What is Spiritualism?

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What is Spiritualism? I get this questions asked almost everyday. When someone asked what religion do I follow I always say I'm a spiritualist and a lot of times they are very confused. So I found a article that explains what Spiritualism is. Hopefully this will help you better understand about what Spiritualism is. 

SNU Spiritualism

Spiritualism is a religion that gives an understanding of God and encourages us to act with a high sense of duty towards others. Spiritualism stimulates spiritual growth and prepares us for eternal existence in the spirit-world.

Spiritualism is a science because it is based upon proven facts that can be demonstrated and scientifically classified. Spiritualism is the science of life as it encourages the search for truth in every department of existence, in nature and in human psychology.

Spiritualism is a philosophy that attempts to understand people, their physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual being. As Spirit is the moving force of the Universe, so Spiritualist philosophy embraces the whole realm of nature.

These words are based upon a chapter entitled 'The Nature of Spiritualism.'
from the Spiritualists' Lyceum Manual

Philosophy Spiritualism - The Seven Principles

Spiritualism does not dictate what to believe or how to interpret religious philosophy, there are no books or preachers whose word must be obeyed. The philosophy of SNU Spiritualism is founded upon Seven fundamental Principles and Spiritualists can interpret them as they think best.

1. The Fatherhood of God
By the study of Nature, by personal experience and from the wisdom given to us from those in the spirit-world we recognise that there is a creative force in the universe. This force created the whole universe and life itself in its many forms. This 'Creative Force' manifests in all things and as we are part of the Life created by God, we acknowledge God as our Father.

2. The Brotherhood of Man
We are all part of the universal creative force, one large human family in God. Spiritualists try to understand the needs of others and aim to help all people materially, emotionally, and spiritually.

3. Communion of Spirits and the Ministry of Angels
Spiritualism aims to prove that there is life after death and encourages the development of mediums who are able to communicate with the many loved relatives and friends in the spirit world. There are people in the spirit world who are dedicated to the welfare and service of mankind, some bring inspiration and guidance whilst others help with healing.

4. Continuous Existence of the Human Soul
Spirit is part of the 'Creative Force' and indestructible. After death the spirit continues in a different dimension, that we call the 'spirit world'. In the spirit world we have a spirit body which, until we progress far enough, is a replica of our earthly body. We have the same personality and characteristics and we change and grow, as we would on earth, by experience and as result of our own efforts.

5. Personal Responsibility
Responsibility for wrongful thoughts and actions, in every aspect of life, lies with the individual. No other person or influence can put right our wrong doings. No one can interfere with our spiritual development unless we allow this.

6. Compensation and Retribution hereafter for all Good and Evil Deeds done on Earth
Spiritualists believe that this sixth Principle is a natural law and has been expressed by others as, 'as you sow, so shall you reap'. If someone is cruel and vindictive towards others then in some way retribution will follow, if someone gives love and kindness then compensation follows. This law operates now, on earth as well as in the spirit world.

7. Eternal Progress open to every Human Soul
All who want to walk the path that leads to perfection are able to progress in mental and spiritual understanding. By doing our best in earth life and by following our inward intuitions we shall find progress comes on earth and in spirit.

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The concepts and original wording for the Principles came through the mediumship of Emma Hardinge Britten who was a Spiritualist medium and great speaker on Spiritualism's philosophy.