you from personal experience

that this is truth.

My goal is not to imitate Jesus but to be part of Him or as he said to abide in Him. I strive for this by not becoming part of the process that turns into separation but that which turns into unity. Not what I do but how I do it will determine how I fulfill my destiny and the level of my God-consciousness. My level of prayer is also dependent on three things. Acceptance, Enjoyment, and Enthusiasm.

Acceptance is my willingness to accept this moment, this situation and what it requires me to do and do it willingly.

Enjoyment when I link into the universe that God created which turns into a great sense of aliveness and joy.

Enthusiasm which is a deep enjoyment in what I do plus the added element of a goal or a vision that I work toward.

These three modalities working hand in hand with prayer and mediation will not allow ego to control reality. Ego cannot coexist with acceptance, enjoyment and enthusiasm. It has no hold and doesn't like this fact. Just as Jesus said on the Sermon on the Mount, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." The meek are the egoless. The ones who have awakened to their essential true nature and recognize all other life forms. Living in a surrendered state as Jesus did seems an impossibility in our modern day life.

However I submit that it is possible achieve a level of God-consciousness and that prayer is one medium by which the door can be opened. And once it is opened and you walk through it a new world will manifest itself to you. One of presence, stillness and love.

Dennis W. Zerull

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Ordination with the Free Online Ordination button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Ordination Online

By Rachel

2005-03-30

In 2003, someone I knew was arrested before being able to marry his long-time girlfriend. They had been together for 4 years and planning a big wedding, and all of a sudden all of that was in danger. Immigration put a holder on him so he could not be released, and the jail refused to allow the couple to marry at the jail. Even though the criminal charges were dismissed, he didn't have enough money to pay the immigration bond. If they couldn't get married quickly, he was going to be deported and they would never see each other again.

My brother told me about this church and within minutes I was ordained. I went to the jail during visiting hours with his girlfriend and two witnesses and we secretly conducted the ceremony through the glass partition. We were able to get him released, the immigration case was closed, and the happy couple is still together.

That was my first wedding, but not my last. I have performed wedding ceremonies for several couples who didn't speak English and preferred a simple ceremony with someone they knew to one at the courthouse with a judge. I was also honored to be asked to perform the ceremony for our office's secretary, and wrote bilingual vows especially for it. What a blessing this ordination has been!

Rev. Rachel

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

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Four Gospels

Four Gospels

In the discussion of the works of Luke the point is made that Matthew and Luke differed somewhat in their perspectives of Jesus. The difference discussed in one lesson states that Matthew who apparently had real time contact with Jesus saw Him acting and or reacting as most of us would. In other words he shows signs of losing his temper, suffering pangs of hunger as well as appreciating things of beauty.

Luke on the other hand did not see this regular human side of Jesus. He apparently has a differing view of the nature of Christ. He seems to believe that Jesus acted in a less human but more godlike manner in his dealings with people and situations.

This is understandable if one agrees with the idea that people want to see their heroes as Superheroes and their villains as really vile and terrible entities. And because this is so, this may explain why Luke did not want to see Jesus with any foibles or flaws. So perhaps he tried to erase any quirks or mannerisms that he felt did not suit his vision of Jesus Christ. Did he do this deliberately? Perhaps. Perhaps not.

History has been written and rewritten so many times that we do not know the truth of what really happened, when it happened, why it happened or where it happened. This seems a logical explanation of Luke’s vision of Christ. It appears that Luke may have needed a more spiritual, less human type of Savior.

Again, we must remember that the human psyche does play a role in how one accepts Jesus; how one tends to envision his

personality and how we then use that acceptance, that vision in our daily life and how we use it in the practice of our spiritual life.

Therefore whether we want a more earthy type of Savior or a more angelic, ethereal personage will influence which of these two gospels we are more apt to believe and in which we put our faith .

So does it really matter to each of us in our quest for salvation that there seems to be differences of opinion among those earlier followers of Jesus of Nazareth? If it really does matter, then does that not tell us more about our own beliefs and our own needs for understanding Jesus according to those needs? No, it does not matter one iota. What really matters is that we do believe in Jesus Christ the Savior.

By Peggy

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.  
 

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Universal Life Church

Essay by Mara Fonseca

‘Love is the Answer’

As I have meditated deeply on what captured my soul’s and heart’s interest in the twenty lessons in a Course in Metaphysics – Everyday Miracles, I recall one particular question and response that I asked and

received from Dr. Loretta Siani:

Dear Loretta:

In a weekly 'sermon' from Brother Daniel on Beliefs, he says:

“…I really don’t want to deal with you or your situation because unfortunately like many thousands of instant ministers they labor under the delusion that miracles happen…”

I found the above statement to be a quite thought-provoking quagmire, especially after reading (and enjoying I might add) your various lessons on the medium of miracles.

