Issue No 4067 Saturday 17th December 2011 £1.40 ITC: spirit communication for a digital age

Challenging the Daily Mail

Living the Spiritualist life

Still in the dark about physical ?

Plus: Join our debate on and the media Page  News From the editor Our huge debt of gratitude It’s tempting to start this first editorial by stealing a line from the journalist Bernard Levin, a columnist on The Times when it was closed down in 1978 due to an industrial dispute. When the paper reappeared almost a year later, he began his famously acerbic column with J.V. Trust chairman Eric Hatton and I at Maurice Barbanell’s desk “As I was saying before I was in the new office at Thremhall Park, Hertfordshire. so rudely interrupted...” You can see why I was tempted! You’ll find some great new We can offer you a heart-warming true contributors in this and future issues, story of love between two worlds. Check Like The Times, we’ve been in including former BBC Radio 4 producer out our book feature on page 24. enforced hibernation, but now we’re Chris Eldon Lee. Chris explains Our letters page contains just a small well and truly awake, raring to go why he believes it’s so important selection of the wonderful messages and so happy to be back! To our for mainstream media to give an you’ve sent in response to the news long-time readers – it’s fantastic to accurate picture of Spiritualism. that we’re back. Huge thanks to those be with you again. To our brand new David Hopkins is widely respected of you who’ve kept in touch. In future, readers – we’re delighted to have for his work as co-author of the books the letters pages will be an open forum you on board and hope you’ll stay Philosophy of Spiritualism and The for your views and opinions. Tell us with us for many years to come. Religion of Spiritualism. As a new what you love and even what you We think you’re going to love the contributor to PN, he’ll be tackling loathe. Don’t keep your opinions to new-format Psychic News! It’s packed some of the tough moral and ethical yourself. Remember – Spiritualists can with exciting news and features, issues faced by today’s society, communicate with the living, too! including the story of one Spiritualist’s from a Spiritualist perspective. And finally, before you start single-handed challenge to the Daily Our cover story digs deep into exploring this very first issue of the Mail. In other news we profile the spirit communication 21st century brand new Psychic News, let me gifted medium Paul Brereton, and style. Leading researcher Dr Anabela take a moment to acknowledge the take a look at workshops for young Cardoso reveals all, and offers a step- achievement of a very special person. Spiritualists in Wales. We also cast by-step guide to experimenting with Without Eric Hatton, and his an eye over the SNU’s impressive electronic voice phenomena at home. incredible determination in the face of new venue in Edinburgh. Roy Stemman takes a look at so many obstacles, you would not be another 21st century phenomenon reading this copy of Psychic News. PN – the rise of TV mediumship. It’s a fans around the world owe him and subject that arouses strong passions, his fellow trustees Hugh and Margaret so join the debate and let us know Davis a huge debt of gratitude for their what you think. And while we’re on unwavering commitment to restoring the subject of strong passions, who its iconic voice to publication. And so, says today’s physical mediums can’t with my own profound gratitude for his provide survival evidence? Lew Sutton mighty efforts, and for his steadfast dispels some preconceptions. friendship through tough times, I Many of you will know that the dedicate this first issue to Eric. J.V. Trust is the new owner of Psychic Happy reading! News, but some of you have asked about the day-to-day work of the Trust. Its chairman Eric Hatton explains all in an interview with me. Looking for an absorbing read to Susan Farrow Maurice Barbanell...smiling! curl up with over the festive season? Editor Psychic News Page  Psychic News Contents... Editor Susan Farrow Page 4 Challenging the Daily Mail One man’s mission to right a wrong Assistant Editor, Advertising, Design and Layout Paul Brett 01279 874337 Page 5 The Christmas Tree [email protected] Robin Winbow’s festive tale for children Editorial Kay Hunter Page 6 The J.V. Trust Subscriptions What does it do? Eric Hatton explains Alita McGuinness 01279 874341 [email protected] Page 8 Television and Spiritualism Technical Assistant Medium without a message? Magnus Smith 01279 874340

Contact details: Page 11 Chris Eldon Lee Psychic Press Ltd, Suite 6, Why a former BBC producer puts Spiritualism on the radio Thremhall Park, Start Hill, Bishops Stortford, Herts CM22 7WE 01279 874339 Page 12 Healing benefits of mediumship Medium Paul Bereton speaks to Susan Farrow Editorial Email [email protected] Page 14 Communication for a digital age Interview with leading researcher Dr Anabela Cardoso Website & Online Subscriptions www.psychicnews.org.uk Page 16 Back to Scole? For and against the republication of The Scole Report

Psychic News. Published by Psychic Press Limited. Pre-press and printing by Warners (Midland), Lincolnshire. We regret that we Page 18 Living the Spiritualist life are unable to recommend particular mediums David Hopkins on the challenges of spiritual living and healers. Whilst we endeavour to ensure those given editorial coverage on our pages and those who advertise their services are bona fide exponents, the abilities of expo- nents are often subjective. Advertisements Page 22 Physical mediumship appearing in Psychic News do not necessar- Lew Sutton sheds light on the evidence ily reflect editorial policy and no responsibility can be accepted for dissatisfaction with any service or product. Readers are asked to ex- ercise due care when responding to advertis- ments. Whilst we welcome them, PN cannot Page 23 New venue for Edinburgh take responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, The Sir Centre articles, photographs etc. © Psychic Press Ltd

Page 24 An interesting read Graham Jennings looks at a Spiritualist love story

Page 26 What’s on Page  Psychic News He challenged the Daily Mail AS the result of action Another comment by mag- by the vice-president of ician and comedian Paul a , the Zenon appeared, posing the Daily Mail has admitted query: “So was Ms Morgan its published error in the getting a little help from the matter of the law relating real world rather than the to mediums. spirit world? While she insists In what can only be de- absolutely not – although it is scribed as an extraordinary still illegal in this country to coincidence, Alan Seymour, claim to be a medium – having vice-president of Croydon studied stage for Spiritualist Church, success- years and been one myself in fully challenged the Daily my 20s, I am sceptical.” Mail just weeks before Knowing that both wri- publication of the first issue ters were wrong in their of the new Psychic News. interpretation of the law, Why a coincidence? The and that mediumship in this first ever PN headline, written country is perfectly legal, in 1932 by the famous Fleet Alan Seymour submitted the Alan Seymour: “I felt it was important to go further Street journalist Hannen matter to the Press Complaints than the letters page of the paper.” Swaffer, read “I challenge Commission (PCC), an the Daily Mail!” independent body which officer for the PCC. inaccuracies because it is The Daily Mail ran a series administers the system of self- In a letter to Alan Seymour, clear that when the press print of articles about medium regulation for the press. Charlotte Dewar wrote: “In articles about psychics, more Sally Morgan, in which His complaint was that the response to your concerns often than not they link them doubts were cast on her med- was in breach of and your clarification of the to mediums and Spiritualism. iumship. She was said to Clause 1 of the Editorial Code grounds of your complaint, This happened when the Daily have been “cheating” during of Practice (Accuracy). Mr Esser has now offered Mail reported on alleged her theatre performances by After what Mr Seymour to publish the following cheating by ‘Psychic Sally using information relayed to described to Psychic News as clarification, based on your Morgan’. her through an earpiece. “a long battle with the Daily wording: “To try to put a stop to It was not this aspect Mail through the PCC”, his Two commentary articles this ignorance I felt it was which spurred Mr Seymour persistence paid off, and about psychic Sally Morgan important to go further than to action, but an ill-informed he succeeded in obtaining in the Daily Mail in Septem- the letters page of the paper, and inaccurate statement in a published correction and ber stated that it is “illegal in which only publishes what an article by Jan Moir on 22nd clarification, both from the this country to claim to be a it wants to, and take my September which read: “The Daily Mail and on the PCC medium.” case to the Press Complaints law in this country already website. It has been pointed out Commission, who were forbids Sally Morgan to This was agreed by the to us that mediums are in impartial but very supportive advertise herself as a medium. Mail’s executive managing fact legal in this country, of my complaint, particularly Is it time for the law to forbid editor, Robin Esser, and although like other busin- when the Daily Mail didn’t her, full stop?” Charlotte Dewar, complaints esses they are subject to address the issues I raised. consumer protection legis- “I was quite happy with the lation. outcome because the Daily Dates for your diary... If you are content with Mail was made to correct it, Mr Esser is happy to its false statement about The Way of Life Foundation presents a monthly proceed with publication (in mediums being illegal in this mind, body and spirit festival in the new indoor market the newspaper and online) as country. I am also happy that at Charter Place, Watford, Hertfordshire. soon as possible.” there is a permanent record The festival opens at 9.00am on Saturday 25th February. Upon hearing of Alan of my complaint on the PCC Entrance is free and readings no more than £15. For details Seymour’s success, David website, meaning that if there call 0771 871 9081. (www.thewayoflifefoundation.org.) Bruton, president of the are similar complaints in the Spiritualists’ National Union, future, mine will serve as a A Mind, Body and Spirit Weekend will be held sent an email saying, reference point.” at The Grimsby Auditorium, Cromwell Road, Grimsby “Congratulations Alan – a We congratulate Alan on DN31 2BH on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th January. battle won for Spiritualism.” his achievement, and for The event opens daily from 10am to 5pm and there will Alan told Psychic News: having the courage to take be approximately 85 stands. For further details call 01724 “I felt it was important to on the Daily Mail single- 849886 or visit www.bssk.co.uk challenge the Daily Mail’s handed. Psychic News Page  Spiritualist’s passing sheds new light on an old mystery SNU almoner Lynette 22nd November. She was the her quality of life deterior- reported that many years Coulston has notified us of widow of Mr Harold Mayes, ated and, as her daughter told ago, while visiting the Arthur the passing of the dedicated a former General Secretary me, it became increasingly Findlay College during Open Spiritualist Olga Mayes. of the SNU.” distressing for the family to Week, she caught sight of the In an email to Psychic Lynette had been told visit.” wooden logo which is now News which began with the by those who knew Olga Lynette also gleaned an- housed at Redwoods (on unlikely words “O happy well that Olga was “a other piece of information the Stansted Hall estate) and day!” Lynette wrote: gentlewoman of many talents that seems to shed light on declared: ‘I designed that!’ “You may wonder at my who never stopped working a long-term mystery con- “Olga’s daughter chuckled greeting, but this is how the for spirit and the SNU. cerning the origins of the as she told me how her daughter and family of 96- “She continued to attend SNU logo. mother had requested a party, year-old Mrs Olga Mayes, church activities until about “I learned that it was Olga so that she could dance after an honorary member of three years ago, when she who painted the original the service of celebration for Bourne Spiritualist Church in could no longer manage,” SNU logo depicting Light, her life. That service was held Lincolnshire, feel at present. says Lynette. “She was ad- Nature, Truth. at Peterborough Crematorium “Olga passed on Tuesday mitted to a care home where “In fact, it has been on Thursday 8th December.” THE CHRISTMAS TREE A festive story for children by Robin Winbow ohnny is a little boy who lives deep in the needles – began to fall one by one, until the tree was country close to a magnificent and mysterious completely bereft of leaves. It stood like a skeleton of Jforest. Johnny likes nothing better than a walk branches and tree trunk. Johnny’s father said it was in the forest. dead and would have to go outside. One winter’s day he found a new Johnny was so upset that he took it path which led to a special glade outside, cut off the branches, feeling – a grassy area surrounded by as he did that he was losing some tall trees that seemed to protect part of himself. this special place. When the tree was in little Right in the middle of pieces, he took them and the the grassy area was a small wooden box back to the glade and lonely Christmas tree. in the forest and buried them Johnny felt so sorry for where the tree had been this lonely little tree that growing he fetched his father’s Winter passed into Spring, spade to dig it up and take and Johnny grew tall and it home. strong. Returning to the glade When he got home to pay his respects once again his father said, “It won’t to the tree, he was surprised to survive if the roots are not see a beautiful plant growing in soil.” As Johnny wanted in the very spot where he had to bring it indoors he set buried the pieces of the tree and about, found some wood and its box. nails, and made a wooden box for The plant was luxuriant in its the roots to sit in comfy soil. growth, with leaves of rich green and Then he brought the little tree purple colours. In the centre, on a strong indoors, creating lanterns with candles within stem, was a flower. The flower was a radiant gold to hang upon the tree. It looked splendiferous and colour which seemed to fill the glade with its light and filled the room with light, joy and happiness for presence. everyone to enjoy, creating a and merry Johnny looked at the flower. In the centre there festive season. seemed to be a face – a face that looked at him and However, day by day the tiny leaves – its smiled. © Robin Winbow 2011 All about the J.V. Trust Spiritualist philanthropy at work by Susan Farrow

By now, many people are aware that the J.V. Trust is the new owner of Psychic News. The history of the trust and its day-to-day work are less familiar, and a number of readers have asked about the activities of Spiritualism’s wealthiest charity. Who better to provide the answers than J.V.’s long-standing chairman, Eric Hatton. I began by asking him how the trust came into being.

