Spiritualism’s Crossroads: Progress or Stagnation?
Spiritualism was founded by free thinkers—visionaries who challenged the norms of their time. Many pioneers were women. They saw Spiritualism as a way to connect with the spirit world and fight for social change. Their advocacy for women’s rights, abolition, and equality was core to the movement.
Today, the movement continues, but it faces a shift. While still a powerful tool for spiritual connection, some parts of modern Spiritualism have strayed from the original ideals. The free-thinking spirit often feels overshadowed by a reluctance to evolve. In many areas, there’s a focus on tradition. Where Spiritualism once embodied inclusivity and progress, pockets of judgment and exclusivity now exist.
The Founders’ Vision
The founders—figures like Andrew Jackson Davis and Emma Hardinge Britten—envisioned a dynamic and open movement. They emphasized individual spiritual experiences, encouraging seekers to explore their own paths. The leaders believed Spiritualism could guide social progress. This included advocating for women’s rights and equality.
Spiritualism was closely tied to the women’s movement. It gave women a platform to assert their voices. Women led the movement, using their roles as mediums to challenge norms. The founders’ vision was rooted in love, inclusivity, and progress.
The Modern Reality
However, parts of the movement have resisted this evolution. Some leaders focus on preserving tradition at the cost of growth. These groups have created an environment where elitism thrives. In these circles, power is held by a few, making the movement feel inaccessible to others. It has fragmented an already fragile group of followers.
But not all of Spiritualism has taken this turn. Many still embody the values of love, openness, and free thought. Yet, the persistence of exclusivity is a challenge. It clashes with the founders’ original ideals of an inclusive, progressive movement.
What Would the Founders Say?
If the founders were to witness today’s Spiritualism, they might have mixed feelings. They would celebrate those advancing the movement, keeping it inclusive and open. These efforts align with their vision of a growing and evolving movement.
Yet, they would also feel concern. The persistence of elitism and resistance to change would trouble them. The founders fought for free thought and openness. Seeing judgment and exclusion in the movement they created would be disheartening.
A Call for Renewal
There is an opportunity now for renewal. Spiritualism can reclaim its original values of love, inclusivity, and progress. Overcoming elitism and closed-mindedness requires effort. But by returning to its roots, Spiritualism can remain a powerful force for good.
The founders hoped for a movement that embraced change. The current generation of Spiritualists can honor this by fostering openness and mutual respect. By doing so, the movement can thrive in the modern world—just as the founders intended.
