Index of Cults and Religions
Index of Cults and Religions
By the Staff of Watchman Fellowship, Inc.
Introduction
This Index contains brief definitions, descriptions or cross references on over 1,200 religious organizations and beliefs, as well as world religions (including Christianity) and related doctrines. Watchman Fellowship is a Christian apologetics and discernment ministry; thus, many references ("Jesus," "Gospel," "Christianity," etc.) contain definitions that reflect the beliefs of Watchman's staff. While Watchman Fellowship does not hold to the beliefs of non-Christian religions and doctrines, we also attempt to describe these beliefs factually, fairly and accurately. Readers are asked to assist in this effort by suggesting corrections or improvements.
This is by no means a complete list of cults and religions. Watchman Fellowship maintains over 10,000 files and a research library of over 25,000 books and periodicals on religions, cults, new religious movements and related teachings. The absence of a religious movement from this index does not mean that Watchman Fellowship endorses the organization.
How To Use This Index
Begin your search by clicking on the highlighted letter below that is the first letter of the term for which you are searching (or, if your browser will do so, perform a word search for the term). If the term is listed, it will be followed by a brief definition. Most of these definitions contain highlighted words that are linked to the definitions for those words; clicking on the highlighted word will take you directly to that definition.
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Some Definitions
By using the terms "cult," "occult," and "New Age," Watchman Fellowship is in no way implying that the followers or leaders are necessarily evil or immoral people. It simply means that such groups seem to promote doctrine or practices which may be considered outside the realm of historic Christianity.
By its primary dictionary definition, the term cult just means a system of religious beliefs or rituals. It is based on a farming term in Latin meaning cultivation. Sociologists and anthropologists sometimes use the term cult to describe religious structure or belief patterns with meanings (usually non-pejorative) unique to their disciplines. In modern usage, the term cult is often used by the general public to describe any religious group they view as strange or dangerous. Thus, cult can describe religious leaders or organizations that employ abusive, manipulative, or illegal control over their followers' lives. In addition to these usages, Christians generally have a doctrinal component to their use of the word. Cult in this sense, is a counterfeit or serious deviation from the doctrines of classical Christianity. Watchman Fellowship usually uses the term cult with a Christian or doctrinal definition in mind. In most cases the group claims to be Christian, but because of their aberrant beliefs on central doctrines of the faith (God, Jesus, and salvation), the organization is not considered by Watchman Fellowship to be part of orthodox, biblical Christianity.
The term, "occult" comes from the Latin occultus or "hidden."
Generally the word is used of secret or mysterious supernatural powers or magical, religious rituals. The word "occult" in this publication is used to describe any attempt to gain supernatural power or knowledge apart from the God of the Bible. Generally it refers to witchcraft, satanism, neo-paganism, or various forms of Psychic discernment (astrology, seances, palm reading, etc.).
New Age is a recent and developing belief system in North America encompassing thousands of autonomous (and sometime contradictory) beliefs, organizations, and events. Generally the New Age borrows its theology from pantheistic Eastern religions and its practices from 19th century Western occultism. The term "New Age" is used herein as an umbrella term to describe organizations which seem to exhibit one or more of the following beliefs: (1) All is one, all reality is part of the whole; (2) Everything is God and God is everything; (3) Man is God or a part of God; (4) Man never dies, but continues to live through reincarnation; (5) Man can create his own reality and/or values through transformed consciousness or altered states of consciousness.
Index of Cults and Religions
3H0: See Healthy, Happy, and Holy
.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People:
A book by Stephen Covey
Aaronic Order,
Maurice Glendenning, Murry, UT: Splinter group from LDSThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), founded in 1942 by Glendenning after he was excommunicated by the LDS Church for receiving and publishing revelations later known as the Levitical Writings.
Abaddon:
(Hebrew for "The Destroyer"; in Greek, Apollyon) A demon described in the Bible as "the angel of the bottomless pit" (Revelation 9:11).
Old Greenwich, CT: Esotericmagic, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Abode of the Message,
Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, New Lebanon, NY: Sufism, alchemy, dowsing, meditation to lead to "inner attunement," ative American spirituality, sweat lodge
Academy for Guided Imagery,
Martin L. Rossman & David E. Bresler, Mill Valley, CA: Healing by altered states of consciousness, imagery training (i.e., visualization), hypnosis and magic
Evanston, IL: Organization founded in 1956 to explore psychic occurrences and metaphysica experiences while evaluating the growing interest in occult phenomena in Christian churches. See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship, Spiritualism, Divination
Actualism:
New Age teaching based on panentheism, according to which all human beings possess the divine Christ-consciousness and are united with the Mother-Father-Creator God.
See Acupuncture
Chinese system of healing using needles or hand pressure (acupressure) applied to certain points on the body, traditionally believed to balance the
yin and yang energies in the body by opening blocked meridians (apexes in the pathways). Once the
chakras (key points or intersections) are open, the chi or energy, supposedly can then flow through the body bringing all things into harmony. While some limited physical effects (mostly anesthetic) can be attributed to this practice, these effects have scientific, physiological explanations totally unrelated to the mystical explanation, which derives from TaoismSee [[#Holistic|Holistic Health]Profile
available.
Adams, Dennis,
Mt. Shasta, CA: New Age, man is God.
Adelphi Organization,
Dallas, TX: New Age teachings on Atlantis, karma, seven planes of existence. See Stelle Group
Adeptco,
Chuck McDonald, Omaha, NE: Yoga, crystals, reincarnation, karma and Kabbalah teachings.
Advanced Organization of Los Angeles (AOLA):
Promotes Scientology philosophy.
Advanced Systems, Inc.:
See Zen Master Rama
Widespread trans-denominational movement inspired by William Miller's prediction that Jesus' "advent" (return) would take place in 1844. Even after the Great Disappointment (the date's failure), many people in the movement continued to believe. Some suggested revised chronologies and new dates, eventually forming groups such as the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Others, notably Hiram Edson and Ellen G. White, suggested that the 1844 date was accurate but that a heavenly (thus invisible) event had taken place. Their teachings became the basis of Seventh-day Adventism, which eventually spawned its own offshoots, including Armstrongism and the Branch Davidians
Aesthetic Realism Foundation,
Eli Seigel, New York: Happiness can be achieved through the harmony of opposites, e.g., realizing and accepting that the world is both beautiful and horrific (see Taoism). Educators have criticized the Foundation after public school teachers in New York introduced the philosophy into high school English, biology, and art courses.
Aetherius Society,
Sir George King: Clairvoyance, karma, reincarnation, psychometry, Great White Brotherhood, UFO, alchemy, occult secrets of Jesus, mantras
Affective Education:
Also called value-free, or non-directive, education. Influenced by the philosophy of Carl Rogers, affective education programs attempt to facilitate the emotional development of children in order to enhance the learning process, particularly focusing on self-esteem. This contrasts with traditional educational paradigms that focus on cognitive, or intellectual, practices such as reading, writing, and arithmetic. Affective education has become particularly influential in drug awareness programs for youth.
Agasha Temple of Wisdom,
William Eisen, Los Angeles, CA: Universal consciousness of god, reincarnation, occult pyramidology, Ascended Masters
Agnosticism:
The claim (denied by Romans 1:18–20) that one has no knowledge of God or the origin of the universe. Some agnostics make the claim on a personal level, while allowing that such knowledge may exist but has never been known by themselves. Others assert that such knowledge cannot be had by anyone. Agnostics avoid the charge of dogmatic atheism by acknowledging the theoretical possibility of God's existence. Yet virtually all live as if the non-existence of God was an established fact, and are thus practical atheists
Agon Buddhism:
Sect of BuddhismUses the Agon Sutras as scriptures.
Agyeman, Jaramogi Abebe:
See Pan African Orthodox Christian Church
Ahmadiyya Movement:
Sect of Islam following the teachings of Ahmad (1835-1908), an Indian Muslim; most followers in the US are black, Indian, or Pakistani.
AION:
Magic, runes, goddess worship
Term used in theosophy designating an alleged library that exists on the astral plane containing all the thoughts, actions, and events of mankind. Mystics, through altered states of consciousness, tune into this library for information.
Tony Alamo, leader of this group, has been imprisoned by authorities for alleged illegal activities. Teaches traditional Christianity is dead. Former followers have reported deplorable living conditions, mind control, and slave labor. Operates Music Square Church in TN, Holiness Tabernacle in Dyer, AR, and End Times Book is the publishing arm.
Alan Shawn Feinstein Association,
Cranston, RI: UFOs, contactee.
Aleph: Alliance for Jewish Renewal,
Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, Philadelphia, PA: Combines Chassidic Judaism, Native American spirituality, Eastern mysticism, A Course in Miracles, and New Age practices. Emphasizes combining syncretistic spirituality and psychology.
Aletheia Psycho-Physical Foundation, Jack Schwarz, Ashland, OR: New Age seminars on the inner-self, paraconsciousness, meditation and visualization
All-One-God-Faith, Emanuel H. Bronner, Escondido, CA: Sells Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap, which claims to clean both body and soul. The soap is widely available in health-food stores. Teaches (like Process Theology) that God is continually recreating Himself. God desires all nations and religions to unite in an "All-One-God-Faith" on Spaceship Earth. This unification will come about through following 13 precepts and 20 directives revealed to Bronner by God.
All Souls Unitarian Church,
John Wolf, Tulsa, OK: See Unitarian-Universalist Association for similar theological perspective.
All Ways Free, Madison, WI: New Age periodical.
Allah: Arabic, Muslim name for God; see Islam.
Allegro, John: Wrote The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross.
Alphabiotic New Life Center,
Dallas, TX: #New"ZNew Age seminars on one's divine being, Ramtha, yoga and channeling
Alphasonic International, Los Angeles, CA: Company specializing in tapes with subliminal messages
Alternative Medicine:
See Holistic Health
Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America: See [[#Mon-Ka|Mon-Ka Retreat…]
Ambassador University, Big Sandy, TX: Now defunct Liberal arts and religious institution founded by Herbert Armstrong. See Armstrongism
Ambassadors For Christ, Tustin, CA: See Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for similar theological perspective.
