Introduction to The Mahatma Letters
With Maria Parisen and Susanne Hoepfl-Wellenhofer
3rd Monday of the month, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. CT
Join at any time!
Discover a foundational Theosophical work: The Mahatma Letters. Written by two Masters of Wisdom to Alfred P. Sinnett—an early Theosophical Society member and English newspaper editor in India—these letters contain many core Theosophy teachings. Once kept in the British Museum and now in the British Library, they are valued for their profound metaphysical and philosophical content and the extraordinary methods of their creation.
Each month the group will reflect on a theme or a specific letter starting with an introduction of the Mahatmas in the first meeting. During the meetings specific information and quotes will be shared and discussed. Participants are encouraged to review the selected video or reading before each meeting. Part of the course is based on An Introduction to The Mahatma Letters, a study guide by Virginia Hanson.
September 15, 2025
The Mahatma Letters (video)
This video gives the historical background of The Mahatma Letters, discusses the phenomenal aspects of their production, and comments on their subsequent impact on the Theosophical Society.
October 20, 2025
The First Letter
Master KH responds to A.P. Sinnett’s idea that the existence of the Mahatmas could be proved to skeptics by simultaneously having a London newspaper precipitated in India on the very day of its publication, and a Pioneer precipitated in London. KH explains why that method would not work.
Additional Reading: An Introduction to The Mahatma Letters (Chapter 3)
November 17, 2025
Philosophical Questions: An Introduction to The Mahatma Letters (Chapter 4)
At the outset Mr. Sinnett and Mr. Hume were primarily interested in occult phenomena rather than in the profound philosophy of the East. Their suggestions were rejected by Master KH.
December 15, 2025
Probation and Chelaship: An Introduction to The Mahatma Letters (Chapter 5)
The Mahatma ideal is widely and deeply held in the East, and more and more people in the West are coming to accept its reality as a natural and inevitable outgrowth of the evolutionary process.
January 19, 2026
Some Important Passages: An Introduction to The Mahatma Letters (Chapter 9)
The letters contain many gems relating to a number of subjects, all pertinent to the ideas the Mahatmas were trying to impress upon Mr. Sinnett and Mr. Hume.
February 16, 2026
Mahatma Letter No. 44
This letter conveys important Theosophical principles, interpersonal tensions, and instructions for the recipient’s spiritual development.
March 16, 2026
Mahatma Letter No. 88
This letter deals with three important ideas: the concepts of God, matter, and evil. The Mahatma presents, in no uncertain terms, the occult doctrine regarding these concepts. Their consideration requires serious reflection and ongoing inquiry.
April 20, 2026
Mahatma Letter No. 123
The main message of this letter is one of reassurance, encouragement, and spiritual guidance. It emphasizes that faithfully fulfilling everyday duties, even those that seem mundane or ordinary, is a powerful path toward spiritual growth and enlightenment.
May 18, 2026
Extracts from Letters of the Masters: The Mahatma Letters include many hints and instructions for those committed to a spiritual path. We consider a selection of other extracts especially relevant for our times, including passages you would like to explore more fully. 
Facilitators
Susanne Hoepfl-Wellenhofer is the Eastern Board of Directors of the TSA and current president of the D.C. Lodge. She is an active contributor to the Online School of Theosophy and the Theosophy Wiki, and a mentor in the TSA Prison Mentorship Program. She has a law degree and a master’s degree in educational technology. She translates German to English and teaches Yoga. Visit her personal website: https://spiritualityconsciousnessandme.com
Maria Parisen joined the Theosophical Society in America in 1969. She has served on the governing boards of the Detroit Lodge, TSA, Theosophical Order of Service, and currently the Krotona Institute of Theosophy where she has lived since 2003. As TSA national speaker, Maria has presented and guided workshops and retreats internationally. She retired recently after directing Krotona's School of Theosophy for 15 years and currently serves as a project manager for the Institute.
Program Format
This is a live, interactive online program. This program will not be recorded.
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