Guidance for Healing
The A.R.E.
Healing Prayer Group and Its History
By Juliet Brooke
Ballard and Ruth DeCormis LeNoir
The Formation of
the Healing Group
One night in September, 1931, Edgar Cayce went to sleep not knowing
that a dream he would have in the next few hours would influence the
lives, the health and the spiritual purpose of many thousands of people
in the years to come. In fact today we cannot even begin to
speculate on the eventual results of that dream as its influence is
spreading in ever widening circles and touching more and more lives.
At that time, he had recently organized the study group which became
A.R.E. Study Group No. 1 in Norfolk, Virginia. In his dream
he
saw the members of this group gathered together for the reading,
previously given, on their first lesson. One of them, No.
295,
laid her hand on Edgar Cayce’s and said that with his
permission
and that of the others present she would tell them what the reading was
going to tell each to do. She then proceeded to explain that
they
were to have a healing circle and chose six other persons besides
herself to constitute it. One was to be the leader, one the
interpreter of “what each wants and how the circle is to pray
for
the individual”. “Spiritual
healing” would
result. Prayer was to be twice a day, at seven in the morning
and
six in the evening. Breathing exercises and “the
manner in
which they were to act” were then prepared according to the
instructions of the interpreter whom No. 295 had chosen.
This was the gist of Edgar Cayce’s dream.
Naturally, after a vision of such seeming importance, Edgar Cayce
immediately sought information on it. In the reading from
which
we have drawn the above details, No. 294-127, he was told:
A-3
This, as has
been seen, is as the promise that was given (in No. 262-1, the reading
on the study group’s first lesson) that each in his or her
individual way and manner would be given a vision, a message, as to his
or her part or portion in the undertaking to which the group
– as
a group; individuals as individuals, - had pledged themselves.
As indicated, there had been left a most important part of a program
that should be begun (along) with the studies undertaken from time to
time. In not seeing what each was to give to the particular
lesson, they were each to determine and ask in their own way, for their
own enlightenment.
As seen, the body could lead in that portion of part of the work, aided
and abetted by those who were seen in the vision as it happened.
Well, then, that this group – when others have given, or
sought
to know their part – that this group as seen, the seven, be
given
that as an additional portion of their part in the work.
To be sure, this will be altered as to meeting, as to times, yet
eventually this group may hold – with even thousands of
others
– such a prayer for those who are sick or afflicted in any
manner
that they to whom the will is given will receive what they seek through
the efforts of these who were with Him.
(294-127)
After such a complete endorsement of his dream, Edgar Cayce had only
one other important question to ask, and it was included in the second
reading for the study group as a whole.
Q-13.
Are the seven presented to me to be the healing group, or was this
emblematical?
A
–13 This is
both emblematical and is, in fact, the portion of the group that should
begin their activities in this definite line and manner, aided by all
who may seek or desire to be a portion of same. These, as
given,
leading in their respective places and times, for as each of these
gather as a body for aid to another, there will be from time to time a
message from one to another. This is not only a promise,
it’s a threat! Be mindful of it, but be faithful to
each as
they are received. No. 262-2
After this we find a special reading being given for the seven
individuals indicated. This was the first in a series (the
281
series) that was to be given for the Healing Prayers Group, of which
some dealt directly with its work and others later ranged into the deep
and mystical subject matter of the book of THE REVELATION. In
this present paper we will take up only those readings dealing directly
with healing prayer.
Why Were the Seven
Called?
Those directed to this additional service came to the unique venture,
questioning why they had been chosen. The answer was
conclusive.
Each as are gathered here are fitted in their own particular way for a
portion of that work designated by the group as the healing
group. (281-1)
It was later, only after the group had been obtaining its readings
regularly, that information was sought as to who had called it together.
Q-12
Was our group called directly by the Master or simply through a dream
of Edgar Cayce?
A-12
Each will determine that by that they have received from the
Master. (281-8)
From inferences in Reading No. 281-10 (A-18 through A-23) and others
from time to time (see memo by GD following Reading No. 281-10), it
seemed to be implied that Jesus had had an incarnation in Egypt under
the name of Hermes. At that time Edgar Cayce, then Ra-Ta the
priest, had been seeking to rebuild the spiritual life of that
country. One member of the Healing Group, No. 69, was told
that
she had been associated with “the Master of men”
then
(281-10, A-21) and that this association was one “that made
for
the building up of that consciousness of the laying aside of the
various forces, or sources, that in the present find themselves as
attributes of the mental, or the sensations or imaginative force of the
body”. No. 281-10, A-23. It was also brought out
that
members of this group had worked together before for just such a
purpose. (281-1)
Also, we recall that in Reading No. 294-127 these individuals were
characterized as “these who were with
Him.” So it
seems possible that the Master (then Hermes, later Jesus) was guiding
these persons in healing work some twelve thousand years ago.
Again they had been called to this vitally important service
– at
a time when such ministrations could be of supreme importance.
Q-3
What is meant by the day of the Lord is near at hand?
A-3
That – as
has been promised through the prophets and the sages of old –
the
time, and half-time, has been and is being fulfilled in this day and
generation: and that soon there will again appear in the earth that one
through whom many will be called to meet those who are preparing the
way for His day in the earth. The Lord then will come, even
as ye
have seen Him go…
When those who are His have made the way clear, and passable for Him to
come. (262-49)
Early Directions
and Advice
The Healing Prayer Group, thus selected and given a designated task (of
healing) was naturally a little unprepared and uneasy as to how its
mission was to be performed to bring about the most beneficial
results. The members felt uncertain as to their own
worthiness to
participate and were anxious to know to which portion of the work each
was best fitted. They also wanted to know how to go about
doing
this wile working well together. In the readings the group
received, numerous questions were asked by individuals.
