Spirituality

Hello and Welcome to our first Soulful Conversation for 2026 which will be an introduction to the Baha'i Faith, the world's youngest (182 years old) and second most widespread faith after Christianity. I will give a short presentation and then we will read some famous quotes from the Baha'i scriptures followed by discussion and questions/answers. It should be a fun and informative morning. Venue: Kissaten Cafe, Heidelberg Rd Alphington. Parking at rear. Please RSVP if you are coming by Saturday February 21. Looking forward to seeing you, Vahid

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

**PLEASE NOTE RECENT LOCATION CHANGE & ATTENDANCE FEE!** Please join us this Sunday as we discuss the mysteries of consciousness. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider (these will be updated), however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion. \- Is consciousness something the brain does\, or something the brain has? \- Does consciousness come in degrees\, or is it an all\-or\-nothing property? \- Could a sufficiently advanced AI be conscious? \- Is the mystery of consciousness an objective feature of reality\, or a limitation of human cognition? \- what empirical discovery would most threaten your current view? \- Do our answers on what consciousness is fundamentally depend on our worldview?

Melbourne Central Food Hall on Level 2. Far back corner near large windows to outside. Look for the colourful piano! See below for exact instructions on finding us. IMPORTANT: Please turn up if you RSVP. Other writers are counting on you being there with them so no one sits alone!!! Currently we have part-time hosts and regulars who will turn up and sit together. EVERYONE, please keep a look out for newly arriving people in the group and make them feel welcome, especially if they say: Are you with the writing group? If you arrive first and have an A4 piece of paper, it is a good idea to write on the paper: Writing Group. This way everyone will find each other. Bring your writing tools, and anything that you have written recently (optional). Remember your earphones if you like to listen to music while you write. There are no rules :) You can write. Or you can chat and write. You can share your work. Or not share your work. (If you need silence to concentrate then headphones are a good idea considering it is in a public space.) Bring pen and paper as a backup. Melbourne Central wifi available. Who: People who write and/or want to write (more) What: An open group of writers who meetup in a stimulating space to write together, share writing and ideas and support each other’s writing goals Why: Inspiration, motivation and space to write. Where: Melbourne Central - see photo for our location. Red shaded area would be ideal if available when you arrive. Detailed instructions if you do not know the area: 1) Go to the Shot Tower (the old building inside Melbourne Central with the big cone glass roof above it). 2) Go up the the escalators (there’s only one set of up- escalators near the Shot Tower, you can’t miss it). 3) You are now on level 2, Dining Hall (there are signs to the right, just slightly, stating this). 4) Top Juice store is to your right. Turn right so you pass Top Juice and walk toward the food hall. 5) You are now in the food hall near a black piano. Go past this. Go to the seating at the far back corner where there are large windows facing outside. 6) Look for us writers. There should be a sign on the table. Call out your hosts name and ask if this is the writing group. We will say YES, here we are! Additional hosts wanted!!! Please contact Mat Clarke. Please only RSVP if you can make it. And also un-RSVP if you need to cancel. Thank You, Melbourne Writers. Great Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelbWriters What we have written so far: www.worldwriterscollective.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelbCityWriters Blog: http://melbournewriters.wordpress.com **Help us by adding to these social pages and site**

Sunday Evening Meditation 5.30 to 6.30pm Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our activities. Incense and other dharma books and items for sale 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

**🎟️ SPECIAL MEETUP DISCOUNT** **[www.eventbrite.com/e/1980844853279/?discount=MeetUp](www.eventbrite.com/e/1980844853279/?discount=MeetUp)** **ALIVE** is a series of wellness events combining **empowerment practices, free-form movement, and guided breathwork.** This journey blends **EMPOWERMENT • MOVEMENT • BREATH** into a powerful container that awakens the body, sharpens the mind, and nourishes the heart. Its purpose is to help individuals reconnect with their inner vitality and feel more present, energised, and *alive*. Each edition includes: • Complimentary cacao • Mindfulness & gentle meditation • Ecstatic dance & free-form movement • Breathwork & guided integration • Community sharing circle Through movement, breath, and conscious connection, participants are invited to return to the present moment, reconnect with their voice, and embody their personal truth with clarity and confidence. **ALIVE** has been created to offer practical tools for emotional wellbeing, self-expression, nervous system regulation, and personal empowerment — in an accessible, community-focused format. 💫 **Come as you are. Leave feeling renewed.** 💫 Early booking recommended, limited spots. 🎟️ **[www.eventbrite.com/e/1980844853279/?discount=MeetUp](www.eventbrite.com/e/1980844853279/?discount=MeetUp)**

