Public
Lectures and Events
Public
Lectures and Events
All events are held in the lodge (in the same building as Quest Bookshop and the lending library), at:
717 Broadway Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 323-4281
·Suggested
Donation is $5.00 - $10.00, except some special events
·Most Sunday events start at 4:00pm - special events
scheduled as noted
·Parking may be difficult so allow extra time for arriving
·Sunday Morning Meditation: 2nd & 4th Sundays, 10 am -
OPEN TO ALL!!
The Theosophical Society in Seattle 717 Broadway East Seattle, Washington 98102 (206) 323-4281 invites you to enjoy its Public Lectures, Workshop & Sunday Morning Open Meditation
Your Donations are important to us. They
literally keep the heat and lights on and make it possible for us to show some
appreciation to our speakers who donate their time when presenting our programs.
No one will ever be turned away for lack of funds. Yet we ask you to be as
generous as you can be within our expanded "suggested" range of $5-
$10 for a lecture and $40 -$60 for a day long workshop. Thank you!
April - June, 2005
Transcendence: Explorations of Mystical Practices
from Judaism & Islam
A Half Day Workshop with Rabbi Ted Falcon & Jamal Rahman
April 16
Saturday, 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Suggested donation $20.00 - $35.00 (includes light refreshments)
Muslim Sufi Minister Jamal Rahman and Rabbi Ted Falcon will guide participants in practices designed to help us step beyond our limited sense of self and realize the fuller nature of our Being. Utilizing such techniques as chant, meditation, breath work, and guided visualization, these two spiritual teachers will invite a deepening of the Inner Journey.
Rabbi Ted and Brother Jamal look forward to creating a joyful and a safe space for profound personal and group spiritual experience.
Participants are asked to bring notebooks.
Rabbi Ted Falcon has explored the frontiers of Jewish spirituality and meditation for over 30 years, and has founded meditative synagogues in Los Angeles and Seattle (Bet Alef Meditational Synagogue: www.betalef.org). He was ordained a Reform rabbi in 1968 and received a doctorate in psychology in 1975. He is the author of A Journey of Awakening and Judaism for Dummies.
Jamal
Rahman comes from the Sufi lineage of Bengal and is a minister at the Interfaith
Community Church in Seattle. He has garnered a great deal of praise for his
book The Fragrance of Faith, including “In simple and eloquent words, this book
captures the heart and spirit of Islam. A true spiritual treasure!” David
Spangler, author of Blessing and The Call.
Personal Village with Marv Thomas
April 17
Sunday, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
We are so busy we don’t have time for our friends. Or we engage with many people, but the relationships seem somewhat meaningless, even shallow. This is our 21st century world, the information age, where our busy lives can lead to a high frequency of personal encounters that unfortunately are only partial. The result is that we all suffer. Marv will share with us his insights about how we can breach the seeming distances between each other and how what might seem like trivial path crossings with everyone from the person who delivers our mail, to the person who serves us coffee at the café in the morning, in short, everyone we encounter, can make significant contributions to our lives that cause it to be soul sustaining.
Over 30 years ago Marv Thomas, MSW left a career as an engineer in the space program and became a social worker when he became alarmed about the kind of society we were creating. He worked as a psychotherapist, group leader, organizational consultant and personal growth trainer, and along the way studied anthropology, sociology, and the world’s religions, while also paying attention to what was happening on our streets, and in the malls, classrooms and business settings of our lives. He is the author of Personal Village, reviewed as “engaging and important. A must read for everyone who wants a fuller, more joyous life.” Jane Adams, Ph.D., best selling author.
Wesak Meditation
April 23
Saturday, 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Legend has it that the significant events of the Buddha’s life, his birth, enlightenment and death, all took place on the full moon in Taurus; and that each year, at this time, the spiritual planetary Hierarchy celebrates this occasion in Tibet, during which the Buddha returns and a special blessing is given to humanity and the earth. Please join us as we commemorate this day.
Ancient Sounds Performance Ensemble
April 24
Sunday, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
You will be moved and transported by this World ethnic musical group, that presents Middle Eastern, East Indian, American Indian and African themes using World flutes, didgeridoos, ancient woodwinds, percussion, vocals, piano, guitar and a variety of other world instruments. The feedback we’ve been getting is that they’re a very popular ensemble in the Puget Sound region, and thumbs up reviews by those attending past performances prompted us to ask if they’d be so kind as to perform here as well. Come on in and join us for this musical excursion !
Comments
"Ancient Sound's music ... affected me more profoundly than any other music I
have ever heard. Not only was I in an altered state for the entire concert, but
even now, 36 hours later, the music from the trio of Didgeridoos continues to
resonant within me, allowing me to walk simultaneously in the worlds of Spirit &
Matter."
