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Religion News Blog This web log highlights news items, articles and web sites of interest to Christian apologists, countercult professionals, researchers and others.

M

Mackey, Albert: See Freemasonry.

MacLaine, Shirley: Former film actress turned New Age author; seminars, channeling, pantheism, reincarnation, chakras.

Mafu: Spirit supposedly channeled by Penny Torres.

Magi Center, Inc., Paradise, CA: Psychic channeling, Higher Beings, meditation, cosmic friends, astral worlds.

Magic: (Magick) Occult ceremonial use of amulets and talismans. May involve necromancy or divination, invocation of infernal deities or use of natural elements to gain supernatural power or knowledge. The word magic is also used to describe a type of stage performance involving legerdemain (slight of hand) or illusion with no alleged psychic or occult power. This type of stage magic is not inherently evil, although occultists have occasionally used stage magic in an attempt to claim supernatural abilities.

Magic—The Gathering: A fantasy role playing card game involving Satanism, witchcraft (see Wicca), and the occult.

Maharishi Ayur-Ved Foundation: Promotes teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation.

Maharishi International University, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Fairfield, IA: New Age or Hindu beliefs, started by founder of Transcendental Meditation.

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi: Founder of Transcendental Meditation.

Mahavira: See Jainism.

Mahikari, Kutama Okada, Houston, TX: Japanese philosophy, Divine light purifies the soul, mind and body.

Malcolm X: See Nation of Islam.

Mandragore, New York, NY: Egyptian rituals, alchemy, polytheism, goddess worship, teachings of Aleister Crowley.

Mantra: Eastern mysticism or New Age term for a word or series of words that are repeated over and over either verbally or silently. The Mantra is said to help one achieve an altered state of consciousness. Often practiced during meditation or relaxation exercises.

Marah, Madison, NJ: Occult, magic, goddess worship, Egyptian revival, Wicca, moon festivals, divination, runes, astral journeys.

Maranatha Ministries, Brooklyn, MI: End-times false prophecy group. Taught Christ would return in 1998.

Mark-Age, Miami, FL: New Age, light-Body manifestations, UFOs, Lord Sananda, Christ-consciousness.

Mark Probert’s Educational Foundation and Kethra E’Da (Teachers of Light): See Church of E Yada di Shi-ite.

Martindale, Craig: Installed as president of The Way International by founder Victor Paul Weirwille in 1982. Martindale resigned leadership April 20, 2000, after a former member filed a lawsuit accusing him of forcing her into a sexual relationship.

Marxism/Leninism, Karl Marx, Frederick Engels, V.I. Lenin: Atheistic philosophy of communism based on the “class struggle” theory of socioeconomic evolution derived from dialectic materialism. Sometimes confused by the uninformed with biblical mandates to care for the poor, and the voluntary sharing of resources practiced by some primitive Christians. Marxism advocates establishment of a classless, stateless society by revolutionary force; it has always led, however, to totalitarian statism, and has never successfully eliminated any class but the bourgeoisie, the middle class, leaving the great majority of its subjects in poverty. It is militantly atheistic. Marx wrote, “The criticism of religion ends with the teaching that man is the highest being for man…” He contended that man “looked for a superhuman being in the fantastic reality of heaven and found nothing there but the reflection of himself.” Wrote Engels, “…we have once and for all declared war on religion and religious ideas and care little whether we are called atheists or anything else.” Citing Marx and Engels as his authorities, Lenin declared that “the philosophical basis of Marxism” is “a materialism which is absolutely atheistic and positively hostile to all religion.” His hostility bordered on hysteria: “Every religious idea, every idea of God, even flirting with the idea of God, is unutterable vileness … vileness of the most dangerous kind, ‘contagion’ of the most abominable kind. Millions of sins, filthy deeds, acts of violence and physical contagions … are far less dangerous than the subtle, spiritual idea of a God decked out in the smartest ‘ideological’ customs…. Every defense or justification of the idea of God, even the most refined, the best intentioned, is a justification of reaction.”

Mary's House of David, Mary Purnell, Benton Harbor, MI: Founded by the widow of Benjamin Purnell. See House of David.

Masonry: See Freemasonry.

Master of Life, Dick Sutphen, Agoura Hills, CA: New Age, Reiki, astrology, automatic writing. Publishes the Winners newspaper.

Masters, Roy: Founder of the Foundation of Human Understanding.

Matagiri Sri Aurobindo Center: New Age, yoga, Divine reality, Great Mother, self perfection.

Maya: The Hindu principle that all is an illusion and that ultimately the physical world, contacted through the conscious mind and the five senses, does not represent reality. This philosophy is also taught by many within the New Age Movement.

Maya Factor, Jose Arguelles: New Age book on which the Harmonic Convergence was based.

Mayan Order, San Antonio, TX: New Age, Unity between man’s Inner force and Cosmic Universal force. Publishes Mayan Mysteries magazine.

McKean, Kip: See International Churches of Christ.

Meditation: Entering an altered state of consciousness by use of a mantra, yoga, deep relaxation techniques, controlled breathing or visualization. Often linked to Eastern metaphysical philosophies, the New Age and/or Eastern religions, these techniques promote the emptying of the mind or the suspension of critical thinking. This is different from biblical Meditation where one is encouraged to meditate on God, His attributes or His word, employing the whole mind (Joshua 1:8; Luke 10:27).

Meditation Group for New Age, Ojai, CA: Esoteric philosophy, meditation.

Medium: A psychic or channeler who claims to be able to contact and communicate with the dead, as in a seance. Such occult communication with the dead, known as necromancy, is forbidden in the Bible.

Mega: Periodical of the New Age Community Church.

Megiddo Mission Church, L.T. Nichols, Rochester, NY: Denies Trinity; Heaven and Hell are illusions; the Devil is of man’s imagination.

Menhir: “Long Stone.” See Stonehenge.

Meridians: See Chi, Yin and Yang, Acupuncture.

Mesmer, Franz: Founder of Mesmerism.

Mesmerism: An 18th century movement begun in France by the Austrian doctor Franz Anton Mesmer, who believed that astrological influence on humans was conveyed through a force or substance similar to magnetism. He first began treating patients with magnets or charged fluids but quickly modified his position, theorizing that cures were actually coming from an energy or mysterious “magnetic fluid” coming from the hands, voice, or nervous system of the practitioner. This invisible substance or magnetism was thought to be similar to electro-magnetism and was dubbed “Animal Magnetism.” Mesmer’s pupils were later able to induce a “magnetic sleep” (trance state or hypnotic condition) in their patients. The term Mesmerism eventually became analogous with hypnosis and was linked with both Spiritualism and Mind Science religions. See Altered States of Consciousness.

Messianic Assemblies of Yahweh, North Warren, PA: Sacred Name group; publishes The Messianic Messenger newsletter.

Metaphysics: (Meta, “after” or “beyond”; physics “physical”). Originally any study or discussion of non-physical, spiritual, or non-material realities. Later, in modern usage, it usually means experimentation with, belief in, or practice of magic, psychic powers, or the occult.

Metaphysical Institute for Research and Development, Dallas, TX: New Age, Christ-consciousness, man is divine, meditation breathing, God is All.

Metaphysical Union, Hank Krastman, Encino, CA: New Age, mystic knowledge, psychic, channeling, Edgar Cayce materials. Publishes The Unexplained magazine.

Meyer, Aleta, Albuquerque, NM: New Age, psychic, channeler.

Michael, Sandra: Channeler, astral projection, rebirthing.

Midwest Research of Michigan, Walled Lake, MI: Visualization, deep relaxation techniques, Subliminal tapes.

Milieu Control: One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton’s theory of Thought Reform. Milieu control is the systematic, strict regulation of human communication, relationships, and access to outside information and alternative viewpoints.

Miller, Monte Kim: See "Concerned Christians."

Miller, William: Baptist lay minister from Low Hampton, New York who was excommunicated for teachings that Christ would return in 1844. Although Miller repented after his prediction failed and opposed further speculations, his teachings gave rise to Adventism.

Mind/Body Medical Institute, Herbert Benson, Cambridge, MA: Affiliated with Harvard Medical School, the Institute was founded by Dr. Herbert Benson, the Chief of Behavioral Medicine at Harvard, to research and train practitioners in holistic health.

Mind Control: (Thought Reform, brainwashing) While evangelicals are lack consensus on the nature, extent or, in some cases, even existence of Mind Control, the Bible does warns against seducers, deceivers, and exploiters who employ methods that can bring about spiritual harm and/or personal abuse. The Mind Control or Thought Reform model, as for instance developed by Robert Lifton, suggests that there are specific methods of deception that can be employed by abusive spiritual leaders that may result in a diminished capacity for critical thinking and suppression of autonomy in their followers. These methods are believed to involve an intense social influence conditioning program which may include a closed system of authoritarian control, manipulative, group dynamics, a system of punishment and rewards, induced dissociation or trance induction, information control, fraud, coercion, and double binds. Depending on the number and intensity of undue influence elements, and a person's own unique susceptibilities, one may experience a pseudo personality change and marked debilitation, compliance, and servitude. The Mind Control model should not be interpreted to mean that the subject is not responsible for the consequences of his or her decisions and actions. The Mind Control theory is not justification for holding individuals against their will or for conducting forcible, involuntary deprogramming.

Mind Power Technique: New Age process to read auras and balance chakras.

Mind Sciences: A generic, general classification of religious groups that hold to the belief that human beings are inherently divine and that mind or thoughts are energy forms that can create and/or alter reality. Most often used in reference to the American religions formed since the middle of the 19th century, especially Christian Science, New Thought, and Religious Science, that deny the actuality of sin, sickness, and/or death and promote health though mental practices.

Miracle Distribution Center, Fullerton, CA: A Course in Miracles promotional organization. Publishes The Holy Encounter newsletter.

Mitchell, Wayman: Founder of the Potter’s House church movement.

Mo Letters: See The Family (Children of God).

Modalism: (Patripassianism, Modalistic Monarchianism, Sabellianism, Jesus Only, Oneness Pentecostalism) Originally, a second and third century heresy that denies the doctrine of the Trinity, teaching there is only one Person in the Godhead. While the Trinity doctrine teaches three distinct Persons, modalism maintains that one Person (usually the Father) has manifested Himself at different times under different names (Jesus/Spirit) or modes. Thus, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three names for the same Person. Originally taught in various forms by Noetus, Praxeas and Sabellius. Modified forms of this doctrine can be found in the teachings of William Branham, some Apostolic churches and the United Pentecostal Church.

Mother Ruth: See Science of Man.

Mohammed: Founder of the world religion of Islam.

Monarchianism: View found primarily in the third century that denied the Trinity, arguing that because God’s nature is one He cannot exist eternally in three Persons. The two most popular forms of monarchianism were dynamic monarchianism and modalism.

Mon-Ka Retreat and Universal Mother Mary’s Garden of Healing, Energy, Love and Light, Mary Pacquette, Gabriel Green, Grass Valley, CA: Channeling, UFOs, I AM teachings of St. Germain, Ascended Masters, crystals, Rosicrucian teachings, psychic readings. Publishes the News From The Mountain Top newsletter.

Monroe Institute, Robert Monroe, Faber, VA: Out-of-Body experiences, Evolution of Human Consciousness.

Moon, Sun Myung: Founder of the Unification Church.

Moonies: Nickname for followers of Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s Unification Church. Considered a derogatory term by members.

Mormon Fundamentalism: A loose collection of doctrines and practices maintained by splinter groups of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). These splinter groups attempt to adhere to the tenets of earlier LDS leaders such as Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. Expressions of Mormon fundamentalism may include polygamy (forbidden by the LDS Church in the 1890s), communal living, and the blood atonement doctrine.

Mormonism: Common name for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Moses de Leon: See Kabbalah.

Moyers, Bill: Former Baptist who is known for his exploration of New Age themes on public television. On PBS specials he promoted Joseph Campbell’s Power of Myth as well as holistic health, i.e., New Age medicine.

MSIA, John-Roger Hinkins: See Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness.

Muhammad: See Mohammed.

