God

Baruch Spinoza's *Theological-Political Treatise* (1670), originally published anonymously, is one of the most important and controversial philosophical works of the early modern period. Aiming to "liberate the individual from bondage to superstition and ecclesiastical authority", the work has been characterized as one of the most significant events in European intellectual history, laying the groundwork for ideas about liberalism, secularism, and democracy. In it Spinoza discusses at length the historical circumstances of the composition and transmission of the Bible, demonstrating the fallibility of both its authors and its interpreters. He argues that free enquiry is not only consistent with the security and prosperity of a state but actually essential to them, and that such freedom flourishes best in a democratic and republican state in which individuals are left free while religious organizations are subordinated to the secular power. His Treatise has profoundly influenced the subsequent history of political thought, Enlightenment philosophy, Bible hermeneutics, and textual criticism more generally. The work attracted harsh criticism and vigorous attempts by religious leaders and conservative authorities to suppress his work entirely, with one critic describing it as being "Forged in hell by the apostate Jew working together with the devil". **\* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \*** This is Day 1 of a two day conference presented by the University of Toronto's Centre for Ethics on the contemporary relevance of Spinoza's *Theological-Politico Treatise* (or *Tractatus Theologico-Politicus*) published in 1670. The conference is free to attend and open to the public. The Conference Schedule [Thursday, April 23rd](https://www.meetup.com/the-toronto-philosophy-meetup/events/314226963/) * 9:45 AM – Julie Klein (Villanova University) – OBEDIENCE * 11:00 AM – Daniel Garber (Princeton University) – THEOCRACY * 1:30 PM – Yitzhak Melamed (Johns Hopkins University) – POWER & RIGHT * 2:45 PM – Mélanie Zappulla (UW-Madison) – THE PEOPLE * 4:00 PM – [Michael Rosenthal](https://philosophy.utoronto.ca/directory/michael-a-rosenthal/) (University of Toronto) – THE JEWS [Friday, April 24th](https://www.meetup.com/the-toronto-philosophy-meetup/events/314352946/) * 10:00 AM – Jac Jacob Zellmer (UW-Madison) – FLATTERY * 11:15 AM – Justin Steinberg (Cornell University) – SEDITIOUS SPEECH * 1:45 PM – Willi Goetschel (University of Toronto) – FREEDOM OF THOUGHT * 3:00 PM – Jason Yonover (Yale University) – GENEALOGY About the Centre for Ethics (http://ethics.utoronto.ca): The Centre for Ethics is an interdisciplinary centre aimed at advancing research and teaching in the field of ethics, broadly defined. The Centre seeks to bring together the theoretical and practical knowledge of diverse scholars, students, public servants and social leaders in order to increase understanding of the ethical dimensions of individual, social, and political life. In pursuit of its interdisciplinary mission, the Centre fosters lines of inquiry such as (1) foundations of ethics, which encompasses the history of ethics and core concepts in the philosophical study of ethics; (2) ethics in action, which relates theory to practice in key domains of social life, including bioethics, business ethics, and ethics in the public sphere; and (3) ethics in translation, which draws upon the rich multiculturalism of the City of Toronto and addresses the ethics of multicultural societies, ethical discourse across religious and cultural boundaries, and the ethics of international society. The Ethics of A.I. Lab at the Centre For Ethics recently appeared on a list of 10 organizations leading the way in ethical A.I.: https://ocean.sagepub.com/blog/10-organizations-leading-the-way-in-ethical-ai

Hungry for real talk and real truth? Join open hearts from all over the GTA as we dive straight into the powerful words of Jesus—laughing, learning, and growing together in a super welcoming, laid-back vibe! Everyone’s welcome—whether you’re a longtime Bible lover, just starting your journey with Jesus, or simply curious to discover who He really is. No pressure, just great conversation and good energy! ***Attention*** We meet in the Yonge-Sheppard Centre Food Court at the tables in front of SECOND CUP\*\*\* (lower level) Perfect spot to connect over food court buzz, make new friends, and explore the Bible in a fun, no-judgment zone. See you there—bring your questions, your coffee, or just yourself!