His comment made me reflect deeply on who I am and what my belief system is. I am the vessel of ‘change to prosperity’ through acquiring inner peace and understanding of the laws of the universe. I also believe

in the power of prayer, for it focuses me on the concept of ‘Prosperity Programming.’ (Prosperity Programming – a tem used in Shakti Gawain’s book ‘Creative Visualization’ that means having the understanding, or consciously taking the point of view, that the universe is totally abundant. Everything you need or want is here for the asking; you only need to believe that it is so, to truly desire it, and to be willing to

accept it, in order to have whatever you wish.

My question to you is thus:

Is it our belief in miracles that makes them happen, or is it our shift in perception when ‘miracles’ happen that changes our belief system?”

Dr. Siani’s response to my question was:

“It isn’t our belief in miracles that makes them happen. It’s our belief in Love and our ongoing faith that Love will prevail…”

Dr. Siani’s response not only answered my question, it also provided me with the tool for continued inner reflection, transformation, and confirmed resolution:

~ Love is the Answer.

~ When we believe in Love, anything is possible.

I have also experienced in my life that the greatest miracles occur

when there has been a change in heart. When I love unconditionally and

pray for that which will change my perception and bring more compassion,

understanding and patience into my heart, a ‘miracle’ happens.

The ‘miracle’ that occurs is that when I open up my heart and believe

that Love will prevail a true healing occurs. I no longer carry fear in

my heart, for I know that I am a vessel of ‘prosperity’. I am a child

of God. I no longer ask for circumstances to be changed in my life,

but rather to ask that my perception of my circumstances change. I look

at each challenge as a blessing in disguise, and to pray that I will

become a better person in the end. I pray for forgiveness and that

others may forgive any trespasses I have committed against them. I do not

look behind me at what has happened or before me at what has yet to

happen. I live in the moment, trusting that Love will prevail.

In summation, this to me is at the core of how miracles happen: When

we believe in Love, anything is possible. Love is the Answer. All we

need to do is BELIEVE. Ask in LOVE and thou Shall Receive in LOVE.

This has been the greatest challenge, lesson, and teaching that I have

received in this course and the course of my life. For this, I am

eternally grateful.

In closing, I would like to share a poem that expresses my essay ‘in a

nutshell’. I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I do:

Essential Love

You have come here to remember love,

and as you heal,

you come to be a light that

others see and follow.

They see, reflected in you,

the light of their own forgotten self,

and in seeing this,

they too can heal and be healed.

When you join with the universe.

you see yourself in all things

and all things in yourself.

This is love in its highest form --

pure and unconditional.

It has no motive,

and it seeks nothing.

This is the Essential Love,

awaiting eternally for you to

embrace it so that

you might be embraced.

Love is the guiding light,

Love is You.

--Patricia Easton Graves

I

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.  
 

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Buddhism

The course taught me a lot about my chosen path,especially about the history.  In the 20 lessons it covers,most aspects are covered well.

"Buddhism is not a religion about doctrines or rituals,it is a religion about practice and enlightenment.  Enlightenment is not about some type of trance or out of body experience(or salvation,my note),it is about being able to preform your daily tasks with understanding,loving kindness,compassion,and non violence."

Hermano Luis

Morivivi

Hermatage

Buddhism is also a philosophy.It is a way of life without a set dogma and with a set of guidelines to help us in life(this one and the next).One of the ways i have learned this is the 5 contemplations:

1.Old age will come;i have not outstripped old age.

2.Disease will come;i have not outstripped disease.

3.Death will come;i have not outstripped death.

4.All things near and dear to me are subject to alteration;subject to

seperation.

5.I am the result of my own deeds;whatever deed i do,skilled or

unskilled,good or bad,i shall become heir to.

When this is taken in light with the 4 nobel truths:1.All life is

suffering.

2.The cause of suffering is desire.

3.Suffering can be ended.

4.The way to end suffering is the 8 fold path.

and the teachings of the 8 fold path,one begins to understand the

teachings of the Buddha.

Buddhism as a philosophy also teaches us that if we become attached to the concept of"self",we cause suffering;not only for ourselves, but many (Buddhist and non Buddhist alike) misunderstand this.It is not a

teaching of nothingness or non existence,but a teaching o whatever we do affects all.

The chant(prayer if you prefer):

"I go to the buddha for refuge"

"I go to the Dharma for refuge"

"I go to the Sangha for refuge"

sums this up.

We recognize that the historical Buddha(Siddhartha Gautama)was the first(that we know of)teacher who attained enlightenment and we strive to do the same.

When we take refuge in the Dharma,we are saying we choose to follow the teachings of the Buddha,and all who come after him,on our path to enlightenment.

To take refuge in the Sangha means to accept and understand that we are all part of a community at large(the world), therefore all actions affect the whole, now and later.

There is much more to this than I can or have covered here.To learn it all would take more than one lifetime.

I leave with this quote:"Do not use what you learn about Buddhism to be a better Buddhist.Use it to become a better what you already are" the 14th Dali Lama

well amy,here it is.not a true masters discertation,but thankfully not

requried(i would probably never have gotten it done).if it meets with

your approval,i will post same to the board(without the personal

comments).if you feel it needs any changes,please feel free to note them and i

will do so.

my address is:

Mark A. Lightfoot

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.  
 

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar