Thank You for the Music by Linda Bullock

There is a song of the Universe. Let’s sing it. There is a hymn of praise. Let’s praise it. There is a joy, a beauty; there is a deep, abiding peace. Let’s experience it. Ernest Holmes, Ideas of Power, p. 158

I was raised in a traditional Christian church with acapella gospel music. I have always loved the music in churches, especially when I can sing along. Since coming to learn about and adopt Science of Mind teachings, I cannot espouse religion which preaches a punishing God and declares that I need to be saved. Yet I can still appreciate some of the songs.

My first year of college was spent in a small Christian college in Arkansas. On Thursday nights, weather permitting, a large group of students would gather at the reflecting pond and spontaneously sing hymns, the climax of which was always “How Great Thou Art.” Those occasions were special to me and the voices were beautiful. I still like the first verse of that hymn and find it comforting: “Oh Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the worlds Thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.” The rest of the song mentions the Savior God who sent His Son to die.

I used to love “The Old Rugged Cross” with the words “where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain…” And there’s Amazing Grace “that saved a wretch like me.” The Science of Mind teaches me that I don’t need to be saved. In Living the Science of Mind, Ernest Holmes states that “the future religion will be free from fear, superstition, and doubt,” (page 72).

There is an abundance of New Thought music, and I enjoy the performances and the messages. Our local Center for Spiritual Living Tucson is blessed with talented musicians, led by our creative musical director, Michael Zimmerman.

My current favorite spiritual compilations are written and performed by Rickie Byars in her album In The Land of I Am. “I Release and I Let Go” is often heard at CSL Tucson. Her rendition of “My God is So Good To Me” with a backing choir is an energetic performance sure to raise one’s vibration. She includes beautiful, haunting chants, such as “Om Shanti” and “Oyaheya.” The song “Use Me” is a personal dedication: “Use me, oh God, I stand for you. And here I’ll abide as you show me all that I must do…” Ms. Byars has made her music available in a Songbook online.

Karen Drucker is a prolific songwriter loved among New Thought communities. I find her song “Gentle with Myself” to be especially calming and reflective of the self-compassion evident in her music. Ms. Drucker’s songs are frequently a part of New Thought worship services; “I’m So Grateful,” “Thank You for This Day,” and “I am So Blessed’” among others.

Other outstanding musicians have graced us with their talent. Daniel Nahmod’s “Love is My Decision” is very familiar. He also is prolific, continuing to write and share his music in a weekly online concert. Faith Rivera has an extensive collection of spiritual music including “Rise” and “Power of Now.” Jami Lula has produced lots of spiritual music, including “Love is My Religion” and “There’s a Healin’ Goin’ On.” So much good spiritual music available for us!

Singing Wrong Lyrics with Confidence is an Art; and I’m an Artist.

–Peace and blessings to all. Linda Bullock

Infinite Possibilities by Chris Wheeler

As the New Year approaches, I find myself reflecting on the significance of this time—a period that invites introspection and renewal. It’s fascinating to recognize the myriad traditions celebrated across cultures, each offering unique rituals that highlight themes of renewal, community, and prosperity. These practices not only allow individuals to express their hopes and aspirations but also foster a sense of unity among participants as they collectively step into the new year.

Embracing Renewal

Dr. Ernest Holmes, in his metaphor of a blackboard, beautifully illustrates our ability to erase past mistakes and craft new narratives for our lives. This powerful imagery reinforces the notion that we are in charge of our own happiness and fulfillment. Whether it’s the dawn of a new year or simply the start of a new day, we have the opportunity to choose narratives filled with positive thoughts, affirming terms, and inspiring ideas.

The Power of the Present Moment

I’ve come across the idea that we can restart our day at any moment. Each moment is a chance for renewal and growth, a reminder that we are not bound by yesterday’s experiences. In his writings, Holmes expressed a hopeful vision for humanity: “I would like to suggest that mankind stands now at the very beginning, not at the ending of the human race.” (Dr. Ernest Holmes, “Letters From Other Dimensions,” 1974). This perspective invites us to see every day as a fresh start filled with infinite possibilities.

Looking Ahead

So here we are, on the brink of a new chapter. Let us embrace this moment with open hearts and minds, knowing that the best is yet to come. Together, let’s step forward into this new year with optimism and a commitment to create meaningful narratives for ourselves and our communities.