Muhammad, Elijah: See Nation of Islam.

Murray, Arnold: Pastor of the Shepherd’s Chapel.

Muscle Testing: See Applied Kinesiology.

Music Square Church: See Alamo Christian Foundation.

Muslim: Follower of the religion of Islam.

Mysteria Products Company: See Dorene Publishing.

Mystical Crossroads, Atco, NJ: Occult, magick, neo-paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca). Access to over 35,000 metaphysical books; sells incense, oils, cauldrons, candles, crystals, statues and the complete “Wiccan Altar Set.”

Mystical Manipulation: One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. A group dynamic involving contrived, manipulated behavior designed to appear spontaneous which produces feelings and/or actions that are misinterpreted as spiritual phenomena.

Mysticism: The theory or belief that man can know God or religious truth through the inward perception of the mind, internal illumination, or special revelation, and that such knowledge is more immediate, direct, and reliable than that obtained by ordinary understanding or sense perception.

N

Narcanon, Los Angeles, CA: Promotes Scientology philosophy.

Nation of Islam, Elijah Muhammad: A sect of Islam originating in America composed of black Americans. Followers, sometimes called Black Muslims, believe that Allah (God) appeared in 1930 to the last great prophet Elijah Muhammad, in the person of Wallace D. Fard. Elijah Muhammad borrowed many beliefs from traditional Islam but introduced important differences. Most notable was the focus on black oppression and equating Satan and evil with the white race. Malcolm X became a notable leader of the movement in the 1960s and the focus on black supremacy and militancy escalated. Malcolm X later converted to traditional Islam and rejected radical black supremacy and was subsequently murdered. The current leader of the Nation is Islam is Louis Farrakhan. Profile available.

Nation of Yahweh, Yahweh ben Yahweh (a.k.a., Hulon Mitchell, Jr.), Miami, FL: Sacred Name group; believes God is Black and that Mitchell is God.

National Council for Geocosmic Research, Westchester, IL: Astrology, magic, karma. Publishes the Tree of Life newsletter.

National Institute for Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine, Mansfield Center, CT: Hypnosis, visualization, Neuro-Linguistic Programming.

National Spiritual Science Center, Alice Tindalli, Washington, D.C.: Pantheism, Universal Creative Energy.

National Spiritualist Association of Churches, Cassadaga, FL: Occult, spiritualism, mediums.

Native American Spirituality: The religious beliefs, practices, and rituals associated Native Americans. Early Native American beliefs, though diverse, often shared common religious ideas. Many believed in a “Great Spirit,” that nature in all of its forms possesses spirits (animism or spiritism), and that all life is interconnected. Seasons and moons often were viewed as marking times of evocation for spirits and prosperity. Some New Age believers promote revival of Native American spirituality, seeing obvious parallels with their own views.

Natural Law Party: Political party started by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the father of Transcendental Meditation (TM). Critics allege it exists to promote the Maharishi’s religious movement at taxpayers’ expense through campaign matching funds provided for political candidates in the United States.

Nature’s Sunshine, Kristine Hughes, Spanish Fork, UT: Holistic health, especially iridology, reflexology, muscle testing; also visualization. Publishes the Natures Field newsletter.

Near-death experience (NDE): Any paranormal or supernatural experience had when a person is near death, including experiences when a person thinks he or she has died and returned from death. Reports of NDEs have become numerous in recent decades due to advances in medical technology that make it possible to revive people from comas and other critical conditions. Many patients report having out-of-body experiences (OBEs) while they were unconscious or comatose.

Necromancy: A form of divination in which a person attempts to discover the future or obtain other information through communication with the dead, typically using occult methods.

Nelson, Bernard, San Antonio, TX: Occult, talisman, charms, amulets, UFOs, alchemy. Publishes The Illustrated Cosmic Machine newsletter.

Neo-Orthodox Christianity: Development associated with the strong reaction of Swiss theologians Karl Barth and Emil Brunner against the barrenness of liberal Christianity. They felt that Scripture, although a flawed, fallible, human product, could still be used by God to accomplish His purposes. Thus the Bible becomes inspired in its proclamation when the Holy Spirit quickens faith and obedience in its hearers. Thus, like liberalism, this view results in a subjective, existential encounter, which denies absolute propositional truth in revelation.

Neo-Paganism: The modern revival of paganism, emphasizing witchcraft (see Wicca), goddess worship, and nature worship.

Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church: See Proclus Society and Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church.

Nettles, Bonnie Lou: See Heaven’s Gate.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP): New Age. Techniques developed by Richard Bandler and Dr. John Grinder that allegedly enable practitioners to read random eye movements and other visual cues during conversation or counseling to “program” a client’s behavior and restructure their core beliefs. Called “software for the brain,” it is supposed to be faster and more powerful than traditional clinical counseling and can work without the subject’s conscious knowledge. The co-founders have been heavily involved with other New Age practices. NLP failed scientific tests conducted by the U.S. Army.

New Age: See the Definitions section in the introduction. Profile available.

New Age Church of The Christ, Thomas Printz, Long Island, NY: Ascended Masters, karma, death is an Illusion, Father-Mother God, man is divine.

New Age Church of Truth, Gilbert Holloway, Deming, NM: New Age, ESP, Impressional Readings, psychic development.

New Age Community Church, Phoenix, AZ: New Age. Publishes Mega magazine.

New Age Journal, Brighton, MA: New Age periodical.

New Age Medicine: See Holistic Health.

New Age Music: While there is music composed to promote New Age philosophy and/or facilitate altered states of consciousness and meditation, much of the music sold as such is not explicitly New Age in doctrine. Some light jazz, instrumental music has been labeled (or re-labeled) “New Age” simply as a marketing category.

New Age Symposium, Houston, TX: New Age periodical.

New Age Teachings, Brookfield, MA: New Age, meditation, cosmic vibrations, divine energy.

New Church: See Swedenborg Foundation.

New Dimensions Foundation, San Francisco, CA: New Age, shamanism, Native American spirituality, homeopathy, goddess worship, Sufism.

New Life, Vernon Howard, Boulder City, NV: New Age, channeling, cosmic power.

New Life Clinic, Baltimore, MD: Parapsychology, psychic phenomena, clairvoyance. Headquartered at Mount Washington Methodist Church. Associate director, Olga Worrall, and her husband, Ambrose Worrall, are also affiliated with Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship and the Association for Research and Enlightenment.

New Life HealthCenter, Bo-In Lee, Jamaica Plain, MA: Treats illnesses (from eating disorders to cancer) through Eastern medicine. See Holistic Health, Acupuncture, Accupressure.

New Realities, Washington, D.C.: New Age periodical.

New Thot Free Thot, Bill Greenhouse, Los Angeles, CA: Seeks to combine the teachings of Christian Science, Unity School of Christianity and New Thought philosophy.

New Thought: One of the branches of the mind sciences; unlike Christian Science, New Thought usually maintains the reality of matter and is more liberal and pluralistic in its views. Teaches that the Christ is only a principle that was embodied in Jesus as in other religious figures.

New Times, Seattle, WA: New Age periodical.

New World Publishing, Phoenix, AZ: New Age, uses A Course in Miracles, channeling, Christ-consciousness, pyramidology.

New Worlds, St. Paul, MN: Catalog of occult publisher Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.

New World Translation: Official Bible translation published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. Key verses have been inaccurately rendered especially to obscure the deity of Christ. This translation has been universally rejected as inaccurate by competent Bible scholars.

Newbrough, John: See OAHSPE.

Nichiren Shoshu of America (NSA): Former name of Soka Gakkai International (SGI).

Nightingale-Conant, Chicago, IL: Publishes books and audio tapes on personal growth, business, positive mental attitude, and self help. A significant portion of their material contains New Age themes.

Nirvana: Hindu state of enlightenment or bliss.

Niscience, Glendale, CA: New Age, karma, thought talisman, meditation, Christ-consciousness.

Nizhoni School of Global Consciousness, Galisteo, NM: Higher self, Kundalini, meditation.

NLP: Acronym for Neuro-Linguistic Programming.

Noahides: See B’nai Noah.

Nova 8, Pueblo, CO: Mother Earth, Christ-consciousness, Native American “Great Spirit” is at the heart of all beings. Publishes the Living Love newsletter.

Nova Mystery School: Alchemy, Atlantis, Druids, shamanism, Kabbalah.

The Nubian Nation of Moors: See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek.

Numerology: The occult use of numbers in divination to discover hidden knowledge. Often associated with the Kabbalah, magic, psychics and witchcraft (see Wicca).

Nuwaubians: See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek.

O

OAHSPE, John Newbrough: A 921 page “Scripture” written in 1881 by John B. Newbrough, a psychic and spiritualist who was allegedly gifted in ESP. OAHSPE is translated “sky, earth, spirit.” See Universal Faithists of Kosmon. Oasis Fellowship, Florence, AZ: Similar to Unity School of Christianity.

Occult: From the Latin word, hidden. See under the Definitions section in the introduction.

Occult Americana, Panesville, OH: Occult / pagan periodical.

Odinism: A return to the gods of Norse mythology, Odin being the chief or supreme god, also known as Woden or Wotan. Originally worshipped as the god or warriors or leaders, it is his responsibility to delay, as long as possible, Ragnarok, the day of doom. He gained use of the Runes and passed these on to men.

Olcott Library, Wheaton, IL: New Age library, Theosophy, parapsychology, reincarnation.

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, Hudson River Valley, NY: New Age, aromatherapy, Kabbalah studies, astrology, crystals, Mystical Quest.

Omega Press, New Lebanon, NY: Sufism. Publishes the Omega Press newspaper.

One to Grow On, Trenna Sutphen, Malibu, CA: New Age, subliminal tapes for children, magic, and higher self.

Oneness Pentecostalism: (Jesus Only) A heresy that emerged from the mainstream Pentecostal movement during the years 1914–1916. Unlike traditional Pentecostals, “Oneness” followers deny the doctrine of the Trinity in favor of a view similar to Monarchianism. In addition to this heresy, most Oneness Pentecostal organizations also teach that speaking in tongues, baptism (in Jesus’ name only), and maintaining various moral “standards” are necessary for salvation. See Salvation by Works, Modalism. Profile available.

Order of Rhea, Chicago, IL: Magic, paganism, occult.

Order of the Cross, J. Todd Ferrier: States of realization, Christhood (see Christ-consciousness), meditation.

Order of the Solar Temple: Headed by Luc Jouret and Joseph Di Mambro, this group dabbles in New Age holistic health, Rosicrucian-like rites. 53 members were victims of suicide and/or murder in Switzerland and Canada in 1994. Profile available.

Order of the Star: See Krishnamurti Foundation of America.

Ordo Adeptorum Invisiblum, Chicago, IL: Magic rituals, Egyptian goddess Maat, teachings of Aleister Crowley.

Ordo Templi Ashtart (OTA), Pasadena, CA: Rosicrucianism splinter group. Publishes The Seventh Ray journal.

Ordo Templi Baph-Metis (OTB), James M. Martin, Corpus Christi, TX: Occult, Satanism.

Ordo Templi Orientis: Occult, Satanism. See Crowley, Aleister.

Orr, Leonard: See Rebirthing International.

Orthodox Christianity: Generically the term orthodox refers to traditional, conservative forms of Christianity, upholding the traditional Christian beliefs about God as a Trinity and about Jesus Christ as taught in the church’s early creeds. In this sense orthodox Christianity includes conservative Roman Catholics, and Protestant, evangelical Christianity, and is opposed both to liberal Christianity within Christian denominations and to the teachings of the cults. More specifically, the term Orthodox (with a capital O; or, Eastern Orthodox) refers to the state churches of Eastern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean who split with Roman Catholicism of the West largely over the issue of papal authority.

Ouija Board: Occult “game” using wooden board and pointer which spells out messages allegedly from the dead (a form of necromancy). Many such messages are derived from the subconscious of the operators; however, there is always potential for demonic influence.

Our Lady of Enchantment, Sabrina, Danville, CA: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca), “the craft,” goddess worship, moon festivals, psychic powers.

