If structured religion isn’t working for you, but are on a spiritual path, a Barrie woman is offering an option.
Ordained metaphysical minister Rev. Jessie Brandon is setting up what she refers to as a western ashram to be called Truthwell Community.
“I think there is a great need for a spiritual community. People are isolated," Brandon says. "They work from home and are sitting behind a computer for hours at a time and texting, but without face-to-face human contact. I call it a place where spirit meets you."
Her plan is to welcome people to bi-weekly gatherings where there will be no hymns, no sermon and no specific prayers.
“Instead, we will have guest speakers who will talk about spirituality," Brandon says. "There will be a meditation and yoga session and a discussion period. It's for anyone of any age who is searching for answers or are on a spiritual path.”
After a recent trip to India, Brandon became convinced that the idea would work here, even though Eastern disciplines are different from the West.
“As an idea of what it will be like, think of the Julia Robert’s movie Eat, Pray, Love where her character visited a guru to find answers to her own contentment," Brandon says. "Everyone has the answers to fulfillment within them, but they might need some guidance.
“This is non-denominational. It is inclusive," she adds. "There is no cost to attend, though donations are accepted. All people have to be is open, curious and interested. There will also be authenticated spiritual mediums on hand for readings.”
Truthwell Community will be located at 40 Bell Farm Rd., Unit 14, in Barrie.
It is expected to begin April 12 and held on the second and fourth Sundays of each month starting at 1 p.m.
For more information, email [email protected].
