The programme of this year's workshop is designed to help us understand the universal human experience of guilt in a constructive way. Through talks and personal sharing in small supportive groups we will look at our lives in a positive way so we can move forward aware of our Lord's forgiveness and love.
Who of us never suffers from feelings of guilt and remorse? Does our religion sometimes have the effect of increasing our sense of falling short and backsliding - even to a point of overburdening guilt that creates a block to the spiritual path we seek? Do our guilt feelings tend to close us in at times, or to respond fearfully and negatively towards others, and so increase our sense of guilt? The programme of this year's workshop is designed to help us understand the universal human experience of guilt in a constructive way, as well as to open us up to a deeper understanding of the true meaning and significance of the releasing power of divine forgiveness. We shall examine in a positive way the fundemental origin of guilt, its place and purpose in our lives, and how the lord works within us to return us to a state of pure innocence, inner security and openess towards other and Himself in genuine love. There will be sharing in small groups, using elements from the psychospiritual counselling aid 'JOURNEY INTO LOWER EARTH'. In a supportive atmosphere of love and trust we shall look at our lives in a positive way, to enable us to move forward with increased spiritual confidence, and with a greater trust in our Lord's ever present love and compassionate help. The spiritual philosophy drawn on is that of Emanuel Swedenborg, which reveals deeper universal truths within the Bible transcending barriers of sect or creed.
Michael's early career began as a physicist, but whilst doing research at Columbia University he felt called to the ministry. He lectured and led workshops widely in the UK and Australia, as well as during 14 years as Principal of the Swedenborg Open Learning College. His particular interest in applying spiritual principles to personal growth led to his developing a psycho-spiritual counselling aid based on correspondences between nature and the spirit.