Out-of-Body Experience (OBE): Any experience in which a person believes that his or her spirit has temporarily left the physical body and then returned to that same body. Some OBEs are associated with near-death experiences; others are induced through occult or mystical practices, especially in Astral Projection.

P

Pacific Institute, Louis Tice, Seattle, WA: New Age, stress management seminars, changing core beliefs.

Pacific West Fellowship: Splinter group of The Way International.

Pagan Spiritual Alliance, Selena Fox, Mt. Horeb, WI: Paganism, worship of gods and goddesses, Mother Earth. Publishes Circle magazine.

Pagan Way, Philadelphia, PA: Paganism, denies reality of sin.

Paganism: Historically, paganism has been used as a generic term to describe primitive non-Christian religions and superstitions, including religions centered on the occult. More recently paganism is used as an umbrella term referring to Wicca/witchcraft, ceremonial magic, nature worship, polytheism (especially female deities), and ancient mythologies (Celt, Norse, Egyptian, Greek and Roman).

Palm Reading: (Chiromancy) The occult practice of divination, i.e., predicting the future or gaining hidden knowledge, by reading the shape, lines, or markings on the palm of the hand.

Pan African Orthodox Christian Church, Detroit, MI: Founded by Albert B. Cleage, Jr. a.k.a. Jaramogi Abebe Agyeman. Part of the Black Christian Nationalist Movement. Teaches Jesus is the Black Messiah sent to rebuild the Black Nation Israel and liberate the Black People from oppression, brutality, and exploitation of the white gentile world (from the Black Nationalist Creed).

Pan-American Indian Association: Promotes Native American spirituality.

Panentheism: View of God taught in Process Theology.

Pantheism: The belief that all is One and that One is God, thus all is God. This God is an all-encompassing, impersonal principle or force. A central doctrine for most eastern religions and New Age groups.

Papa Jim San Antonio, TX: Occult, paganism, talismans, herbs. Publishes the Papa Jim quarterly catalog. See Cesar.

Parapsychology: The study of ESP and other supernatural phenomena dating to the foundation of the English Society of Physical Research in 1882 and continued through laboratory research at Duke University Parapsychology Laboratory, Stanford Research Institute and elsewhere. This movement attempts to give scientific validity to occult and/or paranormal activities such as the alleged psychic abilities of Uri Geller.

Parascience Institute, Evanston, IL: Psychic powers, yoga, psychometry, auras, telepathy.

Past Life Regression: New Age practice associated with hypnosis which allows one to discover one’s past lives; assumes reality of reincarnation.

Pastoral Bible Institute, Milwaukee, WI: Bible Students group.

Path of Light, Charlotte, NC: New Age, auras, chakras, Universal Mother, reincarnation.

Pathways: Ramana Maharshi, Sarasota, FL: Mixture of Hinduism and Taoism. Publishes Pathways: The Journal of Spiritual Traditions.

Patrick, Ted: Controversial practitioner of deprogramming.

Patripassianism: Name for a kind of modalism or monarchianism; the word means that the Father (patri-) suffered and died (-passian) on the cross.

Peace Community Church, Washington, D.C.: Jesus the mystic, “crystal clear vibration” techniques, Christ-consciousness, mystical meditation.

Peace Mission Movement: Based on the teaching of founder Father Divine, which contains elements of New Thought, asceticism, perfectionism, utopian communalism, and denies existence of race and strictly prohibits discrimination among members. Requires all members to turn over all property and income, severing all ties to everything but the Peace Mission. Room, board, and a small allowance for incidentals are provided in exchange for otherwise unpaid labor in Peace Mission owned businesses or projects. Father Divine did not actually claim to be God, but he fostered the belief in his followers, and required loyalty and obedience from them due only to God. The group claims the biblical prophecies about the coming Jewish Messiah and Christ’s second coming were all fulfilled by Father Divine.

Peace Pole: New Age / occult; poles or obelisks around which people sit in order to practice meditation or visualization of World Peace or other topics important to those meditating.

Peacevision, Houston, TX: Visualization; known for the blue and white bumper stickers that read “Visualize World Peace.”

Peale, Norman Vincent: Was a popular writer, promoter of the belief in the power of positive thinking popularized through the interfaith magazine, Guideposts. Peale’s views of Christianity were heavily influenced by his mentor Ernest Holmes, the founder of Religious Science, and also reflected the philosophies of New Thought, and Unity.

Pearl of Great Price: One of the scriptures or “Standard Works” of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Peck, M. Scott: New Age author and lecturer influenced by Buddhism and Eastern metaphysics. His best known book is The Road Less Traveled.

Pelley, William D.: New Age author.

Pentagram: An important occult symbol consisting of a five-pointed star with a single point at the top that is used in ceremonial magic, often representing the Microcosm. Called a Pentacle when depicted with a circle around it. The Pentagram is considered a positive force—the opposite of the Goat’s Head or Baphomet symbol that is made by inverting the Pentagram (two points at the top).

Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW), Indianapolis, IN: Oldest of the Apostolic churches. Oneness Pentecostal. Publishes Christian Outlook.

Pentecostal Churches of Apostolic Faith: Oneness Pentecostal denomination.

People House, Denver, CO: New Age, subjective truth, Inner wisdom guiding, karma.

People’s Temple Christian Church, Jim Jones, Jonestown, Guyana: Jones, influenced by Unitarian Humanism, Father Divine, and Marxism, founded his church in 1977. He later claimed at various times to be God, Buddha, and Lenin. In 1978 at Jones’ command, 914 people (including Jones) committed suicide or were murdered. The group is now defunct.

Peyote: Hallucinogenic used by some Native American and New Age groups as a sacrament in order to produce altered states of consciousness.

Peyote Way Church of God, Anne L. Zapf, Willcox, AZ: Native American rituals, use the drug peyote as a sacrament. Publishes The Sacred Record newsletter.

Phanes, Grand Rapid, MI: New Age, paganism, goddess worship, alchemy, Kabbalah.

Philadelphia Church of God, Gerald Flurry, Edmond, OK: Armstrongism splinter group. Publishes The Philadelphia Trumpet magazine.

Philadelphia Congregation of Yahweh, William Scampton, Philadelphia, PA: Sacred name group. Publishes the Yahweh’s Watchman magazine.

Philosophic Community Center, Denver, CO: New Age, Egyptian rites, man is Divine. Publishes the Colorado Mind, Spirit and Soul Report newsletter.

Philosophical Publishing Co., Quakertown, PA: See Rosicrucianism.

Philosophical Research Society, Manly P. Hall Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Kabbalah, past lives (reincarnation), third eye, Buddhism, Zen, Christ Principle (cf. Christ-consciousness).

Pike, Albert: See Freemasonry.

Plain Truth, The: Magazine of the Worldwide Church of God.

Planet Health, Arlington, TX: Yoga, meditation.

Plural Covenant: See Dual Covenant.

Poltergeist: From German (“rattling ghost”); an apparently supernatural disturbance attributed to a ghost or spirit. Usually associated with the visible movement of physical objects by an unseen spiritual (that is, occult) force. See Demon, Spiritualism, Necromancy.

Polytheism: The belief in the existence of a plurality of gods, in contrast to monotheism (one God) or atheism (no God or gods). Examples include Greek, Roman and Norse mythology; ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, and Assyrian religions; and some forms of neo-paganism, Wicca, and New Age belief. Some forms of Hinduism combine polytheism with pantheism (all is God). The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches a form of Christianized polytheism, since it holds that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three Gods and that human beings can become exalted to Godhood.

Positive Confession: Alternative name for the Word-Faith movement.

Potter’s House, Wayman Mitchell, Prescott, AZ: Originally called Victory Chapel, churches affiliated with Mitchell go under the names Praise Chapel, The Door, Grace Chapel, The Christian Fellowship, La Capilla de la Victory, La Casa Del Alfarero, and La Puerta. Begun in 1970, Mitchell has over 1,000 churches in 73 countries including Mexico, South America, Australia, Europe, and the Philippines. Numerous former members have alleged mind control and authoritarian/abusive leadership, and the group was the focus of a CBS News 48 Hours investigative report. Mitchell’s churches are not affiliated with the Potter’s House in Dallas, TX, pastored by T. D. Jakes. Also, The Door is not affiliated with the religious satire magazine by the same name.

Power for Abundant Living: Older name for the main recruitment and initial indoctrination course (and book by the same title) for potential members of The Way International, as developed and taught by its founder Victor Paul Wierwille. His successor, Craig Martindale, produced a revised version of the course entitled The Way of Abundance and Power.

PPPANA, Macan, GA: New Age, yoga, meditation, goddess worship.

Praise Chapel: See Potter’s House.

Prana: See Chi.

Presleyterianism: See First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine.

Process Church of the Final Judgement, Robert de Grimston: Occult, Three Great Gods who are Jehovah, Lucifer, and Satan. Dualism—unity of Christ and Satan, both are equally good and should be loved. Grimston who wrote, As It Is, was ousted in 1974. Several splinters formed. Charles Manson was reported to be a member at one time.

Process Theology: Built on the philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead, process theology is a heresy within liberal Christianity that holds that reality is becoming rather than being - in process rather than static. The Bible has a relative authority in that it concurs with one’s own self-evident experiences, rather than having absolute authority over all human experiences and beliefs, as in evangelical Christianity. Process theology teaches panentheism (God is in all), which is to be distinguished from pantheism (God is all). Panentheism teaches that even though God is somehow transcendent, He also includes the world within Himself. Therefore, God is in “process,” evolving along with creation into future possibilities. Some New Agers (e.g., Matthew Fox) and some Mormons have found value in process theology.

Proclus Society and Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church, Chicago, IL: Mixture of occult, Theosophy and Rosicrucianism; teaches yoga, and astrology.

Project X: See Jamilian University of the Ordained.

Prophet, Elizabeth Clare and Mark: See Church Universal and Triumphant.

Prosperity Doctrine: Alternative name for Positive Confession; the term also can apply to some Mind Science teachings.

Prosperos, Thane, Santa Monica, CA: New Age, occultism, yoga, claims people become God. Publishes The Prosperos newsletter.

Prosveta U.S.A., Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov, Los Angeles, CA: Yoga, clairvoyance, esoteric Hinduism. Publishes the Circle of Light newsletter.

Protestantism: Often used generically of all Christian churches that are neither Roman Catholic nor Orthodox, the term more specifically refers to the movement that originated in the 16th century Reformation. Luther, Zwingli, Calvin and others led efforts to correct, reform or “protest” the errors in doctrine and practice that they saw in medieval Roman Catholicism. The 16th century Protestants saw their main doctrinal differences with Catholicism to include: Soli Deo Gloria (“only to God’s glory,” God’s wisdom and glory as opposed to church/papal sovereignty); Sola Scriptura (“Scripture only,” the authority of the Bible over official Papal interpretation and tradition), and Sola Gratia (salvation “by grace alone,” eternal life received from God as a free gift by grace through faith in the imputed righteousness of Christ rather than by works, rituals, or sacraments).

PROUT, Northampton, MA: An acronym for Progressive Utilization Theory, a Hinduism-based spiritual program teaching meditation and yoga that claims to enable life forms to progress from animals to divinity. PROUT is promoted by Ananda Marga, who hopes to establish through practice of the Theory a single world government and religion. Proutist Universal, Ananda Marga’s formal organization for promoting PROUT, publishes Prout Journal and Global Times.

Psionics: See First Universal Church of God-Realization.

Psychedelic Venus Church San Francisco, CA: Paganism, goddesses Venus and Aphrodite.

Psychiana, Frank Robinson: New Age, metaphysics, not all have sinned, similar to Christian Science or Unity School of Christianity.

Psychic: Occult, New Age. A person with alleged supernatural or paranormal powers used to gain hidden knowledge apart from five senses (divination); or, that which relates to such person or gift. Profile available.

Psychic Healing: An occult form of New Age, holistic health care involving the alleged use or balancing of healing energy through touch or hand movements by the practitioner over the patient to bring health. Also, employing spirit guides to aid in health.

Psychic Learning Center, Martha Woodworth Rockport, MA: Occult/New Age, Tarot reading, psychic advisors.