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

**🌅 Refresh & Connect: 1-Hour Morning Walk around The Tan – Every Weekday!** Start your day the refreshing way with a gentle, energising group walk in the heart of Melbourne! **🕖 Schedule** * **Meet**: Aim for 6:50 AM at the steps/entrance area of **Federation Square** (look for the group near the main steps or a small sign – easy to spot in the early light). * **Depart**: 7:05 AM sharp – we leave on time to keep things smooth! * **Route**: A relaxed loop around **The Tan** (the iconic 3.8 km gravel track circling the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kings Domain). * **Pace**: Easy and conversational – perfect for walking, not racing. We're there to enjoy the fresh air, not set records. * **Vibe**: Friendly banter welcome! Chat, laugh, share stories, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings in companionable silence. We're mindful of the beautiful parklands – leave no trace, respect other path users, and soak up the calm of nature right in the city. * **Finish**: Back at Federation Square around 8:00 AM (about 55 minutes of walking + buffer for a relaxed pace). * **Optional extra**: Grab a well-earned coffee or breakfast at **Clocks** (or nearby spots) to keep the conversation going if you like. This is a no-pressure, inclusive group for anyone who wants to: * Kickstart their weekday with movement and fresh air * Meet friendly locals in a low-key setting * Enjoy Melbourne's stunning parklands in the beautiful morning light All fitness levels welcome – walkers of every speed are encouraged (just be ready to move at 7:05 AM!). Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude. Dress for the weather – mornings can be crisp! See you on the steps – let's make mornings brighter together! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️🌳 **Recurring**: Every Monday–Friday **Duration**: \~1 hour **Location**: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD

## 🌱 **Understanding Social Connection** [Ticketed Event](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/feb-22-understanding-social-connection-ages-2035-tickets-1981398694834?aff=oddtdtcreator) ### **For Young Adults (Ages 20–35)** 📅 **Date:** Sunday, 22 February 🕓 **Time:** 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 **Location:** **RYVE**, 38 Shafton Street, Huntingdale VIC 🤝 **In collaboration with Social Threads x Kismetrix** This is a **guided session to develop skills and tools for social connection**, designed especially for young adults who want to feel more comfortable expressing themselves and understanding others. The session supports people in their **20s and early 30s** who want to: * feel more at ease in social situations * express themselves more clearly and confidently * better understand others in conversation * build practical skills for stronger, more natural connection You don’t need to be outgoing, confident, or experienced. You also don’t need to be looking for dating or networking. This is a space to **learn, practise, and grow** — at your own pace. ### ✨ What this session is This is a **facilitated, experience-based session** focused on understanding how social connection works in real life. You’ll be supported to: * 💬 practise starting and continuing conversations * 🧠 develop practical tools that help conversations flow naturally * 🤍 build awareness around listening, expression, and understanding others * 🌱 strengthen social confidence through guided practice There’s no spotlight, no forced sharing, and no pressure to perform. ### 🔧 Skills & tools you’ll develop * starting conversations comfortably * expressing thoughts and feelings with clarity * listening and responding with presence * noticing what builds (and blocks) connection * applying these tools in everyday social situations ### 🏡 What to expect * a calm, **indoor environment** designed for comfort and focus * gentle facilitation with clear structure * small-group conversations centred on practice and learning * practical insights you can use straight away You’re always in control of how much you participate. ### 🎯 Who this is for This session is ideal if you: * are a young adult wanting to improve social connection * feel shy, thoughtful, or socially reserved * want to better understand yourself and others * are curious about connection and ready to practise **Age guidance:** Open to adults **18+**, with the core audience being **young adults aged 20–35**. To keep the space relatable and comfortable, participants outside this range may be redirected to sessions better suited to them. ### 🎟️ Pricing * **Early Bird:** $19 * **Standard:** $29 [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/feb-22-understanding-social-connection-ages-2035-tickets-1981398694834?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or [Official Webstie](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26223) Places are limited to maintain a comfortable and supportive environment. ### 📌 Please note * ❌ Not speed dating * ❌ Not networking * ❌ Not therapy * ✅ A guided session focused on developing skills and tools for social connection Come as you are. Curiosity is enough. ## **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** **Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways.** **📧 s[ocial@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:ocial@kismetrix.com.au)** **🌐 [www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au)** **📱 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523) & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353)** **🤝 Collaborations: [collabs@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au)** **📄 Important Notice:** By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/) and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/). **Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.**

Join us at **Unity of Columbus** for *Spa for Your Soul*, a restorative and inspiring workshop designed to nourish your spirit, awaken your inner wisdom, and reconnect you with the sacred rhythm of life. Drawing from the rich spiritual insights of **Matthew Fox** and the timeless theological wisdom of **Thomas Aquinas**, this workshop invites participants into a deeper experience of spirituality rooted in compassion, creativity, and divine presence. Together, we will explore spirituality not as something distant or abstract, but as a lived, embodied experience—one that honors joy, justice, beauty, and the inherent goodness of creation. Through guided reflection, gentle spiritual practices, discussion, and contemplative moments, *Spa for Your Soul* offers a sacred space to release stress, renew clarity, and remember the divine spark within. This is an opportunity to pause, breathe, and tend lovingly to your soul—much like a spa experience, but for your inner life. Whether you are seeking spiritual refreshment, deeper understanding, or simply a peaceful space to be present, this workshop welcomes you exactly as you are. **Come, rest, reflect, and renew—your soul deserves it.**

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library 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. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library 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. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect. All backgrounds are welcome.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

We will have our certified mediums available and you can receive 3 10-minute readings for $20. To keep you safe, we will be following all CDC and Health Dept. guidelines at our psychic fair today. Sitters and readers required to wear a mask. We will maintain a minimum of 6 foot physical distance during readings. Please, if you can, bring your own portable chair to use during your readings. Please note that we are at our wonderful new home at Unity of Columbus, 4211 Maize Road, Columbus, OH