### **“Conscious Living”** **An Experiential Community Program for Embodied Consciousness** **Ongoing until April 30, 2026** (except for March Break) **Thursdays, 7:30 PM (in person)** **Facilitator:** Sophia Barna, M.Ed., M.S.W. **Location: Toronto Theosophical Society,** 792 Glencairn Ave., Toronto, ON **(Basement Room)** “Conscious Living” is a weekly experiential program that bridges the study of consciousness with the practical realities of everyday life. Rooted in the *Map of Consciousness* developed by David R. Hawkins and *A Course in Miracles (ACIM)*, this program invites participants to move beyond theory into lived, embodied awareness. Together, we explore what it means to live “in the world, but not of it” — grounded, present, and engaged, while rooted in higher awareness. The Map of Consciousness serves as our reference point. Each meeting focuses on a specific state of consciousness, blending study and practice so participants not only understand these states intellectually, but also learn to embody and live them in daily life. In addition to the Map of Consciousness, A Course in Miracles (ACIM) provides a complementary framework for the program. ACIM offers practical spiritual principles for transforming perception, cultivating forgiveness, and recognizing the inner guidance of love and truth. Its teachings emphasize the shift from fear to love, the release of judgment, and the practice of conscious choice in every moment. Our gatherings are grounded in the states of Love, Joy, and Gratitude, corresponding to the elevated energy field of 540 on the Map of Consciousness. From this frequency of openness and lightness, we come together to uplift, inspire, and grow in awareness — individually and collectively. ### **✨A Potluck for the Body, Heart, Mind & Soul🌈** Each session is designed as a holistic experience — nourishing all dimensions of being: * **🪷 Food for the Soul:** Guided meditation, self-reflection, and self-inquiry * **🧠 Food for the Mind:** Lectures, presentations, and meaningful group discussions * **✨ Food for the Body:** Embodied practices (movement and dance meditations), singing, chanting * **💗 Food for the Heart:** Love-centered connecting and sharing ### **🌸What to Expect** Together, we will explore different states of consciousness through: * Lectures and presentations * Guided meditation * Self-reflection * Group discussions * Movement and dance meditation * Singing and chanting ### **🌸What to Bring** 1. Coloured clothes — each week a specific colour (ROGVAIV rainbow sequence: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet). *This is an encouraged part of the experience, not mandatory.* 2. Silk or large dancing scarf/veil 3. Notebook, journal, or paper with pens, crayons, markers 4. Your highest vibrational presence in love, joy, and gratitude This is a space where learning becomes lived experience — where insight meets embodiment. *To uphold universal brotherhood without distinction and freedom of thought, all elements of the evening are invitational. Participants may opt out of any component and still be welcome, as long as we engage with one another respectfully.* *This is a participatory series with optional components. In keeping with TTS values, you are welcome to opt in or opt out of any element, and the central expectation is mutual respect.* ### **Reference Texts** 1. Hawkins, D. R. (2012). Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender. Carlsbad, CA: Hay House. 2. Foundation for Inner Peace. (1976). A Course in Miracles. Mill Valley, CA: Foundation for Inner Peace. 3. Barna, S. (2025). Flying Home: Soul Stories for the Little One Within. Toronto: LightPath Publishing. **Registration:** TTS Study Groups, ts.study.to@gmail.com Registration **optional** (for updates and materials). Walk-ins welcome. ### **About the Facilitator:** **Sophia Barna** is an educator and facilitator with a long-standing interest in the relationship between inner life and everyday life: how spiritual principles become livable, embodied realities rather than abstract ideas. Her work bridges consciousness research, reflective inquiry, and practical methods for self-observation and inner transformation. Her background includes graduate training in education and social work, and advanced professional training in EMDR. In “Conscious Living,” she draws on the Map of Consciousness (as developed by David R. Hawkins) and the spiritual psychology of A Course in Miracles, inviting participants to explore themes such as presence, perception, forgiveness, and the cultivation of love, joy, and gratitude through shared practice and dialogue. Her facilitation style is heart-centered, clear, and experiential, with space for participants to learn through reflection, discussion, and embodied exercises. ***Important distinction:*** While Sophia’s clinical experience, education, and skills shape how she holds the space and communicates, this series does not constitute EMDR therapy, psychotherapy or a clinical solution for mental or emotional problems. It is a group experience offered in the spirit of service and public learning, and it should not replace care from a licensed provider in a private and confidential therapeutic relationship.

Please contact event host, Christopher, for the event location at christopher.tyrrell@ymail.com [Note: "ymail" is correct. This is not gmail]

Contact Alex for location and information.

Join us for an uplifting evening of group meditation. Immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere of sacred mantras. It’s both simple to practice and sublime. These sessions are perfect for beginners as well as long time practitioners. Using breathing techniques, ancient mantras and group kirtan meditation, one can experience spiritual fulfillment, inner peace and self-realization. Kirtan meditation is perfect for calming the mind, relieving stress and anxiety and enabling one to experience happiness in the heart. Learn also the practice of japa yoga, a meditation technique practiced daily in solitude, and cultivate gradually a deep happiness within. Refreshments will be served after class, all are welcome to stay. In accordance with ancient yoga traditions this meditation class is free of charge.