Ameba, San Francisco, CA: Paganism, promotes the teachings of Aleister Crowley, Celtic rituals
American Academy of Dissident Sciences, Culver City, CA: Studying a wide array of conspiracy theories, the Academy focuses on UFOs and the Illuminati
American Association of Ayurvedic Medicine,
Fairfield, IA: Holistic health association founded by Deepak Chopra while he followed the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (see Ayurvedic medicine; Transcendental Meditation).
American Babaji Yoga Sangam,
New York, NY: Hinduism-based philosophy, yoga
Americ an Constitution Committee: Political organization of the Unification Church
American Fellowship Services: Splinter group of The Way International
American Foundation for the Science of Creative Intelligence: A branch of Transcendental Meditation
American Gnostic Church,
Daeva Ares Animo: Paganism, Kabbalah rituals, Egyptian magic, Satanism rituals of Anton LaVey, Gnostic Mass.
American Holistic Nurses Association, Amherst, MA: Trains medical nurses to use therapeutic touch and meditation with patients.
American Imagery Institute Milwaukee, WI: New Age teachings on visualization, astral projection
American Leadership College, Inc. Osceola, IA: New Age occult teachings on trance healings, mediumship, self-realization dreams.
American Pie and the Armageddon Bible Prophecy Home Page: The pop song American Pie, which prophesies the destruction of America, was foretold in the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy 32. See Apocalypse
American Society for Psychical Research, Simon Newcomb, New York, NY: ESP, out-of-body experiences, mediums, parapsychology, psychokinesis
American Study Group, UT: Defunct splinter group from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) that used the Book of Mormon and the teachings of LDS leaders to speculate on end-time events.
American West Publishers, Tehachapi, CA: UFOs cosmic laws of balance. Publishes the Phoenix Journal
American Zen Center: Zen Buddhism, shamanism, Sufism
AMOM: See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
AMOOKOS: Occult, magic, some Hinduism, man is already a master.
AMORC: See Rosicrucian Order
Anchor of Golden Light, Dorothy and Henry Leon, Grants Pass, OR: UFOs, Ascended Masters, Kabbalah mysticism, alchemy, numerology Publishes the Anchor of Golden Light newsletter.
Ancient Wisdom Connection, N. Myrtle Beach, SC: New Age channeling, numerology and belief in "Lord Sananda," who is an incarnation of Jesus
Anglo-Israelism: See British Israelism
Animal Magnetism: See Mesmerism
Anthropomancy: A form of divination based on psychic readings of the entrails of a human who has been ritualistically sacrificed.
Anthroposophic Society, Rudolf Steiner, Hudson, NY: Similar to the Chicago organization (below), possibly affiliated.
Apostasy:
From the Greek word apostasis, meaning "rebellion," and the Latin word apostasia, meaning "abandonment," the term apostasy refers to a renunciation of the Christian faith. The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society applies the label apostate to former Jehovah's Witnesses, who are then shunned by all Witnesses in good standing.
Apostle: From the Greek word apostolos, meaning "messenger," the term apostle refers to those leaders of the early Christian church who were chosen by Jesus. The criteria for being an apostle was 1) the individual was personally chosen by Christ; and 2) the individual must have personally seen Christ. Members of the top two quorums of leadership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints claim the title today.
Apostolic Overcoming Holiness of God, Inc., Birmingham, AL: Pentecostal church, stresses the oneness of God while accepting the Triune Being of the Godhead. Salvation depends upon baptism, tarrying to receive the Holy Spirit, and holiness. Publishes The People's Mouthpiece magazine.
Apostolic United Brethren:
See Corporation of the Presiding Elder of the Apostolic United Brethren
Applewhite, Marshall:
See Heaven's Gate
Aquarian Academy, Robert E. Birdsong, Eureka, CA: Jesus only an avatar of the Cosmic Christ, of the Great White Brotherhood of Light. Man's purpose is to reach the transcendental plane, release from the wheel of fate, astral projection, meditation, cosmic truths.
Aquarian Age Teaching, Ruby Focus, Sedona, AZ: Discover the God within, the Father-Mother god, Atlantis, Christ-consciousness
Aquarian Church of Universal Service,
Paul Shockley, Portland, OR: Teaches cosmic awareness but with no specific doctrine. Similar to Unitarian-Universalist
The Aquarian Conspiracy,
Marilyn Ferguson: A book documenting and advocating the widespread growth of the New Age movement.
Aquarian Educational Group,
Torkom Saraydarian, Sedona, AZ: Astrology, moon festivals, use the Bhagavad-Gita, Jesus only an avatarPublishes the Fiery Synthesis magazine.
Aquarian Foundation, Keith Milton Rhinehart, Seattle, WA: Universalism, yoga, spiritism, Theosophy-based philosophy.
Aquarian Minyan,
Berkeley, CA: Jewish group, yoga, mysticism
Aquarian Perspectives Inter Planetary Mission,
Montgomery, AL: UFO group, receives messages from Futron and the Rainbow Star Legionnaires.
Aquarian Tabernacle Church, Index, WA: Paganism, worship of Mother Earth, goddess worship, sun and moon festival, magicPublishes the Panegyria newsletter.
Arcana Workshop,
Manhattan Beach, CA: Meditation, Great Invocation, moon festivals. Based on the teachings of Alice Bailey (see Arcane School). Publishes the Thoughtline newsletter.
Arete Truth Center,
Paul Lachlan Peck, Las Vegas, NV: New Age, metaphysics, teaches balancing the body, mind and spirit.
Arguelles, Jose: New Ager who staged the Harmonic Convergence
Arizona Light, Phoenix, AZ: New Age periodical.
Arizona Metaphysical Society, Frank Alper, Phoenix, AZ: New Age seminars on rebirthing, astral projection, channeling, karma, reincarnation, and crystals
Arizona Network News, Scottsdale, AZ: New Age periodical.
Arm of the Lord, Warren, OH: Teaches that it is a satanic idea to invite Jesus into "one's life."
Armageddon Time Ark Base Operation, O.T. Nodrog, Weslaco, TX: UFO group, channels messages from outer dimensional forces.
Armstrong, Garner Ted: Son of Herbert W. Armstrong who formed his own rival Armstrongism splinter group, the Garner Ted Armstrong Evangelistic Association. See Church of God, International
Armstrong, Herbert W.: See Armstrongism, Worldwide Church of God
Arn Draiocht Fein, P.E.I. Bonewits, Nyack, NY: Paganism, Druids, polytheism, nature worship. Publishes News from the Mother Grove newsletter.
Aromatherapy Seminars, Los Angeles, CA: Holistic Healing therapy, oils healing the psyche. See Aromatherapy.
Arunachala Ashram, Bhagavan Sri Ramana: Hinduism -based philosophy, also called Maharshi Center, Inc.
Aryan Nations Church,
Hayden Lake, ID: A neo-Nazi paramilitary organization in the Christian Identity movement that preaches against all non-Caucasian groups. The Order, an Aryan Nations break-off group, killed Alan Berg, a Jewish radio personality in Denver, in 1984. The Aryan Nations received national notice in 1992 when the wife of member Randy Weaver was killed in a shootout with the FBI in Ruby Ridge, ID.
As It Is:
See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Asatru Free Assembly, Denair, CA: Paganism, worships Odin as Father-god, Frigga as Mother-god and Nerthus as Mother-Earth. Publishes The Runestone newsletter.
Ascended Master Teaching Foundation,
Mt. Shasta, CA: Occult, part of the I AM movement, Great White Brotherhood, similar to Theosophy
Ascended Masters School of Light, Toni Moltzan, Carrollton, TX: New Age, channeling, Ascended Masters including Jesus, universal consciousness.
Ascension Week Enterprises, Santa Fe, NM: New Age, Channeling, reaching out to children with New Age programs.
ASCENT Foundation,
Larry Jensen, Sedona, AZ: New Age enlightenment, similar to Silva Mind Control, est, and Lifespring
Asheville Meditation Center, Asheville, NC: New Age, achieving man's divine nature, transcendence.
Assemblies of the Called Out Ones of "Yah," Sam Surratt, Milan, TX: Sacred Name movement
Assemblies of Yahweh,
Jacob Meyer, Bethel, PA: Publishes The Sacred Name Broadcaster magazine. See Sacred Name movement
Assemblies of Yahweh (7th day), Cisco, TX: See Sacred Name movement
Assembly of Scientific Astrologers,
George Cardinal, LeGrosoplin, MO: Esoteric astrology, karma and reincarnation
Assembly of Yahweh, Holt, MI: Founded in 1930, perhaps the oldest of the Sacred Name groups in America. Sabbatarianism Publishes The Faith
Assembly of YHW Yoshua, Pueblo, CO: Sacred Name movement
Associated Readers of Tarot International, Carbondale, IL: Tarot form of divination, Celtic rituals
Associates for Scriptural Knowledge, Ernest L. Martin, Portland, OR: Anti-denominational group whose Associates study doctrine through a Home Study Course. Teaches universalism, i.e., that all people will be saved (although not all will experience the first resurrection and live in Christ's millennial kingdom), and the Sacred Name doctrine (Martin claims that the name Yahweh was removed from the Bible by Jerome). Martin was fired by the Foundation for Biblical Research (an Armstrongism splinter group in Alhambra, CA) in 1984 for espousing these doctrines. Publishes a "restored" Bible called The Manuscript Version of the Bible, and The ASK Communicator.
Association for Christian Development, Kenneth Westby Auburn, WA: Armstrongism splinter group.
Association for Past-Life Research and Therapies, Inc. Riverside, CA: New Age, reincarnation and astrology
Association for the Understanding of Man, Austin, TX: New Age, channeling, psychic reading, altered states of consciousness
Association of Unity Churches: The denominational structure affiliated with the Unity School of Christianity
Association Sananda & Sanat Kumara, Mt. Shasta, CA: New Age, channeling Christ-consciousness teachings.
Astara, Robert & Evelyn Chaney: New Age, spiritism, yogaPublishes Voice of Astara
Astro Computing Services, San Diego, CA: Astrology
Astrology: An ancient fatalistic system of divination using the position of the planets, moon and sun in the twelve Zodiac positions at the moment of one's birth to gain occult or hidden knowledge of the future. Profile available.
