A guide to understanding the core beliefs of Spiritualism – affirming our connection to Infinite Intelligence, life’s continuity, and our role in spiritual growth.
The Spiritualist Declaration of Principles serves as a foundation for those who seek a deeper understanding of Spiritualism. These principles affirm our belief in a higher intelligence that connects all life, the continuation of the soul beyond physical death, and our ability to communicate with those in Spirit. They remind us of our personal responsibility in shaping our lives, the boundless opportunities for growth and healing, and the profound wisdom found in acts of love and service.
More than a statement of faith, these principles are a way of life—one that encourages us to walk a path of truth, kindness, and spiritual awareness.
1. We believe in the infinite intelligence.
This means we recognize a higher power that flows through all things—a force that breathes life into the universe and connects everything in existence. Some may call it God, Spirit, or simply the creative energy that moves through us. Infinite Intelligence is not limited by human understanding, but it can be felt in the quiet moments of reflection, in the beauty of nature, and in the love we share with one another.
It is a presence that reassures us we are never truly alone, always connected to something greater than ourselves.
2. We believe that the phenomena of Nature, both physical & spiritual, are the expression of Infinite Intelligence.
The entire universe, from the vast galaxies above to the smallest seed sprouting from the earth, is a living testimony to the presence of Infinite Intelligence. Every sunrise, every heartbeat, every moment of inspiration is a reflection of this divine order.
This principle reminds us that there is no separation between the physical and the spiritual—both are manifestations of the same sacred source.
When we acknowledge this, we understand that we are not separate from nature or from one another; we are all threads woven into the same intricate design of existence.
3. We affirm that a correct understanding of such expression & living in accordance therewith constitute true religion.
Spirituality is not about rigid beliefs or distant doctrines; it is about understanding the natural laws that govern our existence and choosing to live in harmony with them. When we embrace these truths—kindness, compassion, integrity, and love—we awaken to our highest potential.
True religion is not about words on a page or rituals alone; it is about how we live, how we treat others, and how we seek to grow in wisdom and understanding. It is an ongoing journey toward greater awareness and love.
4. We affirm that the existence & personal identity of the individual continue after the change called death.
Death is not an end, but a transition—a doorway into another chapter of our soul’s journey. Just as a river does not cease when it reaches the ocean, our consciousness does not vanish when we leave the physical world.
Those who have passed before us still exist, still love, still grow. Their presence can be felt in the whispers of intuition, in dreams, in moments of deep knowing.
This principle brings comfort in grief, reminding us that love never dies and that we remain connected to those who have gone before us.
5. We affirm that communication with the so-called dead is a fact, scientifically proven by the phenomena of Spiritualism.
For centuries, across cultures and beliefs, people have experienced undeniable moments of connection with those who have passed.
Whether through dreams, signs, or the gift of mediumship, the reality of spirit communication is evident to those who open their hearts and minds. This is not supernatural; it is part of the natural order of life.
Love and consciousness transcend the limits of the material world, and through Spiritualism, we affirm that those in Spirit still reach out to guide, comfort, and uplift us.
6. We believe that the highest morality is contained in the Golden Rule, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
This simple truth is the foundation of all spiritual paths: treat others with the same kindness, respect, and understanding that you wish for yourself.
The way we interact with the world shapes not only our relationships but also our inner peace. When we extend compassion, we create a ripple effect that returns to us in unexpected and beautiful ways.
The Golden Rule is more than a moral ideal—it is a path to a more harmonious and loving existence.
7. We affirm the moral responsibility of individuals & that we make our own happiness or unhappiness as we obey or disobey Nature’s physical & spiritual laws.
We are not powerless. Every action, every thought, every choice we make shapes our lives and influences those around us.
Spiritual growth is a personal responsibility—no one else can do it for us. When we align with truth, integrity, and love, we experience peace and fulfillment. When we stray from these values, we create our own suffering. But this is not a message of guilt—it is a message of empowerment.
No matter where we are in life, we can always choose to do better, to be kinder, to learn and grow. In doing so, we create our own happiness and contribute to the healing of the world.
8. We affirm that the doorway to reformation is never closed against any soul, here or hereafter.
No mistake is too great, no wound too deep for healing and transformation. The idea of eternal punishment is a human construct, not a divine truth.
Spiritualism teaches that every soul is capable of growth and redemption, whether in this life or the next. There is always a path forward, always an opportunity to make amends, to learn, to become more than we were before. Even in our darkest moments, the light of understanding and grace is waiting for us.
The Spirit World is not a place of punishment, but a continuation of our soul’s journey toward greater love and wisdom.
9. We affirm that the precepts of Prophecy & Healing are Divine attributes proven through Mediumship.
Throughout history, humanity has been guided by moments of spiritual insight—visions, prophecy, and messages from beyond the physical world.
Mediumship is not a rare or unnatural gift, but a timeless and universal connection between the material and the spiritual. Healing, too, is a sacred act, whether it comes through prayer, energy, or the power of human love and compassion.
These gifts remind us that we are never separate from the Divine, that wisdom and healing flow through us when we open ourselves to Spirit.
Even on this small stage we have our two sides, and something might be done by throwing all one’s weight on the scale of breadth, tolerance, charity, temperance, peace, and kindliness to man and beast.
We can’t all strike very big blows, and even the little ones count for something.
Arthur Conan Doyle, 1894
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