“The trust was created in 1976,” comments made by Gordon, Eric explains. “Its benefactors, that although they were very Roy and Christine Wandless, fond of the Hall, they were had lost two children, John and not altogether enamoured of Valerie, from cystic fibrosis, the Union. Something in their and wanted to set up a charity early involvement with the in their memory. So the name SNU had displeased them, derives from ‘J’ for John and and in consequence sums ‘V’ for Valerie.” which they had made available Roy Wandless was an from their own personal funds accountant and had a great were usually loans rather than interest in the stock market. gifts. “I think he used to dabble in “During the six or seven stocks and shares,” says Eric, years before Gordon’s passing, “and by virtue of that he had he asked me several times if made a tidy sum of money. Roy and Christine Wandless I would become a trustee of “He and Christine had a very nice has sometimes been suggested, for J.V. but I declined on each occasion house but they lived quite modestly any one particular organisation. Its because my commitments as vice- and were never inclined to splash charitable objects are: president of the Union, managing out. Their only luxury seemed to (A) The promotion, establishment, director of my own business, be the cruises they went on in their spread and advancement of the chairman of a large consortium, and latter years. religion and religious philosophy various other involvements, made “Their trips to Stansted Hall were known as Spiritualism with particular me reluctant to take on anything also part of their holiday routine, regard for the training of Ministers. else. so they were familiar with Gordon (B) The promotion and advance- “In December 1992, the final Higginson and others involved in ment of spiritual healing. occasion on which Gordon stayed the courses and seminars there. C) The relief of aged and infirm with my wife Heather and me over They knew and had Spiritualists who are in need of the Christmas holidays, he again formed a great liking for the place financial assistance. almost begged me to become a even before he handed it over to the “I had no direct involvement trustee. With some reluctance I Spiritualists’ National Union in 1964.” with the trust in its early days” says agreed, and he immediately tele- The trust started life with the very Eric. “But Gordon had become a phoned Christine Wandless to modest sum of £600 – a far cry from trustee and he indicated to me that communicate my decision. Hugh the more than £7million it has today. he hoped it might be able to help Davis was also appointed a trustee Its first trustees were Roy, Christine people who were unable to afford to around that time.” and their son Alan, who sadly passed come to Stansted Hall, or to pursue Less than a week after Gordon’s to spirit a short time later, also from their interest in Spiritualism in other phone call to Christine, Eric received cystic fibrosis. ways. a letter from Margaret Neville, the The J.V. Trust is a charity for “I found out from my association Wandlesses’ lawyer, informing him Spiritualists of every hue and not, as with Roy and Christine, and from that she would make the necessary Psychic News Page  arrangements for him and Hugh to of further trustees. be appointed as trustees. “We therefore agreed upon the “I knew that Roy’s and Christine’s appointment of our wives, Heather health was failing,” Eric recalls, “and and Margaret. Both were sympathetic Miss Neville dealt with the legal towards the aims of the trust. Their procedures speedily, since it seemed appointments also meant that if they wanted everything cut and dried anything happened to Hugh or my- before they moved on.” self, the work of the trust would It was only after Gordon Higg- be able to continue uninterrupted. inson’s sudden passing on 18th Though the four trustees were January 1993 that Eric discovered two married couples, things were the full extent of Roy’s and Christine’s structured so that cheques could only Eric and Heather Hatton health problems. Within six weeks ever be signed by one Davis and one half a million pounds. But obviously, Christine had passed to spirit and Hatton, never by one couple. because of the Wandlesses’ affection Roy had been admitted to a nursing “To her everlasting credit, Margaret for the place, first preference and the home. Neville was scrupulously efficient and greatest sums of money have gone “Heather and I went down to honest in dealing with the affairs of to the , which Christine’s funeral. It was a strange the J.V. Trust and continued to be so has received more than £2million service, because there were no right up until her retirement last year. over the years. hymns and no one gave a eulogy, but Even today, she retains an interest in “In its early days the college was it seems that was her wish. It was at its affairs. We are greatly indebted to in a dreadful structural state and so this service that I first met Margaret her for her dedicated work and wise much needed to be done, all of it Neville.” guidance over the years.” crying out for money. The roof was in After the funeral, Eric travelled Following Miss Neville’s retire- a perilous state, the chimneys were to Dorset to visit Roy in the nursing ment, the legal affairs of the in danger of collapsing. There was home. He was clearly a sick man and also a need for a new water supply, within little more than three months new heating, and a gas supply which after his wife’s passing, he too had to be brought in from the main departed for the spirit world. road. Then there was the building of With Gordon, Christine and Roy new kitchens, a new dining room, gone, it quickly became apparent to new bedrooms and so on.” Eric and Hugh that there would be The trust was also saviour to the many decisions for them to take. SNU when it fell on hard times. “We still had no idea of the large “We purchased Redwoods (the sums of money that would eventually SNU’s headquarters on the Stansted be transferred to the trust,” Eric estate) when the Union itself was in recalls. “Margaret Neville indicated dire financial straits,” Eric explains. that she had an awful lot of work to “The Union owned it, but it was put do to conclude the complex financial into hock when they badly needed affairs of Roy and Christine, because cash, so we stepped in to secure its she had only been engaged a short Margaret and Hugh Davis future.” while before Gordon Higginson’s trust were placed in the hands of Eric believes that the trust is passing. the Birmingham-based law firm, fulfilling the original wishes and “As time went by, and the Shakespeares, and stockbrokers intentions of its generous bene- Wandlesses’ affairs were unravelled, EFG Harris Allday were appointed factors. it became clear that the estate to handle the investment portfolio. “We have had indications from was worth a significant amount of Sadly, the trust now has just three time to time that Roy and Christine money. As a consequence, about £2 trustees, owing to the passing of approved of what we were doing,” million was paid into the J.V. Trust Heather Hatton in June 2007. he says. “In fact, I think I have account. On Miss Neville’s advice we Today the trust has funds in excess had three such indications from appointed stockbrokers Farley and of £7million. The share portfolio Christine, who was apparently happy Thompson of Bournemouth, who has increased so that the future of with the way we have steered the gave us wise guidance, as a result of the trust is secure. There are also trust. which the trust’s capital has grown sums of money more immediately “What Christine and Roy Wandless steadily.” accessible, so that the trustees can have done for Spiritualism, and As the trust became more widely make disbursements as and when particularly for the Arthur Findlay known, the volume of work carried necessary. College, by virtue of their generosity, out by its trustees increased. Eric “We receive a large number of is unique. Even now, when they are and Hugh came to the conclusion applications from both churches in their spiritual home, I feel we that such a busy and wealthy trust and individuals,” says Eric. “To date should express our indebtedness to would benefit from the appointment they have received well in excess of them.” Page  Psychic News Television and Spiritualism: medium without a message?

Are television and radio coverage of mediumship damaging Spiritualism’s image? Or are they doing Spiritualism a favour by raising its public profile? Veteran journalist Roy Stemman, and former BBC radio producer Chris Eldon Lee are both Spiritualists, but do they agree? Read on...