In the very first reading, No. 281-1, Edgar Cayce in preliminary
explanation seemed to imply that different members had had close
association with other members, which brought karmic situations to be
worked out together, especially if these associations had been
“the last experience”. He added however.
That there
had been “those experiences with the group as a whole where
the
greater portion have worked together for the common good of
all”.
These had resulted in “contacts where there was healing
brought
in their individual experience with the divine forces manifested in a
material world.” The group “as a whole”
was to be
assisted in its “dispensing of an ideal” by being
able to
call on the services of Edgar Cayce, through whom “sources of
information” could be given each to “assist and aid
in all
phases of their experience.”
The individual members fitting themselves “to be a
manifestation
of His love in this particular experience” would
“lose self
in love and service to others.”
Judging from this explanation and the preceding references, it would
seem to us that there is a striking parallel between the age of Ra-Ta
and the present. Just as Hermes had had a spiritual climate
provided by Ra-Ta, the priest, from which to draw individuals to work
with him in the old Egyptian era, again some of those interested in
Edgar Cayce’s work today would be used by the Master to serve
their fellows.
Surely the Master thus uses sincere seekers in any group which tries to
alleviate the ills of mankind. The psychic ability of Edgar
Cayce
was to be utilized in bringing to these individuals helpful information
and advice.
Following this general background, answers were given to the queries of
various members of the group as to how through meditation they could
better fit themselves for this work. One person was to raise
the
Christ Consciousness in self and then visualize its healing effect on
the individual needing help.
“The feeling and seeing of the Christ in the
present” would
be vouchsafed for this member as a sign that self had been
“raised to that consciousness of healing in the activities of
self’s own actions.” Another participant
was to deal
with those who sought help, maintaining “harmony of
purpose”.
A third, the interpreter of Edgar Cayce’s dream, was to name
the
member to be used as a healing channel for a particular
individual. A fourth, the leader in Edgar Cayce’s
dream,
was to assist the other members to reach that state of consciousness
through which healing might be achieved, which state was characterized
and “the perfect union of aim, desire, and
purpose.”
No. 295 would “hear His voice call” when those
seeking
help, found healing. She was admonished:
“Be not
unmindful as the call comes.” Yet another person
was chosen
to show “faith, hope and cheer” at the group
meetings to
strengthen the group as a whole. The seventh member was
picked to
inform others (in the world) of the work being undertaken by
the
group.
So we see that one was to spread word of the work, another to serve as
intermediary between those seeking help and the members. One
was
to strengthen the group through faith, another, through classification
of the illness was to assist in the group’s achieving the
perfect
union of aim, desire and purpose in its healing prayer.
In meetings one was to designate the channel of healing; another, after
raising the Christ Consciousness, was to visualize its healing
effect. The last one, No. 295, was to heed when the healing
had
reached through to the individual in trouble. Of course, all
the
members would seek to assist by raising the Christ Consciousness and
sending it out in healing, in addition to their assigned functions,
Perhaps the members of this first A.R.E. Healing Prayer Group were a
little oppressed by an awesome sense of responsibility. At
any
rate, in their next reading (No. 281-2) they were given a message from
the Master asking them to “lift up” their hearts so
He
might enter. They were told that just as they had chosen to
follow Him, so had He chosen them to be a blessing to others who sought
His help in their lives. The members’ faith and
trust would
be the measure of the “grace, mercy, and peace”
that would
come to those they sought to help.
An explanation was given as to why there is more power for healing in a
group than in individuals. “These bring the
strength of
union in group, rather than individuals - who may in self find turmoil,
when ‘I would do good, but evil is
present.’”
The one who was designated as the channel for the healing
would
be aided by the consecrated effort on the part of others. The
times best suited for meditation for healing were given as seven in the
morning, six in the evening.
Those to be helped were to seek, themselves; and when they came to
individual members, these in turn were to seek the assistance of the
group. Once the group achieved union of purpose, those who
needed
help would be attracted to it.
In Reading No. 281-3 the importance of forgiving self or ceasing to
condemn self was taken up. By means of this action the entity
could be “wholly free in that source of power as would bring
hope, faith, confidence and healing to those who
seek…”
A question as to whether the body should be in perfect physical
condition to be used in such a work, was answered this way:
A-2
One must raise
self to that consciousness of a physical perfection in spirit, to give
the proper attitude or concept to another. Doubt never
accomplished anything!”
The same questioner was told he might diagnose ailments if the body
consciousness intended or desired this. Apparently through
love
one could reach attunement and then “From the abundance of
the
heart the mouth speaketh.” As to gauging
one’s
personal attunement, this would be shown by “the ability to
feel
that consciousness of the sincere desire within to be a blessing, a
channel to someone.” The fourteenth and fifteenth
chapters
of JOHN were designated as excellent sources of study for a prayer
leader.
When the group asked for a message from the Master as to how to begin
their work, they were referred to the Biblical injunction that enjoins
us to seek only through the Master. The feeling of one member
was
confirmed that the group should “tarry together as the
Disciples
did in the upper room… those who cannot may
depart.”
This would result in the members being “imbued with power
from on
high.”
At this same session it was pointed out that the group could
“raise the atomic vibrations that make for the positive
forces as
bring divine forces in action into material plane” and that
when
this happened, it resulted in destructive forces being broken
down. It was important, therefore, to attend to necessary
details, such as “position, posture, time period, place,
name,
understanding.” Again it was emphasized that the
person to
be helped must desire that help. “God cannot save a
man
that would not be saved.”