My Beloved CSLT by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

My Beloved CSLT,

Thank you for this gift, this opportunity to grow with you as not just your minister but as a spiritual being like you. I am truly grateful for all the shifts and changes this past year we have created and will continue to do more I am sure in 2025. As a spiritual community we are embarking on an infinite journey of love and learning together, and I am very excited for us. Wherever you are today, please know you are loved, and a light that shines in this world. My wish for you and our community is peace and infinite expanding love. My heart is full. May you continue to unwrap the gift that you are. Christmas was always a special time because as a child I always enjoyed the stories that were read at Christmas. Today, I wish to share with you a very special story, from my heart to yours…….

From the very beginning of time, there was a promise and a hope that there would be one who would come, who would show the way.

One who would be a light in the darkness, who would be inseparable from the Creator and, by their very being, would express the Truth of human existence.

It had been prophesied from times of old that there would be a child born who would rightfully inherit the kingdom.

One who, by their very nature, would bring Peace, Balance, Harmony, Tranquility and Serenity to this world and all whom they encountered. The world yearned for this coming, the birth of this child, the fulfilled promise. All the earth and heavens yearned for the coming of this child. Wisemen foretold and saw the signs in the heavens, for, indeed, it was to come to pass that a child would be born.

A holy child filled with knowledge, a child filled with love and understanding, one worthy of inheriting the kingdom on this earth. One whom by their very being would bring Love, and by their very existence would bring understanding of who they truly are and where they truly dwell.

The world and even the heavens yearned for the birth of this child, the Christ child, for the universe would not be complete, nor would the world ever be the same again. So, it came to pass in the perfection and fulfillment of time that this child was brought forth into the world.

This child was announced by the angels of heaven that the fulfilled promise had come, for God had become humanity. A new star appeared in the heavens, for a great soul, a teacher, had been born into this world.

And then, in the innocence and wonder of this new experience, YOU took your very first breath.

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanza dear ones.

Namaste, I love you, and so it is…Amen. Rev. Rhoni

Peace be Unto Thee, Stranger by Sharon Whealy, RScP

Peace be unto thee, stranger, enter and be not afraid. I have left the gate open and thou art welcome in my home. There is room in my house for all. I have swept the hearth and lighted the fire. The room is warm and cheerful, and you will find comfort and rest within The table is laid, and the fruits of Life are spread before thee. The wine is here also, it sparkles in the light. I have set a chair for you where the sunbeams dance through the shade. Sit and rest and refresh your soul. Eat of the fruit and drink of the wine. All, all is yours, and you are welcome. Ernest Holmes

This invitation is found on the dedication page of The Science of Mind. Years ago, when I “discovered” the welcome, I printed and framed it. It currently hangs on my refrigerator, as a reminder that Spirit is always home, the table is laid with the abundance of the Universe, and that I am always welcome. All I need do is accept the invitation.

I also read this on a human level – is my gate open, am I welcoming, is there room for all? Am I sharing my abundance and making my home a place of renewal, so that our souls may be refreshed? Or am I guarded, protecting what’s “mine”? How often do I close myself off to those who might make me uncomfortable?

When we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate the love, the light, and the peace of the season and I often hear reminders that this Love, Light, and Peace is available year-round. Can we hold compassion in our hearts and minds for everyone, regardless of if they look, believe, or celebrate as we do?

This year, Hanukkah is December 25 through January 2nd. This eight-day celebration honors the miracle of abundance and never-ending light. God is always with us, providing what we need, without hesitation or limitation.

Kwanza, the African American celebration of family, community, and connection, is celebrated December 25 through January 1st this year. As we honor this tradition, this year can we be inclusive in our definition of family, can we expand our community? Let us celebrate the connection we have with one another.

This is my holiday blessing for the season and the year to come,
May we welcome the stranger with open hearts and minds.
May we be the Love and Peace of the season, allowing it to radiate into the world.
May we honor the Light that dwells within each one of us, and express gratitude for the neverending flow of good.
May we celebrate the connection of family and community as a reminder we are never alone.
May we be blessed with knowing all is well, and all will be well.
God is Good, all the time!

–Sharon Whealy, RScP

Welcoming and Embracing Change within the CSLT Community by Rev. Rhoni Tretsven

“Behold, I make all things new.” There is nothing permanent but change and the infinite intelligence can never be caught in anything It does. (How to Use the Science of Mind, 1948)

As Dr. Holmes points out, change will always occur whether we are ready or not, it will always be a constant in human existence. In the next 6 weeks CSLT will be stepping into an experience of being a different spiritual community. After 20 plus years of being renters and wandering like nomads through the desert of temporary homes, we will be putting down roots at 3617 Camino Blanco, Tucson. We, unlike Moses, will cross over into the promised land near the cross streets of River and Craycroft. We did it everyone and thank you all for supporting this move into a very bright and growing future.