he treatment of spirit term to “psychic” which she says has communication has just negative connotations. descended to a new low Unfortunately, an appearance on Ton television. In November, Real Housewives of Beverley Hills has Australia’s Channel Seven turned also had negative connotations for the death of murdered housewife her reputation. She took part to help Kerry Whelan into a game on its defend her friend Camille Grammer, psychic talent show The One. wife of Cheers and Frasier star Kelsey Mrs Whelan disappeared in 1997 Grammer, from the comments of and Bruce Burrell is now serving a life other participants. But Dubois quickly sentence for her murder and that of became intoxicated, exchanging in- another woman, Dorothy Davis. sults with the other guests while Their bodies have never been smoking an electric cigarette. found, so the makers of The One: This, of course, was highly the Search for Australia’s Most Gifted entertaining for the viewing audience Psychic decided to make the search but will have left many questioning for Mrs Whelan’s remains a chall- the ethical and mediumistic standards enge in a series of tests for the of this famous medium, particularly ten contestants. Incredibly, the as she intimated that one of the producers did so without consulting housewives’ husbands was being the victim’s family, which has caused unfaithful. Yet she failed to pick up understandable outrage. on the fact that Kelsey was having So, what is a psychic? Spiritualists by Roy Stemman an affair that has since led to the usually make a distinction between break-up of their marriage after mediums and psychics, defining fourteen years. the former as individuals who can and has even written a book called As far as I know, Allison Dubois communicate with the dead whereas Practical Praying: Using the Rosary to does not call herself a Spiritualist. psychics are people with other Enhance Your Life. And England’s Sally But the “medium” label – and even abilities, such as fortune telling. Morgan, whose theatre performances sometimes the “psychic” label – are Having said that, there’s a growing are always sold out, is also a Christian synonymous with Spiritualism to most tendency to use “psychic medium” as who has never demonstrated in people. a job description, which just adds to a Spiritualist church – though her Anyone who becomes involved with the confusion – as does the fact that glossy theatre programme does television programmes has to accept The One’s contestants are described make reference to Spiritualism and its that it is all about entertainment and as “psychics, mediums, ghost whisp- origins. achieving good ratings. And there’s erers and a life strategist”. Allison Dubois, another American no denying that topics of Adding to the confusion is the medium and the inspiration for the all kinds – from psychic detectives to fact that some of television’s best- successful TV series Medium, has – can make for good known mediums are not Spiritualists. impressed many people with her viewing. America’s , for example, abilities to speak with the departed. An insight into the thinking that is a Roman Catholic who prays with She describes herself as a medium goes into such programmes comes a rosary before each demonstration and profiler, preferring the latter from Thom Beer who is described Psychic News Page  as “the king of unscripted reality The truth is that this heady mixture Today, we are almost swamped television”. He indicates that a catchy of ghouls and crystal balls, and all the by stories, claims, counter claims title, which he trademarks, and a garbage that accompanies many of and “exposures” in , bizarre concept are all that are needed these programmes, may succeed in magazines, TV and the internet. for TV success. titillating viewers but it fails to even That may lead some to question That’s why he’s currently looking hint at the spiritual teachings and the need for Psychic News in such for “a little person with psychic philosophy that are the bedrock of an information-rich environment. But powers” who travels around helping Spiritualism. I would argue that there has never people with their problems. When he Is that television’s fault? No. In been a greater need for a publication finds a suitable, tiny psychic he will fact, despite my criticism of most that is not only an independent be able to launch Small Medium At TV shows featuring psychics and voice of Spiritualism, but will also Large. combine sensible comment and Not surprisingly, with concepts like debate with investigative reporting that Spiritualism’s message is getting to demonstrate why so many have increasingly lost in the medium of embraced Spiritualism’s truth over the television. years. Broadcasting regulations in some It is not, however, something countries require programmes de- Psychic News can achieve in isolation. picting demonstrations of spirit com- If the public perception of Spiritualism munication to show a disclaimer that is being tainted by television shows makes it clear that their purpose is or newspaper reports written in solely for entertainment. They are ignorance of the facts, then it is screened not to convince anyone the responsibility of Spiritualist org- of life after death, they argue, but anisations and even individuals to set to amuse. And some of the best the record straight and point people mediums can certainly achieve that in the right direction. if they have the right presentational Alan Seymour’s victory in getting skills. But the humour and drama the Daily Mail to correct a blatantly should not disguise the impressive untrue statement about mediums evidence they provide. Medium Allison Dubois (reported on page 4) is an excellent That brings me to another example of what can be achieved, worrying aspect of mediumistic tele- mediums, I have to accept that they and we need to encourage more vision programmes. We hear the have opened the minds of millions Spiritualists to actively engage with messages mediums deliver and often of TV viewers to the possibility of the media. the testimony of the recipients of spirit communication. The last thing I We are not going to be able to those messages. But can we be sure would recommend is for mediums to change television. In fact, it will that what we see and hear is the reject the opportunity of appearing on probably get worse. But surely it is truth, the whole truth and nothing but TV even though there’s little evidence time for all major Spiritualist org- the truth? that it benefits Spiritualism. anisations around the world, re- The answer, without a shadow of Attendance at Spiritualist churches gardless of their allegiances, to join doubt, is No! I am seldom convinced and centres is on the decline (as it is forces to promote their beliefs and by what I see and I suspect I speak with many other religions) while well- help Spiritualism become a force for the majority of viewers. We have known mediums working in theatres for good at a local, national and to take so much on trust and are manage to attract audiences as large international level. left asking various questions. Are as those attending the performances If we could do that, perhaps we being shown only the best bits of pop stars or comedians. television companies would see of the messages conveyed? Did the When Psychic News was launched Spiritualism in a new light, rather production team research the subjects in the 1930s it filled a huge void. than just as a useful source of enter- before the medium met them? Was Mainstream media at that time gave tainment. And Spiritualism’s mess- any information fed to the medium in very little coverage to Spiritualism age would reach a much wider advance? and when it did it was usually hostile. audience. These are all legitimate questions that are never adequestely addressed in such programmes. Why aren’t Subscription rates for Psychic News independent observers used to control all aspects of these demonstrations 1 Year 6 Months and confirm there was no contact uk £48 £25 or feeding of information between medium and recipient? The answer, Overseas £68 £35 of course, is that there’s no need to Online version £26 £14 do so because this is all done in the See page 3 for contact details or call 01279 874341 name of entertainment. Page 10 Psychic News The Candle Trust Would you like to find out if there is more to Spiritualism and being psychic than mental mediumship? What can you do with your spiritual and psychic energy? COME ALONG TO OUR 2012 SEMINAR AND FIND OUT FOR YOURSELF With tutors John Aitken of Edinburgh (Labyrinth) and Helen Prockter of Evesham (Trance) THIS WILL BE HELD ONCE AGAIN AT BROOMLEE EDUCATION CENTRE WEST LINTON, Nr EDINBURGH FROM 25th TO 28th OCTOBER 2012 Deposits required by 31st July 2012 with balances due by 1st October 2012 For more details about costs, workshops, etc. and to obtain a booking form, contact: ANN M. ARMSTRONG, 9 CATRINE ROAD, MAUCHLINE, KA5 6AA 01290 550212 or 0779 328 4289 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.spanglefish.com/thecandletrust PRESIDENT: WILLIAM MCFADZEAN, 15 VIEWFIELD ROAD, AYR, KA8 8HH 01292 265040 or 0776 552 2595 The Candle Trust is a not-for-profit organisation

Ronald Hearn: Medium The Little Boy Who Listened A Yeoman of England Portrait of a Medium by Ronald Hearn by Ronald Hearn £17.99 £15.99 In this candid, thought-provoking Arthur Molinary is one of Britain’s autobiography, the gifted and world- foremost psychics — someone who, through renowned medium Ronald Hearn gives a his extraordinary gifts, has been able to give moving account of his extraordinary life. comfort to hundreds of people. Beginning with his childhood in a working- In this awe-inspiring, heart-warming class family in wartime London, he traces biography, fellow medium Ronald Hearn traces Arthur’s life his development on to the startling, life-changing discovery of from his Spanish Gibraltarian roots to his outstanding career his psychic abilities and his decision to launch himself as a full- at London’s celebrated College of Psychic Studies and, on the time psychic. way, provides haunting accounts of some of the medium’s most Ronald’s astonishing gifts — most notably seen in his notable readings. innovative practice of taped messages — have won him many admirers in the psychic community, and his sensitive, subtle Praise for The Little Boy Who Listened readings have given comfort and hope to many. “This book stands out from the usual medium biographies. It is a generous tribute from one medium to another, who he Praise for Ronald Hearn: Medium describes as ‘one of the finest psychics I know’… Guy Lyon “Vastly interesting and well written. A definite must for anyone Playfair, Light, July 2009 interested in the paranormal. Does this book compare well with “A really superior read. Comes very highly recommended…” his other works? In one word….Yes!” Matthew A. Hutton in Matthew Hutton in Psychic World, August 2008 Psychic World, October 2010 “Probably the finest description of the workings of a psychics. “When I started to read this book, I became spellbound.” Highly recommended and a must for any collector…” Sheila Yeo, The Yeo Society, November 2010 Gibraltar Chronicle Special reader offer of £11.05, plus p&p of £3.95 (UK), Special reader offer of £5.50, plus p&p of £3.95 (UK), £7.00 )Europe and rest of world) £7.00 (Europe and rest of world). For this offer, please quote code 53BGTWM1 For this offer, please quote code 53TWM2 Visit www.ronaldhearn.com for further details Tel: 01235 465577 or visit our website www.bookguild.co.uk Psychic News Page 11 Dealing with the Media by Chris Eldon Lee

he one thing most Spiritual- nature made them relatively “safe”. true and I fancy that spirit will help ists conclude, usually after Both programmes were substantially you smell a bad apple. several attempts, is that it’s reviewed in the press and extracts Convincing anyone about Spirit- Tnigh impossible to convince appeared on Radio 4’s Pick of the ualism can only begin if they walk someone else of one’s personal Week. Most of the response was open- through the door of their own free will. convictions. minded, though there were one or two For that to happen, they have to know We’ve all suffered shaking heads journalists who denounced everything the church (or circle) exists. and glazed expressions in the process in sight. A follow-up programme idea Celebrity mediums pack theatres of learning not to push the point. One about modern day Spiritualism was not on a regular basis. It’s “show biz”, horror etched on my own memory commissioned, partly because it was I know, but it’s a start. By going – from many years ago – is of talking proving very difficult to get present day commercial, they are blazing a trail to my girlfriend of the time about and any audience member needing “sitting in circle”. more Spiritualism in their lives needs I’d almost encouraged her to come to know where to go next. Which is along one evening when she suddenly where we come in. said, “Do you have any photos?” It might feel a bit lame to just ring Naturally, I had to say “No”. Then, up the local paper or radio station at in a flash of blinding inspiration, I random. Most journalists like to have produced some famous black and a topical ‘peg’ to hang a story on. white photographs from the 1950s of So here’s a thought. Next time one a medium producing . of the big names is due to appear in “Why’s that woman got net curtains your locality, why not invite the local stuffed up her nose?” my beloved press to meet the Spiritualists who are asked. My defeat was complete. available to their readers all the time. So why should Spiritualists bother We don’t have anything to hide and to deal with the media? we do have a lot to offer. I’m in the unusual position of having And if your group is approached by a foot in both camps. As a radio a journalist wanting to do an interview producer I’ve managed to place what or feature on Spiritualism, why not I still feel are two ground-breaking Chris Eldon Lee just say “Yes” and embark upon the documentaries on BBC Radio 4. The adventure. We all recognise that first concerned the work of Noah Zerdin circles to contribute. Keeping ‘mum’ Spiritualism has slipped from the public in the 1930s and drew heavily upon behind closed doors appeared to be consciousness in recent years. archive recordings, which had been the chosen response. Personally I feel we have a duty to sitting in a south London garage for But, in more recent years, I tuned pioneers like Zerdin and Harrison who decades. The programme followed the into my local BBC radio station at prime stuck their heads above the parapet. quest of his granddaughters to learn time one morning to hear an hour The revitalisation of Psychic News is more about him. This led to a present of recordings made at a Spiritualist an important step in the promotion of day sitting with medium in church in Telford. Members of the Spiritualism. It could just be a turning which Noah’s voice was purportedly church spoke openly about their beliefs point. And, once again, we have a heard, and broadcast. and work, and were given a perfectly national vehicle through which we can This was followed by another fair hearing from the BBC presenter. talk to each other. programme in which Tom Harrison Psychic News reported the event, with So I for one would be fascinated described the Middlesbrough home a slight sense of relief and surprise. to hear stories from groups who have circle for which his mother Mini The lesson to be learnt from all this is courted the media. If, as I suspect, Harrison was medium. Again the that every human being contemplates the consequences proved to be largely core of the feature was long-lost tape the big eventuality at some point – and positive, other groups might gain the recordings. all journalists are human beings. As in confidence to follow suit, allowing Actually getting Radio 4 to com- all walks of life, there are some humans Spiritualism to flourish again. mission both programmes was an you would not want to trust with your I look forward to your letters. open, even-handed experience, though reputation. But the old adage that “all Chris Eldon Lee is a broadcaster, it struck me later that their historical publicity is good publicity” does ring radio producer and playwright.