Astrology and Psychic News, N. Hollywood, CA: New Age periodical.
Atlantic Pagan Council: Association of East Coast pagan covens, magic, moon festivals, paganismPublishes the Atlantic Pagan Council Amateur Publishers' Association newsletter.
Atman: A term used in Hinduism referring to the eternal or real self and sometimes refering to the principle of life in all things.
Aum Supreme Truth: See Aum Shinri Kyo
Author Services, Inc.: Promotes Scientology philosophy.
Avanta Network, Palo Alto, CA: New Age, works by Virginia Satir promoted, positive and negative energies.
Avatar, Flagstaff, AZ: New Age seminars similar to est and Lifespring, enables participant to have conscious shift of beliefs.
Awake! Magazine published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Awareness Research Foundation, Inc., North Miami, FL: Astrology, Atlantis, UFOs, ESP and Lord Sananda.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Center, Pearl Miller, Reno, NV: Eastern mysticism, meditation, homeopathy
Baba, Sai: Indian guru, Hinduism, meditation, Kundalini yoga.
Bear Tribe Medicine Society, Spokane, WA: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, medicine wheel, moon ceremonies.
The Beatles: A highly influential rock-and-roll group from the 1960s. In 1966 they became involved in Transcendental Meditation; later both John Lennon and George Harrison repudiated TM. Harrison then became a devotee of ISKCON and recorded his hit single "My Sweet Lord" as a devotion to Lord KrishnaThe Beatles are widely credited with increasing the popularity of Eastern religions in the United States.
Bell, Art: Popular late-night radio talk show host. While his Coast to Coast weeknight broadcast and Dreamland weekend broadcast focus on a wide array of New Age and occult issues, as well as many conspiracy theories, one of the most common subjects discussed by guests on the program is UFOs.
Bermuda Triangle: Geographically, the Triangle composes the southwestern quadrant of the North Atlantic, with apexes in Bermuda, Puerto Rico, and in the Gulf of Mexico west of Florida. Some people involved in the occult and UFO studies believe the Triangle is a supernaturally dangerous area, with many ships and airplanes disappearing in the Triangle in the 20th century.
Bernard, David:
A well-known Oneness Pentecostal writer and speaker.
Bet Hashem – The House of YHWH, New Haven, IN: Sacred Name, man is the offspring of light, conversion is the union with the light.
Beth El Shaddai, Dick Amos, Plano, TX: Dual Covenant doctrine, denies Jesus is God.
Beth HaShem, Jacob Hawkins, Odessa, TX: Sacred name, Sabbatarianism, keeps Old Testament feasts and laws for salvation. Publishes The Prophetic Watchman newsletter.
Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh: Though this Indian guru is deceased, many followers still practice his unique form of Hindu philosophy and sexual yoga system to gain enlightenment.
Bhakti Yoga: Type of yoga or spiritual exercise involving devotion to a guru
Bible Believers, Inc.: See Branham, William
Bible Code, Michael Drosnin: Bestselling 1997 book teaches that prophecies are hidden in a complex network of letters and words within the Old Testament. Drosnin claims that he attempted to warn Israeli leader Yitzak Rabin of his impending assassination based on a prediction in the biblical code. The theory is a form of numerology and has some associations with the Jewish occultism of the Kabbalah
Bible Speaks, The: Former name of Greater Grace World Outreach
Bible Talks: Home and campus group studies sponsored by the International Churches of Christ
Bible Way Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ:
Oneness Pentecostalism denomination.
Bible Way Publications,
Ft. Lauderdale, FL: Bible Students group.
Biblical Church of God,
Santa Cruz, CA: Armstrongism splinter group.
Biblical Research Centers:
Regional centers for The Way International
Bind: See Spell
Bioenergy: New Age practice of healing. Balances the life-energy by opening blocked meridians (see acupuncture).
BioEnergetic Synchronization Techniques:
New Age method using the body's life force to heal itself.
Biofeedback:
The use of EEG (electroencephalographic) feeback instruments to monitor brain waves and skin resistance with the goal of modification of brain waves. Participants can learn to control heart rates or generate brain wave activity (alpha, beta, and delta) at will to induce altered states of consciousnessEnhances the capacity for relaxation and/or inducing meditative states and physiological control similar to that in yoga and Zen
Biointegration, Ross Algelo, Dallas, TX: New Age, body alignment, yoga, reflexology, rebirthing
Bio-Magnetics:
New Age, the realigning of magnetic fields allegedly surrounding the body.
BioPsciences Institute, Minneapolis, MN:
Astrology
Black Mass:
A ritual in Satanism that attempts to negate or profane the Catholic Mass. Black candles are used and Catholic prayers recited backwards. Allegedly, the communion is occasionally performed using human blood and flesh.
Black Muslim:
Generic term referring to Nation of Islam and related groups.
Black Christian Nationalist Movement:
See Pan African Orthodox Christian Church
Blavatsky, Madame Helena Petrovna:
Founder of Theosophy
Blessed Be:
A common greeting used among Wiccans to invoke or wish happiness and well-being.
Blue Lotus, Wilmot, WI: New Age periodical.
Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, Eknath Easwaran, Petaluma, CA: Hindu philosophy, meditation, uses the Bhagavad-Gita
Blue Rose Ministry, Robert Short, Joshua Tree, CA: UFOs, messages from the "space brothers," channelingPublishes the Solar Space-Letter
Blue Star, Mary Thunder, West Point, TX: New Age, sweat lodge, channeling, Spiritual University.
Body, Mind and Soul:
Houston, TX: New Age periodical.
Body, Mind and Spirit:
Providence, RI: New Age magazine.
Book of Changes:
See I Ching
Book of Shadows: A journal for recording occult activities.
Bookmark, Santa Clarita, CA: Christian Science splinter group.
Borderland Science Research Foundation
Garberville, CA: Alchemy, dowsing, UFOs, astrology
Boston Church of Christ:
See International Churches of Christ
Brinkley, Dannion: As chronicled in his bestseller Saved by the Light, Brinkley allegedly underwent a near-death experience after being struck by lightning. He teaches people to perform "life reviews" to enhance their perception of life and death and to find their life missions. He operates a hospice organization called Compassion in Action / The Twilight Brigade.
Brotherhood and Order of the Pleroma, Richard Duc de Palatine, Sherman Oaks, CA: New Age revival of Gnosticism, God and man are the same being.
Brotherhood of Eternal Truth, New Albany, IN: Spiritualism, astrology, [[#Atlantis|Atlantis, channeling, magic, past life regressionAlso known as Center of Light and Life.
Brotherhood of Seth, Ellsworth, ME: Paganism, homosexual or homophilic magic, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Brotherhood of the Followers of the Present Jesus, Ann and Peter Meyer, San Diego, CA: Alchemy, Christ-consciousness in each person, channeling and clairvoyance
Brotherhood of the White Temple, Inc., M. Doreal, Castle Rock, CO: New Age/occult metaphysical teachings, soul illumination, three planes of existence.
The Bruderhof Community: A communal society started in Germany in the 1920s and based on the sixteenth-century Moravian Anabaptist sect of Jacob Hutter, which was part of the Radical Reformation. The group is also called the Society of Brothers and the Hutterian Brethren. The basic theology of the group is Protestant but, according to former members and other critics, the group exercises inappropriate control over the members and practices shunning and other forms of spiritual abuse
Buddha's Universal Church, San Francisco, CA: Similar to Buddhism in theology.
Builders, Norman Paulsen, Oasis, NV: New Age, Christ-consciousness, meditation, Father-Mother God, enlightenment.
Builders of the Adytum, Paul Foster Case, Los Angeles, CA: Occult, Kabbalah, Tarot, spiritual alchemy, [[#Esoteric|esotericastrology
Burning Man Festival, Black Rock Desert, NV: An annual festival celebrating neo-paganism and Satanism The name comes from the culmination of the festival, in which a wooden man with outstretched arms (resembling a crucifix) is burned by the crowd.
Buzzworm:
New Age /environmental periodical.
C.O.B.U.: See Church of Bible Understanding.
Cabalah: See Kabbalah.
Caelum Moor, Arlington, TX: Private park (now closed) containing menhirs (large upright stones) similar to those found at Stonehenge. Newspaper reports claim trespassers have used the site for pagan ceremonies. See Stonehenge
CAN:
See Cult Awareness Network
Canfield, Jack: New Age education author, editor of popular Chicken Soup books. Very influential in the public school arena.
Cantillation Research Foundation,< John Diamond, Valley Cottage, NY: New Age, pantheism, All is God, All is Mother.
CARP:
See Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles
Castaneda, Carlos:
New Age author of The Teachings of Don Juan series. He helped popularize [[#NatAm|Native Americanshamanism, the hallucinogenic peyote, and New Age occultism
Castle Rising,
Denver, CO: Paganism, magic, psychic impressions, moon festivals, crystals Publishes the Castle Rising newsletter.
Catholicism:
See Roman Catholicism
CAUSA:
Organization affiliated with the Unification Church
Celtic Christianity:
Augustine of Canterbury evangelized England in the late 6th ? early 7th centuries. His work was later taken by Patrick to Ireland, who is largely credited with establishing the Celtic church. Celtic Christianity was heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic Church, to which it was allied, although many individuals claim a greater reverence for nature in the Celtic tradition. Differences in practice within the Celtic church were gradually eradicated during the Middle Ages as the Roman papacy asserted its authority over Ireland. Modern groups that claim to revive Celtic Christianity are frequently a mixture of Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, with few legitimate ties to the early Celtic church. Nonetheless, these groups should not be confused with neo-pagan groups that also claim to be Celtic.
Center for Action and Contemplation, Albuquerque, NM: Yoga, Enneagram workshops.
Center for Advanced Communication and Training, Carrollton, TX: New Age, hypnosis, Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Center for Alternate Realities,
Durango, CO: Metaphysics, crystals, shamanism, runes, Tarot Cards, guided meditation, palm reading
Center for Personal and Planetary Empowerment,
Austin, TX: New Age, meditation, alchemy
Center For Spiritual Awareness,
Roy Eugene Davis, Lakemont, GA: New Age, enlightenment, man's higher self, cosmic-consciousness.
