with Richard Smoley

Mondays, 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Central Time 

January 4 - February 22 (6 Classes) No class January 18

A Course in Miracles is one of the most influential spiritual works of our time. It has sold well over 2 million copies without advertising. It has even been called the only sacred text whose native language is English. Many people are drawn toward the Course, but there are also many who have failed to find a way into it.

In this six-week webinar, author Richard Smoley will introduce the Course. He will discuss its history, its ideas, and the practices it advocates for spiritual liberation. He will focus on applying Course concepts to everyday life.

This webinar is open to people of all levels of experience with the Course, including complete newcomers.

Richard Smoley has been studying and practicing A Course in Miracles since 1981. His latest book, The Deal: A Guide to Radical and Complete Forgiveness, presents some key teachings of the Course in simple and easy-to-understand terms. Richard’s other books include Conscious Love, Inner Christianity, and The Dice Game of Shiva: How Consciousness Creates the Universe. He is also editor of Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America.

$60 non-members $50 members

Register here

January 24, 7:00 p.m. Live Webcast

Numerology is the science of vibrations. Each letter of our alphabet is a vibratory influence, and the numbers from 1 through 9 can tell you all the experiences that life presents. The position of the numbers tells a numerologist the essence of the vibration and each number’s influence. We have the ability to be and do anything we choose by knowing how to use the energies influencing us at any given time. 

Philip Clark earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Northwestern University and after playing professional football in the NFL (he’s a former Chicago Bear), he had career in insurance as a salesman, manager, and trainer. Today, Philip is a Reiki-Master Teacher, Certified Professional Psychic, and Licensed Spiritual Counselor, speaking internationally on numerology, teaching numerology and meditation, and presenting seminars on Meditation and Stress Management. Contact him at: PhilipClark.dynamicdigits.com or medinumerics@msn.com.

$10 for guests   $5 for members

with Gwynne Mayer

Wednesdays 8:00-9:30 pm, 8 weeks, September 9-October 28 CST

Utilizing forty-five years of experience in Jungian, Gurdjeffian, and Astrological Esoteric Studies, Gwynne will introduce students to the world of astrology in simple language and in ways that highlight its value in self-study and understanding. No prior knowledge of astrology is required. Gwynne will provide each student with their unique natal chart. Each student will use their chart to build a framework for better understanding and working toward 'soul purpose'. Students will learn that the elements of one's chart shed light on higher spiritual connections as well as one's connection to physical, emotional and mental centers.

This first eight week course will focus on the following:

· Study of one's own connection to their Sun, Moon and Ascendant. Bringing 'as above, so below' into action.

· How one's inner work is connected to 'the Work' and Individuation Process.

· Exploration of our own personal myth and how we both 'evolve and involve' toward 'higher being bodies.'

· Using the natal charts as a tool to inform one in balancing the physical, emotional and mental energies to become more conscious.

· Focus on 'intentional suffering' with awareness and consciousness by looking at the aspects of our personal charts.

Each class utilizes e-mailed handouts, including copies of natal charts. The first 45 minutes of each class will be recorded and made available for later viewing. The last 45 minutes, including the individual Q and A, will be considered confidential and so will not be recorded.

Gwynne Mayer MA, thirty years of post-graduate work in the areas of Jungian Analaysis, Gestalt Therapy, Child Psychology focusing on Autism/Schizophrenia, Educational Leadership and a thorough study of over 45 years in the works of Blavatsky, Alice Bailey, Rudolph Steiner and GI Gurdjieff. Astrology was studied from some of the best teachers: Isabelle Hickey, Dane Rudhyar, Gret Baum (Jung's daughter), Liz Greene and many others mostly teachers during the 60's and 70's. Gwynne brings her expertise to the fundamental experiential communities of 'how this all works' with the individual. Her focus is on the understanding of 'what makes us tick!'.

This course, starting on September 9th is full. However, to reserve a space for next time, please contact Gwynne Meyer at gwynne.mayer@gmail.com.

with Gwynne Mayer

Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. CST

November 11 - December 9. (4 classes) No class on November 25

Utilizing forty-five years of experience in advanced studies of CG Jung, G. Gurdjieff, Rudolf Steiner, Helena Blavatsky, Edgar Cayce (Akashic Records) and their respective students, Gwynne will introduce students to the world of relationships in astrology. Using simple language, she will explain the value of astrology in self-study and understanding how we get involved with ‘Soul Mates’ to work out our Soul Karma. This course will look at the following questions: ….Why are we attracted to certain types of people?

….What do family members have to do with our future or existing relationships?

….What is the psychology behind ‘Soul Mates’ and the Karma that exists in the relationship?