Psychokinesis: Supposed ability to control movement of physical objects by the power of the mind alone, apart from the laws of natural physics.

Psychomancy: A form of divination based on communication with spirit entities or ghosts.

Psychometry: The supposed ability to discover facts about an object or an individual connected with it, by being close to, or in contact with, the object.

Psynetic Foundation, Anaheim, CA: New Age, channeling, astrology, promotes A Course in Miracles. Publishes Psynetic Calendar newsletter.

Puranas: Hindu sacred scriptures consisting of myths, legends, and historical events; also occasionally used by those in the New Age movement.

Pursel, Jach: New Age, channeler of spirit entity called Lazaris.

Pyramid Power: The belief, typically based on pyramidology, that ancient pyramids or the geometric shape of a pyramid generates or directs occult power or energy. Profile available.

Pyramidology: Study of the Ancient Egyptian and/or Central American Mayan pyramids, which are believed to possess keys to hidden mystic knowledge or secret spiritual messages. See also Pyramid Power. Profile available.

Q

Qabalah/Qabbalah: Alternative spellings for Kabbalah.

Quartus Foundation, John Price, Boerne, TX: New Age, meditation, healing the planet, Journey to the Fourth Dimension.

Quest For Excellence, Dallas, TX: New Age, Star Chamber for altered states of consciousness, self-realization, metaphysics.

Quimby, Phineas P.: Mesmerist and healer whose metaphysical theories influenced Mary Baker Eddy (founder of Christian Science)and New Thought and other Mind Science religions.

R

Radiant School, Kenneth Wheller, Mount Shasta, CA: New Age, Ascended Masters, Great White Brotherhood.

Radical Feminism: An outgrowth of the more moderate feminist movement which sought to influence societal views and laws to reflect women’s equality and opportunity with men in all areas of culture. Radical feminism, however, pushes for a revolution to free themselves from male enslavement and exploitation. Among those holding this ideology are some lesbians who attempt to perpetuate an actual anti-male position. Theologically, radical feminism finds influence in diverse religious traditions including liberal Christianity, liberation theology, goddess worship, Wicca, neo-paganism, and New Age beliefs. The diversity of the movement aids in widespread recruitment and promotes otherwise unusual political and religious alliances.

Raelian Religion, The, Claude Vorilhon (a.k.a. Rael): UFO group founded by French journalist Vorilhon, who claims to have communication with god-like extraterrestrials known as the Elohim. Publications include: Apocalypse (a quarterly magazine), The Book Which Tells the Truth, and Sensual Meditation. Profile available.

Rainbow, Dallas, TX: New Age, psychic, meditation, metaphysics, uses A Course in Miracles text, shamanism. Publishes the Rainbow newspaper.

Rainbow, Charlotte, NC: New Age, Ascended Masters, rebirthing, past life regression. Publishes the Pathways newsletter.

Rainbow Earth Dwelling Society, J. Christine Hayes, San Antonio, TX: New Age, chakras, telepathy, Tarot.

Rainbow Group (Rainbow People): Nomadic, New Age, communal society found mostly in the southeastern U.S.

Raja Yoga: See Yoga.

Ram Dass, a.k.a. Richard Alpert: New Age guru.

Ramtha: Spirit entity supposedly channeled by J. Z. Knight.

Rastafarianism, (Ras Tafari, Rastas) Marcus Garvey: African/Jamaican religion. Teaches that the late king of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, is God. Profile available.

Ray, Sondra: See Rebirthing International.

REACH, Inc. (a.k.a. Holyland), Bishop Luke Edwards, Meridian, MS; Emele, AL: Extreme Oneness Pentecostal group, formerly associated with Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. Both adults and children raise funds by going on the “route” (going on the road for weeks at a time to solicit funds). The most common approach is for children to solicit funds outside stores under the pretense of raising money for abused children. Profile available.

Rebirthing: New Age. Participants rid themselves of negative karma (traumas/problems) by being regressed back to the womb and reenacting the trauma of their birth experience or previous births (reincarnation). Originally hot tubs or saunas were used but later practitioners developed “dry” rebirthing techniques.

Rebirthing International, Leonard Orr: Co-author of Rebirthing in the New Age with Sondra Ray; helped develop and popularize the New Age practice of rebirthing.

Recovery Version of the New Testament: Version used by the The Local Church.

Redaction criticism: A relatively new branch of biblical literary criticism that attempts to infer the theological purposes of the “redactors” (anonymous editors, compilers, or revisers) who are thought to have helped to rewrite or shape various books of the Bible (especially the Gospels) into their final form. Whereas form criticism focuses on discerning the literary form and origins of specific passages, redaction criticism focuses on the use of those passages to convey the message of the book as a whole. Redaction criticism assumes that the book in question was written using different sources that were selected and edited to emphasize or convey certain theological concepts. Scholars in liberal Christianity typically assume further that the books that draw on the same sources (notably the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke) use those sources to convey conflicting ideas. Scholars in evangelical Christianity are divided as to whether a mild form of redaction criticism can be legitimately employed without impugning the inerrancy of the Bible.

Redfield, James: New Age astrologer and author of the best-selling fiction, The Celestine Prophecy.

Reflexology: New Age, holistic health practice that purports to heal the body through massaging certain parts of the foot or hand that allegedly correspond to the major organs of the body. It is sometimes believed to work by opening blocked meridians in the body which will then allow the body’s energy or chi to flow freely. The foot or hand is seen as a microcosm of the human body and/or the universe.

Reformation: The 16th century movement initiated by Martin Luther, initially intended to correct, protest, or reform the doctrines and practices of Roman Catholicism. Luther’s efforts (later joined and expanded by Zwingli, Bucer, Calvin and others) quickly developed into a complete break with Catholicism. The reformers’ major doctrinal issues included a rejection of: the authority of the following: the authority of the Pope, church control of Bible translation and interpretation, a distinction in value between laity and clergy, and salvation being a product of the church and its sacraments (salvation by works). A more thorough (and in some cases unorthodox) reform occurred with the Radical Reformation—the orthodox Anabaptist movement being an example. To various degrees, virtually all Protestant denominations today share a common heritage concerning the issues of the Reformation.

Reiki: New Age, metaphysical theory of holistic health involving the movement of the practitioner’s hand over and near (but not on) the patient’s body to allegedly balance or redirect energy chakras.

Reincarnation: Belief originating with religions of the East (e.g. Hinduism) that when a person dies he has the ability to come again to the earth, inhabit a new body, and live as many lives as needed to progress towards a religious goal. Whereas Hindus typically believe that reincarnation includes transmigration of souls between animal, plant, and even inanimate forms, New Age believers typically restrict reincarnation to human and celestial forms. Reincarnation generally assumes a doctrine of karma. The idea is the basis for the practice of attempting past life regression.

Religious Science, Ernest Holmes: One of the Mind Sciences, professes to represent the best thought of all religions. Similar to New Thought.

Remnant of YHWH, Mark Deacon, Abilene, TX: Sacred Name splinter group from House of Yahweh; teaches Sabbatarianism, British Israelism.

Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS), Former name of largest Mormon splinter group. See, Community of Christ.

Restoration Branches: A conservative split from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints [RLDS] (now known as, Community of Christ) that holds what they believe to be a more classical, historical RLDS understanding of basic doctrines, Joseph Smith, and the Book of Mormon. They generally view the institutionalized Community of Christ church as being too liberal in theology and perhaps on social issues as well.

Reverend Ike, a.k.a., Frederick Eikerenkoetter, II: Pantheism; general prosperity doctrine.

R I Research, New York, NY: New Age; selects people called Beyonders, claims to possess Superior Essence.

Rice, Anne: Author of The Witching Hour, Vampire Chronicles, Interview with A Vampire, and other books with occult subject matter.

Rice, Nancy, Broomfield, CO: New Age, Tarot cards, psychic counseling, past life regression, clairvoyance.

Right Knowledge: See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek.

Righteous Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gerald Peterson, Cedar City, UT: Small polygamous, Mormon Fundamentalist splinter group of about 100 people. Peterson claimed that the spirit of Rulon Allred, who founded the Corporation of the Presiding Elder of the Apostolic United Brethren, returned to restore the priesthood to him.

Right Way, The: See Chen Tao.

Road Less Traveled, The: Book written by Peck, M. Scott.

Roberts, Jane: New Age, channeler of spirit entity called Seth.

Robins, Anthony (or Tony): Business consultant, empowerment, personal transformation and motivational speaker whose theories often contain New Age philosophies.

The Rock of Ages: Annual music concert and convention held by The Way International.

Rocky Mountain Institute of Yoga and Ayurveda, Denver, CO: Eastern mysticism, karma, Tantra, Raja and Bhakti Yoga.

Rocky Mountain Research Institute, Fort Collins, CO: Paranormal research, reincarnation, self-realization, dowsing, hypnosis.

Rocky Mountain Spiritual Emergence Network, Boulder, CO: New Age, magic, mystic rituals, astrology, alchemy. Publishes the R.M.S.E.N. Times newsletter.

Roman Catholicism: Diverse worldwide religious tradition that officially looks to the Pope and his predecessors/successors as God’s human leader of world Christianity. Because of its size and scope—both in membership (about a billion people worldwide) and geographically, the actual beliefs held by devout Catholics are widespread and eclectic. Catholicism has been influenced by liberation theology, especially in parts of South America. In Africa, the Caribbean, and elsewhere, attempts have been made to blend Catholicism with spiritism, creating a type of Catholicism with occult elements. In addition, since the 1960s there has been a small but significant element of charismatic Catholics who have been influenced by the larger charismatic movement. A small percentage of Catholics are doctrinally evangelical, and others (such as Matthew Fox) are part of the New Age movement. As a whole, however, the differences between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism are still seen most clearly in the issues of the Reformation. The 16th century reformers distinguished themselves from Catholicism in two key ways. First, they saw the Bible as the sole foundation for authority (sola scriptura) rather than the Pope, church dogma or tradition. Second, the reformers taught salvation by “grace alone” (sola gracia). They also insisted that sola gracia could be faithfully maintained only by understanding the gospel to be the message of a free pardon and righteous standing with God through “faith alone” (sola fide) in the imputed righteousness of Christ. The Roman Catholic Church claimed (and still claims) to affirm sola gracia, but anathematized sola fide, teaching instead that grace is received and maintained by a combination of faith plus works (religious rites, sacraments, or human endeavor).

Ro-Hun Therapy: Balancing the energy fields of the human body (see chi).

Rosicrucian Anthroposophic League, S.R. Parchment, New York, NY: Break-off of Rosicrucian Fellowship.

Rosicrucian Fellowship, Max Heindel, Oceanside, CA: Reincarnation, chakra, astrology. See Rosicrucianism.

Rosicrucian Foundation, Swinburne Clymer, Quakertown, PA: Oldest group of Rosicrucianism in the U.S.; reincarnation, astrology.

Rosicrucian Order, a.k.a. Ancient and Mystical Order of the Rosae Crucis (AMORC), H. Spence Lewis, San Jose, CA: Most successful organization promoting Rosicrucianism in the US. Esoteric reinterpretation of Christianity; mixture of occult alchemy, astrology, Secret Wisdom of past Masters, secret society, magic.

Rosicrucianism, Christian Rosenkreutz: (Literally the “Rose cross”) Occult secret society allegedly founded in 1407 in Germany by Christian Rosenkreutz, who was under the influence of Egyptian occultism. The movement has fragmented into a number of competing organizations promoting variations of the same general pantheistic, occult themes. Similar to Theosophy.

Rowan Tree, Paul Beyerlf, Minneapolis, MN: Paganism, Mother Earth, magic, astrology. Publishes The Littlest Unicorn newsletter.

Rune: A figure or character in the ancient Nordic magical alphabet of 24 symbols. They are used for divinination of the future, performing magic, or evoking Norse deities.

Russell, Charles Taze: Founder of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society.