Center for Studies on New Religions,
Massimo Introvigne, Torino, Italy: Introvigne studies new and alternative religious groups. He and his work, which is frequently supportive of new religions, are often used by alternative religious groups to support their activities when pursuing governmental recognition.
Center for Wisdom Spirituality,
Paradise, PA: UniversalismPublishes the Interconnections newsletter.
Center for World Networking,
Soguel, CA: UFO, psychic, yoga, Universal Energy.
The Centers Network:
See est
Centre de Recherche sur l'Energie Humaine Universelle (CREHU): See Spiritual Human Yoga
Centric, Houston, TX: New Age periodical.
Champaign-Urbana Church of Christ:
Member, International Churches of Christ
Chapel of Prayer,
Eleanor Button, Houston, TX: Psychic readings, channeling, crystals, astrology, self-healing meditation
Cheetham, John:
See Great Lakes Society for Biblical Research
Chicago Bible Students,
Chicago, IL: Largest and best known of the independent "Bible student" groups. Reprints the early writings of Watchtower Bible and Tract Society founder Charles Taze Russell, including Divine Plan of the Ages.
Children of God:
See The Family (Children of God)
Chinmaya International Foundation,
Swami Chinmayananda, Piercy, CA: Eastern mysticism, yoga, meditationPublishes the MU News
Chinmoy, Sri:
Hindu philosophy, meditation
Chinook Learning Center,
Fritz and Vivienne Hull, Clinton, WA: Native American Earth-Spirit philosophy, shamanism, meditation, called one of the most important New Age centers.
Chiromancy:
See Palm Reading
Chiropractic Medicine:
A holistic health practice whereby practitioners use a form of manipulative therapy to treat musculoskeletal problems. While many chiropractors are not engaging in alternative religious activities via their practice, critics claim that some chiropractors engage in chiropractic medicine in accordance with the Taoist principle of facilitating the flow of chi
Choice Experience, A,
Jerry Stocking, Chetek, WI: New Age, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, "other-than-consciousness" techniques.
Choosing Light,
Mill Valley, CA: New Age, meditation, telepathic communication from Higher Dimension Guides and teachers.
Christ Cathedral for Divine Abundance,
Alexius Bassey, London: Universalism, Divine Consciousness.
Christ Family,
Charles McHugh: McHugh, a.k.a. Lightening Amen, claims to be the incarnation of JesusFollowers dress in robes, no shoes, practice vegetarianism.
Christ Light Community:
See New Age Church of Truth
Christ the Savior Brotherhood:
See Holy Order of MANS
Christadelphianism,
John Thomas: Teaches that Jesus is a created being, Holy Spirit is Power of God, and salvation by worksAlso rejects the ideas of heaven and hell. It has several splinter groups.
Christian Community:
Based on teachings of Rudolf Steiner, founder of the Anthroposophical Society
Christian Fellowship, The:
See Potter's House
Christian Foundation,
Canyon County, CA: See Alamo Christian Foundation
Christian Millennial Fellowship,
Hartford, CT: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society splinter group (see Bible Students). Publishes The New Creation periodical.
Christian Prayer Center,
Mother Martin, Washington, D.C.: Native American spirituality and rituals, voodoo
Christian Renewal Ministry,
Saratoga, CA: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society splinter group (see Bible Students).
Christian Rose Cross Church,
Olympia, WA: Based on the teachings of Max Heindel (see Rosicrucian Fellowhip), Cosmic Christ, Universal religion.
Christward Ministry,
Escondido, CA: New Age, guided meditation, Christ-consciousness
Chrysalis:
Swedenborg Foundation periodical.
Chuang-tzu:
Legendary founder of Taoism
Church, The,
Jim Roberts: See Brethren
Church at San Diego,
Paul and Patrica Carroll: Current leaders Vincent and Patricia Izacic (a.k.a. Xavier). Shepherding, mind control
Church For Positive Living,
Dean Davis Bedford, TX: Native American spirituality, yoga, creative meditation, visualization
Church in York,
Bernard Haygood, York, PA: Shepherding, baptismal regeneration
Church of All Worlds,
Otter Zell, Berkeley, CA: Occult/Pagan theologyPublishes the Green Egg periodical.
Church of Christ:
See Churches of Christ
Church of Christ-Consciousness:
See Center of the Light
Church of Christ Jesus:
See International Churches of Christ
Church of Christ, Scientist:
Official name for Christian Science
Church of Christ, Temple Lot,
Granville Hedrick, Independence, MO: Splinter group that broke away from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Church of Christ with the Elijah Message,
Otto Fetting, Independence, MO: Splinter group that broke away from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Church of Christ with the Elijah Message,
Greenwood, MO: 1998 splinter group from Otto Fetting's group of the same name.
Church of Cosmic Origin,
Hope Troxell, June Lake, CA: New Age, Community, Cosmic Christianity, additional scripture includes The Book of Enoch
Church of Divine Influence:
Alignment with the Divine Will of the Wise Movement of the Universe.
Church of Freethought:
A social organization for atheists that provides the opportunities for socializing, community service, and social support offered by theistic churches.
Church of God and True Holiness,
Robert Carr, Raleigh, NC: Allegedly practice slavery and mind control
Church of God, (Abrahamic Faith),
Wenatchee, WA: Adventist group, similar to the Bible Students groups; rejects the Trinity, teaches annihilationismPublishes Notes For Bible Students newsletter.
Church of God Family Counseling Center,
William Miller, Dallas, TX: Miller claims to be the savior.
Church of God General Conference,
Oregon, IL: Rejects the TrinityMain headquarters for the Church of God, Abrahamic Faith.
Church of God Philadelphia Era,
David Fraser, Pasadena, CA: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes the Proclaim Liberty magazine.
Church of God (Seventh Day),
Denver, CO: One of the older Sabbatarian churches in America. Publishes Bible Advocate
Church of God, Seventh Day,
Caldwell, ID: Sabbatarianism; observes Sabbath and Feast days; baptism necessary for salvation (see baptismal regeneration). Publishes The Herald of Truth newsletter.
Church of God (7th Day) Salem,
WV: Rejects the Trinity; teaches Sabbatarianism; observes Feast days and Sabbath; baptism required for salvation (see baptismal regeneration). Publishes The Advocate of Truth newsletter.
Church of God, The Eternal,
Raymond C. Cole, Eugene, OR: Armstrongism splinter group; Sabbatarianism; observes Sabbath and Feast Days.
Church of Hakeem,
Hakeem Rasheed, Oakland, CA: Teaches how the god within makes people rich.
Church of Illumination,
Quartertown, PA: New Age, Divine Spark in all humans, Gnosticism, similar to Rosicrucianism
Church of Israel,
Day Gayman,
Schell City, MO: Radical Christian Identity movement sect. Publishes The Watchman
Church of Jesus Power,
E.S. Cooke, Sr., Boulder City, NV: Astral projection via "Jesus Powered Sakraments" (sic) which changes man's electro-magnetic polarity.
Church of Light,
Elbert Benjamin, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Associated with the ???Brotherhood of Light, rejects heaven and hell. Atonement to be found in each person's own path.
Church of Metaphysical Christianity,
Russell Flexer, Sarasota, FL: New Age, Jesus is Ascended Master, Creation by Vibrations. Publishes Metaphysical Messenger magazine.
Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ Apostolic Faith:
Oneness Pentecostal church.
Church of Perfect Liberty,
Tokuchika Tokuhara, Glendale, CA: Zen Buddhism, man is manifestation of god.
Church of Seven Arrows,
Wheatridge, CO: Native American spirituality, shamanism, paganismPublishes Thunderbow II newsletter.
Church of the Brigade of Light,
Charlotte, NC: Divine Mother in everyone, Jesus called the Gentle Brother, Metaphysical philosophy. Publishes the Crystals of Light newsletter.
Church of the Final Judgement:
See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Church of the Great God, John Ritenbaugh
Charlotte, NC: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes the Forerunner newsletter.
Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days,
Bang-ik Ha, Seoul, Korea: Predicted Jesus would return on October 28, 1992. See False Prophecy
Church of the Most High Goddess,
Mary Ellen Tracy, Los Angeles, CA: Revival of Egyptian religions, temple priestess, salvation through sexual relations.
Church of the New Birth:
See Foundation Church of Divine Truth
Church of the New Jerusalem:
See Swedenborg Foundation
Church of the Plains Indians:
Native American spirituality, sweat lodge
Church of the Tree of Life,
San Francisco, CA: No doctrine of God, sin, etc., only doctrine is anything goes within legal limits.
Church of the Trinity,
A. Stuart Otto, San Marcos, CA: New Age; By Jesus' C.E.R.A. (Crucifixion, Entombment, Resurrection and Ascension) he imparted his Consciousness into the psyche of all.
Church of Universal Love,
Linda Foreman, El Paso, TX: Similar to I AM Movement, use teachings of St. Germain, channeling, guided meditationPublishes Cosmic Channelling newsletter.
Church of Unlimited Devotion:
Worships Jerry Garcia of the rock-and-roll band, The Greatful Dead. They believe Garcia's guitar is a channel for God.
Church of Y,
Tylwyth Teg,
Smyrna, GA: Pagan, occult philosophy.
Circle,
Madison, WI: Pagan newspaper.
Circle Network News
Mt. Horeb, WI: Paganism, shamanism, Wicca, goddess worship. Publishes the Circle Network News newsletter.
Circle of Life,
Dorothy Espiau, Houston, TX: Healing planet Earth, forces of Divinity, crystals, believes dolphins are alien beings.
Circle of Light,
Dallas, TX: New Age periodical.
Circle of Light, Inc.,
Honolulu, HI: New Age, follows Lord Michael, astral planes, channeling
City of the Sun Foundation,
Columbus, NM: Channeling, chakras, Christ-consciousness, karma, man is part of God , man is perfect.
Cleage,
Albert B., Jr.:
See "Pan African Orthodox Christian Church".
Clifford E. Hobbs Foundation,
Newport, WA: Hedonistic theology.
College of Divine Metaphysics,
Joseph Garduno, Glendora, CA: New Age, metaphysical teaching.
