The study and application of a spiritual philosophy is a key to establishing a Spiritualist way of life and within the membership of the SNU it is introduced through the Seven Principles of Spiritualism. They are not intended to be binding rules or the basis of a dogma but to provide each individual with a foundation for developing a personal philosophy.

The Seven Principles are a way of life given to us in 1854 through the trance Mediumship of Emma Hardinge-Britten (1823-1899) , a great Medium and early pioneer of the Spiritualist Movement.

Introduction:

• 1. The Fatherhood of God.

  2. The Brotherhood of Man.

  3. The Communion of Spirits and the Ministry of Angels

  4. The Continuous Existence of the Human Soul.

  5. Personal Responsibility.

  6. Compensation and Retribution hereafter for all the Good and Evil deeds done on earth.

  7. Eternal Progress open to every Human Soul.

The following are brief general interpretations of each Principle.

1. The Fatherhood of God.

   1. The core belief of the religious philosophy of Spiritualism is the acceptance of a Divine Energy. This force, whatever name given to it, has created all there is and sustains all its creation. The ‘Spirit of God’ or the creator exists within and around everything. It is within all of us: we are all children of the creator so are part of one family. We acknowledge this Divine Energy as the Creator of all things.

2. The Brotherhood of Man.

   1. We are all part of the universal creative force and therefore one family. The operation of true Brotherhood throughout the word would create betterment to the lives of many, bringing equality, security and peace. Spiritualists try to understand the needs of others and help all people regardless of race, colour, creed or gender.

3. The Communion of Spirits and the Ministry of Angels.

   1. Communion with divine energy is a natural and essential part of existence. Communication between Spirit itself and its creations is an inbuilt ability. Spiritualists use this ability for communication directly, or via a medium, between those in the spirit world and ourselves. This is not supernatural; it is a normal activity. The main purpose of communication with the spirit world is to provide the evidence which supports our philosophy. The Ministry of Angels brings enhanced wisdom to enlighten the individual, society and the world in which we live. This includes those who are dedicated to the welfare and service of mankind bringing inspiration guidance and healing.

4. The Continuous Existence of the Human Soul.

   1. Spirit is part of the ‘Creative Force’ and thus indestructible. Energy cannot be destroyed; it can only change its form. After death the physical body is left behind whilst the soul continues to exist in a different dimension that we call the spirit world. The individual personality continues unchanged by the event we call ‘death’.

5. Personal Responsibility.

   1. We are blessed with enormous potential; we can use that potential to improve our own lives and the lives of others. We have the ability to make decisions throughout our lives as we see fit. What each of us makes of our life is our Personal Responsibility no one can replace or override that right. No other person or influence can put right our wrong doings.

6. Compensation and Retribution hereafter for all the Good and Evil deeds done on earth.

   1. This Principle expresses the natural law of ‘cause and effect’. This law operates now, on earth, as well as in the spirit world. As we move through life making choices, the outcome of those choices affects our soul growth. When we leave this earthly life there will be no divine judgement. We will have the opportunity to reassess, take stock and decide what might have been done differently.

7. Eternal Progress open to every Human Soul.

   1. Eternity does not begin at death; Progress is open to all. Any action, or intent to change, to promote soul growth and progression, creates a positive reaction. There will always be the opportunity to develop and move forward, no one is ever deprived of the all embracing love of the Divine.