Gwynne Mayer MA, thirty years of post-graduate work in the areas of Jungian Analaysis, Gestalt Therapy, Child Psychology focusing on Autism/Schizophrenia, Educational Leadership and a thorough study of over 45 years in the works of great Theosophists and Anthrosophists. Astrology and the Intuitive Arts were studied from some of the best esoteric and spiritual teachers of the 60’s and 70’s.

$60 nonmembers $50 members

Register here

Class Limit 20

with Gwynne Mayer

Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Central Time

January 13 – February 17 (6 classes)

Gwynne Mayer will be conducting a 6 week course in the study of our personal natal charts from the spiritual/emotional/physical aspects of the ‘wounded healer’. We are capable of healing our physical and emotional “wounds” if we discover our higher nature, reach into our spiritual being, and access our own ‘inner shaman’. The course will be open to those interested in expanding their awareness with the help of astropsychology. For more information on this you can also go to Gwynne’s website regarding our inner shaman:
gwynnemayer.com/?s=inner+shaman.

Gwynne Mayer M.A. has done graduate and post graduate studies in Jungian Psychology, Astrology, Theosophy, Biblical Studies and Pediatric Neurology. She has had over forty-five years of experience in the Esoteric Arts, Educational Administration, and Psychotherapy. She has a website where you can read about her writings and other interests: www.gwynnemayer.com.

Class will not be recorded due to confidential information.

$60 nonmembers $50 members

Register here

with Gwynne Mayer and Marcel Pardo

Wednesday 8:30 -9:30 p.m. (Central Time)

This study group will cover the practical teaching of G.I. Gurdjieff, Carl Jung, and other Theosophical teachers and Biblical scholars. We will delve into the study of the ‘inner way’ and bring the study of Christianity into a more ‘real discipline’ of inner study, reflection and meditation. For this reason, participants in this group will be given both esoteric and exoteric practical exercises on a weekly basis as a catalyst to discuss a more Gnostic Esoteric Path, utilizing Gurdjieff, Jung, Biblical works and Gnostic works to advance this personal work and experience for each of us in the group. Join us with an open mind and open heart!

Facilitators Gwynne Mayer and Marcel Pardo are experienced students and teachers of Gurdjieff's work, Biblical studies, Carl Jung and Theosophical concepts over the last forty years.

$40 Suggested Donation 

Register here

with Donna Adler

Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Central time

February 24 – March 16 (4 classes)

This series examines the work of Meister Eckhart within the German/Flemish school of mysticism and the Catholic tradition against some of the background influences that informed it. A brief review of Thomas Aquinas’ and Albertus Magnus’ thoughts on the Trinity, creation, and on the knowledge of God will set the stage for comprehending Eckhart's particular mode of spiritual praxis. Eckhart was deeply influenced by Thomas and Albert the Great, although he himself was accused of being heterodox. Despite the criticism to which he was subjected, criticism we will endeavor to understand by contrasting his work on certain points with that of Thomas and Albertus, Eckhart's mystical texts inspired some of the greatest spiritual literature of his time. These writings by figures such as Tauler, Suso, and Ruysbroeck were subjected to no similar charges.

Donna Adler received her undergraduate degree in linguistics from the University of Chicago and her law degree from Northwestern University. Donna later earned an M.A. in divinity from the University of Chicago and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in systematic and philosophical theology from the University of Notre Dame. She is well acquainted with, among other things, the works of the medieval mystics of Christian tradition. Donna is especially interested in the reception of Plato in the history of Christian tradition and will soon be submitting her (groundbreaking) interpretation of Plato’s Timaeus at 35a-36d (the source text for the harmony of the spheres) for publication.

$60 non-members $50 members

Register here

Wednesdays, 8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Central time

October 15 – December 3 (8 weeks)

The Timaeus is a source text in Western tradition for many of the liberal arts and sciences as it includes music theory as well as cosmology. In this eight-week series, Dr. Donna Adler will guide participants through her original interpretation of Plato’s dialogue Timaeus.

Beginning with an introduction to the themes of Plato’s enigmatic text, the series is devoted to comprehending how Plato articulates the parameters for the system of ancient Greek music and relates them to his cosmological views. Dr. Adler argues that Plato’s expression allows the first clear articulation of the so-called “music of the spheres” in Western thought.

• Session I: Introduction to the basic themes
• Session II through VI: Series of ten slides per session elucidating the musical significance of Plato’s text
• Session VII: Review of points
• Session VIII: Conclusion

Participants should anticipate a second Timaeus series addressing points of Dr. Adler’s commentary that go beyond the musical significance of the text.

