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REVEREND LINDA TURNER

MINISTER'S MESSAGE

A New Year, a New Day and a New Level of Spirituality.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Every human being is a doorway through which the Infinite passes into the finite, through which God becomes human, through which the Universal becomes individual.”

It is from this Inner Essence that our lives and circumstances are constantly being created. In truth, the power-point on which all outer events turn, is inside us. When we trust the God of our Being, believe in joy, and focus our thoughts on whatever we can find that is good in any situation, our life turns out to be mostly joyful.

The choice of what our lives will be, down to the smallest detail, is always ours to make, and our own held-beliefs make it come true. Our expectations can be influenced and limited by the rules of the physical world only if we allow ourselves to buy into those beliefs and claim them for ourselves.

God’s resources are unlimited and much greater than the physical laws. To receive the answer to the unanswerable question, to solve the unsolvable problem, or to achieve the impossible achievement, turn within. All the wisdom and strength of God is waiting there for you to ask and be willing to trust and receive it. Ask for the answer, the wisdom, the strength, and believe you have received it. Then trust the Infinite One to bring it forth.

When we are ready and willing to receive the gift we ask for, large or small, the miracle must manifest; for this is an eternal Universal spiritual law. All seeming miracles are equally easy tasks for the One Mind that created all that is.

As I write this, I’m thinking of all the changes our church experienced this past year. It has been the steadfast belief in receiving and the abundance consciousness of our volunteers and congregation that has made it all possible. Our volunteers have given lovingly and freely of their time, talent and treasures. For the first time in a very long time our finances are no longer in the red thanks to those who stepped up and made substantial contributions. Our attendance has been increasing and new volunteers are coming onboard all the time.

REVEREND EUGENE HOLDEN

MINISTER'S MESSAGE

The Power of Possibility Thinking

People ask me, “Rev. Eugene, how do you keep doing the things that you do?” My reply to them is always the same; “I believe that it is possible”.

We hear so much these days about the Secret, and the power of our thoughts to create our lives the way we want it. And though this is true, none of it, and I do mean none of it, can ever come to fruition unless, and until, we believe that it is possible.

All of the great thinkers know this. Where would we be if Thomas Edison never believed that he could come up with the light bulb? If Orville and Wilbur didn’t believe that man could fly, the space program would have been delayed by many, many years. You see, the power of possibility thinking is the greatest power we have.

Let me tell you a little story. Once upon a time, there was a young man who grew up to believe that he would be a teacher of Spirituality. This young man, after going through many trials and tribulations, came to believe that anything was possible. He began to see that he could achieve anything that he believed he could. He began to believe in the Power of possibilities. As a result of believing that he could be that teacher, he was appointed as the Assistant Minister of the Spirit of Life Church in Laguna Hills.

The power of possibility thinking is the key to the kingdom. Make sure you use your key often.

Peace and Blessings.
Reverend Eugene Holden

You Are who Your Friends Are
By Jack Canfield
(Submitted by Karina Levinson)

It's important to acknowledge the power of positive thinking. This goes not only for yourself, but also for the people you surround yourself with. Attitudes are catchy. Whether they're positive or negative, they're rubbing off on you. If you're around people who complain, judge, spread negative gossip, blame others, and play victim roles, chances are you do, too. (ouch!)

Who are you around most? Are they achieving their dreams or complaining about their circumstances? Do they look up to others who are go-getters and high achievers, or do they make fun of them and roll their eyes? How do they treat you? If you're spending time with people who don't support your dreams and goals, it's seriously time to look at whom you call your friends!

Successful people surround themselves with successful people. Plain and simple. They want to be around others who're achieving goals and making things happen. They want to know their secrets and strategies for winning. They're not embarrassed to be hanging out with people who are studying for success and making good money.

You, too, need to surround yourself with positive influences. Join the clubs that other successful people are in, learn what they're learning. It doesn't matter from what walk of life you are coming from. Show up and transform yourself into an achiever! Success isn't just for those who have had it easy, who came from supportive homes or had expensive educations. There are so many successful people who rose up from very poor conditions and overcame obstacles to achieve the goals they set their sights on. But they didn't get there by hanging out with negative energy-drainers!

Have you been limiting your success by letting yourself be influenced by other people's negative energy? Make a list of all the people you spend time with and make a note of the kind of personality they have. How many negative people are you around every day? How many people on your list are achieving their dreams, supporting yours and taking responsibility for their lives? You're better off spending time alone than with people who hold themselves back with a victim mentality.

Simply stop spending time with the negative people on your list. Join the clubs that will put you in with a positive circle of friends. Set a new standard for yourself and don't become friends with people who fall below that standard. Invite your old friends to come with you and you'll know who has potential and who to stop being around entirely.