In January of this year, I was chosen as your Spiritual Leader, and I was, and I still am excited to lead us all on not just a spiritual journey but one that will have a foundation. A foundation is important to build upon, it’s not just about the potlucks, holidays, special groups, plus other experiences as a community. It is about being a “family.” It isn’t just about Sunday’s either, it’s about every day. In Religious Science Aka Science of Mind, “We believe in the unity of all life, and that the highest god and the innermost God is one God. We believe that God is personal to all who feel this indwelling presence.” Part of our foundation as a spiritual family is knowing that wherever we are God is. What I hope will emerge as we gather in our new home is we will see new ways and opportunities of gathering, as in forming groups of common interest. We will have time to have special events and celebrate the holidays. There is so much more, but I know it is all Divine time.

As the week of December 16 gets closer, we will be packing and organizing our education office as we start our journey North. As I reflect on the last 11 months with all of you, my heart is filled with gratitude and great love. Who knew (except God) we would have this opportunity to expand in love as a spiritual community. I am truly grateful for the conversations Dr. Jonathan Zenz and William Summers, and I have had these last 6 mos. What has impacted me the most is the outpouring of love from the Unity community to assist us in creating this opportunity. I must be honest, Unity has “bent over backward” and done a few flips in the air to welcome us. Dr. Jonathan and I are very secure that our two communities will remain individual but come together for special occasions or work together for the common good of the property. As I see it, we are, two wings, one bird coming together as metaphysical/new thought communities. We will certainly be a beacon of light on a hill here in Tucson. If you have any questions, please reach out to me, I will be glad to talk with you. Please know, I love you all so very much and thank you for being the Possibilitarians you truly are, creating this and so much more.

~Namaste, Rev. Rhoni

Letting Go …..With Appreciation by Linda Bullock

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou

Buddhist wisdom tells us that suffering exists and presents paths out of suffering. Letting go of losses is a practice that exposes our expectations and eventually brings acceptance and peace. I like the word changes rather than losses and have been reflecting on ongoing changes occurring in our Tucson Center for Spiritual Living. We recently were blessed to see our former minister Reverend Janis for the occasion of installing our new minister.

We experienced a loss with the transition of our beloved Pat Masters this year. In a recent exercise for our Visioning class, it became clear that in my highest ideal I had envisioned a life like Pat’s. She was my first friend at CSL and was special to me, just as she was to so many in our community. Her generosity of spirit was immeasurable, and the void of her presence is still felt.

Our sweet Janie moved away from Tucson recently. She demonstrated unselfish service to our community. I loved her Texas accent and her kind demeanor. We wish her joy, health and peace in Colorado.

When a man’s thought rests entirely upon himself, he becomes abnormal and unhappy; but when he gives himself with enthusiasm to any legitimate purpose, losing himself in the thing which he is doing, he becomes normal and happy….Let the one who is sad, depressed, or unhappy find some altruistic purpose into which he may pour his whole being and he will find a new inflow of life of which he has never dreamed. Ernest Holmes, Science of Mind, page 440.4

Our Board of Trustees is experiencing substantial changes as members rotate off. We hope that they continue to be a part of our community.

I appreciate our outgoing Board President Maria for her wisdom, her sense of humor and her steady, reliable leadership. Maria’s awareness and actions helped us live our intention of inclusiveness, that all are welcome.

I appreciate Janet our Treasurer and de facto office manager. There is no way to enumerate all her contributions. Her off the chart technical skills, creativity, and loyalty are a key reason CSL Tucson survived the lean times of the pandemic, made improvements and continues to thrive.

I appreciate our outgoing Secretary Madeline. To see her in person is to experience a sense of Divine Light and Joy. I won’t say much about her because I have a precious, private friendship with her. I am not letting Maddy go.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to give thanks in all circumstances. I appreciate our practitioners who are an essential element of our service and practices. I appreciate Live Theatre Workshop and their staff for permitting and assisting CSLT to fulfill our mission. I appreciate our office/education center at 911 S. Craycroft for housing our operations and providing a safe space for classes and fellowship. I appreciate Basha’s food court for joyful gatherings. And I appreciate you, our CSL community.