S

Sabbatarianism: Generally the view that the Old Testament Sabbath commandment is to be observed unchanged by the church. As used in this index, Sabbatarianism refers to an extreme form of the belief in which membership in the true church, or even salvation, is conditional upon keeping the Sabbath law. As such, Sabbatarianism is at the least a form of legalism and at most a denial of salvation by grace. In most cases, the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday) must be observed by refraining from work, sports, and travel from sundown Friday evening to sundown Saturday evening. The belief is often accompanied by the observance of Jewish dietary laws and/or other Old Testament feasts.

Sabellianism: Alternative name for Modalism.

Sabin, Robert: A well-known Oneness Pentecostal pastor, writer, and speaker.

Sabo, Sandra, Gloucester, MA: Channeler, crystal healing, spirit guides.

Sacred Cycles, Bette Barr-Glover, San Juan Capistrano, CA: Paganism, divine feminine in each person, numerology, astrology, guided meditation. Publishes the Sacred Cycles newsletter.

Sacred Mushroom and the Cross, The, John Allegro: Book and corresponding church by the late Dead Sea Scroll scholar, Dr. Allegro. “Jesus” is allegedly the New Testament code word for a mushroom to be used as a sacrament to induce hallucinations and altered states of consciousness.

Sacred Name movement: Although some Orthodox Jews and others believe that the name of God is too sacred to speak (and/or fully write), as used in this Index the Sacred Name movement refers to a modern movement that claims that God must be addressed by a form of the Divine Name in the Old Testament (Yahweh, Jehovah, Yah, Yahvah, or some other preferred form). Whichever one true name is chosen, all other terms or names for God are considered incorrect or references to false deities. Salvation, it is believed, depends on referring to God by His correct name. Most Sacred Name groups also teach Sabbatarianism and observe Old Testament dietary laws and feasts.

Sacred Order of Mystic Christianity, Mountain View, CA: New Age, mystic keys, Inner God, Christ within, higher self.

Sacred Science: One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. The group considers their doctrines and beliefs to be sacred and beyond question. Thus, no alternative viewpoint is allowed to exist and open consideration of alternative ideas and free discussion are quashed.

Sadhana Society Prescott, AZ: New Age, ESP, Astral Projection, telekinesis, levitation, clairvoyance.

Sage Center, Ann Garner, Arlington, TX: New Age, Use The Urantia Book as the primary text.

Sage Woman, Point Arena, CA: Paganism, Egyptian rituals, goddess worship.

Saint Germain: See I AM Movement, Ascended Masters.

Saint Germain Foundation, Schaumburg, IL: Similar to the I AM Movement.

Salvation by Grace: The doctrine and message of the gospel that eternal life is not gained by or conditioned on works but is an undeserved and free gift from God received through faith in Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior who died for our sins and rose from the dead. Contrasted with salvation by works.

Salvation by Works: Any doctrine that denies salvation by grace alone by teaching that eternal life is merited, earned, conditioned, or maintained through human effort, religious ritual, financial donations, obedience to laws/commandments, church membership, and/or moral behavior.

Samhain: (pronounced Sah-ween) Alternative name for Halloween.

Sanctuary of Gaia, Santa Cruz, CA:Gaia, paganism, Earth festivals.

Sanctuary of Revealing Light, Mildred Smith: Spiritualism; see also International General Assembly of Spiritualists.

Sankirtana: Religious chant or mantra repeated over and over to draw practitioners into an ever closer state of God-consciousness.

Santeria: Literally “worship of the saints,” a syncretism of Roman Catholicism and traditional African polytheistic religions established when African slaves were introduced to the Caribbean. Elements include animal sacrifice and voodoo.

Satan, (The Devil, The Serpent): Lucifer, a high ranking angel who wanted to be exalted to the position of God. Through this sin, Lucifer fell and became Satan, the Devil, leading a large number of rebellious angels with him who became the demons. Satan and his host now seek to destroy the plan and people of God. He will ultimately fail and be eternally punished (Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:10).

Satanic Bible: Scripture of the Church of Satan written by the late Anton LaVey.

Satanism: Represented by two separate groups, secular and traditional Satanists. The secularists do not believe in in a literal, personal, spiritual being called Satan, but rather consider Satan to be an archetype or symbol that represents the ideas of Satanic philosophy. Various satanic ideals include self-interest, indulgence, an anti-herd mentality, and an emphasis upon rational self-interest. Examples of modern Satanism include The Church of Satan founded by Anton LaVey and now led by Peter Gilmore as High Priest, Michael Aquino's Temple of Set, and Lord Egan's First Church of Satan. Traditional Satanism, which involves the worship of the Satan of the Bible through a perversion and parody of Roman Catholicism, appeared in the fifteenth century coming out of the Inquisition. Contemporary expressions of traditional Satanism are rare, and popular elements of it, including the testimonies of alleged former Satanists and Satanic Ritual Abuse have been discredited.

Savior of All Fellowship, Montclair, CA: Universalism.

School for Esoteric Studies, New York, NY: Masters of Wisdom include Jesus; influenced by Alice Bailey. See Arcane School.

School of Ageless Wisdom, Arlington, TX: Occult, teachings of Alice Bailey. See Arcane School.

School of Alchemy, Boulder, CO: Occult, alchemy, Kabbalah, goddess worship.

School of Metaphysics, Dennis Rodgers, Norman, OK: New Age, reaching ultimate potential, karma, astral projection, clairvoyance.

School of Natural Order, Ralph M. deBit, Baker, NV: Mixture of ancient Egyptian, Greek and Eastern philosophies.

School of Thought, Hope Troxell, June Lake, CA: New Age, Cosmic Brotherhood.

Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures: Principal text of Christian Science.

Science of Man, Mother Ruth, Portland, OR: An esoteric and mystical order reviving the doctrines of the now defunct Holy Order of MANS.

Science of Mind: Textbook of Religious Science, written by its founder, Ernest Holmes.

Science of Mind Church, Lunn Gardner, Mobile, AL: New Age, channeling, intuitive powers.

Scientology: See Church of Scientology.

Scripture Research Association, College Park, MD: Sacred Name movement, the names Jesus and Christ are pagan.

Scully, Nicki, Eugene, OR: Egyptian rituals, magic, Mayan ceremonies.

Seance: A meeting, usually involving a medium, in which there is a deliberate attempt to practice necromancy by contacting or communicating with the dead using occult methods.

Search and Prove, St. Paul Park, MN: New Age, karma, astral projection, astral plain, Ascended Masters.

The Secret Doctrine: See Theosophy.

Secrets, Norma Cox, Marshal, AR: UFOs. Publishes the Secrets newsletter.

Seeing Beyond, Capitola, CA: New Age, psychic, pyramidology, Reiki.

Self-Realization Fellowship, Paramahansa Yogananda, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Awaken the God within, yoga, meditation.

Self-Revelation Church of Absolute Monism, Swami Premananda, Washington, D.C.: Pantheism.

Serpent Seed: Doctrine that alleges Eve’s sin in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3) was sexual. Eve had intercourse with the Serpent and begot Cain, whose father is really Satan not Adam. Cain’s descendants were supposedly somehow perpetuated after the flood (usually through Noah’s son Ham). Diverse groups teach variations of this doctrine. Cain’s descendants are: Jews according to the Christian Identity Movement, Communists/Atheists according to the Unification Church, Whites according to the Nation of Yahweh, the lost according to William Branham, etc.

Seth: Spirit entity supposedly channeled by Jane Roberts.

SEVA, CRISTAL: See Spiritual Human Yoga.

Seven Oaks, Madison, VA: New Age, channeling, Celebration of Female Spirit, Native American Vision Quest, Mother Earth, Gaia.

Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA), Washington, DC: The largest Adventist church. Ellen G. White, who claimed to have “the spirit of prophecy,” was an important early leader of the movement and taught a number of distinctive SDA doctrines, including the Investigative Judgment and Sabbatarianism. While the church’s official theology now appears to be generally in the tradition of evangelical Christianity, certain SDA claims and unique doctrines continue to raise questions. These doctrines include the SDA belief that Sunday worship will result in the “Mark of the Beast,” imbalanced teachings on keeping the commandments (baptism, Sabbath observance) that often implies a kind of salvation by works, the “Remnant Church” doctrine that implies that the SDA is or will be God’s only true church, and the doctrine of the Investigative Judgment. Profile available.

Shafenberg Research Foundation, Ernest Shafenberg, Kingfisher, OK: New Age, occult, iridology, reflexology, astrology, channeling, reincarnation, psychic readings.

Shamanism: Spiritual world view of Native American and other early cultures that believe that “shamans,” witch doctors or spiritual leaders, can provide healing, guidance (i.e., divination), or wisdom through the occult, spiritism, or altered states of consciousness. The shaman’s soul is sometimes believed to leave the body during a trance (see out-of-body experiences, astral projection), at which time the shaman will speak with beings from the other worlds or assume animal forms.

Shambhala Institute, Asheville, NC: New Age, visualization, Transcendental Meditation.

Shambhla Publishing, Boulder, CO: New Age publisher

Shared Heart Foundation, Joyce and Berry Vissell, Aptos, CA: New Age, promotes numerous mystical and esoteric writers.

Shenoa Retreat Center, Philo, CA: New Age, consciousness healing, uses A Course in Miracles, Hinduism, Buddhism.

Shepherding: Christian growth is allegedly facilitated by yielding personal freedoms to a discipler or “shepherd” who controls virtually every aspect of an individual’s life. This is a form of spiritual abuse, a manipulative distortion of true biblical discipleship that can ultimately rob individuals of their liberty and autonomy that is to be found in Christ. Used by many traditional cults, as well as by some religious organizations that are not cultic in their basic doctrine.

Shepherd’s Chapel, Arnold Murray Gravette, AR: Denies the Trinity, teaching instead a doctrine similar to Modalism. Also teaches that humans existed as “gods” in a pre-creation existence with God. Advocates British Israelism and a form of the serpent seed doctrine. Profile available.

Shintoism: (Shen-Tao “the way of the gods.”) Ancient polytheistic religion of Japan that focuses more on Japanese Culture, traditions, attitudes and ideology rather than a system of doctrines or code of ethics. The roots of the movement are obscure, but it eventually developed into the idea that Japan, unlike other countries, was uniquely fathered by the god Izanami, whose consort, the goddess Izanagi, gave birth to the Japanese islands. Consequently the concept evolved that Japanese people are divine and superior to other humans. In one form of the religion, State Shintoism, the Japanese emperors were seen as infallible descendants of the gods. Today devotion centers around public shrines and home altars dedicated to ancestors and gods. The sun goddess Amaterasu is the chief deity worshipped, and a belief in kami, a form of spiritism, is also maintained.

Shiva: The “destroyer,” third member of the triad of gods in Hinduism, the others being Brahma and Vishnu.

Shriners: See Freemasonry.

Shunning: (Disfellowshipping) An effective technique of control used by Jehovah's Witnesses and other groups to instill discipline, punish, or maintain idealistic purity. Members who do not maintain the group's behavioral expectations or who disagree on dogma are isolate the current, faithful members. This includes, in most cases, even family members or friends, who are not allowed to talk or share a meal with the shunned. The faithful, who violate the rule and communicate with the dissident, can themselves be shunned. The practice has been identified as a form of milieu control, one of the characteristic marks of cultic mind control.

Siddha Yoga Dham of America, Swami Muktananda Paramahansa, South Fallsburg, NY: Eastern mysticism, meditation, God-Realization.

Siegel, Bernie: New Age author/doctor promoting meditation, spiritism, visualization and holistic health.

Sikhism, Nanak: A religion, based mostly in the Punjab province of India, that attempts to blend Hinduism and Islam. The movement is based on a vision and subsequent teachings of founder Nanak in the 15th century AD. Disciples, called Sikhs, follow the one true God named Sat Nam (“True Name”). Their main scriptures are contained in the Granth Sahib (“The Lord’s Book”), compiled by the guru Arjan, and salvation is viewed as a merging with the universal force (as in pantheism).

Silva Mind Control, Jose Silva: New Age, seminars, changing core beliefs, holistic health.

Silver, Marshall, Tempe, AZ: New Age empowerment seminars, hypnosis.

