Astra and Kaspar and the Center

In this touching video, Astra shares her experience of discovering the Center for Spiritual Living Santa Rosa in 2006 and how it became a sanctuary for her evolving spiritual beliefs. Attending the center with her son, Kaspar, has provided them both with meaningful community, guidance, and support. Astra reflects on how the teachings inspire her music, while Kaspar expresses his joy in hearing his mom sing and participating as an usher with his nanny. Their story beautifully illustrates the sense of belonging fostered within the center.

Consider how the center has impacted your life and what you value most. If you haven’t already, you can complete your online giving intention form here.

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Wednesday Evening Service with Dr. Edward Viljoen – New Location Tonight!

Join us for our evening service This Wednesday, October 2, at Congregation Shomrei Torah (2600 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404) from 7:00 to 7:45 p.m . New Location Our usual location at the Center is being used for the High Holy Days celebration, so we’re gathering at this new spot for one night only. The Cathars of France Dr. Edward Viljoen, who recently returned from a European vacation, will lead the evening with a fascinating discussion about how we form our personal beliefs about life. He’ll share stories from his travels through Southern France, including his time in the land of the Cathars—a Christian sect from the 12th to 14th century whose beliefs stood in stark contrast to the dominant church of their time. Their tragic history raises powerful questions about what happens when deeply held beliefs are challenged. How do you respond when your beliefs are questioned? In this casual, engaging setting, Dr. Edward will guide us in reflecting on how we came to our own be

Dr. Edward Viljoen at Wednesday Evening - Recovering from Betrayal: Lessons from Holy Wednesday

Betrayal can leave us reeling, lost in a sea of shattered trust and emotional turmoil. Yet, within the stories we've inherited, there are paths forward, lessons on resilience, and recovery that resonate through time. Holy Wednesday, often overshadowed by the more prominent days of Holy Week, offers profound insights into the nature of betrayal and the steps toward healing. Dr. Edward will talk about the story of betrayal, understanding its impact on our peace, and the steps we may take to heal from it. The Story of Betrayal Holy Wednesday marks a pivotal moment in the Easter narrative—the day Judas Iscariot chose to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This act wasn't a mere transaction; it was a breach of deep, personal trust. Judas, one of the twelve disciples, had walked alongside Jesus, sharing in the journey, the teachings, and the miracles. His betrayal set in motion the events leading to the crucifixion, a cornerstone of the Easter story. Understanding the Impact B

What Do You Believe Now?

Dear Community, I just love this old photo of me and Music Director Christopher Fritzsche. And, I love that I get to work with him at the Center. But that's not the point of this message. :) I invite you to gather with me on Wednesday, November 8th at 7 p.m. for our Evening Service, where I'll talk about my own journey with Science of Mind, which began at a time when the world was less inundated with information. Today, with a deeper understanding of the nuances of human emotion, neurodiversity, social dynamics, and mental health, I find it enriching to revisit and question the ideas that initially drew me in. The concept that our thoughts have creative power prompted me to ask questions and seek out answers that were both invigorating and, at times, challenging. I've come to appreciate an approach that values evidence and personal growth over accepting ideas at face value. Our gathering is open to all, irrespective of individual beliefs about the divine. Instead, we fo

Wednesday Evening Service

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