These first three readings had covered a period from October 5 through
December 3, 1931. In March of the next year, the group
apparently
felt it had worked with the principles given, sufficiently to seek
additional guidance and information; and a fourth reading resulted on
March 10.
Edgar Cayce at once confirmed this progress. “In
seeking,
let each know much has been accomplished in the minds, the hearts and
the lives of others through the concerted effort, as well as that
contentment as must come from doing His biddings.”
That
member who was especially visualizing the healing was assured that
there had been results to others and to herself and was counseled to
hold fast to “trust; knowing that there will come the
understanding as the awakening to the various laws of love that
constitute life in its essence and development through the physical,
material and spiritual planes.”
Apparently questions as to eligibility for healing had
occurred.
If one were working out a karmic situation, should the Prayer Group
attempt to heal him? The answer was an emphatic
yes.
“Those that have the Christ-like spirit” would not
only
pray and hold meditations for such an individual but also help in every
other way possible, always, however, keeping to the prayer or
meditation:
“Thy will, O God, be done in that body as Thou seest
best.” “Would that this cup might pass
from me; not
my will but Thine be done!”
As to how to “help” any person, each was to
“Do with
thy might what thine hands, hearts, minds, souls, find to do, leaving
the increase, the benefits, in His hands, who is the Giver of all good
and perfect gifts.
Be not fainthearted because, as thou seest, that is not accomplished in
the moment. What is eternity in a single
experience?
‘No good thought shall return to me empty
handed.’
Believest thou? Then thou knowest, then that, that as is given out must
return full measure.”
Again the matter was brought up of whether personal physical
deficiencies in one seeking to heal could hinder the healing
process. The questioner was told no, “for he that
hath the
will to do, he that purposes in his heart to do, may accomplish even to
that as He seeth fit.”
The vision of a large loaf of whole wheat bread surrounded by an
extensive aura was interpreted as symbolizing “the essence of
life itself in its cell force, showing forth in its activity that of
the radiant life of Him who gave, “I AM the bread of life; he
that eateth Me shall not hunger.”
The radiation of all of this force when perfected in man would result
in “that full illumined life that brings understanding, and
retains and builds, and gives – truly – the life
everlasting.”
The effectiveness of the group healing was attributed to
“unison
of purpose”, which resulted in a strength that enabled the
person
toward whom the healing was directed, to become more aware of a perfect
condition. An explanation was added as to how this
occurred.
A-7
As is
understood, Life – God – in its essence is
Vibration, and
– as the physical beings are of that atomic force, a portion
of
the same the awareness of same is as to how conscious that vibration
may be made, even as we find in the physical body that sight, hearing,
taste, speech, are but an alteration of vibration attuned to those
portions in the consciousness of the physical body, becoming aware of
things, of vibration, reaching same
from within or from without.
Hence one may not hear the prayer or the thought sent by an individual
whose attunement is not sufficient to raise that vibration in an
individual, but the combined (vibration) – as we have in
numbers
(of persons) – raise to such and extent that the awakening
comes
by this continuing of this direction of the spiritual forces to an
individual; even as the small drop may wear away the hardest stone.
In other words, God is in effect vibration, and since we are made in
His image, we are vibration also. We are subject
to awareness of other vibration, also. We are
subject
to awareness of other vibration; and this results in sight,
hearing, taste and speech in the physical body. There can be
perception of the prayer or thought of others, also – but
only if
this prayer or thought is strong enough to impinge on our
consciousness.
The strong concentrated vibration contained in group prayer is
sufficient, given enough time, to impinge upon the person toward whom
it is directed. (We previously noted in examining Reading No.
281-3 that this positive power resulted in destructive forces being
broken down. Then whatever part of the body was ill, could
resume
its normal vibration.)
The group was very much interested in just what it was accomplishing
and requested information as to why No. 5546 had passed on while it was
seeking to help him. Had aid been given? Yes, it
had.
This entity, because of prenatal conditions, expressed “only
half
an awareness of the conditions about same.”
He had been assisted in attaining rebirth in another plane, which was
definitely an expansion of consciousness for him. In
addition,
the passing had been of benefit to “those so
responsible”
for him since it brought greater consciousness of spiritual forces into
their lives.
Another individual on this early prayer list about whom a question was
raised, according to this reading had been activated to meet his
obligations as well as to experience a spiritual awakening.
The
nature of these obligations was not clear. However, the fact
that
prayer could cause such an assumption of responsibilities seems
important.
Then an inquiry was made as to epilepsy and whether there was any
connection between this and possession. The group had met
head-on
the problem of unclean spirits which confronted the Apostles and
Disciples of Christ in the early days of the Christian
Church.
What to think and what to do?
At this juncture Edgar Cayce pointed out that the term
“epileptic” is applied to persons with various
conditions. “Some are indeed possessed with an
uncleaness
from those (conditions) of the moral life in that which has been
projected, or that brings life in its essence itself, and then become
epileptics, meeting in self those very conditions that have been as
omissions in… experiences in the earth; bringing then that
necessity that others in aiding command, demand, in the Name, that
these be cast out.”
Such persons are unconscious during their seizures and are possessed at
that time. They need daily raising of vibrations, which may
be
brought about by “the laying on of hands” by
another
individual. (See Reading No, 281-4, A-13 for recommendation
as to
details.) A group may assist the one functioning as channel
here
by adding its spiritual strength to his. Two to four weeks of
this laying on of hands would be required for the vibration to be
raised sufficiently to be effective.