Singer, David: New Age, seminars, based on Church of Scientology.

Singh, Sant Thakar: See Kirpal Light Satsang.

Sino-American Buddhism Association, San Francisco, CA: Basic Buddhism philosophy.

Smith, David J.: See Church of God Evanglistic Association.

Smith, Joseph: Founder of The Church of Jesus Christof Latter-day Saints.

Societas Rosicruciana In America, Palmer, New York, NY: Astrology, reincarnation.

Society for Organizational Learning (SoL), Boston, MA: An affiliate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the SoL researches and promotes learning organizations that facilitate institutional evolution and the rethinking of conventional and reactionary beliefs.

Society of Pragmatic Mysticism, Mildred Mann, New York, NY: Esoteric Christianity, karma, reincarnation.

Solar Quest, Seneca, MD: New Age, God is the Higher Energy Force, cosmic energies, vibration patterns, homeopathy.

Soka Gakkai Buddhism, Nichiren Daishonin: A mystical form of Buddhism based on the teachings of 13th century Japanese fisherman Nichiren Daishonin, who taught that the true interpretations of Buddha’s teachings were recorded in the Lotus Sutra.

Soka Gakkai International (SGI), Daisakqu Ikeda, Santa Monica, CA: A cult of Soka Gakkai Buddhism, formerly named Nichiren Shoshu of America. The sect promotes enlightenment though gongyo. This involves kneeling before a gohonzon (black wooden box containing passages from the Lotus Sutra), quoting this scripture, and chanting the daimoku (“nam-myoho-renge-kyo”). Compared with other forms of Buddhism, this sect is very aggressive in their missionary efforts. This sect allegedly practices mind control, authoritarianism and desires world power.

Solar Temple: See Order of the Solar Temple.

Songs of David, Marvel, TX: See Church of the Most High God.

Sons of Noah: See B’nai Noah.

Sophia: Greek goddess of wisdom also personified in neo-paganism Goddess worship.

Soul Sleep: (Psychopannychy) The doctrine that human souls sleep or cease conscious existence between death and resurrection. Usually (but not always) a doctrine associated with Adventism.

Soulmates: Marriage partners from previous lives. See Reincarnation.

Southern Dharma Retreat Center, Hot Springs, NC: New Age/Hinduism, yoga, teaches from A Course in Miracles, meditation.

Sovereignty, Inc., Eastsound, WA: New Age periodical.

Spangler, David: Prominent New Age writer and lecturer.

Spell: In witchcraft or Wicca, a ritual to affect a person or the future supernaturally or magically. Often involves incantations, and the ceremonial use of herbs, candles, knives, or other occult paraphernalia.

Spirit Electronic Communication Society, Manchester, England: A spiritualist organization founded in 1949 devoted to study Zwaan Rays, an alleged energy field that supposedly can arouse latent psychic abilities in humans.

Spirit of Prophecy Ministry, Las Vegas, NV: Predicted the return of Christ in 1998. Publishes Insights into Prophecy.

Spiritism: Specifically, the belief found in many primitive Cultures that inanimate objects, plants and/or animals are possessed by spirits (good or evil) which must be appeased through occult practices. More generally, the term can refer to any alleged contact with spirits through occult techniques.

Spiritual Abuse: The damage or mistreatment of someone seeking spiritual or religious help or guidance. This injury can occur when someone uses a spiritual position or office to exercise an improper and unhealthy domination or control over followers. Legalism can be a form of spiritual abuse. Profile available.

Spiritual Advancement of the Individual Foundation, Sai Baba, Los Angeles, CA: Eastern philosophy, avatars, Akashic records, teachings from the so-called lost years of Jesus. Publishes the Sathya Sai newsletter.

Spiritual Advisory Council, Orlando, FL: New Age, psychic counseling, Mastering the Life Force; promotes Benjamin Creme and Steve Halpern’s works.

Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship International, Author Ford, Philadelphia, PA: Spiritualism, metaphysics, paranormal phenomena, ESP, biofeedback, holistic health. Joseph Fitch and Martin Ebon, and Elizabeth Fenske are popular leaders in the movement. Affiliated with the Academy of Religion and Psychical Research.

Spiritual Hierarchy Information Center, Ft. Lauderdale, FL: New Age, cosmic Christ-consciousness.

Spiritual Horizons Church, Houston, TX: Esoteric Christianity, channeling, Tarot cards, Reiki.

Spiritual Human Yoga (SHY), Luong Minh Dang (a.k.a. Kong King Knhang): Doomsday cult whose founder was arrested in Belgium but released on 50 million francs bail in April 1999. Dang relocated to St. Louis, MO, in June 1999 and started SHY there. He claims to be able to heal through “laying on of hands,” but his techniques have been banned in several countries due to child deaths. Dang has operated under several names, notably Human Universal Energy, and the Institute for Human and Universal Energy Research, Inc.

Spiritual Research Society, Edward Cain, Grand Rapids, MI: New Age, Great White Brotherhood, channeling, cosmic-consciousness.

Spiritual Science Institute, Santa Barbara, CA: New Age, hypnotic future life progression, UFOs, channeling, esoteric teachings.

Spiritualism: A movement that began in 1848 with the “raps” of the Fox Sisters (Kate and Margaret) in Hydesville, NY. A form of spiritism normally associated with mediums or channelers, who contact the spirits of the deceased (a form of necromancy).

Spring Hill Institute, Robert Gass and Judith Gass Tierre: New Age, Inner Awareness.

Stallone Astrology Center, Jacqueline Stallone, Toluca Lake, CA: Astrology center founded by the mother of actor Sylvester Stallone.

Star Center for the Americas, Montgomery, TX: New Age, pantheism, Divine light or Christ light, meditation, karma. See also Church of the White Eagle Lodge.

Starlight Mystic Awareness School, Diane Tessman, Poway, CA: New Age, channeling life Forces, UFOs. Publishes The Star Netword Heartline newsletter.

Star Quest, Argyle, TX: New Age, visualization, chakras, guided meditation.

Starshine Center, Corpus Christi, TX: New Age, Reiki, astral projection, past life regression, UFOs.

Stelle Group, Richard Kieninger, Stelle, IL: Become One with God, The Brotherhood is the Holy Spirit.

Steps to Awareness, Telluride, CO: New Age, yoga, channeling, crystals, voodoo, rebirthing, Native American spirituality.

Sterling Management: Promotes philosophy of the Church of Scientology through business management services, aimed mostly at dentists, chiropractors, doctors, and veterinarians.

Stil-Light Retreat Center, Waynesville, NC: New Age, meditation, Buddhism, Christ-consciousness, Theosophy.

Stonehenge: Circular cluster of upright stones called menhirs (long stones) located in Salisbury Plain about 80 miles west of London, England. Various theories of its origins include the belief that ancient Druids built the site as a temple or that it was created by extraterrestrials (cf. UFOs). Some New Age followers, neo-pagans, and others believe that the site has mystical powers or energy.

Students International Meditation Society: A branch of Transcendental Meditation.

Subliminal Messages: Words or messages communicated at a level below the conscious mind’s ability to perceive. Allegedly, messages can enter directly into the subconscious mind, thus by-passing the rational/logical center of the individual’s brain.

Subud, Bapak Mohammad Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo [1901-1987]: Originated in Java, Indonesia, Subud has spread worldwide. Subud stands for three words, Susila, Budhi, and Dharma. The three words taken together mean, “to follow the Will of God with the help of the Divine Power that works both within us and without, by the way of surrendering oneself to the Will of Almighty God” (Internet; http://www.subud.org/english/english.Btalk.html). This surrendering of oneself occurs primarily in a spiritual exercise known as the latihan (sometimes, latihan kejiwaan), a trance like state that can produce anything from ecstatic movement and utterance to profound calm. Disengagement of the “passions, desires, and thinking” is essential for entrance into the latihan. “Only by surrendering himself completely to God, not making use of his mind, his heart or his desire, is it possible for man to come into contact with the Power of God” (Ibid.). Thus all the higher critical faculties that set man apart from beast must be suspended. Whatever the experience thus induced, it is simply to be surrendered to and “received.” From a Christian point of view this is a perfect recipe for demonic possession. Regular practice of the latihan enables one to discern one’s true self, which apparently turns out to be God. “So this Divine Power, which works in us during the exercise, will bring to each person what is already in himself…. Therefore, Bapak says that it is God Who will lead you toward Himself and what really happens in the latihan is that you will be introduced to your real inner self—to the real ‘I’. You must not be afraid and you must not be worried because whatever comes to you in your latihan is only what is in you, and it comes from your inner self. It is the real you that arises in the latihan,…” (Ibid.).

Sufi Order of the Sons of the Green Light, New York, NY: See Sufism.

Sufism: Mystical sect of Islam. Rather than focusing on the Five Pillars of Islam, Sufis seek ultimate religious experience through mystic trances or altered states of consciousness, often induced through twirling dances (the “whirling dervish”). Although the Qur’an is considered scripture, many practitioners have more in common with the New Age movement than with classic forms of Islam.

Summit Lighthouse/Summit University: See Church Universal and Triumphant.

Summum, Salt Lake City, UT: New Age, UFOs, ascended consciousness, mummification.

The Sun Chapel Hill, NC: New Age periodical.

Sundoor, Peggy Dylan, Twain Harte, CA: New Age, self-realization, Native American spirituality, firewalking.

Superet Brotherhood for Mankind, Josephine C. Trust, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Father-Mother God, auras, Bible Mysteries.

Supersensonic Energy Technologies, Boulder Creek, CA: New Age health, crystals, God is a force, pyramidology.

Sutphen, Dick: See Master of Life.

Sweat Lodge: Native American spiritual ritual associated with spiritual purification ceremonies and rites.

Swedenborg Foundation, Emanuel Swedenborg, New York, NY: Denies the Trinity, rejects many books of the Bible. Swedenborg a geologist and scientist who left his Lutheran background to become a medium and mystic. He wrote Arcana Coelestia: The Earths in the Universe. Latter-day prophet, spiritism, automatic writing. Publishes Chrysalis. Profile available

SYDA: See Siddha Yoga Dham of America.

Synchronicity Foundation, Faber, VA: New Age, Hatha yoga, meditation.

T

Taff, Signe Quinn Sedona, AZ: New Age, astrology.

Taj Mahal, Agra, India: A 17th-century mausoleum considered to be a holy building by some, including New Age followers.

Talisman: Small stones or amulets believed to possess power in themselves to guard against evil spirits or for use in the invocation of demons by sorcerers. Also an ancient occult belief that certain objects or symbols contain supernatural magical powers, used for attraction of love, health, success and power to control nature or others. Closely aligned with witchcraft (see Wicca) and magic.

Tao, TaoTe Ching, Tao Tsang: See Taoism.

Taoism, Lao-tzu: Chinese philosophy teaching that there is no personal God—all is the impersonal Tao (similar to the impersonal God-force of pantheism in Hinduism). The Tao is composed of conflicting opposites (Yin and Yang) which should be balanced or harmonized through yoga, meditation, etc., to promote spiritual wholeness. According to legend, Taoism founder Lao-tzu wrote Tao Te Ching (“The Way and Its Power”) about 550 BC. His teaching was developed and spread in the third century BC by Chuang-Tzu, whose writings inspired the Tao Tsang, 1200 volumes of Taoist scripture.

Tara Center, Benjamin Creme, North Hollywood, CA: New Age, Maitreya is Jesus returned, Christ-consciousness. Publishes The Emergence newsletter and Share International magazine.

Tarot Cards: Occult, used for divination.

Teachers of Light: See Church of E Yada di Shi-ite.

Technicians of the Sacred, Burbank, CA: Occult, Santeria, voodoo, magic, Gnosticism.

Temple of Danann, Michael Ragan, Hanover, IN: Paganism/occult, magic, Wicca, astrology.

Temple of Kriya Yoga, Goswami Kriyananda, Chicago, IL: New Age, rebirthing, karma, astrology, astral projection, yoga.

Temple of Set, Michael Aquino: Satanism, Egyptian rituals, magic.