Comfort Corner Church,
Lawrenceville, GA: UFOs, metaphysical teachings.
Common Boundary,
Chevy Chase, MD: New Age periodical.
Communion Letter,
San Antonio, TX: UFO periodical.
Community of Jesus,
Orleans, MS: Thought to be involved in shepherding and mind control
Concept Therapy,
Thurman Fleet, San Antonio, TX: New Age, stress management seminars, book title Rays Of The DawnPublishes The Beamer newsletter.
Denver, CO: Ironically, begun in the early 1980s as a Christian ministry to expose cults and false teaching, Miller's organization began to take on cult-like characteristics in later years. Becoming increasingly controversial and bizarre, Miller's group drew national media attention in 1998 when over 50 followers fled the Denver area and disappeared after Miller predicted the Apocalypse was to begin and that Denver was to be destroyed by an earthquake on October 10. Miller, who claims to be one of the two end-time prophets mentioned in the Revelation 11, published Report from Concerned Christians and Take Heed UpdateProduced Our Foundation radio program. This group is not to be confused with the Mesa, Arizona-based Concerned Christians, a Christian ministry to Mormons led by Jim Robertson. Profile available.
Conciliation Ministries,
Dusean Berkich Lawrence, KS: Conversion should be inward to self, not to Jesus
Confraternity of Deists,
Homosassa Springs, FL: Reject sin, no need for a Savior, no consciousness after death.
Confucianism,
Chiu King (King Fu-tzu or Confucius - "Kung the Master"): A world religion based on the teachings of Chiu King who, according to tradition, was born in Lu, China about 550 BC Chiu King promoted peace and social harmony through the traditions of the ancestors. He is said to have collected, edited and written commentaries on four ancient manuscripts (including the I Ching). He also wrote Ch'un Ch'iu ("The Annals of Spring and Autumn") These documents comprise the Five Classics and along with the Four Books (a collection of his sayings) form the basis of Confucianism. Doctrines include ancestor worship, devotion to family elders, and right conduct based on the inherent goodness of man.
Congregation of God,
San Jose, CA: See Answers Research and Education
Congregation of God Seventh Day,
John Pinkston: Armstrongism break-off group. Publishes The Herald magazine.
Congregation of the Firstborn,
Raymond Glenn, Grapeland, TX: Teaches that Jesus is not God; also sabbatarianism, festival keeping.
Congregation of Yahweh,
Pittsburgh, PA: Sacred name group, sabbatarianism, Old Testament feast days and dietary laws kept, the Holy Spirit is the power of God. Publishes The Restoration Message newsletter.
Conscious Development of Body, Mind, and Soul:
Organization of Teri Hoffman
Conscious Living Foundation,
Drain, OR: New Age, states of consciousness, visualizationPublishes the Gentle Place and Quiet Space magazine.
Consciousness Connection,
Las Cruces, NM: New Age, visualization, automatic writing, rebirthing, astral projection
Constellation,
Elton Powers, Dallas, TX: New Age, African spirituality, animal spirituality, yoga for pets.
Contemplations, Inc.,
Ed Heinemann, Durango, CO: The Universe is alive and speaks. Life is crystalized light.
Continuum Foundation,
Chino Valley, AZ: New Age, dynamic energies, consciousness raising teachings.
Cornerstone,
Jim Rector,
Texarkana, TX: Armstrongism splinter group. Publishes Cornerstone
Corporation of the President of the Fundamentalist Church,
Rulon T. Jeffs, Sandy, Utah: Mormon Fundamentalist splinter group of between eight and twelve thousand members. The group has a strong presence in Hilldale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona (once known as Short Creek), which was the site of a government effort to prosecute polygamists in 1953.
Cosmerism:
Mixture of Christianity and Buddhism, but embraces all religions as having truth.
Cosmic Awareness Communications,
Olympia, WA: New Age, channeling the Force which also spoke through Jesus, Krishna and Edgar Cayce (see Association for Research and Enlightenment).
Cosmic Communication Commune,
Decorah, IA: All religions have same common roots, communication from the cosmic Spirit.
Cosmic Light of Peace Center:
See House of Divine Bread
Cosmic Science Research Foundation,
Edward Palmer, Portland, OR: New Age, UFO information given by Hierarchical Intelligence on the various planes of consciousness.
Cosmic Wisdom,
Clark Wilkerson, Honolulu, HI: New Age, Kabbala, psychic, ESP, cosmic consciousness, Universal Mind.
Council of Light,
Honolulu, HI: Ascended Masters, similar to I AM movement; channeling
Council of the Magickal Arts,
Austin, TX: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca), goddess worship, ritual magic
<div id="Course|]]Course in Miracles, A,
Helen Schucman: New Age book given through the channeled voice of "Jesus." The world, sin, and sickness are all illusions. Teaches that man is still in heaven with God and this life is a dream. Profile available.
<div id="Coven|]]Coven:
A group two or more people (ideally thirteen) practicing witchcraft (see Wicca) or occult arts. Also called a clan.
Coven Gardens,
Boulder, CO: Occult, paganism, Wicca, revival of Egyptian deities.
Covered Bridge Canyon,
Spanish Fork, UT: Pantheism, channeling, denies reality of death.
<div id="Covey|]]Covey, Stephen:
Mormon author with New Age affinities. Author of the best-selling, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and several sequels.
Creation Calendar,
Verlis W. Johnson, Kermit, TX: Sabbatarianism, necessity of keeping the Law, Feast Days, etc., for salvation (see salvation by works).
<div id="Creme" id="Creme|]]Creme, Benjamin:
See Tara Center
Crossroads Church of Christ:
See International Churches of Christ
Crusade of Innocence:
Believed to be a splinter group of Process Church of the Final Judgment
Chrysalis Foundation,
Durango, CO: Metaphysical and holistic healing center.
Crystals Consciousness, Warren Klausner
San Diego, CA: New Age, crystal healing, Kundalini, iridology
Crystal Horizons,
Santa Barbara, CA: New Age, crystals
Crystallomancy:
Divination or fortune telling by gazing into a crystal rock or crystal ball.
Crystal Pathway,
Denver, CO: New Age/Occult periodical.
Cult:
See the Definitions section in the introduction. Profile available.
Cumorah Books,
Independence, MO: Affiliated with the more conservative Restoration Branches of the RLDS ChurchPublishes Restoration Voice, The Vision.
Daily Word:
A monthly publication of Unity School of Christianity
Dallas Fellowship, Inc.,
Arlington, TX: New Age; uses The URANTIA Book as their main text. Publishes The Circle newsletter.
Dang, Luong Minh:
Founder of Spiritual Human Yoga
Davera Mission Church,
Korea: Alternate name for Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days
David, John:
See John-David Learning Institute
David, Moses (King David):
Pseudonym for David Berg, the late founder of The Family (Children of God).
Davis, Haviland:
Albany, NY: Leader of a Bible Students splinter group from the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Dawn Bible Students,
East Rutherford, NJ: One of the original Bible Students splinter groups formed after Joseph Rutherford assumed leadership of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Dayspring Resources,
Leonie Rosenstiel, New York, NY: Hypnosis, Reiki, yoga, reflexology, crystal healing.
de Mello, Anthony:
An Indian-born Jesuit priest, who wrote a number of New Age books that were bestsellers in many countries. His works include One Minute Wisdom, One Minute Nonsense, Wellsprings: A Book of Spiritual Exercises, and Walking on Water In 1998, over a decade after his death, the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith (a Vatican commission) denounced de Mello's writings. They warned of false teachings in his works, including a denial of objective morality and the claim that all religion, including Christianity, are obstacles to truth.
Delphi School,
Sheridan, OR: Uses the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Church of Scientology
Demand for Purity:
One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. An environment of blame and guilt based on an impossible ideal of human behavior or perfection. This shame-based culture punishes failure and can even subtly train members to punish themselves for their inability to live up to the group's ideals or standards. See Brainwashing
Denver, John:
Prominent New Age singer who promoted est, Yoga, Transcendental Meditation, and the Windstar Foundation before his death in 1997.
Deseret Shadow Church:
See Church of Essential Science
Devil:
See Satan
Di Mambro, Joseph:
See Order of the Solar Temple
Dianetics:
Bestselling "bible" of the Church of Scientology
Discover Seminars,
Irving, TX: New Age, stress management.
Discovery,
West Valley City, UT: Anti-Christian, Jesus is the Devil
Disfellowshipping:
As practiced by the LDS and many other groups, this is a level of church discipline involving a probationary period of restricted privileges, but retaining church membership. As practiced by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, it is an alternate term for "excommunication," being completely cut off from Jehovah's organization; see Shunning
Dispensing of Existence:
One of eight criteria of Mind Control according to Robert Lifton's theory of Thought Reform. The organization's dogma determines whether or not other groups or individuals have the right to exist. All alternative belief systems or organizations are considered illegitimate. In extreme cases this mindset can promote violence or murder.
Divali:
Hindu philosophy of Enlightenment.
Divine Light Center,
Swami Omkarananda: Mixture of Hinduism, voodoo and animal sacrifice.
Divine Light Mission,
Maharaj Ji: Hindu/New Age philosophy, teachings on the God within.
Divine Science,
Denver CO: Similar to Christian Science theology: God is All, man is a part of the All, thus man is God.
Divine Science of Light and Sound,
Marina del Rey, CA: New Age, reincarnation, karma, astral projection
Divine Word Foundation,
Warner Springs, CA: New Age, channeled writings, Jesus and Christ are separate entities.
Dixon, Jeane
(1917–1997): Astrologer, prognosticator, claimed information was from Christian God, however she made many false prophecies.
Doctrine and Covenants:
One of the scriptures or "Standard Works" of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints accepts a different version of the work as scripture.
Dominion Press,
San Marcos, CA: New Thought, similar to Christian Science and Unity School of ChristianityPublishes the Theologia 21 newsletter. Not to be confused with Dominion Press in Tyler, TX, a controversial but orthodox Christian publishing house.