You have to take responsibility for this area of your life. Look around you at the people you call friends. Does it make you proud? Are you selling yourself short? Or are you on the right track?

Keep successful people around you and you will be successful! Be around people who can accomplish their goals and you will accomplish yours, too! The choice is yours to make.

Rolling Thunder
By Doug Boyd, c 1974
submitted by Darlene Chaddick

Doug Boyd (not our Doug), as a member of a research team studying the control of psychological and physiological states, had just completed a study at the Menninger Foundation of the Himalayan yogi,, Swami Rama and was given a grant for 3 week study of Rolling Thunder, a modern medicine man and a Native American leader. He was a keeper of tribal secrets, a knowledge passed down from countless generations including the power to cure and heal wounds, to find and use medicinal herbs, to make rain, to perform exorcisms and to transport objects through the air. All of the things, Boyd observed.

Boyd’s first experience with Rolling Thunder’s powers was a healing in a crowded lecture hall with a young man who had been bedridden with an infectious and painfully swollen bruised leg. After the lengthy ritual was completed, the young man played ping pong in the hall. This was observed by doctors who examined the leg and saw the color return to normal and the swelling gone.

Rolling Thunder talked about the herbs the he and Boyd gathered for his rituals. “Herbs produce results not by their biochemical make-up, but by the way a person thinks about and speaks to plants since “…all physical troubles start on a spiritual level. The spiritual powers can be used to help keep people from getting sick. You can also use it for friendship and for good feelings among your family and all people wherever you go. If there are enough of you, there be a time to bring about better governments and world relations.”

It is interesting to me to see the many different demonstrations of the powers and energies in the universe. I have always admired the native peoples in their reverence and respects of our mother-earth and their wisdom of the importance it has to our health and survival.

This book was compelling and deeply appealing and an illuminating insight into some of the mysterious power of our Native Americans.

The Power of Words

We must never underestimate the power of the words we use. Words can condemn and hurt, they can soothe and heal, they can bring peace to our hearts and the hearts of others, or they can bring discord. One of my favorite Jewish expressions is, “From your mouth to God’s ear”. For a Religious Scientist, we know how true this is. God hears our words and gives us more of what we express verbally because that appears to be the “word world” we choose to live in. Dr. John has written a wonderful piece that focuses on how we can change our words and therefore, our world – one word at a time. – Rev Linda Turner

As a language professor, I often encouraged my students to practice by talking to themselves in the new idiom. Even such simple comments while walking down the hall as: "The boy in the blue shirt is carrying two books" could help them keep thinking in the new language in their everyday lives. In like manner, as we strive to live on a higher level of consciousness in our spiritual lives, we can talk to ourselves in our new idiom of positive and peaceful thoughts with such phrases as "My life is peaceful and fulfilling" or "I see everyone in a spiritual light." Such constant repetition, especially when it becomes habitual, helps us live continually in a higher spiritual realm. It also helps us keep ourselves on a higher plane of thought through concentrating on concepts. People of more limited outlook, talk about other people, whereas people of higher outlook talk about ideas. When we live as though we were already enlightened, we tend to grow into that level of consciousness, which makes things more beautiful and peaceful for us as well as for everyone around us.

Best,

John Walker, Ph.D, RScP

Events

Bill Dorgeloh - Events Planner

September 7, 12:00 pm - Balloon Ride Sunday
The Great Park Balloon is the largest tethered helium balloon in the country. It is environmentally safe, non-polluting and totally silent. The balloon is tethered to the ground and is never in a state of free flight, making it fun for all ages. It will soar between 250-400 feet above the surrounding landscape, enjoying a bird's eye view of the first great metropolitan park of the 21st Century.   Suggestions of things to bring/wear: Cameras, Binoculars, Sunscreen, Flat/comfortable shoes, a hat and water. Admission id free.

September 4th - New class starts
The Ideas and Concepts of the Great Philosophers is a second year accredited Science of Mind class and may be taken for credit or may be taken as a stand alone class for personal spiritual enrichment. It was on the thinking of these ancients that Dr. Holmes based much of the Science of Mind philosophy. We will gain insights into where the foundation for our spiritual beliefs came from. The class will be held at our sister church, Golden Circle, in Santa Ana .

It will be a six week class;

Daytime class 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Evening class 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Cost $90.00 + the cost of the book.

Basic Teachings of the Great Philosophers by S.E. Frost, Jr. Tuition may be paid in increments and scholarships are available.
September 28, Sunday - Volunteer Party
Rev. Linda will host a party in her home to honor all of the church volunteers. Our church would not be able to operate without all you wonderful volunteers. There are openings for those of you who have yet to choose a Circle to work in. Sign up with:

Set-up/Take down: Sarah and Heidi

Ushers: Darlene Chadick

Hospitality: Virginia McClure

Book Store: Bob Crowder

Welcome/Activity: Doug Boyd

Thank You For Your Love & Support!