Temple of the Ascended Master, Ted M. Pierce, Yarness, AZ: New Age, channeling, God within, karma erasing.

Temple of the People, William Dower, Halcyon, CT: Mixture of I AM and theosophical philosophy.

Temple of the Psychedelic Light and the Church of the Realized Fantasy, Daniel Rakowitz, East Village, NY: Satanism, human sacrifice, cannabilism.

Temple of the Universe, Amrit Desai, Alachua, FL: Eastern mysticism, yoga, guided meditation.

Temple of Truth: See Light of Truth Church.

Teresa, Joan (Power Products) Mars Hill, NC: See Joan Teresa Power Products.

Teutonic Temple, Clarence Bartholomew, The Dallas, OR: Occult, sacred feasts, paganism.

Texas Wholistic Network, Azel, TX: Christ-consciousness, higher self. Publishes the Lightworker newspaper.

Theosophical Society in America, Wheaton, IL: Main organization in the Theosophy movement.

Theosophical Society – International, Pasadena, CA: Offshoot of Theosophy.

Theosophy, Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky: The Word “theosophy” literally means “God wisdom.” Founded in 1875 to form a universal brotherhood of humanity. Teaches pantheism, reincarnation, striving for Christ-consciousness, and occult and paranormal phenomena. Important early leaders include Colonel Henry Steel Olcott, William Quan Judge, and Annie Besant. Important texts include Isis Unveiled, The Secret Doctrine, and The Golden Book of the Theosophical Society. Similar and/or related to the Arcane School, the I AM Movement, the Liberal Catholic Church, and Rosicrucianism.

Theosophy Company, Los Angeles, CA: Offshoot of Theosophy; see United Lodge of Theosophists.

Therapeutic Touch: New Age holistic health practice developed by Dolores Krieger and Dora Kunz of using alleged body energy (chi) to heal a patient. Therapists move their hands just above the surface of the patient, never actually touching the body. This process is said to release the body’s natural psychic energy, thereby physically healing the body. Becoming very common in nursing schools and hospitals throughout America. Similar to Reiki. Profile available.

Third Eye: Highest chakra, supposedly found in the middle of the forehead.

Thought Reform: Robert Lifton’s term for Mind Control, more popularly known as brainwashing.

Thought Trends, Roswell, GA: New Age newspaper.

Tibetan Buddhism: (Lamaism) A blending of Buddhism with the occultism of Tibet which developed in the 7th century AD Lamas (priests) are perpetually led by the Dalai Lama who is worshipped as the most recent reincarnation of Bodhisattva Chenresi.

TM: Acronym for Transcendental Meditation.

Torres, Penny: New Age, allegedly channels the spirit entity Mafu.

Touch for Health: See Therapeutic Touch.

Touch Stone, San Francisco, CA: Occult/paganism periodical, Wicca, runes.

Touch Therapy: See Therapeutic Touch.

Trance: An spontaneous or induced altered state of consciousness, similar to hypnosis, which is often employed by channelers and mediums.

Trance Channeling:See Channeling.

Transcendental Meditation, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi: (TM) New Age, altered state of consciousness, yoga, promises to expand creativity, self-awareness, and world peace. At the group’s Maharishi University in Fairfield, IA, TM students attempt levitation through meditation techniques. Profile available.

Transformational Seminars: New Age, stress management.

Tree of Knowledge, Westchester, IL: New Age, astrology, higher consciousness, Tarot, past life regression, Fall moon meditation. Publishes the Tree of Knowledge newsletter.

Trick or Treat: See Halloween.

Trinity: A doctrine held historically by orthodox Christianity. The one true God eternally exists as three distinct Persons — the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The three are co-equal, co-eternal, and one in essence. This doctrine contrasts with both Modalism and Tritheism.

Tritheism: The belief in three separate Gods. A denial of the Trinity doctrine and a form of polytheism.

Triumph Prophetic Ministries Church of God, William Dankenbring, Altadena, CA: Armstrongism splinter group; publishes Prophecy Flash.

Triumph Publishing: See Triumph Prophetic Ministries Church of God.

True Mother and True Father: Titles of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church, and his wife.

Tucson Tabernacle, Tucson, AZ: See Branhamism.

Two by Twos: Alternative name for Cooneyites.

U

UFOs: Acronym for Unidentified Flying Object.

UG, Farmingdale, NY: Eastern mysticism, Applied Kinesiology.

Unarius Academy of Science/Unarius Education Foundation, Ruth Norman/Ernest Norman, El Cajon, CA: UFOs, reincarnation, channeling, psychic communication.

Understanding Inc., Daniel Fry, Tonopah, AZ: UFOs, Atlantis, ESP.

Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs): The term is used generally for all reported sightings of unidentified objects in the sky, most of which turn out to be natural phenomena (e.g., Venus) or man-made craft (e.g., weather balloons). More specifically, the term UFOs refers to allegedly sighted “flying saucers” or other alien spacecrafts. UFO beliefs can range between innocuous speculation that extraterrestrial beings may have visited Earth to quasi-religious devotion to the alleged presence and teachings of aliens. Often these beings are believed to be non-physical (spiritual) entities who are communicating telepathically (psychically) with contactees. Their messages are virtually always contrary to biblical beliefs.

Unification Church, Sun Myung Moon, New York, NY: Full name, Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity. Jesus brought only spiritual salvation; another “savior” is needed to fulfill Jesus’ mission. Moon is that Messiah (or Christ) and “Lord of the Second Advent.” This group has over 200 front organizations. Moon’s Divine Principle is scripture. See Serpent Seed. Profile available.

Unitarianism: Generically, the rejection of the doctrine of the Trinity in favor of the idea that God is exclusively one person. Unlike monarchianism or modalism, which view Jesus as a manifestation of the unipersonal God, or subordinationism, which views Jesus as a secondary divine being (e.g., the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society), Unitarianism views Jesus as a mere human being. Specifically, the term refers to the Unitarian movement that originated in late 18th-century New England and to the denominational body that merged with the Universalists in the 20th century to form the Unitarian-Universalist Association.

Unitarian Universalist Association: A denomination formed in 1961 by the merger of the American Unitarian Association (the principal religious body teaching Unitarianism) and the Universalist Church in America (which emphasized universalism). While the two parent denominations were rooted in liberal Christianity, the UUA does not even profess to be a specifically Christian body. Its churches exhibit an eclectic blend of liberal Christianity, humanism, atheism, and neo-paganism.

United Church of God: Armstrongism splinter group.

United Church of Jesus Christ: Oneness Pentecostal.

United Lodge of Theosophists, New York, NY: See Theosophy.

United Pentecostal Church International: The largest Oneness Pentecostal church body.

United Research, James V. Goure, Black Mountain, NC: New Age, Christ-consciousness, energy fields, meditation, extra-dimensional communication. Publishes the U R Light newsletter.

Unitology Thought, Indianapolis, IN: Meditation, visualization.

Unity Churches: Affiliated with the Unity School of Christianity.

Unity of Knowledge Foundation, Edith May Custard, Arlington, VA: Mixture of Theosophy and the teachings of Alice Bailey.

Unity School of Christianity, Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, Lee’s Summit, MO: New Age. God is the invisible, intangible something called Life. The Father is Principle, Jesus was the most complete manifestation of the One Mind, and the Holy Spirit is the activity of the God-Mind in the consciousness of man. Denies the reality of evil, pain, sickness and death. Profile available.

Unity Village: Unity School of Christianity headquarters in Lee’s Summit, MO.

Universal Christian Movement, Glencoe, IL: God is Power, uses Mind Power for healing; all humans are God. Publishes The Christian Liberation newsletter.

Universal Faithists of Kosmon, George Morley: Occult, karma, “at-one-ment” with the All Highest, channeling. Uses OAHSPE for text.

Universal Harmony Foundation, Seminole, FL: Practical Metaphysics, REALization, Deity-and-Man.

Universal Life Church, Kirby Hensley, Medesto, CA: All people have the right to do what they feel is right; subjective truth.

Universal Life Church of the Seven African Powers, Miami, FL: Santeria; honor the god Ogun.

Universal Life Temple, New Port, MI: New Age, Atlantis, aura, fifth dimensional consciousness, levitation, telepathy.

Universal Light of Christ Church, Pat RaimondoAzle, TX: Raimondo claims that Jesus appeared to her; latter day revelation, Christ-consciousness.

Universal Mother Mary’s Garden: See Mon-Ka Retreat…

Universal Network, Aztec, NM: UFOs, space communiqués, cosmic telepathy, spiritual hierarchy. Publishes Universal Network newsletter.

Universal Spiritualist Association, Chesterfield, IN: Spiritualism, occult, medium, reflexology, ritual magic, divine within.

Universal Temple of Divine Light, Don Slocum, Baton Rouge, LA: New Age, spirit entities, reincarnation, pantheism, Satan and Evil are illusions.

Universalism: Generically, the belief that all people will eventually receive salvation and eternal life. Many different groups hold to universalism from various perspectives and for diverse (and sometimes opposing) reasons. This doctrine is prevalent in liberal Christianity (among both Protestants and Roman Catholics), as well as in the New Age movement and in most non-monotheistic world religions. Specifically, universalism refers to a movement dating from the late 18th century that originally affirmed universalism on the basis that Jesus’ redemptive death paid for the sins of all people. As universalism developed it came to affirm that people are acceptable as they are and that no atonement or redemption from sin is needed or provided.

Universariun Foundation, Inc., Portland, OR: New Age, Ascended Masters, channeling.

University of the Christ Light, Charlotte, NC: New Age; inner states of consciousness; man is the essence of God (cf. pantheism); Jesus was an Essene (i.e., a member of a first-century Jewish sect that New Agers theorize was more New Age than Jewish); Universal Mother.

University of the Trees, Christopher Hill, Boulder Creek, CA: New Age, meditation for children, balancing energies (cf. chi), yoga.

University of the 12 Rays of the Great Central Sun: See University of the Christ Light.

Upanishads: One of the books considered scripture in Hinduism.

Upper Triad, Manassas, VA: New Age, pantheism, karma, many paths to God, astral body. Publishes The Upper Triad newsletter.

URANTIA Book, The: Written in 1955, this 2,097 page book reflects a 19th century psychically inspired gospel. Allegedly, Earth’s true name is Urantia, and it is part of the universe of Nebadon (itself part of the larger universe of Orvonton) ruled by a committee. The Nebadon commission of twelve, acting under the direction of Mantutia Melchizedek, supposedly delivered portions of the book to earth. Several organizations view the book as scripture. Profile available.

URANTIA Brotherhood, Chicago, IL: URANTIA-based group established in 1955 and reorganized in 1989 after a corporate shakeup. See Fifth Epochal Fellowship.

URANTIA Foundation, Chicago, IL: Established in 1950. Holds the copyright on The URANTIA Book.

Urshan, Andrew: An early, well-known Oneness Pentecostal writer and speaker.

V

Vedas: A compilation of four holy writings forming the oldest sacred scriptures of Hinduism.

Verse 1 of Psalms 91, Marvel, TX: See Church of the Most High God.

Virgin Birth: The belief that when Jesus was conceived and born of Mary she was a virgin, and that Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18–25).

Vishnu: The preserver and second member of the triad of Hindu demigods-gods including Brahma and Shiva.

Vision Quest: Native American spiritual ceremony involving out-of-body experiences or astral projection; also called the Way of Inner Journey.

Visions Travel, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, crystals, dowsing, visualization, spiritual energies.

Visualization: New Age practice of using one’s imagination allegedly to affect or manipulate reality. Meditating on, affirmation of, or “naming” of an object or goal, which supposedly creates the desired effect through “mind over matter.” See Maya.

Voice of Reality, Phoenix, AZ: New Age newspaper.

Voice of the Olive Tree, Inc., Bernard Harland, Monrovia, CA: Latter day prophet, Jesus’ second coming was predicted for 1986 (see false prophecy).

Voodoo: African religion, animal sacrifice, chants and incantations.

Vorilhon, Claude: (Rael) See Raelian Religion.

W

Waldorf Schools: Based on the occult and esoteric teachings of Rudolf Steiner, founder of the Anthroposophical Society.