Join us for an evening of French conversation at B Espresso Bar in the atrium of the Toronto Royal Conservatory of Music (near St. George station)!
We welcome all levels of French, and it's free\*.
Venez pratiquer votre français! \*While there is no fee to attend this event, guests are expected to purchase something from B Espresso Bar, in accordance with RCM's restrictions on usage of the cafe atrium space. **Building location:** The Royal Conservatory is at 273 Bloor St W, between Varsity Stadium and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). There are entrances off Bloor St. and Philosopher's Walk. If you enter from Bloor St through the large glass doors, follow the hallway on the left beside the staircase and turn left at the end. (Closest TTC: St. George) **Notes and restrictions:** The host may or may not attend this event. Attendees are encouraged to seat themselves at two or more adjacent tables, as needed. Please form groups of 6 people at each table; do not rearrange chairs and tables to accommodate more people, as this obstructs the narrow walking space. Guests are expected to order something from the cafe, and are asked to please refrain from bringing outside food or drink. Attendees must leave the building at 8pm when the cafe stops serving. **Contributions:** If you are a regular with us and would like to support the group, please send any contributions by e-transfer to [diskutomeetup@gmail.com.](http://diskutomeetup@gmail.com.) The yearly donation goal and amounts received year-to-date will be tracked anonymously on [this google sheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18GfqYsis8Cf2XGg4KsKQJsY_0Fv3bsSQHwJAxvC1Km8/edit?usp=sharing). Thank you so much for your support.

Shalom Catholic Community invites you to join us on Saturdays for a prayer group. The prayer group is a great way to strengthen your spiritual life and make new friends. It begins with lots of music and prayer, followed by preaching and testimonies. After the prayer, be prepared to hangout, talk, laugh and have fun. We offer workshops, retreats, adoration, opportunities to join a soup kitchen, food and clothe drive. We look forward to seeing you! **About us** We are a Catholic organization of lay persons, approved by the Holy See, to serve all who sincerely seek God and want to grow in faith. https://comshalom.org/en/community/

### Thursday Evening Discussion Group **In\-Person \| Starts at 8:00 PM \(Doors open at 7:30 PM\) \| Drop\-In** **Starting material:** *[Network of Thought](https://www.holybooks.com/wp-content/uploads/Network-of-Thought-Krishnamurti-ebook.pdf)* by **Jiddu Krishnamurti** This weekly discussion group offers a reflective and open space to explore themes of **mysticism, spirituality, and inner transformation** through selected writings and talks by Jiddu Krishnamurti, Annie Besant, Alice Bailey, and other thinkers whose work invites deep **inquiry into consciousness, freedom, truth,** and **the nature of self-understanding**. Rather than promoting a particular belief system, the group emphasizes **shared reading, thoughtful reflection, and respectful dialogue**. Participants are welcome to engage at their own pace—whether through listening, contemplation, or open discussion. While there is **no requirement to commit before attending**, *the intention is to gradually build a group of participants who are interested in returning regularly and engaging sincerely with the material* and the group process. Newcomers are very welcome, and those who feel drawn to ongoing study are warmly encouraged to continue attending. This is a **drop-in group**, and no prior background or preparation is required. **All are welcome.** Come as you are, reflect together, and take part in a spirit of openness and mutual respect.

Come to our church on Sunday! We’re a welcoming bunch. Our website is nlife.ca

Welcome ! OM Chanting is a group practice that has multiple benefits, including calming the mind, feeling relaxed, activating one's self-healing potential. OM Chanting''s powerful vibration contributes to send Peace . A participation of 5$ minimum is strongly encouraged to sustain the rent of the studio . \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- EVENT DETAILS: address: 283 Spadina Avenue; 3rd floor. ( SE corner of Spadina and Dundas). We will start at 6:30 pm. Please plan to arrive 5-10 minutes earlier. We will be sitting on chairs; you can also sit on the floor if you prefer. You are encouraged to bring a bottle of water. Looking forward to seeing you ! For more information about Om Chanting, please visit: [https://bhaktimarga.org/yoga-meditation/](https://bhaktimarga.org/yoga-meditation/) Much Love, Veda Cell: 416-845-9375

