As the global consciousness of the human species continues to evolve and change, we are seeing a growing phenomenon occurring within our existing social structures. People are turning toward this idea of the “spiritual community” as a place to explore themselves outside the existing traditional, religious, and, dogmatic institutions that have been dominating the planet for the last 3000 years. What are the reasons for this trend? What is a “spiritual community?” What purpose is it serving in our individual and collective journeys?
The word “spiritual” is often defined as, “relating to, consisting of, or having the nature of spirit; sacred or concerned with that affecting the soul.” The word “community” originates from the Latin word communitas (cum, “with/together” + munus, “gift”). Therefore, spiritual community is the “gift” of coming together in a like-minded collective to explore the sacred journey of the soul.
Human beings by nature are a gregarious, interdependent species. Our personal growth is alchemically amplified through our interconnection and engagement with each other. For many reasons, in the past, society has accepted the model of the “nuclear family or single family” unit and as a result there has been a growing disconnection to the benefits or the “gifts” of being part of a “tribe.” In essence, the spiritual community is a “returning to our roots,” a remembering of something that instinctually feels in alignment with our personal and social evolution, connecting us to that inherent Truth within us. It is a safe, familiar, and, supportive context to venture into the spiritual journey.
At this moment on the planet, there is a growing collective wave of transformation occurring as “Love continues to reclaim dominion on the planet.”(1) Simply put, any company, structure, government, organization, or religion that has been steeped in fear (greed, guilt, shame, control, or manipulation) is quickly crumbling as the newly evolving consciousness refuses to accept this fear-based reality. The dogmatic structures of old, that have not supported this new exploration of Love or have been unwilling to redefine their foundations in Love, are finding themselves collapsing from the inside out. Just look at the world: governments being overthrown; financial structures crumbling; companies going bankrupt; and outdated religious structures having to recreate themselves. People are looking for something more and they are hungering for a connection to something deeper.
It is important to understand that spirituality and religion are not the same things. One can have the exploration of the soul without practicing a religion. Religions are beautiful celebrations of the Divine within a particular cultural context. They were created by man to celebrate, honor, and practice the teachings of Masters and highly evolved beings that came into this world to guide us in remembering ourselves as Love. At the core of every religion the same fundamental Truth exists: Love. Your spiritual community can also be your religious community, but not necessarily. The Truth is that any community that is inspiring you to remember yourself as Love can and will only help you enhance your conviction, passion, and respect for your personal religious path. It will serve to broaden your existing understanding of your path, or it will invite you into a completely different exploration of the Universe through a new and exciting adventure. What is important is how you feel about your connection to the Divine. Does it sing to your heart?
It is less important what the spiritual community looks likes and more important that it be something that resonates with you as a being, your values, your Truth, and something that inspires you to remember yourself as Love. Seek something that is founded in a Love-based reality (Truth, integrity, respect, openness, authenticity, and joy). Many of these non-traditional spiritual communities all over the globe are giving people permission to redefine their personal journeys, to challenge limiting structures, and offer investigation into the world of spirit through many different modalities. This “new age” is not actually that new at all. It is comprised of ancient practices, esoteric information, transpersonal psychological, creativity, scientific insight, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. In order for any spiritual community and the exploration therein to be successful it absolutely has to be grounded in principles and practices of Love.
It is true we are the midst of an exciting adventure together. What an amazing time to be alive! Never before has there been more information and opportunities available and more places willing to open the doors to this exploration. More Masters, sages, teachers, and guides exist on the planet than ever before offering this living wisdom as a profound gift. Give yourself permission to accept the invitation. Follow your heart beyond your pre-conceived definitions. And allow yourself to be swept up in the pure joy and excitement of remembering yourself as Love….