The group members, giving to others, were already beginning to
receive. One who was commencing to see auras, was told:
“As
life, light, and love – with understanding – is
reflected
in self, so may there be seen those of the same reflection from
others.” The flashes and forms she frequently saw
signified
“those of the higher vibrations of inter-between, as well as
spiritual forces taking forms in and before the mental self.”
(A-18 and A-19)
The Work of Doing
What We Know
With so much information and guidance the group was by now well
equipped to fulfill its function. There was only the matter
of
carrying into effect the knowledge the members had gained.
However, this was easier said than done! This situation was
pointed out in the fifth reading.
Most that may be said, the group – or individuals,
know!
Doing it is different! There are those forces in each
individual
as may respond to those creative forces in the material world, whether
as respecting material things or healing, or what not. The
concerted effort on the part of a group merely accentuates that as a
force, or power, that may manifest in or through an individual, or as
respecting a circumstance. Hence the activity must be as much
on
the part of one seeking aid through such a channel. Remember,
there was given through that same channel as these would ask:
“Thy healing be according to thy faith.”
To another,
with the laying on of hands, was said, “According to thy
faith,
so be it unto you.” These things consider in thy
meditation, in thy prayer. [281-5]
Note that again Edgar Cayce emphasized the need for cooperation on the
part of the one for whom healing prayers were offered. He
must
desire that healing and have faith that it could be
accomplished.
It is also of interest to observe that in this excerpt the Master is
mentioned as the source from which the group was seeking guidance.
The need for laying on of hands in healing an epileptic (as outlined in
the previous reading) was now explained more fully.
The manner of overcoming such (illness), as has been intimated, may
best be accomplished with the laying on of hands, that enables the
individual, the entity so being aided, to have something to hold on to
that is as concrete as that it is battling with. Then, as is
seen
in the more concerted action of the group, in their cooperative
concerted action, and with the continued laying on of hands, there will
come - as we find – a complete
cure. [281-5]
A question as to whether the attacks of another person were epileptic
in nature, elicited an answer that they were not, but rather colonic
and that again the laying on of hands would be of help but
“preferably (of) one close kin to the body of opposite
sex.” This matter of the opposite sex was not
explained;
but it seems to point to the concept of negative and positive polarity
in female and male.
The question was raided as to whether each individual name should be
held separately in meditation or the list as a whole; and the answer
was:
This may be done either way, but it should be done in unison for the
better effect. This may be alternated from time to time, even
as
He did.
The extent to which individual group members were expanding in
consciousness as they sought to help their brothers, was brought out
again. #560 while meditating had experienced a perfect relaxation of
the body with the head drawn backward. This was explained as
a
manifestation of “spirit, acting through the
body”.
#993 during meditation had felt a coolness over head, brow and nose and
was told: “As the body attunes self, as has been
given, it
may be a channel where there may be even instant healing with the
laying on of hands. The more often this occurs the more power
is
there felt in the body, the more forcefulness in the act or
word”.
Two ways to attain more spiritual control during meditation were
suggested: reliance on the Master’s nearness and
protection; and submergence of the physical.
The rod and the cup are symbols. “All must pass
under the
rod as of that cleansing necessary for the inflowing of the Christ
consciousness, even as He passed under the rod, partook of the cup
– and gives same to others”.
As an addendum to this reading we come upon the very human story of the
entity whose seizures had been designated as colonic. Let
Edgar
Cayce himself tell us as he did a friend in a letter dated April 27,
1932.
“Some weeks ago there was a question about a little boy
(#1784)
afflicted with a falling sickness – you know the type well
enough.
The reading (#281-5, A-5) suggested something could be done through
prayer, and a prayer was given to the child to say himself.
He is
in Norfolk – what would be called a street urchin, but he got
the
idea, and since he has been repeating his prayer, he has not had
another spell. Last Sunday while in the park he saw an older
boy
with his father having one of these spells. He went to the
boy’s father and told him his experience, and said,
‘Now,
you take this prayer and say it continually as I have done, and you
won’t have these. There’s a man in
Virginia Beach who
tells people what to say.’”
Spiritual Food for
All
From this story of the little boy we can see that already those being
helped were passing on a message to others and that it was necessary
for the group to think out its position in regard to information and
guidance it should give.
#2112 had a dream about this time, which in Reading #281-6 was
interpreted to indicate “that it is necessary for much of
that
which may be given or measured out (to) be in small doses, and not in a
manner that would cause the individuals to become antagonistic to that
which would be as Truth. Know ye, no one finite mind may have
all
the truth!”
Another member had had intimations “for some time”
that
material in the form of lessons should be sent to those the group
sought to help. This was confirmed.
A-6
There are
individuals that to be aided must hold some tangible connection with
that through which aid would come. All are not developed to
the
pure spiritual application within themselves.
Hence this would be well to be sent when it is sought; not when
unsought, for those that seek such it would be well. Well
that
such stay close to the affirmation and the inspired forces of that held
as the criterion or ideal.
Q-7
What lesson should we begin with?
A-7
Ones from the Master.
For their own study the group asked information on “the three
different vibrations”, which, doubtless, some of them were
feeling in connection with meditation.
Q-8
Please advise what is meant by the three different vibrations, back and
forth, side and circular?
A-8
These are
as the fundamental forces of vibration as it applies to the material
and spiritual forces in all activities that become magnified in a
material plane. That which is of the nature with one side or
the
other is as that which may be termed in the form of the dimensions to
which there is given its variation, or force, or vision, or scope, or
range of activity. Those of the second, as of the
second.
Those of the third, as in the circular, that makes for that range of
vision that comes to the spiritual indwelling, or coordination with
same in activity through a material plane. Hence we have that
as
represented in the varied vibrations as related to those of the
dimensional visions of that which may be viewed by that which has taken
on form in this material plane. Much might be given, a whole
thesis might be prepared on this. This should give an insight
for
study for all.
