What are they? What do they mean?

Unlike most of the major religions, Spiritualism does not tie its' followers to a creed or dogma. Rather, the philosophy of Spiritualism is founded upon seven basic Principles which were developed and derived through the mediumship of a pioneer for Spiritualism called Emma Hardinge Britten, inspired in 1871 by the communicating discarnate Spirit of Robert Owen (founder of the Co-op). These seven Principles, which act as guidelines for the development of a personal philosophy of how to live one's life, are stated as follows:

1. Fatherhood of God
The Force which created the whole Universe and life in all its forms, keeping existence in a state of balance, allowing for expansion, transformation and creation. This Force - we call it God - has created life, so we call it the Fatherhood. As such we acknowledge that there is a Divine spark within each of us, a spark of eternal and everlasting life force.

2. Brotherhood of Man

As we are all children of God, we are therefore all united as one family. The Brotherhood indicates mutual support and caring for each other. Giving and receiving, not just of material needs but of spiritual needs, too.

3. Communion of Spirits and the Ministry of Angels

This is our KEY Principle that sets us apart from all other religions. It proves there is eternal life. Energy cannot be destroyed. We are energy; therefore we cannot be destroyed. We change our form through physical death but our essence lives on. The natural bond of love that exists between people cannot be severed by death. Those who have passed on still love and care for those here on Earth and it is natural that they should wish to minister to them, giving upliftment and guidance through communication.

4.Continuous Existence of the human Soul

The Spirit is eternal. Death is but the discarding of the physical body, allowing the Spirit to love on in another dimension that interpenetrates our world. This world is referred to as "the Spirit World". Our personalities, characteristics and memories do not change when we die, but we can continue to progress through our efforts.

5. Personal Responsibility

We recognise that although we are part of the Brotherhood of Man, a human family, we are individuals responsible for ourselves. We accept the responsibility for ALL that we think, say and do. By service to others, we can serve ourselves.

6. Compensation & Retribution for all good and evil deeds done on Earth

The Law of Cause and Effect comes into being with this Principle. As you sow, so shall you reap. You cannot live a life of wrongdoing and expect to be considered a Saint. Personal Responsibility asks that you "do as you would be done by" Compensation & Retribution says "be done by as you did".

7. Eternal progress open to every human Soul

Spiritual progression is entirely in our hands. As we live our lives and as we develop our spiritual nature, then progression is made. This progression is in proportion to the effort and sacrifice that we make. This effort helps us to be finer beings and rise to higher levels in the Divine spiral of spiritual progression of eternal duration.