Suzanna McCarthy, MSW, LICSW, Therapist & Spiritual Director, Seattle, WA
"Wow, how to describe it! Normally I get goose bumps on very rare occasions when the music hits me just right. This was the first time that I have experienced goose bumps start to finish. I was totally moved and drawn in by the performance. It was a very powerful and spiritual experience! Thank you so much for sharing your talents! -- Michelle Hunt, Woodinville, WA
The Merlin Tarot with RJ Stewart
April 29
Friday, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Sacred & Cosmological themes in the Medieval Prophecies and Life of Merlin
“The Merlin Tarot” is a book and deck of cards designed by RJ Stewart and
painted by Miranda Gray, that has been in print in several languages for 20
years. It is based on sacred and cosmological themes in the medieval Bardic
(Welsh druidic) traditions of the prophet Merlin, using images clearly described
in 12 century texts that predate the first known tarot cards, from Renaissance
Italy, by at least three hundred years.
Join RJ for some remarkable insights into the true nature and origins of tarot, and for an exploration of the trumps of the Merlin Tarot and their relationship to Geoffrey of Monmouth’s 12th century Prophecies of Merlin.
R J Stewart is the author of 40 books, published and translated worldwide. He is also a composer and musician, and has written and recorded music for film, theatre and television. You can find out more information about RJ Stewarts endeavors through his websites www.dreampower.com and www.rjstewart.net.
Mahatmas, Masters, and Adepts. Oh, My!, with Ed
Alden
May 1
Sunday, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
There are many references to a Brotherhood of those who have completed their human evolution and now work ceaselessly for humanity's benefit. But, I've never met one. Who are They? What do They say They're doing? And why are They hiding?
Ed Alden is a long time theosophist, and is a member of the Seattle Lodge.
The Cabalistic Mary Magdalene, with Lesa Bellavie
May 8
Sunday, 4:00-5:30 pm
Her name is on everyone's lips these days, and although everyone seems to have a theory about Mary Magdalene, not many writers have had much to say about how to incorporate her into a working spiritual practice. During this talk we'll cover how the recently identified myth of Mary Magdalene as the lost bride of Christ has revealed an archetype that may be worked with in the context of the Hermetic Cabala. We'll also talk about what the typical artistic representation of the crucifixion has in common with the Tree of Life, and how that link supports Mary Magdalene's correspondence with Malkuth.
Lesa Bellevie is the author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Mary Magdalene," and the founder of Magdalene.org. She has been a practicing Hermeticist for many years, with a special interest in esoteric Christianity. In 2002, she delivered a similar presentation about Mary Magdalene entitled "Brides in Exile: A Primordial Religious Impulse Latent in Western Civilization" to the Seattle Pagan Scholars.
Uranus in Pisces, Neptune in Aquarius A Lecture with Alan Oken
~Co-sponsored by the Seattle Wisdom Circle~
May 13
Friday, 7:30-9:00 pm
The
Mutation of the World Ages and the Challenges that this Presents for Us all (Not
just for Astrologers)
Suggested Donation $10.00 - $15.00
The world is suffering from an acute dose of “polarization dis-ease.” This is resulting in a New Age Crusade with Christians still at war with the Saracens and the Jews caught in the middle. Each one of us is also experiencing an intensification of pressure in our own lives for growth and self-transformation. Please join Alan for a most important discussion with the World Ages as a backdrop and our practical life in the foreground.
Introduction to the Ancient Wisdom Teachings -
The Laws and Principles of the Ancient Wisdom and the nature and structure of
the Spiritual Path ~ Workshop with Alan Oken
May 14
Saturday, 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Suggested Donation $55.00 - $75.00 (Light lunch included)
Attendance will be limited to the first 50 registrants. Please pre-register through Quest Bookshop 206- 323-4281 or email bookmgr@netzero.com
All the major world religions and philosophies are based on the Laws and Principles of creation and manifestation. The Ancient Wisdom speaks about these foundations to our inner life and offers a practical way to integrate the life of the personality with that of the higher self. In essence, the Ancient Wisdom is the path of synthesis and synthesis—conscious inclusivity—is the way of the soul.
During the course of this workshop, Alan will speak on such topics as the Seven Rays, the occult anatomy of humanity, and the relationship between consciousness and the chakra system. He will also hold teachings about the Fourteen Postulants of the Ancient Wisdom. Time will also be available for questions, meditation and visualization exercises.