This seems to tell us that whether or not we are viewing the past and
future as well as the present may be evinced in vibratory forces felt
within us – a movement back and forth. If our view
is an
inclusive one and takes in related subjects, we will be conscious of a
vibration from side to side. If both of these are
combined
in a total picture, then we may feel the circular vibration, which
includes past, present, and future. This final
“range of
vision” is the vantage point toward which we are working.
Another member of the group was told that the beautiful promises given
her would be fulfilled when “the body consciousness is raised
in
its varied vibrations, for all must work together, else there would be
harmful influences from the activities that might be manifest in
such. These will come, when that which is held is raised more
and
more in the consciousness of the body.” Again the
need for
balance was stressed to bring about the perfect attunement.
This member asked for clarification on a matter previously mentioned,
that of messages as to progress or warnings as to lack of same in
individual members. These communications were to be brought
through other members, who were to pass them along. (#262-2,
A-13
) She was told that these would come “as the
activity of
the Spirit in the experiences of each” and that when the one
receiving the message or warning was faithful in delivering it, he was
only carrying out an obligation he had assumed “in
becoming
a channel of blessing through which the Spirit Forces may manifest in
their relationships one to another.” To fail to
deliver
such a communication would be very serious.
“He that putteth his hand to
the plow and
turns back is worse than the infidel”,…or he that
having
taken on a vow and then is unfaithful to same, when the last estate of
that entity is seen, it is worse than the first; but be thou
faithful. As each uses those talents, those abilities, the
understanding will come…
This group was advised to continue its work with the epileptic who had
been having severe attacks, which were explained as “the
return
of those influences and forces seeking a home.”
Asked why
they should be doing this, Edgar Cayce answered, “They are as
material as individuals…They are seeking a home, the same as
individuals, personalities!”
One of the group anxious to become a healer was advised to use the
method of healing which best seemed to express “that which is
being given out by self.” Various channels for
healing
would include individual contact, faith, laying on of hands and
“that as will create in the mind (for it is the builder in a
human being) that consciousness that makes for the closer contact with
the universal, or the Creative forces, in its
experience.”
In other words, one can work with people, helping to heal them through
love, contact, and the force of one’s own ideals.
One can
have faith. One can utilize the laying on of hands,
previously
taken up.
Lastly, one can through creation in the arts – music,
painting,
poetry, sculpture, writing of all kinds, dramatic renditions, dance,
etc. – rouse in others “that consciousness that
makes for
the closer contact with the universal…”
All may be used as channels for healing.
Some Aspects of
Vibration
A little over a month later (in Reading No. 281-7) additional
information was requested on vibration during meditation; but the
sleeping Edgar Cayce declined to elaborate, stating flatly that
vibration was “an enormous subject” and that the
members
did not have to understand it fully to raise this vibration in
themselves and direct it to others. All they needed was
“that sincerity that comes with the closer walk with those
Creative Forces, that brings into being those forces that aid in
correlating, coordinating, meeting the combative conditions mental and
physical in the bodies of others…”
In reply to a request for a few affirmations to be sent to patients,
the questioner was told that different individuals would find different
affirmations most effective. The affirmation should be
changed
every two weeks at least. One general one was given that
would
cover all situations:
There is being raised within me that Christ Consciousness that is
sufficient for every need within my body, my mind, my soul.
Another member, asking how to aid a particular person, was told:
In the manner, then, to aid most, raise in self that beauty of spirit
as expressed in Him, “Suffer little children to come unto me,
for
such is the kingdom of heaven.” in raising, then,
the
consciousness of self, that kingdom is being manifested, expressed, in
the body, though not seen or understood by us; there is His will being
accomplished, that this entity may be one with Him in that
kingdom. Raise that as oft as seemeth well with thee, and
these
will bring about; for thoughts are deeds, and as their currents run,
there are created those forces that make for the closer affinity for
like and like.
About another patient the group was told:
Pray with (this person) oft, and see (with reference to) those forces
that would hinder--- when the body would in itself have that about self
that would eliminate those disturbing
factors---see…
her, herself, her inner self, conquering those forces through Him.
Another reference to vibration finally elicited a little more
information on the subject.
Q-11
Please give us
more information concerning the law of vibrations during meditation,
and how we can understand and use that which we experience.
A-11
As has been
given, and as experienced by many, in opening self to the unseen forces
about us, yet warred over by those influences save when in the presence
of His influences save when in the presence of His influence,
then as the forces are raised in self know –
without doubt
– there are His protecting influences, able willing, capable,
and
(they) will aid in that direction in which such vibrations, such
influences are raised to those individuals to whom they are directed,
even by the spoken word; for, as is seen, as is understood by many, by
most… the unseen forces are the active forces, the active
principles. That which becomes as a manifestation is that
which
has been acted upon by those unseen forces and influences.
What
produces same? These are the vibrations to which a body has
raised by its attunement of its whole being, its whole inner self, of a
consciousness of that divine force that emanates in Life itself in this
material plane. In sending such forces out, then be mindful
that
there is no doubt that these will bring that as He sees fit,
“Not my will, O Father, but Thine be
done!” What did
this bring to Him? The cross, the burdens, the crown of
thorns—yet in its essence it brought those abilities to
overcome
death, hell and the grave. So, as in our raising ourselves to
that understanding that His presence is guiding and directing those
influences about those to whom we would direct His cause (for they have
called on us), then know His will is being done in the manner as thou
hast sent same to that individual!