Page 12 Psychic News The healing benefits of great mediumship

reat mediumship is always experiences, he was great news. The better the able to confide evidence, the better the in his mother. Gprospect of healing and “Because she new beginnings for the grieving. could see and hear Paul Brereton has never looked spirit herself I could for fame or fortune. He’s a modest talk to her about man, and until quite recently his it,” he explains. outstanding evidential mediumship “Sometimes, when was not widely known. In fact, he’s I was nervous, she worked for years at development, would go upstairs but both he and his teacher were and after a few determined that he would know his minutes she would job properly before stepping out come back down and solo. tell me, ‘Everything’s Born into a Roman Catholic going to be all right family in Ireland, he attended the in a minute – they’re local Catholic church. “It didn’t going to go’. And fit with me,” he says. “Í couldn’t sure enough, within Paul Brereton at Stourbridge Spiritualist Church understand it and I couldn’t believe a minute they would there was a man sitting on his be gone.” bring healing around the family. throne and you would go in front As with many mediumistic kids, “As she was about to pass, I of him and he would decide if you Paul’s ability took a back seat as he knew she was going, and I said to were going to heaven or hell. Even grappled with school work and the her: ‘It’ll be OK. I love you Mum.’ at that young age I had my own general ups and downs of childhood She told me, ‘I love you too Paul,’ beliefs. I always knew there was and adolescence. It only came to and as she said those words I saw spirit with me.” the fore again when he was 34, and her leaving. I could actually see In fact, Paul had first seen his much-loved mum was admitted her coming out of her body. I was spirit when he was just six years to hospital with what seemed like a looking at her face and then, all of old. “I was in the bedroom,” he routine health problem. a sudden, I saw her hovering above remembers, “and I could hear this “She had a swollen leg but I her body, like a mist. My brothers voice and see the black shadow of a knew she wasn’t going to come and sisters were gathered around gentleman standing in the doorway. home. I had such a strong feeling. the bed, and I could hear them I couldn’t see his features, but I “She was put on a dialysis crying. I turned towards them to knew there was nobody else in the machine and as soon as they see if anybody else had seen the house, so I was quite frightened connected her to it she was taken mist, and when I looked back it was and legged it into my mother’s into intensive care. I started having gone. I knew my mum was going bedroom!” strange feelings as I sat by her bed. into spirit and that she was okay. A year later the family moved to I felt a loving vibration which was That was what brought me into the England and Paul continued to be so strong that I went to the nurse Spiritualist movement.” aware of spirit visitors. “Our house at the end of the bed to ask if she After that extraordinary was haunted and I could often see could feel it too. She couldn’t. So experience things moved quickly for things and hear voices. My mum I went outside and had a cup of Paul. His mother-in-law took him to was also mediumistic, so she could tea, and when I came back the a Spiritualist church, where for the hear the voices too.” feeling was just as strong. Of course first time he heard a philosophical Paul was sometimes unsettled I understand now that the spirit address. “As soon as I heard the by his shadowy visitors but, unlike people were there. My grandma philosophy I knew I was at home,” many mediumistic children who and granddad were waiting for my he recalls. “Everything I believe in have no one to talk to about their mother, and they were also there to came into that talk. I kept going Psychic News Page 13 back for the philosophy, even sits in her circle to this day. “I feel first message from my mother – though I knew I wasn’t going to honoured and privileged to have her about how she was in the intensive receive a message from my mother.” help and teaching,” he says. “I also care unit, and about the music we Before long, Paul was receiving had wonderful tutors around me at played where I lived – I knew it was messages of a different kind. “All of Stansted, a place I hold deeply to so important to be able to bring a sudden the mediums were telling my heart. Eric Hatton, Gerard Smith, those details over. My tutor always me I was going to be working up Hugh and Margaret Davis and Eileen encouraged me to go that little bit there on the platform. I told them Davis have helped me so, so much further.” I was really sorry but I couldn’t and they still do. As soon as I went Watching Paul work with a stand up and talk and read in front to Stansted on a J.V. Trust week I congregation of over a hundred of people because I’m seriously knew I was at home and just burst people, I noticed that with every dyslexic.” into tears. That was the first time I message he went directly and Nevertheless, from that point met Margaret Davis and she put her unhesitatingly to the intended on Paul was a man on a mission to arms around me and said, ‘You’re recipient, with a one hundred per learn. “There was a local shop doing home, aren’t you?’” cent success rate. It’s not a sight I awareness classes,” he remembers, Recently, I had the pleasure of see very often. I asked him how he “but only for six weeks. At the end watching Paul work at Stourbridge was so sure about where to go. of the six weeks, I came out of Spiritualist Church, and I was “I always say to my friend who the shop wondering what I was struck not only by the strength works with me, please, please let supposed to do next. me go to the person that I need “As I walked down the street I to go to, because that’s not only suddenly felt as if somebody had evidence for them but evidence for got hold of me and was spinning me as well. When I’m working, as me around until I was facing a soon as I start to relax I’ll just get a white building on the other side of feeling and I’ll go with that feeling. the road. I crossed over and saw I look around and feel completely a sign saying ‘Awareness Classes’ drawn to one person. and thought – Wow! People were “I’m always nervous and I say to coming out of the building and I my tutor Doreen, ‘When are these thought I’d better not go in, so I nerves going to go?’ And she says decided to go back the following to me, ‘Paul, when your nerves go week.” Paul with his mentor Doreen Elston I’ll tell you not to work again!’ I love When Paul returned, he met working with spirit and all I want is a lady who would play a central of his connection to spirit and to bring over the love of the spirit role in his future development. He the consequent precision of his world and touch people’s spirits remembers the moment vividly. evidence, but by the humility and so they know without a shadow of “She looked at me as if to say, ‘I’ve honesty with which he delivered doubt that their loved ones are very been waiting for you.’ Her name was messages. Working clairvoyantly much around them and watching Doreen Elston.” and clairaudiently he conveys the over them. We will all go through Paul sat in Doreen’s awareness kind of detail that is rare on today’s the grieving process, but in the class for eighteen months and was platforms. spirit world there is no time. So I eventually invited into her circle. “I “I always say to the spirit world know that when I meet my mum had to sit in the quiet for six weeks. that I want to work with truth and again, she’ll say to me, ‘Good God, It was very disciplined and I wasn’t honesty. That’s so important to me. Paul, it only seems like a week since allowed to give a message, because When Gerard Smith gave me the I’ve been here!’.” the point was to learn to feel the spirit around you, and also to come into contact with your own spirit. If you’d like to watch Paul work, you can find “After a while Doreen would let me give just one message in the him at the following venues: circle, then I had to sit back down. She was wonderful — a wise, 22nd January 2012 Bingham Spiritualist Church experienced lady, and didn’t let th th me onto a platform for a good few 25 & 26 February Kings Heath Spiritualist Church years. When she eventually brought 8th April Leicester, Vaughan Way Spiritualist Church me to the platform as a novice, I was still only allowed to give one 12th - 14th May Bournemouth Spiritualist Church message. Then I had to sit down and Doreen would carry on with the 23rd - 25th June Stourbridge Spiritualist Church mediumship and the philosophy.” th Doreen is now in her mid- 5 August Longton Spiritualist Church eighties and in poor health but Paul Spirit communication for a digital age Dr Anabela Cardoso is a leading Anabela, “but to be truthful he never researcher in the cutting-edge field took it very seriously until he saw the of Instrumental Transcommunication results we were getting!” (ITC) – an umbrella term for apparent Those initial EVP results achieved spirit communication through elec- using a reel-to-reel tape recorder tronic instruments such as recording came quickly – just two-and-a-half devices, radios, televisions, comp- months after the first attempt. I felt uters and mobile phones. The elated,” said Anabela. more familiar term Electronic Voice Direct radio voice communication people were present to hear him try- Phenomena (EVP) refers specifically (anomalous communications directly ing to explain the difference between to spoken communication. through radio loudspeakers) was also the strict flow of time in our material Humankind’s desire to make rapidly achieved, a mere two months Universe, and the unrestricted sense contact with lost loved ones has after the initial experiment. of time in his world. probably existed as long as the Since those early days, Anabela Anabela also showed her audience human race itself, and the idea of has earned a world-wide reputation an outstanding example of the using mechanical instruments to for her research, giving presentations communication of a visual image. attempt communication is not new. The prolific German researcher Adolf Such devices have been around for Homes received both direct radio centuries. voice communications and many Anabela’s interest in ITC began (often long) text messages via his in 1997 when she formed an ex- computer screen. But particularly perimental group with two other striking was a television screen image people, following a visit to an of the face of EVP pioneer Friedrich acknowledged expert on the para- Jurgenson, which compared well normal in Madrid. José María Pilón with a photograph of him taken in is a Jesuit, a Catholic priest, not life (above). a profession commonly associated Anabela is currently working on with a passion for paranormal in- an important paper which catalogues vestigation. a two-year research project on “I’d been through a period of recordings made in acoustically intense grief a few years earlier,” shielded environments, including Anabela explains, “and then I met the acoustics laboratory at a major Lola who had lost her eighteen- university School of Engineering. year-old son and was in a desperate “The purpose of using a 100 per psychological and physical state.” cent acoustically shielded room is Wanting to explore the possibility to block out all interference from of communicating personally with Dr Anabela Cardoso external sound so there is far less their loved ones, the two women possibility of misinterpretation. Be- decided to consult Father Pilón. to many research groups, including fore the two-year project began, “He is very knowledgeable and the Society for Psychical Research researchers were recruited from above suspicion,” says Anabela. in London, where her most recent Germany (two physicists), Portugal “We had lunch with him and didn’t lecture offered a compelling example and Spain. mention ITC at all, just discussed our of survival. “This will be a difficult report to own situations and asked his advice. Henry Sainte Claire Deville, publish to a satisfactory standard, At the end of this conversation I a French research chemist who so it’s been a lot of work. When it’s asked what he thought we could died in 1881, communicated – in finished I want to start another book attempt. He suggested that the English, with a strong French accent making use of the research. From my best thing would be to try ITC – to experimenters Maggy and Jules side there is really not much else I communication. So that was what Harsch-Fischbach in Luxembourg can do because my communicators we did.” in 1987. He spoke clearly via the say they don’t want any changes in The two met in Anabela’s home, loudspeaker of a USW receiver with- my equipment. There was a time along with another friend, Carlos in the 90 MHz range, giving details when they used to say they needed Fernandes. “Carlos was already into of his earthly life and scientific work this or that, and I would add one the technical aspect of things,” says which were later verified. Seven piece of equipment or another. Now they don’t want any changes, so I communication. of cases are erroneous. This has a must respect their wishes. “Communicators have mentioned very negative effect on credibility.” “In this research, which is more the that ‘purity of heart’ and motivation Aside from her research, to which communicators’ than mine, I notice play a very important role. I also she devotes huge amounts of time, that a number of times recently they believe that open-mindedness is a Anabela has a demanding career have changed the sounds the radios factor. as a Portguese diplomat. I asked emit, although the radios have all “The communicators have told me what drives her to press on with her been tuned to the same state-used repeatedly, ‘We are working and we experiments. frequencies, only for government will be able to speak to everybody in “It’s so much work, so tiring, and use. That makes the comprehension your world who is interested’.” sometimes I have to be in that studio more difficult. As Spiritualists we are all too whether I want to or not, because “For instance, there is now an familiar with the often inaccurate the communicators ask me to. The additional very sharp whistle. As way mediumship is portrayed in film studio is inside my house, a little I said, these being state-used and TV dramas. Anabela has found room dedicated to the commun- frequencies, there is no interference the same applies where ITC EVP is ication, where I have all my equip- from “Radio Hams” but when you concerned. ment. tune the radio to a frequency that is “I was asked to take part in a “I do it because I have a strong not broadcasting, of course it emits documentary about the Hollywood feeling that I am co-operating from a sound. Right now the whistle is filmWhite Noise, for Israeli television,” my side of life, as much as I can. I very sharp and very disturbing. I she says. “But I refused because am part of a team. Of course, the suppose it’s unavoidable with very I didn’t think the film treated the team members on the other side high frequencies. The explanation subject seriously. are friends, even if I do not recall they give me is simply that they are “Part of the reason for mis- having met them in this life; some working. There was a time when the representation of ITC in popular of their names I can’t remember. radios emitted practically no noise at media is that so-called EVP ex- There have to be others whom I all.” perimenters don’t have enough haven’t even met. My father, mother, It’s often said that motive and experience and critical judgement, brother, grandmother and uncles are intention are important in con- yet they post poor examples on all involved, too. ventional mediumship, and Anabela the internet followed by their own It’s such an important thing and I believes the same is true of ITC interpretations, which in the majority do it with great joy.”

