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Fillmore actually conceived of centers, gathering places where like-minded people would come together to do the healing work of prayer and the educational work of teaching and practicing Truth principles. He and Myrtle referred to Unity headquarters in Kansas City as "The Silent Unity Center" and "The Center of the Silent Unity Society". Our world headquarters at Unity Village was never incorporated or named as a church- we are actually an educational institution, Unity School of Christianity. So... you may be asking, "What happened? Why did we ever begin using the word church?"
The simple answer is that, culturally, we are a society that has traditionally valued church-going. The Fillmores originally scheduled their Sunday meetings in the afternoon, encouraging people to attend their regular churches, then attend Unity meetings to learn and practice the tools of practical spirituality that are so helpful in our lives. And originally, that's what people did! In the morning, they would go to their Baptist or Lutheran or Episcopalian or Catholic churches, and then come to learn Unity's teachings as an additional resource in their lives.
Over time, many of those people found their understanding of Truth changed their lives to a degree that they no longer felt comfortable in their original churches. They wanted to share the church-going experience with people who shared their spiritual beliefs. As teachers went forth from the Unity training center to start new spiritual communities, it seemed easier to explain our teachings in the context of church. It was what people recognized. It was safe.
"Spiritual Center" really does describe best what happens in a Unity community. Our physical space provides a central gathering space for the activities of Spirit in/as/from/through us. We gather to do the healing work of prayer. We practice Silence together. We teach classes. We perform loving service through our community outreach. We break bread together at potluck. And yes- on Sundays, from 10:30 - 11:30, we come together and celebrate Spiritual Truth in a format that feels familiar because it "feels" like what we, as a culture, call "church". None of this will change. The only things that will change are the name on the door, and the logo above our name.
Metaphysically, a name change always signals a change in consciousness. As we move into this time of transition, I believe that it signals a willingness for us to play an ever-greater role in facilitating the growth in humankind of the awareness "that the true church of Christ is a state of consciousness in man." Imagine the possibilities!
Blessings and Namaskar
Rev. Nita
Spiritual Enrichment Education classes CONTINUE
Rev. Nita facilitates both of the following classes, and you are welcome to attend as you are able. There is no charge for SEE classes at Unity Church of Peace- a love offering will be blessed at each class session.
Bible Interpretation: Acts through Revelation
Wednesdays, 10:30am - 12:30pm or 6:30 - 8:30pm
Through Sept. 12th
Have you wondered what we mean when we say Unity looks at the Bible metaphysically? Learn some of the basic vocabulary of the Bible, and begin learning to uncover the hidden meaning behind the stories.
 Discover the Power Within You
Saturdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Through Sept. 15th
This classic book by renowned Unity minister and author, Eric Butterworth, is one of the best introductions to New Thought metaphysics available. Whether you are new to Unity or have been around the metaphysical block a time or two, you're assured new insights that will help you learn to live and use the power of your Divinity.
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Update from Community Outreach Committee
We want to thank everyone for all their generous donations to our Youth On Their Own backpack drive. We are well on our way to making our goal of 40 filled backpacks! We will be making a second delivery of school supplied filled backpacks on Monday to Youth On Their Own.
We are going to continue to collect donations for Youth On Their Own through September 9th. We will continue to collect school supplies as well as basic student needs for the Youth On Their Own on-site "Mini-Mall." The "Mini Mall" provides YOTO students with food and other basic necessities donated by community individuals, organizations and businesses.
Some of the needs for the "Mini Mall" are: non-perishable food items, full size hygiene products (especially feminine hygiene products), hygiene kits, household items (towels, wash cloths, dishes, pots and pans, dish soap, laundry detergent), gently used male and female clothing and shoes that appeal to teens, new male and female socks and underwear, and baby supplies.
A new list will be available at church on August 19th. Thanks again to everyone for helping out with this organizations that does so much to help homeless teens graduate from high school.
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PROSPERITY TEACHER EDWINE GAINES IN TUCSON SEPT. 16
This gifted teacher of Abundance principles will be conducting a workshop at the home of our New Thought friends at the Center for Spiritual Living.
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