Such a statement seems to encompass the field; but No. 295 still wanted
“a definition of vibration in relation to
healing.”
After the point had been made that it “would require several
volumes to give a complete definition,” these were boiled
down to
several sentences.
Vibration is, in its simple essence or word, raising the Christ
Consciousness in self to such an extent as it may flow out of self to
him thou would direct it to. As, “Silver and gold I
have
none, but such as I have, give I unto thee.”
“In the name of Jesus Christ, stand up and
walk!”
That is an illustration of vibration that heals, manifested in a
material world. What flowed out of Peter or John?
That as
received by knowing self in its entirety, body, mind, soul, is
one with that Creative Energy that is LIFE itself.
There followed an unsolicited but beautiful and valuable bit of advice:
Be not faint hearted because failure
seems to be in
thy way, or that self falters, but how many times shall I forgive, or
ask forgiveness – seven times? Yea, seventy times
seven! Or, not how I faltered, but did I seek His face
again? “Could ye not watch with me one
hour?”
The man crying out! “Sleep on, now, and take thy
rest, for
the hour cometh when I shall be even alone.” So we
find the changes, the weaknesses in the flesh, yet he that
seeks
shall find, and as oft as ye knock will the answer come. Seek
not
to be one with Him, in body, in mind, in soul!
Finally the part reincarnation plays in the scheme of things, was taken
up.
Q-13
Please explain what was meant (No. 281-3, A-7) by the answer to
question seven in reading of Dec. 3, 1931,
“The last to be conquered is death itself. Overcome
even as He overcame.”
A-13
As has just
been given in how vibrations are raised that heal physical, mental and
soul, so in this there is seen – even as He overcame, so may
we
laying aside the physical, yet again taking up the physical, that there
may be the greater
manifestations in the material plane. Even as in a similar,
though not that which is to be attained in the body that is seen
through which I speak - is as passed from this present life,
that
there may be brought to thee that knowledge of the unseen forces that
ye seek to know about!
Even, then, as this body takes up life from period to period, through
the laying aside of all physical consciousness does the body, in
conquering death, enable the mental, the physical to overcome
those powers that would hinder it from being one with Him.
“Flesh and blood may not inherit eternal life.
Corruption shall put on incorruption.”
So, as the mind becomes attuned, clarified, cleansed as to
relationships either in the mental or material plane, so do those
influences, (the unseen forces) overcome the force that would separate
the soul from the material; for material puts on immortality, and those
that are clarified by the blood of Him that has been cleansed and shed
once for all (put on immortality).
We interpret the above as pointing out the need for laying aside
physical life at intervals. Then the ensuing lack of material
hindrances enables the mind to become “attuned, clarified,
cleansed as to relationships either in the mental or material
plane.” We come back into physical consciousness
strengthened and in better shape to overcome those forces that would
separate the soul from the material.
Eventually the material will become so spiritualized that an entity can
overcome death itself in the same way that Jesus did after the
Crucifixion. Thus, we can attain immortality.
Procedure
It was now nine months from the inception of the group; and some of the
members were not always hewing to the mark in the exacting standards
set before them. In Reading No. 281-8 the negligent persons
were
rebuked, though not specifically, and attention was called to the path
of accomplishment forever open to them.
That there has been some negligence on the part of some is seen and
known by each who are guilty of such.
That there are specific or individual conditions which have not
responded as might have been expected by some, is evidenced by
conditions that are materially existent. These, then, in
their
way and manner, show that in the same manner some have acted in the
role of aid.
Each, then, should strive the harder to be the channel, that those who
seek in His name may not be disappointed in the manifestations of His
love in their lives by the actions of those who have become negligent,
or not in whole harmony with these efforts. This should not
cause
those striving to lose patience, confidence or hope in their
associates, or in that being accomplished: for good IS being builded in
the lives and the hearts of all who are striving, trying, aiming,
making an effort in this direction.
Be, then, up and doing with all thy might, that there may be shown
forth fruits worthy of acceptance in His name. All that
strive
gain in the manner as the effort is put forth. Remember that
in
His name anything may be accomplished that is in accord with His
law. Hence His will be done in the manner that is in keeping
with
that He would have in this present period. Be faithful, and
there
will come that which is in keeping with His Word.
Question No. 1 evoked a short reply.
Q-1
Are the seekers on our prayer list cooperating with us?
A-1
As well as the group is cooperating with those seeking! Like begets
Like!
In Question No 3. advice was sought as to whether a specific form to be
sent out to patients was a proper one. The matter of a letter
had
first been brought up some seven months before in Reading No. 281-3
because the group desired to “do things in decency and
order.” At that time it had been advised:
…that there must be the
wholehearted
cooperation upon the part of those desiring aid…their full
name,
their address.
Their periods of meditation should be concordant with those seeking to
aid; this also given, see?
Then the group may name, or may call itself by that that seemeth to
express that as is desired to be accomplished in the efforts of those
seeking to be an aid for others, or the helpful group, the aiding
group, the glad group, of whatever body physically that the group
represents – see?
No. 281-3, A-8.
Now Gertrude Cayce, the conductor, held in her hand a form that had
been drafted and asked for corrections if any were in order.
The
answer was:
A-3
This is very
good. However, it is well not to so word it as to have the
individual keeping the fault before him rather than the good that is
being accomplished. Wouldn’t call it a report of
the
results, but rather the cooperation of each. Rather than
their
enjoying good health, let’s enjoy those things that bring the
good health – or the sickness, see?
A message from the group to the individuals was advised “at
least
every two weeks.” Conversely, if the group did not
hear
from these patients within two to four weeks, their names should be
dropped from the prayer list and they be left with “that
source
through which they seek their aid.”