Coming Events

October 5th: Guest Soloist - Danielle LoPresti is an amazing song stylist with an incredible musical range. She is a true crowd pleaser who brings the people to their feet.
October 12th: Golden Circle Church - We will hold church service at Golden Circle Church in Santa Ana. There will be no service at Spirit of Life in Laguna Hills.
October 19th: Guest Soloist - Jennifer Hart's bluesy, torchy voice combines the luster of Billie Holiday and the mellowness of Sarah Vaughan. She has received the highest critical acclaim both here and abroad.
October 19th: Food Drive Starts - Food Drive starts for South County Outreach.
October 25th: Barbecue Fund Raiser - Barbecue at Golden Circle Church in Santa Ana.
Ongoing Events

Monday Live: 2nd & 4th Monday 10:30 a.m.
Monday Live is a wonderful loving discussion group of many topics. We read a little and the discussion goes on from there. Rev. Linda closes with a special treatment for each attendee. Those wishing to, then can go to lunch where the fun continues. Call Rev. Linda for details at (949) 365-0050.
Classes - The universal spiritual principles of Science of Mind are taught in weekly accredited classes. Classes positively transform your life and grow close bonds with like-minded companions.
Bookstore - We carry a variety of New Thought books, tapes and other items for you or for gifts. If you don't see it, ask.
Service Opportunities

Welcome Table - Acquaint newcomers with our church family.
Bookstore - Assist in sales of our books, tapes and other items.
To serve in one of these areas for one Sunday each month, sign up at the activities table.

YOUTH CHURCH

Our Youth Church, under the direction of Corky Walker, assisted by Pam McRoberts, has been raising money for the Heifer Project Foundation* to send a sheep to a third world country to help jump-start the local economy under the guidance of the foundation. By making and selling Christmas ornaments at the Christmas boutique, and thru bake sales of cakes, pies and cookies, the children not only raised the $120 necessary for the sheep, but also an addition $20 to send a flock of chicken as well.

This was part of their studying and putting into practice their own uniqueness and ‘specialness’ as God’s creatures, and their contribution to making the world a better place.

In March, we have studied how paying attention to our inner intuition leads us to listening to God’s little nudges. Thus, we are inspired to use our own creativity. We welcome parents and members to participate by volunteering during the service. Please contact Reverend Linda at (949) 365-0050 or send an email to lindaturner@webtrix.net.
* The Heifer International has assisted 7 million impoverished families worldwide in over 60 years by reinvigorating communities through livestock, training, and “passing on the gift” with programs that are considered the most successful in the world. Once a potentially successful family has applied, completed training and prepared appropriate facilities, it then received this healthy sheep. Through the year the family gets soft, warm wool and the promise of new hope. Heifer ensures that there is a health male sheep in the village for breeding. Sheep often have twins or triplets. The first is passed on to another needy family in the community who promises to pass on their first offspring (the ripple effect) The struggling families use the high quality wool to make clothes, enough for ponchos for the entire family, or sell for extra income. They collect and use the manure for fertilizer which improves the soil or pasture land. With income from these animals, the family can buy land and improve its house. 38 million men, women and children have received this assistance

Affirmation
Emma Curtis Hopkins

"Talk health. That never-ending tale of mortal maladies is more
than stale. You cannot charm or interest or please by harping
on that minor chord disease. Say you are well, and all is well
with you, and God will hear your words and make them true."

Membership - Who Is Sarah Thomas?
Interviewed by Virginia McClure

Sarah startled me this morning when I asked her what she was doing. Smiling serenely, she replied, “This is where I ‘m supposed to be!” That sounds as though she is a true Science of Mind Practitioner!

Sarah has been coming to Spirit of Life Church regularly for 6 years, taken class workshops, and participated willingly in many activities. Sarah and her partner, Heidi Kinsey, come early every Sunday to set up the room for church, put out the signs directing people to our facility, take down the set-ups and the signs after church tidy up and lock up. She also helps Terry with the sound system. In addition to all of these services to the church, she has served on the board as vice-present and service coordinator and is slated for the presidency in 2008.

Sarah was born in Blythe (I don’t think I’ve ever known any other native of Blythe)! She didn’t stay there long, however, and grew up in Anaheim. She received an Associate of Arts degree from Fullerton College. She works in retail sales for “Babies-R-Us".