Introduction to Contemporary Esoteric Astrology ~
Revealing the Purpose of the Soul in the Present Incarnation through the Natal
Horoscope ~ Workshop with Alan Oken
May 15
Sunday, 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Suggest Donation $55.00 - $75.00 (Light lunch included)
Attendance will be limited to the first 50 registrants. Please pre-register through Quest Bookshop 206- 323-4281 or email bookmgr@netzero.com
Esoteric Astrology is founded on the principle of Seven: The Seven Rays. Exoteric (traditional) Astrology is based on the principle of Twelve: the Twelve Signs of the Zodiac. Alan Oken, author of “Soul-Centered Astrology” has developed a system of interpretation of the natal chart that combines the Seven and the Twelve to present a transcendental portrayal of the natal chart, allowing the astrological student to see how the horoscope can be used to integrate the focus and purpose of the soul with the physical and psychological equipment of the personality. This workshop is a must for all true students of astrology.
Alan Oken has been a professional astrologer and metaphysical teacher for nearly 40 years. He speaks six languages and has taught in over 30 countries. He has authored hundreds of articles and twelve books, including: Rulers of the Horoscope, Houses of the Horoscope, and the classic text, Alan Oken’s Complete Astrology. He is also the author of Soul-Centered Astrology, a work that serves to bridge the link between the astrology of the personality and the astrology of the soul.
Alan Oken will be available for private consultations during his stay in Seattle (May 9-18). Readings are geared to the needs of the individual and usually include an analysis of the natal chart from the soul-centered perspective, and an overview of current and future transit, eclipse and progressed planetary cycles. The session lasts from 75-90 minutes and is tape recorded. The fee is $200. Chart comparison (synastry), electional, horary and other forms of astrological work are also available. Appointments may be booked directly with Alan by calling 505-466-2258 (Voice Mail) or by contacting him via email: alanoken@worldnet.att.net.
What does Your Aura look like?, with Tonya Gamman
May 22
Sunday, 4:00-5:30 pm
Or more correctly, how does the your aura change as a result of doing a variety of things, such as holding a crystal, meditating or praying deeply, or laughing hysterically. The technology being used by Tonya can show audience members their auras on a big screen in all of these circumstances. Using 27 electrodes that are connected with software that’s been perfected for over twenty years, Tonya will be able to show us what an aura is, how knowledge of our auras can help us in our lives, and how we can make positive changes to our auras.
We will also review possible interpretations of aura colors. Observe how a good belly laugh causes your energy to jet out 10 feet from your body, or how a bodily ailment can affect your energy field.. I (Greg) observed all of these in a test run, including how a Tibetan Buddhist’s meditation practice of envisioning sacred symbols on his charkas had indeed caused those to be formed on those energy centers when we were able to view his aura. Time permitting you’ll get a chance to see your aura as well, and/or your aura as it interacts with a friend
Creating Relationship With Our Shamanic Allies ~ A Half
Day Workshop with Betsy Bergstrom
May 28
Saturday, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Suggested donation $20.00 - $35.00 (includes light refreshments)
Shamanism is humankind's earliest spirituality. Spirit Helpers, Ancestors and Power Animals are longstanding and ancient allies and protectors of humankind, whether we are aware of them or not. These Allies can be of much more help to us when we enter into relationships with them. We are all endowed with the ability to connect with Spirit Allies and Helpers to enrich and aid our own personal lives, our families and our community.
In this experiential workshop we will have the opportunity to meet with some of the Shamanic Allies who are able to have the most profound impact in our lives. Betsy will lead a process that allows each participant to encounter their True Self, which is a blueprint for who each person is meant to be in this lifetime. We will first meet with the True Self to discover some of its qualities and talents, and we will then learn how to deepen our connection to that self to help manifest those qualities. We will experience how that True Self can keep us protected, allow us to communicate truthfully and from the heart, and hold space in our lives in meaningful and healthy ways. We will then meet with our own personal Totems or Power Animals and learn how those animal powers protect us and lend us their own qualities. We will learn to use the Shamanic Journey to meet with the power animals to access higher wisdom, protection and even knowledge of the future. We will learn practical ways to connect with these allies to enrich and empower our lives.
Betsy is back by popular demand, having first guided us to a very brief meeting with our True Self and Power Animals during her first presentation at the Theosophical Society in November of last year. This was mind boggling enough for many us that we talked about how this not only needed to be repeated, but repeated and explored more thoroughly. And so it shall be. Please join us to explore and learn, whether you’re a first timer or not.
Betsy Bergstrom is a full-time Shamanic Practitioner who has studied with shamans and healers from many cultures and countries. She is a graduate of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies 3-Year Program. She has been trained by a number of indigenous shamans and healers who have encouraged her and shared with her their wonderful teachings. She has worked in various fields of Alternative Healing for nearly 20 years. Her calling is to work in partnership with the Helping Spirits, to help the living and the dead. She currently practices in Seattle and teaches shamanism nationally.