In Question 13 the members sought advice as to how best to handle a
situation that had arisen in their study group. Group No. 1
members not in the prayer circle had been questioning those in the
circle. The answer was:
A-13
Take it to
Him, the Master. Leave it with him. “Let
others do as
they may, but as for me and mine, we will serve the living
God!”
An important aspect of Jesus’ method of healing as given in
THE NEW TESTAMENT was stressed:
Q-14
Is it best that the healing group readings be given with only the
healing group present?
A-14
Best that
there be that same manner of the exercising of the power as He
gave. Oft was it necessary that only the very close be
present
when healing was to be exercised. Best then while not as the
rejecting of others, that it be done in decency and order.
The next question brought out the important point of whether or not the
group readings should be talked about outside of the group.
Q-15
Is it best that the healing group readings be not discussed outside of
the healing group circle?
The answer was:
“All
that interest
themselves to conform to those necessary requirements of the healing
group circle may discuss same, but they are then part of the healing
group circle!”
One member was advised:
“Joy
comes from doing, and seeing same manifest in the experiences of
others. Find fault in no one.”
A final message to the group stressed oneness of purpose.
Q-28
Does it mean we all in the group should hold the same prayer in the
same way?
A-28
Each in their
own way, but the purpose, the aim, the ONE, the desire ONE; for, as
just given, to some the song of the spheres is necessary for their
comfort – to another the beauties in the sunset, in the
water, or
how; yet all are acknowledging the power of the Christ in the
activative forces of nature,
life, material, itself!
KNOW NOTHING BUT CHRIST, AND HIM CRUCIFIED!
After this we find a copy of the letter developed on the basis of the
injunctions in this reading (No. 281-8). This letter was to be sent to
all patients for follow-up reports.
***
CO –
OPERATIVE REPORT
Date:__________________
Dear Friend:
We, the Glad Helpers of Norfolk Study Group No. 1, of the ASSOCIATION
FOR RESEARCH AND ENLIGHTENMENT, INCORPORATED, are very desirous of
bringing aid to the bodies, minds and souls of our fellow man through
attunement with the Divine. We realize it is not the
Father’s will that any should suffer – that He
wants the
very best for His children. Therefore, may we have the
assurance
that you are with us in our daily meditations and that you wish to be
retained on our prayer list? We shall greatly appreciate your
co-operation in checking the spaces below and returning this report at
once.
Enclosed you will find a new affirmation to be used in place of the one
previously sent you.
Should we not hear from you within two weeks, we shall take it for
granted you desire your name discontinued.
Remembering, “With Him all things are
possible”, we are
Faithfully yours,
Address:
THE GLAD HELPERS
Miss Edith Mildred Edmonds,
611 Pennsylvania Ave.,
Norfolk, Va.
__________________________
Secretary
Date:___________________
TO THE GLAD HELPERS:
[
] I desire to be held in meditation for another two weeks.
[
] You have my full co-operation in meditation.
[
] I feel that I have been aided.
Sincerely,
Name_____________________________
Address___________________________
__________________________________
(A LOVE OFFERING WILL BE ACCEPTABLE)
Keep on Keeping on
Apparently the warning in the group’s eighth reading had some
effect in immediately calling the members back to their
purpose.
Whereas at that time readings were being given for them approximately
once a month, the next three were requested at intervals of about two
weeks. In all of these, extremely pertinent and valuable
information was brought through.
In No. 281-9 the members specifically sought “advice and
guidance
from the Master” to “properly carry on His work in
decency
and order”. Although requests for guidance in the
foregoing
readings had been implicit with trust in and reliance on the Master,
none had been made so firmly and succinctly as this. The
group
was told:
In seeking for advice and counsel, well that each take stock of
themselves as related to the activities that would be brought about in
the minds and hearts of those they would aid. In
unison of
purpose is their strength. In the prayer of those
that
would aid comes strength with that unison of purpose in Him.
As there come those periods when those seeking are aided, give thanks!
(If there are) … those periods when those seeking
falter,
look within – and find that in self that would be changed,
finding the fault rather in self that would be changed, finding the
fault rather in self than in others; for let each have this as their
guide, “Others may do as they may, but (as) for me I will
serve
the living God”. Through the promises in Him that
gave, “What ye ask in my name that will the Father
give
you, that I may be glorified in you.”
Ready for questions.
Q-1
Why have our
efforts on behalf of No. 543 not borne fruit, as we were told through
the reading that whatsoever we ask in His name shall be done in these
bodies?
A-1
This should
also be judged in each one’s own way, in behalf of each
individual. This is a test, as it were, in self - as to
whether
there is being kept that which has been promised. Be not
overcome
by failures in anyone’s behalf, for good is accomplished in
each
individual prayer that may be sought
by any, and in unison is the strength made more secure in
Him. Keep faithful.
Be in earnest. Be sincere in self and in that sought. More
and
more will the aid come, and there is added to thine own self those of
love, and patience, and charity, and long-suffering. So will
there be awakened that that makes for the unison of strength for those
that each seek to aid. Be not weary in well doing, for much
has
been accomplished here, mush has been relieved, that will bear fruits
– some forty, some sixty, some an hundred-fold.
Q-2
Why did No. 2155 improve so much at first and then go back?