Love, Linda

Exciting News! from Chris Wheeler

This Sunday, we explored an incredible opportunity at the Annual Meeting—one that could truly transform our community. We have the chance to rent space on the beautiful Camino Blanco campus, which includes a sanctuary, adjoining areas, and oCice space. The best part? It’s within reach financially for us!

This move isn’t just about a new location. It’s about the future of New Thought in southern Arizona. Think about it: a dedicated home for us to expand, connect, and thrive, surrounded by others who understand and support the New Thought philosophy. It’s a space that could become our launching pad for growth, deeper connections, and a place where we can contribute even more to our community and beyond.

Where we are now has served us well—small congregations like ours excel at fostering close, caring, authentic relationships. We know each other deeply, and that’s something special. But, when we called our minister, we said we wanted more. We wanted to grow, to reach a larger community, and to spread the transformative philosophy of Religious Science. Our 2024 vision statement says it perfectly: “Open and Expanding into the Mystery…” This potential new home aligns perfectly with that vision.

But here’s the challenge we’re facing: we’ve been in “maintenance mode.” This happens when a church focuses on keeping things as they are, rather than growing and taking risks. It feels comfortable, but it keeps us stuck. If we want to break free from that, we need to make bold moves. We need to position ourselves for growth.

Rev. Robert T. Latham, in *Moving on from Church Folly Lane*, explains that staying in maintenance mode means prioritizing the status quo, avoiding risks, and limiting our vision. And sure, we feel safe that way—but are we really fulfilling our potential? I believe *we’re called to do more*.

So, why is it so important to expand the philosophy of Religious Science? For me, this hits deeply. I’ve had my share of reservations about traditional organized religion. But what makes Religious Science diCerent is its openness—it’s a philosophy that’s always evolving, always ready to embrace new truths. As Ernest Holmes said, it’s “open at the top.” It’s not about rigid doctrines; it’s about continuous growth and learning. That’s a powerful mission, and I want to see New Thought reach more people and create a larger community of likeminded souls.

So, how do we make that happen? The Camino Blanco space solves the very catch-22 we’ve been stuck in: we need more space to grow, but we need to grow to get more space. This move gives us the room to expand and the visibility to welcome new people into our community.

Imagine what we could achieve with a permanent, recognizable location. More space means more opportunities to share the life-changing teachings of Science of Mind. It means we can create new relationships, support each other’s growth, and contribute to a world that’s ready for this transformative philosophy.

This move is more than just a rental. It’s a steppingstone toward the future we’ve envisioned. A future where our thoughts, beliefs, and intentions align with the spiritual principles we hold dear, and where we grow together into a larger, more connected community.

Let’s be bold. Let’s embrace this opportunity and step into the growth we’ve been dreaming of.

Are you ready?

–Chris Wheeler

Got Joy? by Madeline Pallanes

Focus on the things that bring you joy.

The phrase “where focus goes, energy flows” essentially means that whatever you concentrate your attention on will grow and develop.

For some and probably most, life can be stressful and finding joy is essential. Discover your joy. Think about what makes you smile, laugh and enjoy life. Make time for joy. Schedule joy into your busy day. There is always time for joy and happiness. Remove the joy killers. Identify and minimize things that drain your happiness.

Whether it’s a negative friend or your home you don’t feel like cleaning, find ways to reduce their impact. I choose to avoid the “energy vampires” since they drain my emotional energy, intentionally or unconsciously. I also choose to have my house dusted and floors cleaned weekly since I have no desire to do it myself. Both choices I consider part of my “self-care” and bring me joy.

Spread joy. Joy is contagious. Share your funny stories, you’ll be surprised how much joy you bring to others. You’ll laugh too, which is great exercise. Laughter is my exercise program; my insides are jogging and I’m using 15 facial muscles. The added bonus is I’m not paying for a monthly gym membership I wouldn’t use or have home gym equipment to hang clothes on. Again, this is part of my “self-care” and brings me joy.

–Madeline Pallanes

Easter Eggs

How did we come to decorate and share eggs in celebration of Easter?

In pre-Christian days, eggs were associated with many different springtime rites. The ancient Egyptians, Persians, Phoenicians, and Hindus all believed the world began with an enormous egg, thus the egg as a symbol of new life has been around for eons. The particulars may vary, but most cultures around the world use the egg as a symbol of new life and rebirth.