If you want to see Sarah beam, ask her about her beautiful 1 year old twin niece and nephew, Karizma and Daryl, Jr. She usually has recent pictures of them which she proudly pulls out to show off. In addition to being very involved with family, she and Heidi love square dancing. She is an avid reader and enjoys working/playing with Lego blocks.

I always look forward to seeing her lovely smile and getting a hub from Sarah when I walk into church on Sunday morning. It’s wonderful to hear “This is where I’m supposed to be!” We cal all remember that WE ARE WHERE WE ARE SUPPOSED TO BE!.

Spirit of Life Community Church

Reverend Linda Turner, Minister
Reverend Eugene Holden, Assistant Minister

Sunday Service 10:00 A.M.
25552 La Paz Road
Laguna Hills, CA 92653

949-365-0050

www.SpiritOfLifeChurchOC.org

Licensed Practitioners
Tracy Earlywine, RScP, Director of Practioners (949)275-4663
Robert Crowder, RScP (714)848-0363
Karina Levinson, RScP (949)493-0588

Board of Trustees
Tracy Earlywine, RScP, President (949)275-4663
Sara Thomas, Vice President (949) 492-4748
Doug Boyd, Treasurer (949) 916-4662
Terry Dawson, Member (714) 662-3998
Bill Dogerhloh, Director of Special Events, (714) 848-0363

Musicians and Singers
Joe Mulroy and Cheryl Crandall

Wanted : Sunday School Teacher

We are looking for a Sunday School Teacher
for the 5 – 9 years olds.

Hours: 9:40 – 11:15 every Sunday

Salary: $30 - $50 depending on experience and background.

A candidate must agree to background check prior to employment

Special Opportunity

We are pleased to announce that last month we established an educational scholarship fund. The fund was created to honor Cathy
Rocchio who passed away in February. If you would like to donate
to the scholarship fund, please make checks out to: The Catherine
Rocchio Scholarship Fund.

Ten Survival Strategies to Get Through The Tough Times
Submitted by Karina Levinson, RScP

As I assess what I have learned and how I have grown through the years, I have shaped 10 survival strategies that have allowed me to get through the tough times. They include:

Patience - This could be the hardest of all to achieve although one of the first things we must develop when faced with adversity. The key to developing patience is to know in the end everything will work out the way it is intended to. Also key to developing patience is surrendering your self to the fact that there is a time frame for everything. i like to use the analogy - that if you want to have a baby even though you (or your wife) may be pregnant you still have to wait the gestation period before the baby actually arrives.

Forgiveness - Forgive the other person wronging you. By not allowing your self to forgive you utilize a great deal of negative energy as you harbor old thoughts and feelings. Learn to forgive and use this same energy in a positive way to take back your life. While forgiving the other person make certain you forgive your self for any shortcomings, otherwise half the negative energy still remains.

Acceptance - Accept the hand you were dealt - even a pair of deuces can win the game.

Thankfulness - Be thankful for the adversity. Adversity is God's way of saying you are worthy of my teachings.

Detachment - We have all heard the phrase "If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you it is yours. If it doesn't, it never was." If something   is meant to be a part of your life, it will materialize, so there is no need to desperately hold onto anything.

Understanding: Why This vs. Why Me? - I feel our first inclination when something negative happens to us we ask "Why Me?" Normally asking this question doesn't provide any answers other than making us feel guilty for having asked it in the first place. Really, why not you? No one is immune to pain. Simply reword the question and ask "Why This?" By asking "why this" it typically leads us to understand our past thoughts and actions that may have (karmically) contributed to our current state, allowing us to get to the root of the situation.

Meditation or Quiet Time - It is only in the silence can we hear God's voice. Allow for quiet time to reflect up your desires and listen closely and intently to what is happening all around you. You will find your answers in the silence.

Maintain a Creative Mind - Eliminate boredom otherwise it will lead you toward frustration and depression. Take up a hobby, do some writing, volunteer your time or spend time with friends and family. Any, or all of this, will make you feel good about your self, allowing you to want to move forward.

Work Toward the Future - Even if you do not feel things are moving forward, work on creating the future you desire. You can plant tiny seeds by going back to school, read material that is related to your desires, commit by writing out your goals and desires or network with like-minded people. Each step you take, no matter how small moves you toward your future.

Trust - Let Go and let God. All we really have control over is our actions and a gut feeling (or hearts desire) of what we hope the outcome of our lives to be. The rest is up to a higher power greater then our own. Trust the Universe will provide you with exactly what you need when you need it.

About this Contributor: Linda Furiate is a personal coach, mentor, astrologer and author. She is also the creator and host of Portraits in Determination, a cable access TV program showcasing the lives of those who have suffered adversity and have grown emotionally and spiritually as a result if their experiences.