How to get started by Anabela Cardoso

hoose a quiet corner of your home, where you are question; the recording apparatus should be kept running unlikely to be disturbed. Decide upon the most throughout the whole session. Form five or six questions at convenient time for you, preferably at the end of each session. Cthe day, around 8.00 or 9.00pm. Relax and be calm. Make a Perhaps you live in a noisy area, but that should not regular schedule for the contacts, ideally two or three times deter you from attempting the contact. Sometimes our a week. friends in the next world use traffic noise, or any other Keeping a log is very important. Write down everything occasional noise, to modulate their words. It seems that an that happens when you are experimenting – dogs barking, occasional sharp noise is also convenient for them – that car horns sounding, etc. That way, you will be aware of has been my experience. everyday sounds that could be misinterpreted. Rewind the recorded material when you have enough Produce some background noise, for example by time to listen to it in silence, very attentively, devoting a tuning in one or more radios (preferably short wave) to lot of concentration to the listening process. The first EVP the static noise between stations, commonly called “white replies to our questions, or comments, are usually short, noise”. That static noise should be neither too loud nor too faint and sometimes whispered. Above all, remember that quiet. It’s important that there will be no voices of radio our ears are not trained to listen, with great concentration emissions otherwise they would create great confusion for a long period of time, to recorded material which may when you are listening to the recorded material later on. contain some extra faint sounds or words. It seems that the However, you can also use any other source of noise, but process of communication between our dimension and the it should flow regularly and steadily. Even the buzz of not- next one is two-way; we need to learn and so do our friends too-intense traffic noise would do. on the other side. It’s a process of true partnership. Affinity Put a blank tape in the tape recorder – any tape recorder – or emotional empathy, as I prefer to call it – plays an will do – or turn on a digital recorder or computer. You can important role. use either a built-in or a detachable microphone. Start the Do not give up. Keep trying. Maybe one day, when recording; if you wish, send out a thought to somebody you least expect it, the voice of someone you love or have dear to your heart who is no longer with us, and put a known, or just a voice that should not be there, will answer question to communicators from the invisible dimension. your question. It will be the beginning of a wonderful Wait one to two minutes in silence and ask another journey. Page 16 Psychic News BACK TO SCOLE? The sittings of the Norfolk-based Scole Experimental Group took place over a five-year period. They came to an abrupt end when an entity apparently communicated that a portal to another dimension had inadvertently been opened, necessitating the immediate closure of the sittings. Over the years, investigators from the prestigious Society for Psychical Research (SPR) observed and tested many of the manifestations that occurred at Scole. Their findings were later published in the Society’s Proceedings, to some controversy. The Scole Report has now been republished as a paperback book. Former SPR council member Leslie Price, and council member Alan Murdie disagree about whether the report should have been reissued. To find out why, read on...

He highlights phenomena such where in a séance. as “the appearance of strange lights, At Scole, the researchers sat in the the movement and materialisation of dark. The mediums wore luminous objects, anomalous images appearing on wristbands, but these are not much of film and the transmission of messages a safeguard. Mentalists are known to claimed as emanating from deceased use them, and also laser pointers which individuals.” create small lights against a suitable Yet I must confess to misgivings. surface. Psychical research, not confined to the My point is not that such methods SPR, is a strenuous attempt to understand were used at Scole, but that there was no the phenomena. Before 1882, the adequate control of what was happening. scientist , for example, The results may be interesting to the used the ‘galvanometer’ to keep track of individual, but were surely below the physical medium in the evidential standards set by the SPR in séance room. , working former times. with Welsh medium in When one reads of a medium like Rudi 1939, made what the researcher Paul Schneider working with a researcher Miller called “the finest collection like Eugene Osty over dozens of sittings of infra-red photographs of physical to perfect a scientific record with the phenomena in existence”. best of 1930s technology, there is no Leslie Price At its best, psychical research uses comparison. available methods to record what is If psychical researchers need to The Society for Psychical Research happening. Ropes and hand-holding qualify their enthusiasm for Scole, (SPR), founded in 1882, has normally were formerly relied on to keep track of what about Spiritualists? At the time published its weightiest research the medium’s and sitters’ whereabouts. of Scole, the other focus of physical in its Proceedings. Although the By the 1990s that was no longer mediumship in the UK was the Noah’s individual papers therein are the necessary. Ark Society (NAS), of which Scole responsibility of their authors, the Some mediums had worked perfectly leader Robin Foy had been a pioneer. prestige of the Society naturally well with dim red lights. Others had The NAS was notably cool about the attaches to whatever passes its co-operated with infra-red photo- Scole case. Its editor George Cranley stringent refereeing process. graphy. Gordon Higginson, for ex- rated its survival evidence as limited. The Scole Report in the SPR’s ample, recalled in his autobiography: More seriously, George expressed Proceedings of 1999 caused more “In 1974 I held another séance in characteristically forthright style internal controversy than usual. Now at Stansted Hall, which was very his reservations about Robin as a the Society has funded a reprint in the successful. It had been arranged for a witness to physical mediumship. This form of a paperback book. Surely it is German film company and was one in disagreement between two of the leading a good thing that the leading research a series of four held over two days. We students of UK physical mediumship body should again make available in had some very good photos taken by is unfortunate. one volume the original reports by John Hughes and M. H. Tester, using Naturally, the study of the Scole researchers who sat in the circle at infra-red equipment.” case should continue. Tom Ruffles, for Scole, Norfolk, and the discussions, But SPR editor Tom Ruffles recently example, has recently thrown new light sometimes critical, that resulted from noted on his blog “the lack of rigorous on the Conan Doyle photo which was their experiences? As Alan Murdie controls at Scole, and the refusal to allow produced in the circle (see his blog at explains in his new introduction: infra-red viewing equipment inside the tomruffles.blogspot.com). But both the “The decision to re-publish the report séance room.” And if infra-red was felt SPR and the Spiritualist community is a response to the continuing interest to be dangerous, there were unobtrusive ought to aspire again to the evidential in the events described.” electronic means of recording who was standards of yesteryear. Psychic News Page 17 number of observers believed they had writers, artists, musicians, athletes, witnessed events which were genuinely craftsmen, healers, even lovers produce inexplicable and which must have been their best work.” paranormal in nature. Significantly, it appears the Scole Furthermore, for those seeking an phenomena did not prove to be merely explanation for these experiences, a one-off example for investigators opportunities exist to conduct further into séance manifestations; rather it research and gather further evidence in seems to have marked a revival in ways that are simply not available with physical phenomena which continues regard to classic accounts of mediumship to this day. Since The Scole Report was from the historic past. published, other experimental circles Neither at the time of the original have been established in Britain and investigation or since has fraud been abroad which claim to produce genuine established on the part of the participants paranormal phenomena, also ascribed in the Scole experiments. On the to the intervention of discarnate and question of controls, David Fontana spiritual agencies. wrote as follows: “There is no doubt that The Scole Report provides an Alan Murdie controls present the major headache for extensive account of how researchers those researching physical phenomena rose to that challenge in a particular Regarding the decision to reprint (a headache compounded by armchair case, as well as being a source of data The Scole Report, and the issues raised critics who believe they have dreamt up for comparison and analysis in respect by Leslie Price, I would like to make clever safeguards obtusely overlooked of any new observations and theories the following points. by experienced investigators). Even which may emerge. The SPR holds no corporate opin- limited acquaintance with research in Ultimately, The Scole Report details ions, and neither rejects nor endorses this difficult area demonstrates that, an attempt to examine scientifically the conclusions in the report. The however much they may wish to do phenomena that may be relevant to one conclusions were those of its three so, investigators cannot lay down all of the biggest questions of all – whether authors, Montague Keen, Arthur Ellison the laws. human consciousness survives after and David Fontana, who, with other “A similar inability to control all bodily death. Either we are merely researchers, actively investigated the the research variables is accepted as a mortal beings, or we are not. Whatever Scole group. Many present at the time matter of course in other areas of human the case, it is not the job of science to believed they had witnessed phenomena behaviour. No outsider can insist, for ignore the issue or to try and cover it for which they had no explanation. example, on the conditions under which up. Equally, there were those who expressed strong reservations, some represented in the report, about the AQUARIAN FOUNDATION OF SEATTLE paranormality of the phenomena reported. I admit to sharing those Rev. Jann Werner and friends in the spirit world doubts in respect of some of the more extend the happiest of holiday greetings to extraordinary incidents, as with claims of the materialisation of objects, such as Psychic News and it readers. a 1944 newspaper. Nonetheless, I believe We wish you success in all your endeavours for 2012! the report deserves to be republished. Firstly, it is one of the most detailed Sir Arthur Conan Doyle once said, studies of a sitters’ group for many years, “Spiritualism is the greatest revelation known to man” undertaken by scientifically qualified If you agree and would like to make new friends of like observers. Mediumship is a subject of study and interest on a number of levels. mind, we invite Spiritualist friends from all over the Many in psychical research had believed world to visit our many branches and study groups. that physical mediumship – if it existed at all – had largely disappeared after Before your next holiday, you can write to the Board World War II, with the advent of infra-red of Directors of the Mother Church to check if we have photography. The Scole sittings showed a branch or study group where you plan to visit. that this was not the case. Whether one Aquarian Foundation considers the phenomena to be genuine 315 15th Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98112 USA or not, this is of interest to researchers from a range of scientific disciplines, or you can phone us at 1-206-324-6046 not only psychical research. We also have a study group of Secondly, the events that took place at Scole are well within living Aquarian Foundation Teachings in the UK in Reading memory. What was significant about Acknowledging our Spiritual Founder in spirit the Scole phenomena is that, unlike on many occasions in the past, a Rev. Keith Milton Rhinehart Page 18 Psychic News Will we take up the challenge? by David Hopkins