Walpurgisnacht: Alternate name for Beltane.

Warren Bible Students: See Bible Students.

Watchman Nee: See The Local Church.

Watchtower: Magazine published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society; full name, The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom.

Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, Charles Taze Russell, Brooklyn, NY: Satan is the originator of the idea of the Trinity. The Father is the supreme God whose real name is Jehovah. Jesus is a created being known originally as Michael the Archangel; he is “a god,” not Jehovah. Jesus only rose spiritually, not bodily, from the dead. The Holy Spirit is the impersonal active force of God. Only the anointed class (or little flock) numbering 144,000 will go to heaven, while faithful “other sheep” will live eternally on a paradise earth; the lost will cease to exist (annihilationism). Publishes the Watchtower and Awake! magazines, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (their own version of the Bible), as well as numerous books. Originally called International Bible Students, followers today are called Jehovah’s Witnesses. Research material available. Profile available.

Way Corps, The: See The Way International.

Way International, The, Victor Paul Wierwille New Knoxville, OH: Jesus is not God or co-equal with God the Father, a Unitarian doctrine of God; latter-day verbal call from God to reestablish the true church. The group meets in small groups called Twigs, usually in members’ homes. Main recruitment course is the Way of Abundance and Power, which replaced the old Power for Abundant Living (PFAL) . The American Christian Press is their publishing arm. Their annual concert/convention, the Rock of Ages, has been discontinued. Current leader is Rosalie F. Rivenbark, installed as third president after resignation of Craig Martindale, who was under accusation of sexual misconduct. The Way has experienced several splits in recent years. Profile available.

Way to Happiness: Twenty-one point ethics formula written by L. Ron Hubbard promoted by the Church of Scientology for use in elementary education.

Weil, Andrew: A medical doctor who helped popularize New Age alternative medicine or holistic health in his book, Spontaneous Healing.

Western Nath Order, Seattle, WA: Paganism, magic, guardian spirits, Inner being of Supreme light.

Whirling Dervish: See Sufism.

White Dove International, Stuart Wilde, Taos, NM: New Age, human potential, higher self, stress reduction seminars.

White Dove Partridge: See Mon-Ka Retreat…

White Eagle: See Star Center for the Americas.

White, Ellen G.: See Seventh-day Adventist Church.

White, Walter: See Followers of Christ Church.

Whitelights, Westlake Village, CA: New Age, channeling, goddess Ashtoar and Athena, astral planes.

Whitney, Michael: See American Temple.

Whittaker, Terry Cole: See Terry Cole-Whittaker.

Whole Life Network, Santa Cruz, CA: New Age, psychic, visualization, shamanism, rebirthing. Publishes the Whole Life Network quarterly.

Wholistic Innerworks Foundation, Randy Barns, Durango, CO: New Age; holistic health, specifically therapeutic touch, reflexology, Reiki, crystals, medicine women.

Wicca: The practice of witchcraft, nature worship, worship of the Gods and Goddess, paganism and neopaganism, various groups with assorted names. In modern form, it is a revival of pagan religions (neo-paganism) and the worship of “pre-Christian” Gods and Goddesses. A common creed is, “Do what you will, and harm none.” Modern Wicca owes much to the influence of Gerald B. Gardner and has been further advanced by the writings of Patricia Monaghan, Silver Ravenwolf, the late Doreen Valiente, and the leading occult publisher Llewellyn World Wide Ltd. In popular culture, films and television programs such as The Craft, Practical Magic, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and Charmed have helped attract teens and children to this growing religion. See Magic. Profile available.

Wierwille, Victor Paul: See The Way International.

Wikima Arlington, TX: Occult, paganism, crystal ball readings, spirit guides, shamanism.

Wilde, Stuart: Prominent New Age author and lecturer.

Williamson, Marianne: Prominent New Age author and speaker. Best known for her book, A Return To Love; also wrote Illuminata and other books. See A Course in Miracles for underlying theology.

Willow Keep, Wilton, NH: Paganism, talismans, crystals, magic, goddess quest.

Windsong Explorations, Bonnie Simrell, Nederland, CO: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, therapeutic touch, chakra balancing.

Wisdom Institute of Spiritual Education, Dallas, TX: New Age, God-within.

WISE International, Los Angeles, CA: Acronym for Worldwide Institute of Scientology Enterprises; promotes Church of Scientology.

Wise Woman Center, Susan Weed, Woodstock, NY: Pagan, goddess worship, Equinox and Halloween festivals.

Witchcraft: See Wicca.

Witness Lee: See The Local Church.

W.J. Publishers, Brother Stanley, Toronto, Ontario: New Age, Cosmic-Psychic Treatment, Egyptian rituals.

Woman’s Circle, El Prado, NM: New Age, shamanistic journeys, visualization, Native American medicine bags.

Women’s Federation for World Peace, Hak Ja Han Moon, New York, NY: Connection with the Unification Church.

Womyn Healing, Sandra Boston de Sylvia, Greenfield, MA: Paganism, guided meditation, visions, Gaia festivals.

Word-Faith Movement: A movement based in large part on the teachings of E. W. Kenyon (1867-1948) that became a distinct movement under the teaching and leadership of Kenneth Hagin, a Pentecostal faith-healing evangelist. God himself is said to have created the world and to do all that he does by speaking words of faith. Man’s creation in God’s image is commonly understood to mean that human beings are “little gods” capable of speaking creative words of faith. The fall of Adam into sin is interpreted as having transformed Adam (and all unredeemed people) into Satan’s nature and as having transferred Adam’s godhood or dominion on earth to Satan. Jesus is believed to have become man in order to restore human beings to godhood as renewed “incarnations” of God. He is said to have done this by dying spiritually as well as physically on the cross, suffering in hell, and then while in hell becoming the first person to be “born again,” before finally being raised from the dead. Those who believe in Jesus are supposedly empowered to speak words of faith again, especially in order to obtain bodily health and financial prosperity (both of which are supposedly guaranteed as present possessions in the Atonement). . In contrast, traditional Christian theology teaches that God and God alone can bring about whatever he chooses; that man was created to reflect God’s character and to implement his will, not to be little gods; that man is fallen but not Satanic in nature; that God is still in control of this world; that Jesus Christ alone is God incarnate; that Jesus died physically, not spiritually, to redeem us; that Jesus therefore was not born again; and that health and prosperity are promised to believers in the future resurrection. In the meantime God heals and prospers people providentially and miraculously when and as he sees fit. Most of the followers of the Word-Faith teachers are Pentecostals and other evangelical Christians. Profile available.

Word Over the World (WOW): See The Way International.

World Community, J.E. Rash, Bedford, VI: New Age, mystic, teaches the “five ancient Orders.”

World Council of Churches: An international agency promoting interfaith dialogue and ecumenical cooperation among churches. Most participants are mainline denominations dominated by the theological perspective of liberal Christianity.

World Tomorrow, The: The now defunct radio and television program begun by Herbert Armstrong. See Armstrongism.

Worldwide Church of God, Herbert W. Armstrong Pasadena, CA: Under the leadership of its founder, Herbert W. Armstrong, this church rejected the essential doctrines of evangelical Christianity, denying the doctrine of the Trinity, the full deity of Jesus Christ, and the personality of the Holy Spirit. The church epitomized the somewhat eclectic set of beliefs and practices that became known as Armstrongism. Beginning in the early 1990s under the leadership Armstrong’s successors, Joseph W. Tkach and his son Joe Tkach, this group has undergone remarkable doctrinal transformation. They now hold to a traditional evangelical position on the nature of God and the gospel, teaching the Trinity and salvation by grace alone, through faith alone. Large numbers of its membership have left to join splinter groups that still teach classic Armstrongism. Publishes The Plain Truth magazine. Profile available.

Worrall, Olda: See New Life Clinic.

WOW: (Word Over the World). See The Way International.

X

Y

Yahweh ben Yahweh: Founder of Nation of Yahweh.

Yahwehism: Alternative name for the Sacred Name movement.

Yahweh’s Assembly in Messiah, David Barnard, Rockport, MO: Publishes The Master Key, Unlocking Bible Truth magazine. See Sacred Name movement.

Yang: See Yin and Yang.

Yes Education Society, Washington, D.C.: New Age, yoga, palm reading, astrology, iridology.

Yi King: Alternative form of the term I Ching.

Yin and Yang: Taoist concept, used in the New Age movement, holding that the universe consists of two opposite energy forces (positive/negative; male/female, etc.). Both are necessary and both must be harmonized for proper function. This Yin and Yang also flow through the human body so that a balance is required to maintain health. Many New Age holistic health techniques, such as acupuncture, are based on attempts to balance this alleged energy or chi. When all is balanced, the Yin and Yang harmonize and the body works properly.

Yoga: Exercises (physical, mental or spiritual) based on Eastern metaphysical assumptions designed to aid in enlightenment or self-realization. Goals sometimes include altered states of consciousness or uniting the practitioner with the impersonal pantheistic God. Types of Yoga include: Karma Yoga (spiritual union through correct conduct), Bhakti Yoga (spiritual union through devotion to a Guru), Juana Yoga (spiritual union through hidden knowledge), Raja Yoga (spiritual union through mental control), Hatha Yoga (spiritual union through body control/meditation), Kundalini Yoga (spiritual union through focusing inner energy) and Tantra Yoga (spiritual union through sexual practices). Yoga philosophy is based on the concept of reincarnation and is drawn from the Upanishads and other Hindu scriptures.

Yoga Journal, Berkley, CA: New Age periodical. See Yoga.

Yoga Research Foundation, Jyotir Maya Nanda, Miami, FL: Yoga, Eastern mysticism. Publishes International Yoga Guide magazine.

Yoga Research Society, Phildelphia, PA: Eastern mysticism, yoga, meditation, alternative healing practices (i.e., holistic health). Publishes the Yoga Research newsletter.

Yogi: A teacher or master of yoga. York, Malachi Z., See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek. Yule: Occult holiday celebrated on the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice (December 21). Because of its close proximity to Christmas, the term Yule has often been used as a designation for Christmas. Z

Zen Buddhism: A branch of Mahayana Buddhism believed to have originated in India from the teachings of a Buddhist master, Bodhidharma, about 600 BC, but traced back by advocates to the Buddha himself. Practitioners seek satori (sudden illumination enabling bliss and harmony), which cannot be explained but only experienced. Techniques include zazen (sitting meditation techniques) and koans, which are short riddles or sayings. The koans (which number about 1,700) are not designed to have cognitive answers but to promote the experience of Zen.

Zen Master Rama, a.k.a. Frederick P. Lenz: Occult, ancient Egyptian rituals, meditation, Atlantis. Also known as the computer guru whose software company, Advanced Systems, Inc., has been called a recruiting arm for his mind control, New Age group. See Zen Buddhism.

Zendik Farm, Wulf Aendik, Boulveard, CA: Paganism, cosmic connection, psychic realm.

Zentech, Don Mead, Surry, ME: New Age, meditation, dreamwaves.

Zerubbabel, Inc., Hopkinsville, KY: God is All (pantheism), man is Christ in true essence. Publishes The Intercessor newsletter.

Zodiac: See Astrology.

Zohar/Zolar: See Kabbalah.

Zoroastrianism, Zoroaster: Religion thought to be founded about 600 BC in Persia (present day Iran). According to legend, Zoroaster received enlightenment by the Daitya river when, at age 30, he received a vision of Vohu Manah (“Good Thought”) who took him into the presence of lord Ahura-Mazda. Lord Mazda taught Zoroaster the “true religion,” rejecting magic and idol worship and promoting belief in heaven, hell, a devil (Angra-Mainyu) and one true god. Later followers, however, worshipped Zoroaster in addition to Mazda. Good Lord Mazda and evil Angra Mainyu are seen as equal in power. Teaches enlightenment and salvation by works, including fire worship and partaking of the hallucinogenic haoma (soma in India).

Zwaan Rays: See Spirit Electronic Communication Society.

Zygon International, Dane Spotts, Issaquah, WA: New Age, inner power, ESP, meditation, fifth state of consciousness.