Dualism:
An understanding of reality as existing in two opposite extremes. Metaphysical dualism sees the universe as existing in two contrary (and sometimes conflicting) realities—mind and matter, or spirit and physical, or yin and yang Ethical dualism posits a conflict between universal good and an equal and opposite force of universal evil (e.g., the belief that God and Satan are equal and opposite beings).
Dungeons and Dragons:
Occult, fantasy role playing game, allegedly uses demonic names and spells found in occult literature. Some parents have charged that children committed suicide under the influence of the game.
DuPage Church of Religious Science,
Donald E. Burt, Naperville, IL: Religious Science, use the teachings of Ernest Holmes.
Dyer, Wayne:
Prominent New Age writer and spokesman focusing on business applications, personal transformation and motivational speaking. Also promotes holistic health, and Buddhism
Eadie, Betty:
New Age author of best-sellers, Embraced by the Light and The Awakening Heart. An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Eadie claims to have died, gone to heaven, and returned to her body (see near-death experiences). Her books contain a combination of New Age and Mormon beliefs.
Eagle's Cry,
Denver, CO: New Age/Occult periodical, includes Egyptian revival, channeling, aura analysis.
Eagle's Path,
Grand Junction, CO: UFOs, moon festivals, yoga, rebirthing, Eckankar
Earth Church of Amargi,
St. Louis, MO: Paganism, ritual magic, witchcraft (see Wicca), moon festivals, Kabbalah, goddess worship.
Earthmother Therapy Center:
Astrology, aura reading, chakra balancing, channeling, homeopathy, iridology, numerology, palmistry, past life regression, reflexology
Earthsong,
Wendy Moss, Dallas, TX: Journey into Mother Earth.
East West Journal,
Syracuse, NY: New Age periodical.
Eastern School Press,
Talent, OR: New Age, Theosophical, karma, astral light.
Ebon, Martin:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Ecclesia Athletic Association,
Eldridge Broussard, Jr., Los Angeles, CA: Believed to practice controversial forms of mind control and shepherding
Ecstasy,
Ojai, CA: New Age, man is God, realized through sexual encounters, New Age/Hedonism.
Eddy, Mary Baker:
See Christian Science
Edwards, Bishop Luke:
See REACH, Inc
Effective Learning Systems,
Edina, MN: Subliminal tapes, visualization, ESP, deep relaxation techniques.
Elmwood Institute, Fritjof Capra:
Internationally recognized New Age author (The Tao of Physics) and lecturer.
Emmanuel,
J. David Davis, Athens, TN: See B'nai Noah for theological perspective. Publishes The Gap newsletter.
Emerald Circle:
Paganism, know the Divine within, be part of Gaia
ENERGIE et PARTAGE:
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Epiphany Bible Students Association,
Mount Dora, FL: Splinter group from Laymen's Home Missionary Movement, one of the Bible Students groups that broke away from the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society
Erhard, Warner:
See est
Esalen Institute,
Michael Murphy, Big Sur, CA: New Age, one of the original institutions for developing and promoting eastern mysticism/New Age philosophy.
Esoteric Order of Dagon,
Soror Azenath 23rd, Abita Springs, LA: Channel the energy of the Nu Aeon, collective magical unconsciousness, worship the Old Ones or Old Gods.
ESP:
Acronym for Extrasensory Perception
ESPress, Inc.,
Washington, D.C.: PsychicsSee National Spiritual Science Center
Essene Gospel of Peace,
Edmond Bordeaux Szekely: New Age, allegedly channeled by "Jesus," enlightenment, illness is a mistake.
Essene Light Center,
Mary L. Myers, Charlotte, NC: Has similarities to I AM movement, belief in Great White Brotherhood, ascended beings, Father-Mother god.
Eupsychia,
Austin, TX: New Age, Transcendental Meditation, Native American spirituality, shamanism
Evolutionary Kingdom Level Above Human,
Richardson, Texas: Earlier name of Heaven's Gate, Marshall Applewhite's UFO cult
Exaltation:
In the teaching of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the highest form of salvation. It means to become a God, exactly like God the Father and Jesus Christ, and to produce and rule over one's offspring throughout eternity.
Faith Assembly Church,
Raymond Jackson, Jeffersonville, IN: Similar to William BranhamPublishes The Contender newspaper.
Faithbuilders Fellowship,
San Diego, CA: Theology similar to Jehovah's Witnesses
Faithful Word,
Chicago, IL: Armstrongism splinter group, teaches necessity of keeping the Law of Moses. Publishes The Faith Word magazine.
Faith Temple,
Rosemary Cosby, Salt Lake City, UT: Apostolic Faith splinter group; Cosby has claimed to be the Messiah.
Family, The,
Charles Manson: The followers of Charles Manson, some of whom were convicted for the 1969 Tate/LaBianca murders. Not related to the following entry.
The Farm,
Stephen Gaskin, Summertown, TN: Zen Buddhism mixed with esoteric Christianity, pantheism, communal society.
Farrakhan, Louis:
Leader in the Nation of Islam
Fate,
Marion, OH: New Age/occult periodical.
The Fellowship,
Chicago, IL: One of a number of groups that follow the teachings of The URANTIA Book, New Age, automatic writing, ascended beings
Fellowship For Spiritual Understanding,
Marcus Bach, Palos Verdes Estates, CA: Similar teaching to Unity School of Christianity, denies reality of death, teaches man is God.
Fellowship of Isis:
Paganism Egyptian gods and goddess worship.
Fellowship of the Inner Light,
Paul Solomon, Virginia Beach, VA: New Age; concept of "Meta-Human" teaches man to go beyond human to become Creator/Master.
Fellowship of Universal Guidance,
Glendale, CA: Astrology, psychic reading.
Fellowship Press,
Noblesville, IN: Soulcraft library, claims of channeled information from William Dudley Pelley in the very High Planes of Consciousness after he had died.
Feminism:
See Radical Feminism
Feng Shui:
A religious "science" for the balancing of Yin and Yang in the environment, discovered or originated by farmers some 3,000 years ago and developed within Taoism. Feng Shui teaches that there is an energy called Qi (or, Chi) flowing throughout the universe, and in this world through lines, sometimes called channels or meridians, to which one must be properly aligned for optimal health, fortune, and quality of life. The position and alignment of structures and objects in one's environment affects the flow of this energy and one's own ability to harmonize with nature. Practitioners therefore arrange household and office furniture, design rooms and even whole buildings, their grounds and gardens, etc., to properly align with the flow lines of earth's energy. They thus hope to improve the balance of nature around them, not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit everyone in the area.
Feraferia,
Eagle Rock, CA: Paganism, magic, spells, astrology, goddess worship.
Firewalking Institute of Research and Education,
Twain Harte, CA: Firewalking, shamanism, meditation, sweat lodge, rebirthing
First Demonic Church,
Efrem Del Gatto, Italy: Satanism
First Temple of the Craft of W.I.C.A.,
South Chicago Heights, IL: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca).
First World Conclave of Light,
San Diego, CA: UFO, 32 planets already joined but are waiting for the Earth to make the necessary commitment before the spaceships can land. See also Unarius Education Foundation
First Zen Institute of America,
New York, NY: Zen Buddhism, astrologyPublishes the Zen Notes newsletter.
Fitch, Joseph:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Flag Service Organization,
Tampa, FL: Promotes Church of Scientology philosophy.
Flirty Fishing,
(Ffing): Allegedly discontinued practice of using sex to entice converts into The Family
Flying Saucer Information Center,
Pasadena, MD: UFOs, aliens coming to take Earth children for seedlings. Publishes the Update newsletter.
Oregon City, OR: Practices shunning, exhibits legalism, and holds to a strict faith-healing doctrine. Doctors and hospitals are not allowed. State medical examiner claims as many as 25 children have died in the last two decades from complications from otherwise common medical problems.
Ford, Arthur:
See Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship
Fort Worth Bible Students,
Fort Worth, TX: Bible Students group that republishes older Watchtower Bible and Tract Society materials.
Fortunetelling:
A form of divination in which a person attempts to predict the future using alleged paranormal powers.
The Forum:
New Age, personal transformation seminar; see est
Foundation Church,
New York, NY: Psychic development, "psychosomastery," UFOsSee also Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Church of the Millennium:
See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Church of the New Birth:
See Foundation Church of Divine Truth
Foundation Faith,
(Foundation Faith of God): See Process Church of the Final Judgement
Foundation Faith of the Millennium,
New York: UniversalismAll religious leaders, including Jesus, Mohammad and Buddha were sent by God.
Foundation for Co-Creation,
Barbara Marx Hubbard, Greenbraie, CA: Prominent New Age lecturer and writer.
Foundation for Higher Spiritual Learning,
Centreville, VA: Formerly "Bridge to Freedom," the new name was adopted in 1979. The group follows the theosophical teachings of Guy Ballard of the I AM movement, including the Great White Brotherhood
Foundation for Inner Peace:
Organization and publisher for A Course in Miracles
Foundation for Life Action,
Tara Singh, Los Angeles, CA: Know one's own Christ nature; promotes A Course in MiraclesPublishes A Call To Wisdom newsletter.
Foundation for Shamanic Studies,
Michael Harner, Norwalk, CT: Occult, shamanism for empowerment and healing.
Foundation for Unlimited Consciousness,
Rain Morgan, Orcas, WA: New Age, channeling, Ramtha devotees (see Knight, J. Z.).
Foundation of Light and Metaphysical Education,
Hurst, TX: Occult, astrology, psychic readings.
Foundation of Revelation,
San Francisco, CA: Eastern mysticism, yoga
Fox, Kate and Margarett:
See Spiritualism
Fraternity of Light,
Philadelphia, PA: Kabbalah, reincarnation, karma; one's inner essence is a Divine Spark.
Free Bible Students:
A small Bible Students splinter group currently consisting of only four congregations and approximately 27 home groups.
Free Soul,
Sedona, AZ: New Age, spirit guides, commune with Divine Nature, Psychic and Higher Soul Dimensions.
Free Spirit,
Brooklyn, NY: New Age periodical.
Freewinds Relay Office,
Clearwater, FL: Promotes Church of Scientology
Friends Review,
Hillsboro, OR: Occult/ metaphysical periodical.
G.A.P. Ministries,
Elm Grove, WI: Sabbatarianism, observes Feast Days, part of Sacred Name movement. Publishes The Appointed Time newsletter.