At the time of writing, we are in turmoil unlikely to be Who controls whether governments stay or fall? resolved before publication of this article. Several years of Seemingly the money markets – not you and me, the hard times have been experienced and more will follow. voters. Abraham Lincoln’s famous phrase ”Government of The seemingly endless stories of corruption and greed, the people, by the people, for the people” sounds so hollow lack of compassion and care, fill our eyes and ears, with when we look at the candidates preparing for presidential court hearings and investigations seeking to uncover at elections in the self-styled superpower across the Atlantic. least some of the truth. Do they represent the best in policy and personality that a The ordinary person in the street seeks to truly nation of such potential can produce? comprehend the jargon and the intrigue, and understand At present there are groups protesting in towns and why a small number see themselves as being entitled to cities against this unacceptable face of capitalism. Tents many thousands, even millions, of pounds in salaries and are pitched in streets and squares as these (dare I say) bonuses whilst so many are in fuel poverty, struggle to pay rainbow warriors” try to wake the slumbering giant of their bills, lose jobs, see payments to the less fortunate people-power. ”Yes, sir, no sir, three bags full, sir” has disproportionately slashed, services decimated, and much been accepted for too long. more. It seems that the rich get richer and the poor get…. Do I seem political in what is a spiritual context? If my little or nothing. Spiritualism does not influence my politics, my views on The Arab Spring of discontent has seen major changes justice and morality, my attitude towards personal, state but in some states the struggle for basic rights is certainly and corporate ethics, my vision of what the future needs far from over. Governments of so-called developed states to become, then of what use is Spiritualism to me? I are often seen to concern themselves with supporting cannot separate my ‘religion’ from my everyday life, the causes where there is, or may be, something in it for them, decisions I take and views I hold in that life. Spiritualism in political, trade or financial considerations. is not going to church once a week, sitting in a circle to Millions struggle to get enough food and water and develop as a medium, saying prayers or singing hymns, decent sanitation just to stay alive, let alone have a life. getting a message from the Great Beyond! Women across the globe fight for the right to be accepted Acceptance of the philosophy of Spiritualism means as equal, to be treated with fundamental human dignity acceptance of the challenges of modern living, personal and not be treated as second (at best)-class citizens development as a complete human being, an integration rather than chattels and appendages towards whom any of body, mind and spirit to aspire to become true sons treatment is allowable and justifiable. and daughters of The Great Spirit. We have been given The world seems to be controlled by cartels and the tools, the opportunity, the ability and the potential to those with vested interests in fuel, chemicals, financial make this planet a heaven on earth, a paradise, a land fit institutions and armaments, the perceived growth areas for heroes, where everyone has the right to live in freedom in modern society. Politicians seem sidelined, with crucial with enough material wealth to be comfortable and happy, decisions made behind closed doors, away from scrutiny and the opportunity to grow in spiritual stature. and certainly far removed from any sort of morality. Until that state is achieved, the struggle must go on. It Years ago we sang that the times, they are a-changing must go on whenever and wherever we have the opportunity and believed those words that we shared with such hope to speak out and act against injustice, intolerance and the and enthusiasm. It seems, however, that the more things degradation of any of God’s creatures. If we see these change, the more they stay the same! A small elite holds things in organisations, in governments, in businesses, sway, as has been the case for hundreds of years. Privilege, in politics, in education or in religion we have not just a power and money seem to speak far louder than any voice responsibility but a duty to challenge them. Equality of of reason. Do we have democracy in anything other than opportunity is more than a pipe-dream; it is fundamental name? to our philosophy. Psychic News Page 19

Perhaps the time has come when we spend less time in Spiritualism concerning ourselves with what comes after this life and more making this life a better one for all those who cry out for justice and respect. Should our churches, our centres, our colleges be preparing us to give messages or to find the true message of Spiritualism and spread that across the globe? Let’s stop tinkering with the minutiae of organisation and get down to the nitty-gritty of understanding and responding to our Spiritualist philosophy. How often do you hear or read of Spiritualist leaders speaking out on globalisation, environmental pollution, global warming, capitalist greed, world poverty and other important issues of today? What were the topics of the last half-dozen addresses you heard in your church? Can you even remember, such may have been its lack of impact or relevance? Our churches too often seek to bring comfort, see healing as being the relief of physical and emotional pain, and present a message bought for a few pounds or a few pennies rather than realising that Spiritualism shows the power and potential we each have to become closer to our true natures as co- workers with the Divine Energy. The world is the place for your Spiritualism, with the church, the circle, the organisation being where you return from time to time to be re-energised before you again take up the challenge. You may have heard Gordon Higginson and others quote the expression that the great work has begun. Dare I suggest that the really great work has yet to begin – and will not until every one of us causes it to begin? David Hopkins is a SNU minister, author and broadcaster. © David Hopkins

Welcome back Psychic News and Season’s Greetings to all for a CRUELTY FREE CHRISTMAS from Animal Rights in Spiritualism and British Anti-vivisection Association A.R.I.S. 1, Quarry Bank Rd., Chesterfield, S41 0HH Tel: 01246 230474 email: [email protected] www.aris.veggroup.org www.pnfh.org

Robin Winbow wishes Psychic News a very happy and wonderful Christmas and an even more successful New Year Page 20 Psychic News

Fantastic News. Eagerly getting Psychic News back up awaited! as a major success story. Welcome back Michael Courtney-Hunt Jim Warwood Congratulations! It’s Truly – this has to be a The best news I’ve heard for Well done and con- wonderful news. I can’t wait victory for common sense. We ages. Congratulations to you gratulations to all concerned! to see the first issue. Thanks congratulate all those involved all for your dedication. It will be wonderful to be for everything and good luck who laboured long and hard Barbara Miller able to read an independent for you and the new PN! to return Psychic News to its Psychic News again. Loes Modderman rightful place as the mouth- Good to see you’re back. Robert and Linda Pallett piece of Spiritualism. Well Just goes to prove that rebirth Having such a long done. is a fact! Congratulations to association with Psychic Stewart & Sue Alexander Craig Hamilton-Parker everyone and well done for News, I am delighted to hear your tenacity. Now you can be of its relaunch, and that it This is fantastic news – a Congratulations Eric truly seen to be independent will be truly independent at paper much missed. Hatton, Margaret and Hugh – a voice for all. last. I am sure that Maurice Congratulations to all Davis for all the excellent Ann Harrison Barbanell in the spirit world of you and long may you work you have done to bring is absolutely delighted with continue with love and support back the Psychic News. Many thanks to Sue, Paul the latest developments. from all of us. Kath Bailey and the team for rescuing Colin Fry Val Hood this wonderful historical Well done Sue and all newspaper that was, and will those who never gave up over be again, the standard-bearer here and over there! Good for the spiritual movement. health to all, and may this new Now that it is free from the creation forever continue. shackles of the past I have Helen Gandoff no doubt it will go forward. Being independent it will once GREAT! Long may it con- again become the newspaper tinue. Looking forward to that Maurice Barbanell and reading the new issues. Arthur Findlay envisaged Declan Flynn when they first started this great publication. C ongratu l ations Billy Cook CSNU especially to Sue and to Eric Hatton for keeping on. Now Just brilliant news. let us get right behind Sue in Anyone suddenly believe in ? Geoff Griffiths Malcolm Smithers Greeting Seasons Hosting Medium Psychic News Page 21 Welcome back PN from ‘Two Worlds’ The editor and staff at “Two Worlds” would like to send their very best wishes to all at PN. We’ve always co-operated in the past and look forward to doing so in the future Founded in 1887 by famous Victorian medium , “Two Worlds” is Spiritualism’s 76-page independent monthly magazine Now you can read it online for just £18.00 a year! To take out a digital or postal subscription, please visit our new website at www.twoworldsmag.co.uk/ Pop in your name, address and card details on our secure site and leave the rest to us. To view two FREE copies, please visit the subscribe section If you don’t have a computer and would like a FREE copy sent to you by post, please write to ‘Two Worlds,’ PO Box 55307, London SE16 6WW Alternatively you can phone, fax or e-mail your name and address Tel: 020-7064 8000 Fax: 020-7231 1751 e-mail: [email protected] “Hafan Y Coed” (Haven of Trees) Spiritual and Psychic Development Centre/Retreat

Situated in the picturesque Brecon Beacons National Park, where all the natural energies provide a perfect place for spiritual growth, relaxation, revitalisation & contemplation • Psychic & Spiritual Courses and • Rainbow Spiritual Sanctuary One Day Workshops all year round Thursdays at 19:30 • Mediumistic Development • Healing, Reiki and Tai Chi (all levels) • Gift & Book Shop • Private Readings/Open • Hire for Fetes or Functions & Physical Circles and Courses • Healing, Aromatherapy, Clinical • Bed & Breakfast or Full Board Hypnosis, Indian Head Massage available Please contact us, or see our website for 2011/12 courses www.hafanycoed.com Tel: 01639 730 985 Email: [email protected] Heol Tawe, Abercrave, Swansea SA9 1TJ Page 22 Psychic News Physical mediumship, evidence and green wine! by Lew Sutton Much has been said in recent years about the lack of survival evidence in evening began with all the amazing physical séance rooms. Lew Sutton has just attended Stewart Alexander’s annual phenomena that have come to be seminar at Cober Hill in Yorkshire, where one sitter’s message set him thinking... associated with Stewart’s séances and have been described many times before The message “There is no death” Apparent triviality in the psychic press and in the Society for forms the central core of Spiritualism. Psychical Research’s Paranormal Review Without convincing evidence to back There is the additional problem that [Sutton 2009]. There is always verbal up that claim, Spiritualism loses its messages may appear trivial or superficial evidence from loved ones as well as the uniqueness amongst mainstream religions. to the uninvolved observer. I have been paranormal manipulation of matter. Voices Spiritualistic philosophy has been built amazed at how often I have discovered are via direct voice (sometimes using on the foundation of survival evidence. from the recipient of a message just how the trumpet), or through trance using the The fact that it really does matter how we relevant, meaningful and unique to them medium’s vocal cords. live this life loses its impact without the the evidence was. To me, the message may At this séance, sitter Freddie Giddings knowledge that this physical life is just have appeared quite banal. When you find and his sister received perhaps the most one part of our soul’s progress. But the full yourself wondering if a message was really notable survival evidence. Freddie said significance of survival evidence can be evidential, why not go and ask (tactfully!) afterwards: “I had some astounding seriously underestimated or misinterpreted about its significance, before going away evidence. My grandmother came through by the onlooker, be it in the séance room grumbling about the mediumship. and I asked if she had some memory she or at public demonstrations of mental I’m not of course talking about could share. She asked if I remembered mediumship. vague, generalised messages that could ‘the green wine’. When I was a small At physical séances it may often seem apply to most of the people in the room boy I used to visit her and she always that little survival evidence is presented and make one think twice about seeing gave me a small glass of Crabbies green to confirm that the manipulation of energy that “medium” again. As for chairing ginger wine – not just occasionally, but and physical form is under the control of such demonstrations, it can be quite every time I went to see her. To me this intelligence from beyond the grave rather embarrassing when you know that an was mind-blowing evidence of survival, than, say, by human mind-controlled entertainer using cold-reading techniques as although I had not thought about it for , or some other paranormal could do far better. many years, it was clearly etched in my mechanism. One major problem seems With mental mediumship, it’s not only mind. My sister who was with me [at the anecdotally to be that when our loved the casual observer who fails to appreciate séance] also remembers it very clearly.” ones communicate with us they are so the true significance of messages. overcome with emotion that providing Sometimes the medium also is totally Assessing evidence positive proof of identity may be the last unaware of the full meaning or implication thing on their minds. of the message he or she is giving and The significance of green wine was Likewise, recipients in the séance can be amazed at its significance to the probably lost on everyone else present, room can be so overwhelmed or taken recipient. including myself. Likewise, ardent by surprise that they, too, fail to ask sceptics dismiss evidence as superficial for positive confirmation of who is Stewart’s seminar without having any idea just how relevant communicating. We cannot dictate which the message is to the person receiving spirit individuals will manifest in the Reporting on Stewart Alexander’s latest it. Even a father sobbing and profusely séance room. It could be someone entirely seminar has given me the opportunity apologising while communicating can unexpected, as was the case when a to look at survival evidence in general constitute outstanding survival evidence. gentleman who spoke to me very formally by using evidence at his recent séance This happened at the 2006 Cober Hill and with great authority announced that as a starting point. Friday evening, 28th seminar, when a sitter named Maureen he was Sir William Crookes. October, saw the start of the Stewart Abrol attended a séance the day after her There were so many questions I could Alexander and Friends seminar at the father’s funeral (Halliwell 2011). At the have asked that great Victorian scientist but Cober Hill Conference Centre. These time, none of us had any inkling of just I was completely taken off-guard and could joyous events are held in a lovely venue how significant this poignant incident not ask one serious question in the short set in the North Yorkshire countryside, was to her. time he was speaking to me! Mind you, I overlooking the North Sea. About 90 It is not until evidence is analytically was in a bit of a state of shock as he struck delegates attended and newcomers were examined that messages can be properly the wall behind me with such a bang that quickly made to feel at home in the assessed. But even then, many pieces of I nearly fell off the chair! Perhaps some congenial ambience that is the hallmark evidence must be examined to satisfy the reader could tell me if he was renowned of these well established events. demands of the laws of probability in order for his sense of humour? The physical séance on Saturday to give statistically meaningful results. Psychic News Page 23 The Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre The SNU Trust’s new multi-purpose property in Edinburgh

