Back row
Rev. David Bate - Rev. Doreen Mara-Bate - Rev. Joan Faulkner -
Rev. Brad Watson - Rev. Bonnie Schneider - Andrew Schneider
Front row
Rev. Connie Bloomfield - Dr. John Bright - Rev. LaRue Hayes
The following Press Release was published in the
Vernon local newspaper on November 14/10
NATIONAL ORGANIZATION ORDAINS LOCAL RESIDENTS
The Canadian International Metaphysical Ministry and the Centre for Awakening Spiritual Growth will be holding an ordination service at the Schubert Centre Sunday November 14 for two area members. For Bonnie Schneider of Armstrong and Brad Watson of Vernon this is a culmination of years of commitment and study.
In addition to duties as speakers and counsellors, ordination prepares them to meet an increasing demand for nondenominational weddings, christenings and funerals. “The Metaphysical Ministry celebrates universal truths that are the basis of all spirituality. The metaphysical path offers an understanding of the meaning and purpose of events in our lives. It serves the needs of people who have a holistic approach to life,” said Schneider.
Nondenominational marriage ceremonies are a celebration of love and commitment that individuals from various belief backgrounds can share. Everyone understands celebrating and cherishing the love in their lives regardless of religious belief. Jennifer Faulkner who is planning her own wedding commented, “This approach allows a ceremony to be tailored to individuals and families, reflecting their values and freedom of choice." Likewise nondenominational end of life memorials put the emphasis on celebrating and remembering the unique essence of an individual and their contribution to life without the overlay of a traditional religious doctrine that may not have been relevant to them or to those attending.
A student of metaphysics for 17 years, Brad Watson said, “Studies with the International Metaphysical Ministry brought it all together for me. This practical metaphysical teaching delivers a deeper understanding of who we are beyond our five physical senses and provides a road map for spiritual growth which is a vital part of my personal journey and purpose. Ordination in the Metaphysical Ministry is of huge value in counselling others and assisting them in their healing and growth.”
This Sunday’s ceremony follows the July 4th ordination in Vernon of 13 IMM graduates from all over the province. Joan Faulkner one of those ordained said, “Metaphysics is defined as ‘the philosophical study of being and knowing’. When you meditate and turn within that being and knowing expresses in your life as greater purpose, understanding and well being. I share our group's commitment to support individuals in their spiritual growth in an atmosphere of unity, joy and harmony.”
The Centre for Awakening Spiritual Growth, which is a part of CIMM, offers weekly Sunday Celebrations which include guided meditations, music by professional musicians, inspiring speakers, and Reiki healing followed by refreshments. A recent Sunday morning attendee, Susan Duggan, said “This group gives me a sense of oneness, of feeling included.”
The head office for CIMM located in Vernon assists the more than 86 Canadian graduates of the University of Metaphysics the educational branch of the International Metaphysical Ministry. Based in Sedona Arizona, IMM recently celebrated 50 years of service promoting spiritual understanding globally. CIMM founder and executive director Dr. John Bright says “This New Thought Ministry declares that there are no wrong ways of worshipping the Divine Spirit just different ways. CIMM respects all religions and faiths and as long as it is working for you, say ‘God Bless’.”
Sunday’s ordinations as well as weekly Sunday Celebrations will be held at the Schubert Centre at 10:30 am. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Rev. Brad Watson & Rev. Bonnie Schneide