Hello everyone, I'd like to invite you out for fabulous Sunday afternoon; with our beloved party game, **Family Feud! (The Best Social Party Game in Town!)** It's going to be a total blast with a game designed to keep us laughing and interacting all afternoon! \*Super easy to learn, play and have fun! *\*Joined by my other social groups too so we can anticipate a fabulous turn out!* **Date:** Sunday April 26th, 2026 **Arrival Time:** Please arrive between 4:00 p.m. -4:30 p.m. **Where to Meet us?** **Location:** La Carnita - (Main Floor) **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 **Free Parking:** in Residential area and on Eglinton on the north side-just east of the restaurant **Yonge and Eglinton Subway:** (Very close, 3 minute walking distance) Event Details Below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) https://www.meetup.com/soulcity/ **Details of Event:** **\*\*FAMILY FEUD\*\* (The Best Social Party Game in Town) (Sunday April 26th)** -Lots of laughs in store as we have a great evening making new friends and playing **Family Feud** hosted in a unique group vs group format -Groups will be divided into groups of 4-5 players, with multiple rounds played \*Treats handed out to the winning teams after each round we play \*\* Invite your friends or come on your own; either way we can anticipate a great time! ***It's all about having fun and laughing out loud!*** \-\-\-\- **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only please) (HST included) or in advance by e transfer to **steveflemming11@gmail.com** \-\-\-\-\- \*Plan to come for dinner (one beverage or appetizer minimum to support this wonderful restaurant) (The food is fresh and really good!) \*Includes reserved seating for the group \*Beverage and/or appetizer minimum to support the staff and venue \*Dinner Party after Family Feud at no extra charge :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Beautiful soul, I am holding a Blue Lotus Tea and Life force, Light Language and Light Body Activation. Spots, are limited - the last few events were sold out. Join me if you feel the call. **Why Blue Lotus?** **Healing Powers** * **Nervous System Regulation:** Blue Lotus acts as a natural nervous system stabilizer, calming anxiety, stress, and overactive mental chatter. * **Physical Healing:** Traditionally used to relieve physical ailments, including muscle cramps (menstrual pain), heart palpitations, and gastrointestinal issues. * **Antioxidant Properties:** It contains flavonoids that protect cells from damage and act as anti-inflammatories. **Manifestation Powers** * **Amplification of Intention:** Blue Lotus is used to amplify manifestations, particularly those related to self-love, emotional healing, and spiritual insight. * **Flow State:** The plant is believed to help individuals access and activate a flow state, aligning them with the universe to manifest their deepest desires and open new beginnings. * **Heart-Opening:** The alkaloids interact with dopamine receptors to soften the heart, allowing for a "gentle surrender" that lets the invisible become visible, a key principle of manifestation. **In-Person Light Body Expansion Activation** Join us for a powerful in-person Light Body Expansion Activation — an immersive energetic experience designed to awaken your life force energy and expand your consciousness. This session combines **Kundalini (life force) Activation and Light Language transmission**, creating a space where deep healing, emotional release, and expanded awareness can unfold naturally. As you lie comfortably on your mat, you will receive a transmission of energy that supports the awakening of your own inner life force and the expansion of your energetic body. Participants often enter deep meditative or altered states as the body responds to the vibrational frequencies of sound, energy, and light language. These frequencies communicate directly with your consciousness, activating the body’s innate intelligence and natural healing capacity. This experience supports a deeper connection to your authentic self while helping release energetic blockages and limiting patterns. **During the session you will experience:** • A heart-opening ceremony to deepen connection and receptivity • Demonstration of the activation process • Full Light Body Expansion Activation energy transmission • Light Language channeling and vibrational sound frequencies • Somatic and energetic release as the body responds to the energy • Closing integration and sharing circle **Participants may experience:** • Spontaneous body movements or energetic sensations • Emotional release such as laughter, tears, or deep peace • Visual or intuitive insights • Expanded states of consciousness • Activation of the voice through humming, singing, or light language **Potential benefits:** • Release of emotional and energetic blockages • Expansion of awareness and consciousness • Greater intuition and clarity • Reconnection with your inner guidance and purpose • Increased creativity, joy, and emotional freedom All you need to do is lie down, relax, and allow the energy to guide the experience. Last three events were sold out. Please book your spot early [here](https://lightbodyexpansion.com/class/4)

We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Join us for Mercy of the Gods by James S. A. Corey. How humanity came to the planet called Anjiin is lost in the fog of history, but that history is about to end. The Carryx - part empire, part hive - have waged wars of conquest for centuries, destroying or enslaving species across the galaxy. Now, they are facing a great and deathless enemy. The key to their survival may rest with the humans of Anjiin. Caught up in academic intrigue and affairs of the heart, Dafyd Alkhor is pleased just to be an assistant to a brilliant scientist and his celebrated research team. Then the Carryx ships descend, decimating the human population and taking the best and brightest of Anjiin society away to serve on the Carryx homeworld, and Dafyd is swept along with them. They are dropped in the middle of a struggle they barely understand, set in a competition against the other captive species with extinction as the price of failure. Only Dafyd and a handful of his companions see past the Darwinian contest to the deeper game that they must play to learning to understand - and manipulate - the Carryx themselves. With a noble but suicidal human rebellion on one hand and strange and murderous enemies on the other, the team pays a terrible price to become the trusted servants of their new rulers. Dafyd Alkhor is a simple man swept up in events that are beyond his control and more vast than his imagination. He will become the champion of humanity and its betrayer, the most hated man in history and the guardian of his people. This is where his story begins.

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.