arlier this year the SNU Trust purchased an impressive build- ing in Edinburgh. Now known Eas the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre, it’s headed up by John Blackwood, chairman of the SNU Trust. It was John, himself an Edinburgh resident, who first suggested that the trust should purchase the building. I asked what had inspired him to propose the idea. “Given the difficulties experienced in the current financial markets, the SNU Trust has been keen to expand its property portfolio in order to give investors a better rate of return on their investments and help support some of the Union’s most needy churches,” he explained. “For some time the trust for all and presents a much better image host to many concerts and we hope to has been keen to develop a Spiritualist of Spiritualism in Scotland’s capital city. reintroduce music into the building in centre that would provide a home to a I’m enthused to report that members and 2012. Promoting the creative arts is an Spiritualist church and be a place of friends of the church are delighted with important part of the centre’s work and learning for all Spiritualists to enjoy. their new home and already the move has already attracted interest from the “I very much believe that as has brought about renewed interest from local community. Spiritualists we need to be working the neighbouring community in what “It is important that our centre is very together in supporting each other, and Spiritualism is all about and what the much part of the local community. We any investment in property should be to church has to offer.” already have a number of community the ultimate benefit of our movement. The centre already offers a range of groups using the building and we I’m proud to say that the Sir Arthur educational courses, and we asked John encourage them to understand more Conan Doyle Centre does all of this and how the course topics were decided and about the religion of Spiritualism. more. It is operated by The Palmerston the teachers selected. People are very interested in Spiritualism Trust, an independent Spiritualist “It was very important to The and we often see newcomers to our charity. Palmerston Trust to set the very highest services wanting to enquire further. The “As well as becoming a new centre of of standards by inviting some of the best Sanctuary is open Monday - Friday, 12 learning for the Spiritualist community, tutors and mediums to run courses which noon - 2pm for reflection and prayer. the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Centre are of interest to the greatest number We also have a tea room open to the also provided the opportunity for a of students. We have been delighted public, welcoming everyone into the nearby Spiritualist church to move with the numbers of students booking centre to find out more about who we from unsuitable premises situated up on courses, some of which are already are and what we do.” two flights of stairs to much better almost full. The centre has attracted a Of his vision for the centre’s future, accommodation that is easily accessible lot of interest from students living in John explains: the north of the UK, who found the “Our long-term aim for this investment cost of travelling to the Arthur Findlay property of the SNU Trust is to provide College prohibitive.” a revenue income to the trust to help us Aside from its Spiritualist purposes, continue to support SNU churches and the centre has a historical connection centres. We want to provide a community with the great violinist, Yehudi Menuhin, resource as well as a centre of excellence and John hopes to revitalise the in the north of the UK for people to study building’s musical links. the religion, science and philosophy of “This grand six-storey Victorian Spiritualism. The SNU Trust very much building was previously the home of St believes that the future of our movement Mary’s Cathedral Music School and was lies in building community churches that sponsored by Yehudi Menuhin. The first- we can be proud of, promoting the very floor rooms, now known as the Helen best of what modern Spiritualism has to Duncan and Mary Duffy Rooms, played offer in the 21st century.” Page 24 Psychic News

A GOOD READ with GRAHAM JENNINGS Of Love Between Two Worlds by Georgina & Robert Brake ~ Paperback ~190 pages Saturday Night Press Publications ~ £7.99

his is a love story of two couples, you are going to have a terrible tragedy Georgina and Ronald, Robert and in your life, a heavy cross which is going Sister Hope, soul mates whom to take all your strength to carry, but it’s Tdestiny placed on different sides of life. your karma my child, and there is nothing Those in the spirit world had to choose we can do to prevent it. a partner for the soul mates on Earth until “We will be with you, loving, guiding both couples could be reunited. and helping you while you are passing Georgina Gladys Bügg (Ena), the through this darkness.” By this she central figure in our story, was born in understood she was going to lose 1916 in Gosport, Hampshire. Ronald. In spiritual matters, life-changing A few weeks later another guide, events can seem trivial until their full Sister Hope, came to her. “We know you impact is felt. Ena’s life changer came realise what Chiefy was talking about. when she was about twelve years old. but you will not be left to walk through Grandpa suddenly asked her father: life alone.” “George, what do you think about this Sister Hope explained that she and Spiritualism lark? Our Ivy [Ena’s aunt] is Robert were soul mates, but in two pre- dabbling in it and I’m afraid for her.” vious lives, despite their mutual love, had Father, an orthodox Christian, didn’t decided to become a monk and a nun. like the sound of it. “This time Robert has returned alone, “Well George, I’m nearly seventy-two to learn how to live in the world, but he and must be nearing the end of this life, and will become a monk again unless you stop will soon know The Great Secret. When I One evening, as they sat in circle, him. Will you make him your life partner die will you go to one of those churches, Presina, through an entranced Mrs and help him to learn to live in the world? called Spiritualist, and if it’s at all possible, MacHattie, “came and put my hand into Please do this for me. It will give you a I will come back to you.” Ronald’s, saying: ‘I join two soul mates reason for living.” A fortnight later he passed after a together in pure spiritual love.’ And from War came, Ronald returned and cerebral haemorrhage. At the local that time, shyly at first, there grew between married Ena, but after only one blissfully Spiritualist church, the medium gave both us a beautiful love. happy month he passed through enemy his name and nickname and a message: “I found in Ronald all the attributes I action. Some while later, with more “It’s true George, it’s true. I still live.” had been looking for: gentleness, purity of encouragement from Sister Hope, Ena The family began their spiritual quest thought, and a depth of love that I never contemplated marriage to Bob, but wanted together and Ena joined the church’s thought I would find in another human Ron’s approval first. Lyceum. As a dental nurse in her late teens, being.” He materialised at a she met and became friends with Robert They became engaged, but in January séance and stepped out of the cabinet. Brake, a young dental technician. 1938 Ronald had to sail for China and “Hello, darling,” he said, coming towards Meanwhile, Ronald Hill, a young would be away for two years. them. “I’ve come to give you my blessing. supply assistant in the Royal Navy, started That summer Robert joined the RAF I want you to know that your happiness coming to their church in Gosport. He was as a wireless operator. They corresponded is my happiness always. Take care of her, invited to join a circle with Ena where the and during his leave he stayed with Ena Bob, until she can join me . . .” medium was a Mrs MacHattie. and her parents. They shared a love of The story of Ena’s and Bob’s life Among the circle’s regular spirit guides music and spiritual interests and she called together, their very different personalities, were Chiefy, a North American Indian, him “brother”. their children and their lifelong service and Presina, a Hungarian gypsy. One Sunday Robert, a Roman Catholic to Spiritualism, told in their own words, is Ronald and Ena, both keen Spiritualists, convert, accompanied her to his first the substance of this heart-warming book. were attracted to each other. “My eyes Spiritualist service. He was impressed, Even after their passing in old age, their were beginning to open,” she writes, “and and as he was stationed at Stanmore began spiritual work continued. They returned I had a great thirst for knowledge. Ron attending London Spiritualist churches. through Stewart Alexander’s physical had such a great understanding and he Meanwhile, in the circle, Chiefy had circle, and spoke directly to friends in became my teacher.” a solemn message for Ena. “Very soon May 2011. Psychic News Page 25 International Starting young Spiritualist Federation in Wales 32nd Congress The Ray of Light Spiritual says, “because I knew that th th Centre in Cardigan, these people came with so 30 July - 4 August 2012 West Wales, has hosted much love. They wanted to (5 nights) or 4 Day Congress week an innovative workshop reassure me that they could designed especially for still communicate and I was Eastbourne Centre, Grand Parade, children up to the age of able to pass on messages from Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 4DN 14. beyond the grave to many who Please Note Congress signing in time The event was the brain- were grieving.” 9.30 am Monday 30th July 2012 child of Ray of Light’s sec- Jan believes that modern retary Mary Curtis, and marked media regularly expose the fulfilment of her long- children to scary images and held dream to provide support much misinformation about and education for children psychic and mediumistic with psychic ability. ability. The workshop was run by “We wanted to teach them two experienced mediums and the correct way to use their teachers. gifts,” she says. “There is a real need to A source at Ray of Light Join in with Spiritualists from around the educate children who are told Psychic News that the world at Eastbourne, July - August 2012 worried that friends will children had thoroughly en- make fun of them if they say joyed the workshop and were For a period of caring, sharing, they can see and hear people particularly happy to have spiritual growth and understanding that others cannot,” Jan, one the opportunity to share their Day visitors and non-members of the teachers, told Psychic ideas and experiences with are welcome to attend News. like-minded young people. Come as strangers, leave as friends Jan, who has been a working All were keen to take part medium for over 20 years, in another workshop, and Training Programme includes: realised as a child that she organisers are already making Each morning: 7.30 to 8.00 Tia Chi, Meditation could talk to spirit people. “I plans for another event on 13th and 8.45 to 9.15 Healing was never frightened,” she April 2012. Groups: Trance, Mental Mediumship - various For further information, phone 01239 842024 or email: levels, Shamanic Drumming, [email protected] Trance Healing and Psychic Art Proposed Guest Tutors: Al Batten (Canada) Karen Willis, Holistic Jackie Wright and Darren Brittian (UK) Healers Association Booking Forms and Prices are available on the Correspondence Crystal Healing and Horse & ISF Website: www.theisf.com Small Animal Healing Courses Yours Fraternally quarterly magazine and ISF Bookings: Each Course £160 52 Fieldfare Way, Backup, Lancs OL13 9PP Tel: 01355 276410 Tel: 0044 (0) 7554 668737 e-mail: [email protected] A receipt and reminder of your next payment and due date will be www.scot-spirit-colI.co.uk sent upon receipt of your initial payment and booking form Payments: Electronic Transfer Alan Power - HEALER & If paying by electronic transfer please enclose a Bob Williams - MEDIUM copy of payment with your form. To arrange a visit please write to: GB19 MIDL 40050791126938 BIC MIDL GB21141M Flat 3, 25 Slatey Road, Cheques Please make payable to ‘ISF’ Birkenhead, Merseyside CH43 4UE Credit Cards Tel: 0151 651 0725 Please telephone PLEASE NOTE Bill Parkins ISF Treasurer There is no charge for the help that we give Tel: 0044 (0) 77786 21257 Page 26 Psychic News SPIRITUALIST CHURCHES AND CENTRES