Donna Adler, Ph.D., a lawyer trained in philosophical theology, made an in-depth study of the Platonic tradition in the process of writing her dissertation on St. Augustine’s thought. She has continued her exploration of ancient philosophy and has written a book on Plato’sTimaeusthat she is preparing for publication.

$70 members   $85 nonmembers

Register Here

This class is concerned with exploring key features found in the early Buddhist world-view and attitudes about the nature of “self” (atta) and the role of viññāna (consciousness or discernment). This central aspect of the Buddha's teaching often appears radical and  mystifying for the majority of people who encounter Buddhism. However, a good, clear and accurate understanding of this topic is essential for getting to the heart of Buddhism.

 

Venerable Acharya Shaku Mui Shin Shi (Sensei Mui) took formal refuge and bhikkhu ordination as a Theravada monk in the Forest Tradition in Thailand in 1971. After receiving a doctorate in Buddhist Studies in Sri Lanka he returned to the United States in 1976 and spent several years studying Pure Land Buddhism nd became a Dharma Teacher. He later studied Soto Zen, and over the past 20 years he has studied Tendai (Japanese Vajrayana), Tibetan Buddhism, and Vietnamese Zen.

Currently, Sensei Mui is the Spiritual and Executive Director (Abbot) of the Hongaku Jodo Compassionate Lotus Tradition and the Director of Buddhist Education for the Hongaku Institute for Buddhist Studies. He has written online courses covering dozens of topics in Buddhism and presented over 300 talks, workshops, and retreats in both the Chicago area and internationally. In spite of his long career in Mahayana, he tends to stay faithful to Pali Canon, the foundation of all Buddhist thought and practice. 

$70 members       $85 nonmembers

Register Here

Monday, weekly 6:30-8:30 PM (Central Time) ongoing

Facilitators: Michael Hurd; Dr. Russell Schreiber, author of Gurdjieff’s Transformational Psychology: The Art of Compassionate Self-Study

The Fourth Way developed by G.I. Gurdjieff is a transformative psychological vehicle to help develop one’s inner life through a unique process of self-study and exploration. In this way each person’s life becomes his or her true university.

The focus of the group is to learn the practice of compassionate self-study.  

Monthly & Weekly Webinars

For all levels of astrological knowledge offered through the Theosophical Society of America.  Click Here to see all webinars offered by Kelley Hunter.

Keep up with the Cosmic News for 2014!

Monthly Cosmic News on timely topics followed each month by a Weekly Class Series for interactive discussion, planet by planet.

We will discuss the meaning and current activity of the each planet and relate it to our own charts placements. Please have your birth chart available for reference. If you need one made for you, contact Kelley.

Kelley Hunter, Ph.D, C.A.P., internationally-known astrologer, has explored the cosmic language of the stars for over four decades. Her approach is enriched with perspectives from mythology, Depth Psychology, cosmology and consciousness studies. Author of Cosmic Daily Weather 2014, Living Lilith: Four Dimensions of the Cosmic Feminine and Black Moon Lilith, Kelley also contributes to professional journals, such as The Mountain Astrologer and The International Astrologer. She writes a regular column for The Monthly Aspectarian, a leading metaphysical magazine based in Chicago, as well as her own Cosmic News email newsletter.  Kelley lives in Vermont and St. John, Virgin Islands, where she served as Astrologer-in-Residence for the Omega Institute winter programs and the Self Centre at Caneel Bay Resort. See more about her work at www.heliastar.com and on Facebook (Kelley Hunter, AstroMythology).  

 Thursday, April 3, 8 pm CST

Two eclipses and powerful planetary patterns bring us smack dab into the most transformational month of the year. The dynamic interaction of revolutionary Uranus and transformational Pluto is at a peak, with the Sun and several other planets pushing and pulling from all sides. This is information we need to know. 

$25

Register Here

Friday, weekly 10:00-11:15 AM (Central Time) ongoing

Facilitating Staff who lead this Study Group are all experienced students of the Work as Gurdjieff's teaching has become known. Staff changes from time to time. Current facilitators: Ocke deBoer, Sy Ginsburg, Gwynne Mayer, Bonnie Phillips.

The practical teaching of G.I. Gurdjieff (1866-1949) requires ongoing self-observation over many years. The purpose of such self-observation while making the effort to self-remember is to gradually free us from our identifications with fears and desires in their many forms. This helps us to realize that we are not the body-brain-ego organism that we have been mistakenly taught to believe is our true identity.

Program Open to the Public

Wednesdays, 7 - 8 PM

Organized by the Wheaton-Olcott Theosophical Study Center

Join the Wheaton-Olcott Branch as they present a new webinar program called “Exploring Theosophy”. The first series of webinars, titled "Theosophy and Unity", will explore the subject of Oneness from various perspectives. Watch for other “Exploring Theosophy” programs by Branch members as they periodically examine basic Theosophical teachings in this interactive setting.