From Bahai to Universalism, with Pattabi Raman
May 29
Sunday, 4:00-5:30 pm
In Persia in the mid 1800’s a faith blossomed that has spread around the world, becoming the second most wide spread faith path after Christianity and drawing believers from every cultural, racial, social and religious stratum. Its appeal often appears to create no conflict with preexisting spiritual and religious beliefs, rather becoming an important adjunct to previously held beliefs. Why?
The Bahai faith has been called a universal path for the modern era, rooted as it is in a belief in the oneness of humanity, the oneness of progressive and evolutionary religion, the unity of science and religion, the equality of men and women, economic justice, and a spiritual foundation for all of life.
Says Bahai author Shoghfi Effendi about the Bahai teachings:
They say that. " religious truth is not absolute but relative, that Divine Revelation is a continuous and progressive process, that all the great religions of the world are divine in origin and that their basic principles are in complete harmony, that their teachings are but facets of One Truth.” They uphold “the unfettered search after truth, teach that the fundamental purpose of religion is to promote concord and harmony, promote the abolition of the extremes of poverty and wealth, and exalt work performed in the spirit of service.”
Religious and spiritual unfoldment would seem to be continuous. Please join us to see how the Bahai faith fits in with that unfoldment.
The Sacred Landscape, with Fredric Lehrman
June 5
Sunday, 4:00-5:30 pm
If you’ve been feeling hemmed in by our urban concrete canyons you might want to remind yourself that there are indeed sacred sites around the planet. Now it is not entirely likely that you’ll be able to jet to these idyllic locations that we’ll be gazing at during this presentation. So come on in and give your mind a break. What we’ll be witnessing are some of the best photographs of sacred landscape around the world in a moving slide presentation.
We’ll be spending an evening with Fredric Lehrman, the author of The Sacred Landscape. During this look at planetary sacred sites Fredric will talk about his experiences of visiting many of the world’s most powerful places, and will also share stories of his meetings and travels with remarkable men and women, scholars, shamans and scientists who work with and study earth energies. We’ll even explore theories about the forces which govern our relationship with the earth.
Occasionally it is good to be reminded that the global body we live on is not only enthralling but alive. This evening will be a good beginning in that direction.
Fredric Lehrman conversant in four major European languages, is the Director of Nomad University, an international network of outstanding teachers. He lectures internationally on topics concerning planetary trends and human dynamics. His articles have appeared in New Age Journal and the Utne Reader. He is also the founder of Art & Spirit, a new concept in museum design. His background includes many years of teaching in T’ai Chi Chuan in addition to founding several permanent schools of T’ai Chi Chuan in major U.S. cities. He has studied music with master teachers of the guitar, cello and voice.
Connecting With Your Inner Divinity, with David Spangler
June 12
Sunday, 4:00-5:30 pm
While many of us may believe that we have an Inner Divine nature somewhere, many, if not most of us do not know exactly what that is, how to get in touch with that, or where it resides. But indeed it exists, although it may seem hidden to most of us.
Based on his own research and contact with inner worlds David Spangler will introduce each of us to an understanding of what our own Inner Divinity might be. How did or does that Inner Divinity come about? Can we help this to grow? Can we do the opposite? What are some of the ways of connecting with and being aware of our Inner Divinity? How do we manifest that it in our daily lives? Questions are encouraged. Time permitting, David will lead us on a meditation to inquire within.
David Spangler has been writing, lecturing and teaching since the early 1970s when he was codirector of the spiritual community of Findhorn in northern Scotland. He is the author of Revelation: The Birth of a New Age; Emergence: The Rebirth of the Sacred; Everyday Miracles; A Pilgrim in Aquarius; The Call; Blessing: The Art and the Practice; and most recently Parent as Mystic, Mystic as Parent. “David Spangler’s work is one of the shining lights on any serious seeker’s path.”--Marianne Williamson “Like a clear spring gushing up from some bottomless source, David Spangler’s writing splashes into us, quenching our thirst for the intelligence and sweetness and fullness of Love.”--Richard Chamberlain
SERVICES OF THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY IN SEATTLE
Sunday Morning Meditation at 10:00 AM - Open to
All
Theosophical Lending Library
A Research Library and Learning Center now inviting new members and patrons.
Library fees ($20 annually) This service is included in your membership if you
join the TS in Seattle.
Hours: Open Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday 1:00 to 6:00 pm.
Open Monday and Wednesday Noon to 5:00 pm
Theosophical Lending Library
A Membership Library, Volunteer Run
Open Saturday, Sunday & Tuesday, 1pm.- 6pm
Open Monday & Wednesday, Noon to 4pm
Telephone: 206 323-4281
Quest Bookshop
Over 10,000 books in stock
Open at 11am Seven Days a Week
Telephone: 206 323-4281