Sunday, December 9, 2012


Rev. Michael McMorrow's Upcoming Ordination

One of the most important moments in the life of a man (or woman) who has dedicated his life to teaching others how to create a more spiritual, fulfilling life is his ordination as a minister.

When Rev. Mike became our pastor, he was a licensed minister on the road to ordination. Nearly a year ago, he completed the tasks and hours necessary and was officially ordained. It is high time to honor him for this.

On January 27, 2013, at 4:00 pm, his Ordination Celebration will take place at Spirit Works Center for Spiritual Living in Burbank. Rev. Ann Rea will also be ordained at that time. Ann and Mike were students together,, and they have chosen to combine their ceremonies.

Please join us for this special celebration. Rev. Mike will love having you there.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Samaritan Fund

Did you know that your Board of Trustees established a fund several years ago for the sole purpose of helping out members who might have a temporary financial need? The Samaritan Fund has helped a number of people in past years, but has been dormant until recently. This is a good thing. It means that our members realize that God is their Source and have no need for financial assistance.

However, a recent request for help made me wonder just how many people are aware of this channel of good. It also prompted a realization that there is a need to fuel the fund with additional cash flow.

The Samaritan Fund was established for members of the Center for Spiritual Living Granada Hills. Most requests have been for $200 or less, but occasionally larger amounts are granted. Requests are kept confidential and only the pastor and fund administrator (in this case, Board President Barbara Harrison) will be aware of the request. Grantees are encouraged to pay back the money when their income has increased to allow this. This is their way to pay it forward. The pastor will treat for the recipient's prosperity.

If you are feeling financially prosperous at this time, please consider donating to the Samaritan Fund, knowing that your prosperity will assist someone who is experiencing temporary financial need.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

We Love Our Volunteers!

There are so many people at CSLGranada Hills, who give so lovingly of their time, talent and treasure. Meg Donohue is Seva Coordinator this year and has gathered together a team who contribute each Sunday morning (and evening and Wednesday and at the office, etc., etc., etc.). When something is needed, someone is there.

Rev. Betsy Haas Hartman recently volunteered to be Fund Raising Chair (BIG Job!). Her first efforts are (1) The Wolf Wisdom workshop on September 19th; (2) A drawing for a week in Lake Tahoe (lovingly donated by Glenn and Jeannie Starrett) with a second prize of two nights at a condo (lovingly donated by Nancy Walper). We can only guess at what she'll come up with next.

From John Sparks who does things like replace air conditioning filters and water faucet filters (yes, we have filtered water in the kitchen) to Sue Scheid and Betty Lou Mayer who put together the Sunday programs; from the Sunday ushers and greeters to the accredited class instructors; from Rev. Tricia Klink who works with the T'ween team teachers to Rev. Nancy Woods who works with the Teen teachers; from the Teens themselves who put on a fabulous pancake breakfast every fourth Sunday; from Michael Carlin who heads the audio/visual volunteers to the Visioning team; we have a well-run team of people on whom we can rely.

If you have ever wondered how you can help, speak to Meg Donohue. Right now, she is looking for someone who can coordinate people to provide refreshments on Sunday mornings. Like to shop? Like to make menus? Like to clean up kitchens? This may be the job for you. Our folks will LOVE you!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Am I Living in Principle?

Ernest Holmes, the founder of the Science of Mind philosophy, states, "Life is the animating Principle of Being – that Inner Something that makes everything live." Life, then, is that quality of Being, running through all, which enables anything to be what It is.

Based on this, I can assume Life is never-ending and limitless, forever allowing me to be what I am, whether in human form or in Spirit. The important thing, then, is to live Life to the fullest and be the best I can possibly be; and in the living, allow myself to touch the lives of others and be touched by them in return.

Anything I can dream of is not too great for me to undertake if it hurts no man and brings happiness and good into my experience. The only thing that limits me is my belief that I am limited.

Right now, I am dreaming of a vital, thriving, prosperous Center for Spiritual Living right here in Granada Hills. As I embrace what Mary Mannin Morrissey is teaching in Prosperity Plus, my own life is turning around, and I am quite aware that what is in me is also in this church and its membership. What is true for me is true for all.

Ask yourself if you are living the Life you desire. If you are not, look inward, knowing thought is creative. Begin changing things now. Affirm that you are wholeness, abundance, love and an outlet for God's creative expression. When you have embodied this, things will be as you desire.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Let Your Light Shine

The other day, while standing in an elevator with a well-dressed, scowl-faced gentleman carrying a briefcase, I said, “You’re certainly looking dapper today.” His frown turned to a smile, and he seemed to stand a little taller. “Thank you,” he responded. “You’ve made my day.” He left the elevator, humming.

It takes so little to recognize God behind the façade people sometimes present to the world. A few sincere words can change weariness or discouragement to an enthusiasm for life. When you greet a store clerk with a smile, you may see a sour attitude melt into helpfulness. Your smile signifies your expectation of service and completion, and the person receiving your pleasant demeanor responds in kind. You are truly the creator of your world of experience.

Think about the times when you have been encouraged by a stranger’s comment. Think, too, of occasions when a remark has brought you down. You have the same power to bring light or darkness into the experience of others, friends and strangers alike; it is a matter of choice. You will find it far easier to exhibit a positive attitude toward another, for then you brighten up the day of two people – the other person and yourself.

Let the God within you reach out and touch someone with enthusiasm and kindness; you will find both reflected back in everyone you meet. Let your light shine brightly, and your world will be a mirror of your consciousness. In other words, you can make it a good – no, a great - day today.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

The Gift



The Gift of Giving
by
Barbara Harrison

As President of the Center for Spiritual Living Granada Hills Board of Trustees, I am privileged to know the good that is generated by my donations, and this has prompted me to let you know how much I and the other Board members appreciate all that you give.

Each month, the Board members go over the financial report with a fine tooth comb. Questions are asked about where the money comes from (and the channels are many). Challenges are raised about expenses. It is the job of your Board to be good stewards of the church’s money.

Your tithe or donation helps us pay your minister’s salary. It pays utilities, cleans the bathrooms (and more), maintains the copier, services the air conditioners, and purchases paper, sound equipment, and computer programs. Your money pays for repairs and upkeep of the entire building. It bought the recently installed carpet, flooring in Sparks Hall, and a dishwasher.

Some of you give specially marked funds – for our building fund, which is used to upgrade the facility; for the Good Samaritan Fund, which is used to help members who may temporarily need help; or for the Teens camp fund.

And yet, we want to do more. The Board and your minister recognize the need for a new roof, for instance. We are constantly feeling the need to make this special place as comfortable, safe, and inviting, for you and all the new people who come through our doors. And, before too long, as we continue to grow, we can look forward to the possibility of moving to larger quarters with a bigger sanctuary, more parking, and additional classrooms.

I feel a personal responsibility to the Granada Hills Center. I know that every dollar I give is appreciated and used well. This is my opportunity to tell YOU that YOUR gifts are appreciated and received with gratitude.

When you participate in the annual Conscious Giving program, you give us the ability to conduct the financial business of your center. Whenever you stretch and give just a little more, you exhibit trust in something more powerful than you could ever imagine, that has your best interest at heart. Giving is about giving yourself away, only to receive a bigger you back, although it isn’t just about getting back – it is about expressing gratitude and “paying it forward”. Giving is sharing trust, love and compassion. It is life magnified. When you give, you are given an even bigger gift – the awareness that there is always enough, and that God is your Source.