Schedule:

May 13
The Unity of Religions
Linda Dorr

May 20
Unity in Diversity
Ed Moskowitz and Diane Eisenberg

May 27
Krishnamurti on Unity
Pablo Sender

June 3
The Workings of the One Life
Juliana Cesano

 Register here

 

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Tuesdays, February 11 - March 4, 7:00 - 9:00 PM (Central Daylight Time)
$100 (4 sessions)

Dave Gunning is an astrological consultant, teacher, and lecturer. His readings, classroom teachings, and talks have always emphasized the importance of a person's interconnectedness to the Spiritual Self. Dave has written articles for Dell Horoscope magazine and Mountain Astrologer. He lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with his wife Donna.

Cost includes all sessions: $100

 

(National Lodge Members Only)
Every 3rd Sunday of the month, 7:00 p.m. CT

LOGIN

“The Secret Doctrine Symposium” webinar is offered to members of the National Lodge of the Theosophical Society in America. Every third Sunday of the month, we will discuss that month's Symposium paper. NL members must obtain their login from Dan Smolla specifically for this class. To become a member of the National Lodge, please contact National Secretary David Bruce: natsec@theosophical.org.

 

 

 

 

Tuesdays, January 14 - February 4, 7:00 - 9:00 PM (Central Daylight Time)
 Join expert astrologer Dave Gunning in an online 4-week course introducing the basic principles of astrology. This course will give you an overview of the astrological process and prepare you for upcoming in-depth future classes. You will learn to identify and understand the basic elements of a birth chart, including signs, houses, planets, and aspects (the relationship between planets on the wheel).

All you need is a notebook and pen! When registering please provide your birth information (birth date, birth time, and birth place). Dave will prepare charts and give them to students the first evening of class, along with a wealth of study material for each week. No textbooks are necessary though Dave strongly recommends reading Sun Signs by Linda Goodman available at the Quest Book Shop.

Dave Gunning is an astrological consultant, teacher, and lecturer. His readings, classroom teachings, and talks have always emphasized the importance of a person's interconnectedness to the Spiritual Self. Dave has written articles for Dell Horoscope magazine and Mountain Astrologer. He lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with his wife Donna.

$100 (4 sessions)

Register Here 

October 4, 7:00 p.m.

Join us for a special evening of music with Grammy winner Koldenhoven as she sings from her newly released CDs, Solitary Treasures and Inspired by a True Story, and her #1 album, InfiniteVoice. Darlene presents an intimate one hour concert of her uplifting, positive message, original pieces and timeless arrangements, blending New Age, Adult Contemporary, World and Classical songs all the while weaving together their origins, sometimes humorous back-story, and transformational aspects with respect to sound and vibration.

Darlene Koldenhoven is a Grammy award winner who was the featured vocalist in “Yanni, Live at the Acropolis,” a PBS special seen by over 1.5 billion people and the second “best selling DVD of all time.” Darlene has presented workshops on voice and vibrational healing at the Edgar Cayce Association and nationwide, and has been asked to be an “expert in the field” speaker at many conferences as well as having written magazine articles forNew Age & New Sounds and Evolve magazines.

Special concert price $18 guests $15 members

Program Flyer

Thursdays, September 13 - November 1, 8:00-9:00 p.m. CST

 The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali is an ancient Sanskrit text believed to have been written about 5000 years ago by the Indian sage Patanjali. This comprehensive scripture on yoga consists of four sections, exploring the subjects of samadhi (super conscious experience), sadhana (spiritual practice), vibhuti (benefits and yogic powers), and kaivalya (supreme liberation). The course will explore the first section of the text known as samadhi pada (super conscious experience).  Swami Purnatmanandaji will discuss the esoteric meaning and deeper mystical teachings of this scripture. The aim of the course is to understand how these ancient teachings can be practiced and applied in modern life.

Swami Purnatmananda Giri  is a monk in the lineage of Kriya Yoga masters Paramahamsa Hariharananda and Paramahamsa Prajnanananda. Born in India and trained as an industrial engineer, Swamiji came to the United States to pursue higher education, working for a Fortune 500 Company in various roles for 11 years. He was initiated into the sacred path of Kriya Yoga in 1992 and joined the ashram in 2005 to serve his Guru and humanity at large. Ordained as a monk in the Giri order of monasticism, his name, Swami Purnatmananda Giri, means "bliss of complete soul consciousness." He currently resides in Kriya Vedanta Gurukulam, Joliet, IL.

$80 for 8 week class.

Register Here