An egg and its ability to transform from lifeless to life became synonymous with the rebirth brought about by Christ’s resurrection. Only after the stone (or shell) was removed, he was able to be reborn. The breaking of the egg and the empty shell serves as a reminder of the empty tomb, signifying the victory of life over death.

The practice of painting eggs goes back to ancient times when decorated shells were part of the rituals of spring. There is record of the tradition of dyeing eggs in the Trypillian culture of Central Europe dating back at least 2,500 years. The ancient Persians, or Zoroastrians, painted eggs for Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which began on the spring equinox. In pre-Christian Slavic countries, the practice of pysanky, or writing on eggs, was widespread. One of the earliest occurrences of dyed eggs in British history goes back to 1290, when King Edward I ordered 450 eggs to be colored and decorated with gold leaf to give to royal relatives during the spring season. It is believed that the first Christians to adopt this tradition were from Mesopotamia, and they colored their eggs red, in memory of the blood of Christ. The Christian Church officially adopted the custom, regarding the eggs as a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus, with the Roman Ritual, the first edition of which was published in 1610.

Early churches had their congregations abstain from eating eggs during Lent, so by Easter there was an abundance of eggs as the hens didn’t stop laying them. In anticipation, eggs would be hard-boiled, colored and adorned to be eaten in celebration on Easter Sunday morning. Decorating eggs also had a practical side to it since the coloring of the eggs served as a way to extend their shelf life.

On the LTW lobby counter you will find paper eggs I’ve prepared with a special word of reflection for your Eastertide, or Paschaltide, commencing on Easter morning. Please take one. Meanwhile, enjoy these images of decorated Easter eggs from around the world:

–Janet Salese

We Plan and God Laughs….

Welcome 2024 and thank you CSLT for the opportunity to serve as your Spiritual Leader. In the words of Socrates, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” Or, a simpler statement might be, “we plan, and God laughs.”

A year ago, I had no idea walking through the doors of the LTW last March would place me on a trajectory path of becoming your new minister. What I knew at the time, is I fell in love with a spiritual community, and I hoped I would be asked back to speak. Over the course of last year while you were creating your covenant of intention, I was playing the role of a teacher in a Montessori school in Tempe. (Having left my pulpit and Center of 12 years in California, because I decided to get married.) I thought being a schoolteacher was my “new ministry” working with kids and I was okay with my new role.

However, my 5-year plan of the Montessori assignment was to be cut short after only a year, as “God was calling” again. I received two “nudges” during this last year from “the universe” to go back into ministry. It’s as if God gives me a few hints of where I should be, and I often have chosen to say, “eh, later” and push it aside.

Not the right answer, you don’t ignore the universal “I have this for you.” In my experience, the third nudge is usually a drastic change when the spiritual 2 x 4 hits me, sending me flying into my purpose.

The positive side of my flying lesson was everything began aligning for my husband Charles and I to be here near Tucson. A home we had admired for months became available for purchase, and we did. As we went through the process, I began looking at the school district to teach within a Montessori school.

However, the next nudge came in a call to action from a dear friend and colleague telling me, “Tucson is waiting for you, you need to apply for their pulpit.” After many heart-leading discussions, Charles, a retired UCC minister encouraged me to apply as the window of opportunity was closing quickly. In September, with a week left, I did.

As I filled out the spiritual leader documents to be sent to the search committee, I discovered the God presence within me was calling me to my highest good. My heart has always been in ministry, and it took a small but mighty spiritual community to be that light of “this is your purpose” leading me out of the dark hallway of “what’s next?”

It is with a grateful heart, I look forward to being your spiritual leader, teaching not just the principles of Science of Mind, but other faith traditions, and how all interact together in the great metaphysical beingness in our daily lives. Religious Science is truly a philosophy of how to live in unconditional love and be unconditional love to all we interact with.

Ernest Holmes our Founder wrote in his book, Can We Talk to God? “Of what value would a religion or philosophy be to the world which simply taught it a few laws of cause and e8ect, or how to heal a pain? This is good and wonderful, but unless it teaches how to live and how to be, unless it gives something which is a divine certainty of life and being, it is useless.” (p.11.2)

I look forward to our relationship of not just Sunday celebrations but classes, holidays, and the unknown unscripted adventures of the heart. Please know my door is always open when I am in my o]ice at Craycroft, and reachable through email if you require support for any life situation. I love you all, and thank you for all that you are, and all that you are becoming. I look forward to getting to know every one of you!

–In love and gratitude, Rev. Rhonda

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