THE LONDON SPIRITUAL MISSION CAMBRIDGE DORSET LONDON Spiritualist Church, CAMBRIDGE BOURNEMOUTH ACTON 13 Pembridge Place W2 SPIRITUALIST CHURCH SPIRITUALIST SPIRITUAL CENTRE Tel: 020 7229 2024 Myers Hall, SNU CHURCH Woodhurst Road, Acton W3 6SL Sunday 18th December 11.00am 662 Newmarket Road, 16 Bath Road, Enquiries: 020 8896 0184 Carol Service with Cambridge CB5 8RS Bournemouth BH1 2PE First Sunday of the month PETER GEEKIE Enquiries: 07980 580121 Tel: 01202 551751 Service 6.30pm 6.30pm Carol Service with Sunday Service 6.30pm www.bsnuc.co.uk Tuesday 7.30pm £3 Open Circle PETER GEEKIE Followed by Healing Sunday 18th December Services Wednesday 7.30pm Wednesday 21st December 7.30pm Monday 7.30pm Awareness Circle 10.45am ANDREW MANSHIP Thursday 7.30pm Healing Hour of Clairvoyance with Wednesday Healing 2pm - 9pm 6.30pm Carol Service with SARA LESLIE Last Thursday of the month ANDREW MANSHIP A TEMPLE OF Wednesday 4th January 7.30pm 7.30pm Evening of Clairvoyance with SUSAN MOTSON THE TRINITY LODGE Hour of Clairvoyance with Saturday Workshops as arranged Monday 19th December 7.30pm FOR SPIRITUAL LOU MARKS Tuesday 24th January at 7.30pm LAWRENCE COHEN HEALING Spiritual Healing: An Evening with Wednesday 21st December 7.30pm NATIONAL CHRISTIAN Monday 11.00am - 1.00pm, Seekers’ Group SPIRITUALIST CHURCH 2.00pm - 3.00pm & 5.15pm - 7.30pm £15 - Book in advance Thursday 22nd December 3.00pm 95 Green Lanes, Thursday 5.00pm - 7.30pm AL AND GEOFF POTTS Palmers Green, All Welcome Wednesday 4th January 7.30pm London N13 4TD INDUCTION LOOP provided CHESHIRE Seekers’ Group (Corner of Melbourne Avenue/ for the benefit of hearing aid users Thursday 5th January 3.00pm Green Lanes) STOCKPORT CHRISTIAN ROY AND BARBARA BREEZE Buses 29, 121, 329, 232 pass door NORTH LONDON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Spiritual Healing: SNU Affiliated - Founded in 1938 SPIRITUALIST CHURCH 46 Old Road, Stockport SK4 1TD Monday 2.00pm - 4.00pm President:- Mr Michael Bull CSNU 425 Hornsey Road N19 4DX President: Mr A PARKER Tuesday 2.00pm - 4.00pm Sunday Services: 11am Address only (Buses 91 & 210 to Hanley Rd) Tel: 0161 427 6279 Wednesday 10.30am - 12.30pm 6.30pm Address & Clairvoyance Tel: 020 7272 0438 www.stockportchristian Thursday 7.00pm - 8.00pm Spiritual Healing: Services: spiritualistchurch.com Church closed from 24th December Monday 1.00pm - 4.30pm 1st Sunday of Month 11.00am Sunday 3.00pm Divine Service 2011 until 2nd January 2012 Study Group Wednesday 7.30pm Monday 7.00pm Healing Wednesday (Members only) Saturday 7.30pm Tuesday 7.30pm Clairvoyance Healing: Wednesday 7.30pm Music & KENT DAVID NASON Tuesday 6.00pm - 8.00pm Meditation CENTRE FOR Friday 6.00pm - 8.00pm Friday 11am - 3pm Private Readings WEST WICKHAM SPIRITUALISM Saturday 11am - 3pm Private Readings SPIRITUALIST CHURCH AND HEALING WALTHAMSTOW Saturday 7.00pm Clairvoyance & Surrey Road, West Wickham, Venner Road Community Centre, N.S. CHURCH Open Circle Kent BR4 0JU 1 Venner Road, Sydenham SE26 Vestry Road E17 9NH Mediums’ Secretary: 020 8655 3109 Enquiries: 020 8857 8328 Tel: 020 8503 6942 Enquiries: 020 8778 9422 Website: Visit our website: Sunday 18th December 6.30pm www.davidnason.org.uk www.vestryrdspiritualist CUMBRIA Carol Service with Karen Wood’s Healing every week from 7.30pm church.org SOLWAY CHRISTIAN Development Class Admission £4 DECEMBER SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Sunday 8th January 6.30pm Wednesday 11th January 8.00pm Thursday 15th 7.30pm St Michael’s Resource Centre, JOAN DEMPSEY DAVID NASON Awareness Circle Station Road, Workington, Tuesday Classes at 8.00pm: Wednesday 18th January 8.00pm Sunday 18th 6.30pm Service with Cumbria 2nd Tuesday Open Platform PAULINE WOODHATCH TERRY & PAULINE THIRKS Tel: 01228 547599 3rd Tuesday Development Class with Wednesday 25th January 8.00pm Monday 19th 7pm - 9pm Healing Sunday Services 6.30pm - 9.00pm Karen Wood DAVID HARRIS Wednesday 21st 7.30pm Service with Healing after Service 4th Tuesday Discussion Group See our website for other events VAL BICKERSTAFF Friday 23rd 11am - 2pm OPEN DAY FULHAM Drop in and say hello - free soup NS CHURCH All welcome Classified advertising Kelvedon Road SW6 Private advertisers: (near Parsons Green Und. Stn) Enquiries: 020 7736 7248 MIDDLESEX 60p per word inc VAT Sunday 6.30pm Service Website address counts as four words Thursday 7.30pm Demonstration KENTON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Telephone numbers count as one word LITTLE ILFORD AND HEALING CENTRE If you would like a thin black line around SPIRITUALIST CHURCH 35 Churchill Avenue, Third Avenue, Manor Park, Kenton, Nr. Harrow, your advert, please add 25% to your total London E12 6DS Middlesex HA3 0AX Tel:- 01277 356787 Enquiries: 020 8621 3103 Churches and Centres: Sunday 6.30pm Service Sunday 6.30pm Service 40p per word (exc. VAT) Wednesday 7.30pm Service Wednesday 7.30pm - 9pm Healing Healing after Services Thursday 7.45pm Service Psychic News Page 27 MIDDLESEX CLASSIFIEDS WIMBLEDON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH THE SANCTUARY OF Accepting the leadership of Jesus Christ ABSENT HEALING FOR THE SILVER CROSS 136 Hartfield Road, London SW19 3TJ The Friends Meeting House, PEOPLE AND ANIMALS President: Rev Ray Robinson York Road, (opp. Sainsburys) NO FEES Enquiries: 020 8542 2394 Uxbridge, Middlesex Telephone Tony on: Founder: FRANK MECHELE 020 7476 3766 www.wimbledonspiritualistchurch.co.uk th Medium’s Secretary: E-mail: Sunday 18 December 11.00am JACKIE ROBINSON LINDA CHANT [email protected] Sunday 15th January 11.00am RICHARD NEVILLE Telephone: 0779 2900 194 Tuesday 17th January 7.30pm ASHLEY MILLS SUNDAY DIVINE SERVICE th AT 6.30pm VANESSA Wednesday 18 January 7.30pm KAREN PYLE PSYCHIC TAROT £10 for 20 min Our Wednesdays are changing for SUSSEX Telephone Reading 2012. We will have clairvoyance, TEL: 020 8292 0144 philosophy, question and answer EASTBOURNE TEL: 0793 138 8537 CHRISTIAN sessions, and some FREE readings. SPIRITUALIST CHURCH 1A Cavendish Avenue The Official A very Happy and Healthy Tel: 01323 761653 New Year to you all Services: Website: Church founder, Sunday 3.00pm Richard Arthur Bush from President Ray Robinson Wednesday 3.00pm www.leslieflint.com Healing: Learn all about this Monday 2.00pm Friday 2.00pm remarkable medium Listen to 100s of Spirit ELTHAM Communications SPIRITUALIST CHURCH SCOTL AND 64 Well Hall Road,

ABERDEEN Robin Winbow London SE9 6SH SPIRITUALIST CENTRE Spiritual and Trance President: 020 8854 7800 Stephen House, 71 Dee Street, Aberdeen Medium www.elthamspiritualistchurch.org.uk Telephone:- 01224 574 916 www.robinwinbow th www.deestreet.com Sunday 18 December at 6.30pm Sunday Services 11.15am & 6.15pm athome.co.uk Tuesday Awareness Classes Christmas Carol Service Thursday Church Circles 7.30pm Church closed until Sunday 8th January POSTAL TAROT Saturday & Monday: Evenings of at 6.30pm Service with MAUREEN RIDGEWELL Mediumship as advertised Mrs S. Jones th Healing: 103 Watling Street, Monday 9 January 8.00pm Meditation Sunday 7.45pm Grendon, Atherstone, Tuesday 10th Healing 12noon - 2.00pm & 7.30pm Tues 10-11am ~ Appointments only Warks. CV9 2PH th Wednesday 2-3pm & 6.30-7.30pm Three Questions Wednesday 11 2.30pm JACKY COURTNEY th Private Sittings Available £25.00 Thursday 12 8.00pm Closed Circle

WALES Paul Fitzjohn White Eagle, THE HAFAN Y COED Tarot • Palmist SPIRITUAL Silver Birch SPIRITUAL TRUTH CENTRE / RETREAT • Runes Reader • and other Spirit Guides FOUNDATION Tel: 01639 730985 Unlock the secrets Discussion group meets in www.hafanycoed.com of your future HELPS See our main advert on page 21 London and Manchester Spiritualists in need, 0191 456 6849 Details on or with unexpected www.sirius101.org Mob: 0794 300 8172 expenditure, U. S. A. or please phone John by financial grants FIRST Future Friends on 01253 626268 SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Last year we made 3777 42nd Street, and loving partners Magazine est. 1984 Your Spiritual Journey grants totalling £15,000 San Diego, CA 92105 UK or Overseas • Ages 18 to 100 The eighth production in the series from Pastor: Rev Doris Horvath www.spiritsinc.co.uk No membership fees Apply with spiritual Info:- (001) 619 284 4646 is from Ray Brown entitled Person to Person (PN), background and reasons www.1st-spiritualistchurch.org Life After Death: Your Spiritual Journey PO box 40, Minehead TA24 5YS Sunday 10.00am Healing Service Clearly explained in this double DVD, trance for request to: or Tel: 01643 709509 guide ‘Paul’ goes on to divulge our progression Grants Secretary, STF, Sunday 11.00am Worship Service through each level in the spirit world to reach Plus full itinerary including lectures, WEBSITES the ultimate, final journey back to the Godhead, c/o Box No 010, classes, workshops, meditations and the Universal Source and Power of All Life Psychic Press Ltd, a lyceum www.spiritwriting.co.uk With other mediums in the collection, you can See website for details order on-line at Suite 6, Thremhall Park, www.spiritsinc.co.uk Start Hill, Bishop’s Stortford, www.aris.veggroup.org or alternatively send for a free brochure to: To advertise ring Michael Courtney-Hunt, Hertfordshire CM22 7WE 79 Oxney Road, 01279 874337 www.ronaldhearn.cm Peterborough, PE1 5NB (Google STF)