A-2
Question not
the powers that give or take, for all power is of one source
–
and He has mercy upon whom he will have mercy. Each as they
seek
to give the aid, the strength, the power of the Christ Consciousness in
the minds and hearts of those who minister with and for the body, gain
themselves, add
strength and power to those so laboring in body and mind, and aid the
consciousness of the body being attempted to be aided –
giving
more ease, more strength to endure. Be not slothful, nor
questioning, nor yet doubting, for “As ye
sow, so
shall ye reap.” Heaven and earth will pass
away. His
power, his word, His promise, endures forever. That that
(which
is) called time seems or appears to be the factor that intervenes
should not make anyone weary or tired, for he or she that endures unto
the end shall receive that crown, that mark wherein each recognize
themselves to be set apart for a purpose in His name. Be faithful
– every one!
Q-3
What is now necessary for this body?
A-3
Keep on keeping
on. Be cheerful, knowing that as he sees fit, so will He
give. Keep on working with, for, toward, the more perfect
understanding – each and every one.
In Ans.-2 we find that all people involved in healing prayer can be
strengthened. Healing prayer affects the doctors and nurses,
enabling them to work with greater efficiency and power. At
the
same time, the people who are praying gain; and the patient reaches a
greater expansion of consciousness. Apparently it is through
this
that healing comes. This expansion is touched on in No.
281-4,
Q-8 and A-8, Q-10 and A-10 (see discussion in this history, paragraphs
two and three on page 13).
This heightened state in the patient results in changes in his physical
body, mental concepts, or both.
Next in the reading the distinguishing characteristics of two types of
prayer, protective and healing, were pointed out.
Q-4
Please
differentiate the difference in that we are told to pray for others,
whilst again we are told there must be the desire on the part of the
one to be, wanting to be, helped or healed?
A-4 The
prayer for others
is as the defense against influences that would hinder. The
prayer and meditation – and the unison of purpose for healing
– is as against an offense committed in the body to be
overcome,
or made every whit whole by His cleansing, forgiving, His life giving
power. Hence the closer the union of purpose makes that as He
gave,
“Thy faith has
made thee whole.” Whether easier to
say, “Thy
sins be forgiven,” or “Take up thy bed and walk”?
The forgiveness, the cleansing is in Him. Union of purpose
for
the offensive, or offenses. The defense – rather as
the
calling of all powers as witness of the position.
From this passage it appears that receptivity on the part of the person
for whom protection (or defense) is asked is not necessary for the
protection to be assured. On the other hand receptivity on
the
part of the person in need is most necessary for healing prayer to be
effective. This stems from the fact that the person has erred
and
is learning a lesson. When he has learned it and of his own
free
will asks to be united again with the Father, the healing can come
through. (Is not sin merely separation from the
Father?)
His desire to be healed is reinforced by the
“purpose” of
the person praying for him.
Questions concerning the letter and corrected blank now being sent to
patients (see preceding Co-operative Report) elicited the information
that these were suitable at that time. Later they would need
to
be changed to meet changing conditions.
Q-5
Are the letters
we are sending out touching the minds, the hearts, the souls, of those
to whom they are being sent? If not, can they be improved?
A-5
These are well
at present. As the faith grows, so may the changes be made as
necessary to meet the conditions as they arise from time to
time.
Press and impress each more and more in the individuality and the power
of that that must bring the cleansing, the faith, the hope, in the
minds, the hearts, the souls, and that the trust must be in Him, not in
the group! The group is only lending their power, their
ability,
to make more aware the needs of each individual so seeking of that
power! For He hath knowledge
of that we have need of before we ask, but “Ask and ye shall
receive.”
As ye know to give gifts of love, mercy, patience with thine fellow
man, even though he wrongs thee in act and word, how much more doth thy
Heavenly Father give to them that ask Him! Let thine purposes
be
in expressing, in manifesting, His power. All praises give
unto
Him! Not in what I did, we did, or the other! Then
praise,
the power, is in Him.
Q-6
Is the corrected blank I hold in my hand alright, or would you suggest
any change?
A-6
Do for the present, as given – with the letter.
One member wanted to know why, if the spoken word is stronger than
thought, she preferred to use the silent meditation. She was
told:
A-8
In each,
(person) as has been given in Vibration, there is the sounding, as it
were, of those elements as manifest of the spirit in the material
activity in each individual. So in self, no fault may be
found
that this becomes a higher vibration to self than were the word
spoken. Neither does it change the fact that to the more
individuals it is true that the spoken word makes a
higher vibration. Just the condition or attunement of
self.
Don’t find fault, or try to be like someone else –
or try
to have someone else be like you.
Be like Him – all of you!
From this answer it would seem that although in meditation the spoken
word makes a higher vibration to the greater number of individuals,
there are persons who have developed their spiritual natures to the
point that in silence they can raise a vibration higher even than that
of sound. Every person should raise the highest vibration of
which he is capable in the way to which he is best suited and not be
concerned with ways used by others. Also, he should not seek
to
make another conform to his pattern.
Replies to different individuals, asking how they could improve
themselves, were to the effect that they should follow the
Master’s way more and more. Answers that seem to be
of
special import follow.
Q-11
How can I best develop the magnetic power for healing?
A-11
First
understanding self; and do not become mechanical or rote in
action. Rather be the growth as the spirit moves self, as the
understanding comes – but much may be accomplished through
these
channels.
***
A-14
Do not be
impatient. Do not be unmindful of His presence. Be
not
afraid when He calls, “Here am I.”
***
A-15
Be not unmindful to fulfill all vows and promises to Him. Be
patient. Be in the prayerful attitude oft.
***
Q-16
Why is it that I always achieve greater attunement when my physical
body is in action?
A-16
You
don’t! Only apparent; for activity to self is as
making for
attunement – but stand still – be still, would you
see the
glory of the Lord!
***
A-17
Keep in the
attitude of – while listening – willingness to
give.
Keep in that purpose as brings those attunements, but listen
– be
patient – be kind.
***
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