Gabriel Society,
Ruth Harders, Western Springs, IL: New Age, metaphysics, Universal Mind.
Gandhi Memorial Center,
Swami Premananda, Washington, D.C.: Eastern mysticism, teaching of Hindu leader Mahatma Gandhi. Publishes The Gandhi Message quarterly.
Garvey Center,
Witchita, KS: New Age, holistic health mixed with sound medical procedures. Pyramid powers.
Pala, CA: A small cult formerly called Ahabah Sasah Prophetic Ministries in Everett, WA. Turgeon once claimed to be the prophet Elijah. He and another member, Blaine Alan Applin, were charged with first-degree murder in 1998 following the shooting death of former member Daniel Jess. Earlier that year a SWAT team served a warrant on the group's five-acre compound located 60 miles north of San Diego and recovered weapons and other stolen property.
Gateway To Light,
Lloyd G. Sellman, Dewey, AZ: UFOs, telepathic communications.
Gateways Institute,
Jonathan Parker, Ojai, CA: New Age, subliminal tapes, karma, reincarnation, hypnosis
Gawain, Shakti:
New Age author who popularized Buddhism through creative visualization (meditation) techniques.
Germain, Saint:
See I AM Movement, Ascended Masters
Global Family,
Palo Alto, CA: New Age, visualization, Higher self which is God, pantheism (all is God).
Globalism:
When used in a religious sense, this term most often means to lose all national identity. Mankind must see itself as one world family, without the need for distinctions between religions. All religions become true or the distinctive doctrines of the various religions must be disregarded in an attempt to achieve the new Global Family idea.
Global Times:
The bimonthly magazine published by the Denmark office for Proutist International. See PROUT
Gnostic Catholic Church of Canada,
Edmonton, Alberta: Paganism, magic, Celtic rituals. Publishes the Sunspot magazine.
God Saves the Earth Flying Saucer Foundation:
See Chen Tao
God's House of Prayer for All People,
Samuel T. Allen, Dallas, TX: Sabbath and Old Testament festivals kept for salvation (see Sabbatarianism).
God's Salvation Church:
See Chen Tao
Golden Association,
Ann Rogers, San Jose, CA: New Age, channeling, inner voices.
Golden Book of the Theosophical Society, The:
See Rosicrucianism
Golden Dawn,
John Phillips Palmer, Lumberville, PA: Occult, magic, spiritual authorities are Secret Chiefs and Inner Plane Adepti.
Golden Dolphin,
Sheila Balenger, Greenback, WA: Paganism, astrology, Mother Earth, Primal GoddessPublishes Sacred Cycles newsletter.
Golden Eagle Sanctuary,
Hot Springs, AR: Yoga, crystalss, pyramidology, aura balancing.
Golden Lion,
Ann Alexander, Houston, TX: New Age, esoteric philosophy.
Golden Quest,
Hilda Charlton, Lake Hill, NY: UFOs, space brothers, karma, meditation, the divine child within all.
Golden Wheel,
W.E. Reeve, England: Occult, astrology, alchemy, UFOs, spiritualism
Good Cheer Press,
Boulder, CO: Publishes material promoting The URANTIA Book
Good, Joseph:
See Hatikva Ministries
Grail Foundation of America,
Abd-ru-shin, Binghamton, NY: Esoteric teachings, Christ's call for "child-like faith" no longer valid.
Grand Canyon Society,
Scottsdale, AZ: New Age, channeling, members use The URANTIA Book as their text.
Great Lakes Fellowship:
Splinter Group of The Way International
Great Lakes Pagan Association,
Techumseh, MI: Pagan, WiccaPublishes The Covenstead newsletter.
Group for Creative Meditation:
See Meditation Group for New Age
Grove of the Unicorn,
Galadriel, Atlanta, GA: Paganism, Wicca, moon festivals, magic
Guardian Action International,
Deming, NM: UFOs, Atlantis, ESP
Guideposts:
Magazine founded by Norman Vincent Peale
Guild For Hermetic Revelation,
Houston, TX: New Age, astrology, soothsaying, reflexology, Tarot
Gunvik, Sigurd:
This man's teachings are a mixture of Jehovah's Witnesses and Sacred Name theology
Gurdjieff, George I.:
Mixture of occult, psychic and mystical teaching. Considered by some to have been the greatest mystical teacher of all times.
Guru Dev:
Hindu Swami (religious master) who was the teacher of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of Transcendental Meditation.
H2B Company
San Francisco, CA: New Age, yoga, meditation.
Hare Krishna:
Nickname for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Harmonie et Energie des volcans d'Auvergne:
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Harr, Brian,
Rochester, NY: The reincarnation of Jesus!
Harris, Timothy:
See "Gnostic Order of Christ."
Hartley, Harriette,
Arlington, TX: New Age, psychic, channeler
Hatha Yoga:
See "Yoga."
Hawkwind,
Charla Hawkwind Hermann, Valley Head, AL: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, shamanism, astrologyPublishes The Pathfinder magazine.
Hay, Louise:
New Age, metaphysical counselor and author.
Healing Arts Expressions,
Solvang, CA: New Age; healing by meditation on a piece of art, painting, etc.
Healing Center,
Sarasota, FL: New Age, magnetic therapy, chakras, Yin and Yang balancing.
Health and Wealth Gospel:
See Word-Faith Movement
Health Conscious Services,
Christ Singh Khalsa, New York: Yoga, Kundalini, each person is his or her own Master.
Heart Consciousness Church,
Middletown, CA: New Age, goddess worship, Native American spirituality, sweat lodge, meditationPublishes the Harbin magazine.
Heart Dance,
Mill Valley, CA: New Age, psychic, CrystalsPublishes the Heart Dance magazine.
Heaven and Earth,
Gloucester, MA: New Age, crystals
Rancho Santa Fe, CA: New Age, UFOs Applewhite (a.k.a. Do) and 38 other members committed suicide in March of 1997, believing that by leaving their bodies behind they could join Nettles (a.k.a. Ti) and other "older members" from "the next level above human" on a UFO supposedly hidden behind the Hale-Bopp comet. Profile available.
Heaven's Magic:
Another name for the followers of David Berg, founder of The Family (Children of God); produces multi-color children's posters and music.
Heretic:
A person who causes a division by teaching heresy
Heritage Institute,
Plainfield, WI: New Age, past life, Ouija board, telepathy, psychic healing.
Hermit,
Jan Moody, Topsham, MA: Astrology, Tarot card reading, channeling
High Point,
Vance Harris, Willard MO: New Age, Channeling, astrology
High Wind Association,
Milwaukee, WI: Native American philosophy, Alchemy, Accelerated Human Consciousness. Publishes Windwatch newspaper.
Hinkins, John-Roger:
Founder of Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness
Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy,
Swami Rama, Honesdale, PA: New Age, Hinduism, yoga, meditationPublishes Himalayan Institute Quarterly
Hippocrates Health Institute,
West Palm Beach, FL: New Age, healing, yoga and meditation
Hohm Community,
Lee Lozowick, Tabor, NJ: No specific doctrine, all religions have truth, seek Divine Evolution.
Holiness Tabernacle,
Dyer, AR: See Alamo Christian Foundation
Holistic Life University,
San Francisco, CA: New Age, aura healing, reflexology, visualization
Hollyhock,
Rex Weyler, Blaine, WA: New Age retreat, shamanism, drumming, meditation, Buddhism
Holy Body of the Coming Jesus Christ Mission in New York:
See Church of the Living Stone Mission for the Coming Days
Holy Grail Foundation,
Leona Richards, Santa Cruz, CA: New Age, Ascended Masters, reincarnation
Holy Shankaracharya Order,
Stroudsburg, PA: Hindu theologyPublishes Purarnave periodical.
Holyland:
See REACH,Inc
Homewords,
Susan Johansen, Salt Lake City, UT: Channeling, out-of-body experiencesPublishes the Homeword newspaper.
Horoscope:
See Astrology
Horus/Maat Lodge:
Occult, paganism, ritual magic, Egyptian philosophy.
House of Prayer for All People,
William Blessing, Denver, CO: Sacred Name, teachings on Atlantis and Lemuria.
House of Yahweh:
Odessa, TX: See Sacred Name movement.
Houston, Jean:
Prominent New Age spokesperson and author of many books on education in the American school system. Profile available.
Human Universal Energy (HUE):
Alternative name for Spiritual Human Yoga
Hunger Project:
Claims to help poverty-stricken people using visualization to rid the world of hunger. See est
Hyperborea,
Mark Roberts, Dallas, TX: Paganism, pantheism, Mother Earth is Divine.
I DO,
Twin Falls, ID: New Age, cosmic law, karma, reincarnation, awaiting a New Savior.
Iglesia Ni Cristo,
Felix Manalo: Rejects the Trinity; teaches salvation by works, salvation found only in this group.
Imagery:
Alternative term for Visualization
Imagine,
Nora Jennings, Springfield, MO: New Age, reincarnation, yoga, Dream Rap, uses A Course in Miracles as a text.
Impossible Possibilities,
Marshall Lever, Annapolis, MD: New Age, numerology, auras, reincarnation
Infinity Institute International,
Royal Oak, MI: New Age, hypnosis, Ancient Mystery philosophy, Egyptian revival. Publishes Subconsciously Speaking newsletter.
Inner Connection,
Lewisville, TX: New Age periodical.
Inner Light,
New Brunswick, NJ: UFOs, psychic development, walk-ins.
Inner Light Foundation,
Betty Bethards, Novato, CA: Psychic, meditation, inner spirit guides, Atlantis
Inner Light Institute,
Christina Thomas, Memphis, TN: New Age, rebirthing, yoga, inner child, firewalking, Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Inner Peace Movement,
Francisco Coll: New Age, ESP, auras
Inner Space Center:
See Prosperos
Inner Technologies,
Richard Daab, Fairfax, CA: New Age, yoga, astral projection, meditation, reaching Samadhi (state of enlightenment), channeling, crystals, visualization
Inner Vision,
Brooklyn, NY: Mystical knowledge, auras, reincarnation, astrology
Inner Way,
Bruce Derby, Homeland, CA: Spirit guides, mystical use of names.
