Recovering from Religion

**A private event for successful men who want to connect & date their ideal women.** Our speakers open the door to how connection works at the highest level. **Join the waitlist here: [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1983729940653](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1983729940653)** Lineup: hosted by **Dan Nesek**, award-winning relationship mentor with over 25 years of experience and work with more than 1,000 men across 30+ countries. Featured in major international media (such as FHM, New York Times, The Game, Playboy, etc). Joined by a leading female relationship advisor who works exclusively with high-achieving women. She will share a rare, direct perspective on what discerning women are truly looking for and what stops most successful men from finding it. **Who It’s For:** Men who: ✅ Have achieved success and are ready for the one area that remains: a high-quality relationship with the right woman. ✅ Who want to expand their circle with accomplished, like-minded individuals. ✅ Who are serious about mastering this not just reading about it. **👔 Dress code: Smart Casual** Limited to an intimate group of 50 attendess. Follow us to learn more! Website: [https://dannesek.com/](http://[https//dannesek.com/%5D(https://dannesek.com/) "\[https://dannesek.com/\](https://dannesek.com/)") Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/dannesek](http://[https//www.instagram.com/dannesek?igsh=Z2JuejNud2tmd2Mw&utm_source=qr%5D(https://www.instagram.com/dannesek?igsh=Z2JuejNud2tmd2Mw&utm_source=qr) "\[https://www.instagram.com/dannesek?igsh=Z2JuejNud2tmd2Mw&utm_source=qr\](https://www.instagram.com/dannesek?igsh=Z2JuejNud2tmd2Mw&utm_source=qr)")

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

### **“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.

Contact Alex for location and information.

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

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!

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.

Event by Recovery Without Borders Location: 32 Cranfield Rd, Toronto, ON M4B 3H3 Charity Art Auction – Heavy Hues, Together in Colour is a daytime, alcohol‑free art and music event in East York, bringing together original artwork, live performances, curated fashion, and local vendors under one roof. Discover: \- A charity art auction with original pieces from Toronto‑area artists \- Live acoustic sets throughout the afternoon \- Curated fashion and accessories plus select vendors A special functional mocktail bar from DNA Drink Solutions (12–2 PM) serving crafted alcohol‑free drinks Proceeds help support participating artists, core event costs, and The Gatehouse, a local community organization offering peer‑based support and programs. 🎨 Full event details, artist lineup, and schedule: https://recoverywithoutborders.org/heavy-hues-together-in-colour 🎟 Tickets (free, pay‑what‑you‑can, and supporter options): https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/charity-art-auction-heavy-hues-together-in-colour-sunday-april-26th-toronto-live-music-and-substance-free Sunday, April 26, 2026 12:00–6:00 PM (DNA Drinks 12:00–2:00 PM) 32 Cranfield Rd, East York (Toronto) Come browse, bid, listen, and explore—while supporting local creators and a thoughtful, substance‑free community space. 🔗 https://linktr.ee/recoverywithoutborders 📧 Email: Toronto@recoverywithoutborders.org Be sure to check our May event: https://www.facebook.com/events/816740714a807447 #HeavyHuesTogetherInColour #ArtAuctionForChange #ArtForMentalHealth #TraumaInformed #ChildhoodSexualAbuseAwareness #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryWithoutBorders #TheGatehouse #SoberEvents #AlcoholFreeToronto #SupportLocalArtists #ExpressiveArts #ArtHeals #CommunityCare #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #TorontoEvents #CharityEvent #NonProfit #LiveMusic

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

Hi everyone! We're doing an afternoon sketching hangout at the MaRS Building food court tables- Enter MaRS from Collage Street where the statue of two men are sitting by the glass doors. Turn left and head down the escalator. Turn left at the bottom of the escalator and head down the hall past another escalator and Foosball table the event will be held at the far end of the food court. **First time meeting us and still not sure about the vibe?** Check out photos from **[past in-person events of 2023](https://www.meetup.com/artsrecto/photos/34212927/)** Bring your art supplies (mainly dry medium or small watercolour set), and order a warm drink and snacks. \*Note the food court is closed but there are a couple of coffee shops in the area at street level. **Where to meet exactly?** MaRS Discovery District at 2pm **How to get there?** \- Public transit \- get off at Queens Park subway station\, walk East along Collage you should see glass doors with a statue of two men sitting at a table outside\. Instructions stated above Looking forward to meeting you all :) === ================ **Support This Group 🥰🤩** We hope you're enjoying the Arts & Rec events! If you'd like to give support, please consider making a small Ko-fi donation of $5-10 USD at [https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto](https://www.ko-fi.com/artsnrectoronto.) . This helps cover meetup and miscellaneous expenses with hosting events! For more inquiries, please PM me for more info! Thank you all so much!

### 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.

Join us the 4th Friday of every month at 6 pm at Cherie Bistro for another Toronto Humanist & Atheist get-together! Catch up with friends and welcome new people.

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 :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

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!

In this local meeting, you will discover knowledge that you can use to get over the past. The key to improving your personal motivation, self-confidence, and happiness is to get over your painful memories. When you become free of your past, you will be free from stress, anger, anxiety and depression. Studies show that negative emotions can affect your health. By being free of negative emotions, believe it or not, you will most likely even look younger, feel more energetic, and become healthier! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is brought to you by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

How do we recover from having had a toxic or narcissistic ex? How do we move on from the past, especially something as traumatic as a divorce or breakup? How do we avoid anxiety and depression? How do we have more self esteem? In this meeting, you will learn the mental health secrets to help you quickly get over the past and heal your mind. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

From birth, human beings are learning. Before we are able to hold concrete memories, we are being shaped and impacted by everything about our lives and situations. From the point that we become capable of cognizant thought and memory, our lives could be summed up as a series of our responses to our circumstances, whether for good or for ill. Dr. Joe Dispenza sees a deep need for human beings to live *on purpose*. Rather than just living life in reaction mode, he challenges people to live intentionally, to seek to change the negative that we have encountered and to pursue the positive through purposeful steps in a different and healthy direction. His study and work seek to demonstrate the changes that can be made from the inside out. Join us as we take a look at new ways to grow at **6:30 pm,** **Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at True Food Kitchen, Easton Town Center, Columbus**. Get your tickets on [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breaking-the-habit-of-being-yourself-columbus-ohio-tickets-1984662515008)! Connect with us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/973088205892754)! Check out our updated website [LocalCA](https://localca.org/)!

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Why are we unhappy? Where does emotional pain come from? Studies show that people who suffer from long-term emotional pain have painful experiences in their lives that were never fully resolved in their mind. In other words, there were issues in the past that were not completely dealt with. This can include abuse in childhood, breakups, divorce, death of a loved one, to name a few. How do you know whether you have gotten over something painful? Here is an easy test: Do you still have attention on what had happened to you? For instance, do you still find yourself thinking about something painful that you went through? If you are, then you are not over it. In fact, in severe cases, people find themselves playing a "tape" in their mind over and over again. So how do you heal from your past? How do you stop the "tape" playing in your mind? In this meeting, you will learn a technique to help you with that. Come join us! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

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.