Insight magazine,
Washington, D.C.: Politically conservative, owned by the Unification Church
Insight Transformational Seminars:
See Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness
Institute for Advanced Perception,
Harold S. Schroeppel, Oak Park, IL: Tarot, astrology, chakras, meditation
Institute for Bio-Spiritual Research,
Coulterville, CA: New Age, focusing, God-Consciousness.
Institute for Family and Human Relations,
Los Gatos, CA: See Life Training, same co-founder.
Institute for Human and Universal Energy Research, Inc. (IHUERI):
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Institute for the Advancement of Human Behavior,
Stanford, CA: Guided Imagery (visualization) sessions.
Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research,
Henry Clifford Kinley, Springfield, OH: Mixture of Theosophy and OccultTaught the world would end in 1996.
Institute of Esoteric Study,
Milwaukee, WI: Occult, Lunar festivals, astrology, paganismPublishes the Lunar Letter
Institute of Greater Awareness,
Steve Mazzarella, Denver, CO: Voodoo, casting spells
Institute of Mental Science,
Nashville, TN: Mental Science, psychic energy, hypnosis
Institute of Mentalphysics,
Edwin Dingle, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Eightfold path of Enlightenment, self-realization (a concept borrowed from Buddhism), self-realization, Supreme Mind.
Institute of Noetic Sciences,
Edgar Mitchell, Sausalito, CA: From Greek word nous, meaning "mind." Healing through mind power, [[#New|New Ageholistic healthFounded in 1973 with 55,000 members worldwide. Current president Willis Harman. Publishes: Noetic Sciences Review and Noetic Sciences Bulletin and ReSource
Institute of Sorcery,
Hillsdale, IL: Occult, witchcraft (see Wicca), Ouija board, Tarot cards
Institute of Spiritual Unfoldment:
See Light of the Holy Spirit
International Assembly of Wizards,
Brooklyn, NY: Occult, karma-based cycles, cosmic vibrations, astrology
International Association of Scientologists,
England: Promotes Church of Scientology philosophy.
International Community of Christ:
See Jamilian University of the Ordained
International Congregation of Yahweh,
Pocahontas, AR: Armstrongism splinter group. SabbatarianismPublishes Insight
International Fundamental of Astrological Sciences,
New York, NY: Occult, astrology
International Mahayana Yoga Association,
Bo-In Lee, Jamaica Plain, MA: Yoga, meditation
International Meditation Society:
See Transcendental Meditation
International Metaphysical Association,
New York, NY: Similar to Christian Science theology; uses Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures as textbook.
International Religious and Magickal Order of Societe,
La Couleuvre Noire: See Technicians of the Sacred
International Society of Divine Love,
H.D. Prakashanand Saraswati, Austin, TX: Eastern mysticism, Divine Love consciousness.
International Space Science Foundation,
Rick Ardyn, Salt Lake City, UT: UFOs, claims to possess recordings of space people.
Into the Light,
Tahlequah, OK: New Age, metaphysics, astrology, reflexology, visualization, psychics
Intuitive Explorations,
Quincy, IL: New Age, karma, astral projection, auras, numerology, magic
Invisible Fellowship
Boulder, CO: New Age, promotes the teachings of The URANTIA Book.
Inward Bound,
Alexander Everett, Arlington, TX: New Age, Centering, tapping into the Universal Consciousness.
Isis New Age Center,
Denver, CO: Yoga, ritual magic, astrology
Isis Unveiled:
See Rosicrucianism
ISKCON:
Acronym for International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Isthmus Institute,
Dallas, TX: New Age, reincarnation, past-life experiences.
Jesus Only:
Nickname for Oneness PentecostalismSee Modalism
Jihad:
Literally, "struggle," more popularly, "holy war"; a term used to refer to the Muslim commitment to impose the teachings and law of Islam throughout the world, by force where that is considered necessary or appropriate.
Joan Teresa Power Products,
Mars Hill, NC: Occult, magic, astrology, voodoo, witchcraft (see Wicca). Publishes an annual catalog.
Johannine Daist Communion,
"Da Free John." a.k.a. Franklin Jones: Promotes violence against women in his book Garbage And The Goddess. It is said that he makes "love slaves" of women.
Jones, Jim:
Founder of the People's Temple Christian Church
Jones, Vendyl:
Founder of the Institute of Judaic-Christian Research
Jouret, Luc:
Leader of the Order of the Solar Temple
Joy Lake Mountain Seminar Center,
Reno, NV: New Age, visualization, crystals, astral projection
Joy of Living,
Roosevelt, NJ: New Age, spirit within is Divine, yoga, hypnosis
The northern kingdom was conquered and decimated by the Assyrians in 722 BC, after which the term Judeans, or Jews, gradually came into use to refer to all Israelites. The Jews suffered conquests by a succession of foreign powers — the Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and finally the Romans in the first century BC. Throughout this period the Jews developed a strong sense of national identity, identification with the Promised Land, and anticipation of a coming Messiah or Christ ("Anointed One"). These themes dominate the rest of the Jewish Bible, which is identical with the Protestant canon of the Old Testament.
In the first century AD, Christianity originated with the belief that Jesus was that promised Messiah. The Jewish establishment at that time, however, rejected Jesus' claim to be the Messiah, and in fulfillment of his prophecy (Mark 13) the Jerusalem temple was destroyed and the Jewish nation scattered (AD 70). What is now known as the religion of Judaism originated after AD 70 as the rabbis, or teachers of the Torah, developed a system of laws and interpretations of the Torah that were eventually codified in the Talmud. Today Judaism can be identified as a cultural, ethnic, or religious concept. There are three main branches of modern Judaism: Orthodox (traditional, literal adherence to the Torah as interpreted by the Talmud), Conservative (a middle position advocating traditional beliefs and practices up to a point), and Reform (liberal, non-literal stance on the Torah and Talmud; often non-religious or secular with emphasis on Jewish culture).
Kabat-Sinn, Jon:
New Age leader introducing Zen Buddhism into hospitals for stress reduction.
Kairos Foundation:
See Life Training
Karma Yoga:
See Karma, Yoga
Katherine,
Brooklyn, NY: Astrology, psychic development.
Keen, Sam:
Prominent New Age teacher and author. Featured in a series on PBS with Bill Moyers
Kemp, Daniel,
Patchogue, NY: Numerology, Kabbalah, promotes Aleister Crowley's teachings.
Kerista Consciousness Church,
San Francisco, CA: New Age, Divine Cosmos, the "hippie goddess" Kerista. Publishes Utopian Eyes magazine.
Keyes College,
Ken and Penny Keyes, Eugene, OR: Yoga, higher self, promotes John Bradshaw's philosophy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Keys To Understanding:
See Messianic Assemblies of Yahweh
Kingdom Voice Publications,
Joseph Jeffers, St. James, MO: UFOs, pyramidology, Sacred Name movement
Klassen, Frank,
Ft. David, TX: Sacred Name; publishes The Overcomer newsletter.
Koresh, David:
See Branch Davidians
Kosmon:
See Universal Faithists of Kosmon
Krastman, Hank:
See Metaphysical Union
Krieger, Dolores:
See Therapeutic Touch
Kripalu Yoga Retreat,
Amrit Desai, Summit Station, PA: New Age/Hindu philosophy, yoga, self-realization is god realization. Publishes Yoga Quest magazine.
Kunz, Dora:
See Therapeutic Touch.
L. Ron Hubbard Gallery,
Hollywood, CA: Promotes Scientology philosophy.
Laksmi:
(or Lakshma) The name of one of Krishna's consorts. Also, a Hare Krishna term for money in the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Laodicean Home Missionary, John Krewson
Ft. Myers, FL: Bible Students group.
Lao-tzu:
See Taoism
Latter-day Church of Christ,
Merlin Kingston, Salt Lake City, UT: Polygamous, Mormon Fundamentalist splinter group led by Merlin and Ortell Paul Kingston. Membership estimates range between 300 and 1,500 members. The group is believed to own or control more than 24 companies and have holdings in Nevada, Idaho, and possibly Arizona and Mexico.
Laughing Dove,
Albuquerque, NM: Produces "consciousness raising products for Body, Mind and Spirit."
Lazaris:
Spirit supposedly channeled by Jach Pursel
LDS:
Acronym for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Lectorium Rosicrucianism,
Bakersfield, CA: Splinter group of Rosicrucianism
Lee, Bo-In
: See New Life HealthCenter
Lemurian Fellowship,
Ramona, CA: Esoteric Christianity, The Great Being called Christ which was over 76,000 years ago, Atlantis
Lenz, Frederick
: Guru who renamed himself Zen Master Rama
Les 18 lumieres de l'EU (LEU18):
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Life Enhancement Systems,
Houston, TX: Yoga, meditation
Life Understanding Foundation,
Santa Barbara, CA: New Age, pyramid power, dowsing, yoga, UFOs and crystals
Light Canal,
Winchester, OH: Tarot cards, astrology, runes, aura, moon magic, occult medicine.
Light Connections,
Cardiff, CA: New Age/eastern mystic periodical.
Light of the City Ministry,
Renton, WA: Magic power of words, Christ-consciousnessPublishes the Let There Be Light magazine.
Light of the Universe,
Maryona Tiffin, OH: New Age, Transcendental Meditation, UFOs. Publishes The Lotus quarterly.
Light of Truth Church of Divine Healing:
See International General Assembly of Spiritualists
Light of Yoga Society,
Cleveland Heights, OH: YogaPublishes Yoga In America magazine.
Light Speed,
Zavi and Zava, Sedona, AZ: New Age, UFOs, channelingPublishes the Light Speed magazine.
Lighted Way,
Santa Monica, CA: Pyramidology, visualization, Kundalini, Divine Mother, alchemy
Lightworker,
Azel, TX: New Age, Christ-consciousness, astrology, psychicPublishes the Lightworker newspaper.
Lion and Lamb Ministries,
Monte W. Judah,
Norman, OK: Messianic Jewish ministry. Holds that Jesus is the biblical Messiah. Legalistic tendencies, Sabbatarianism, practices Jewish holy days. Judah falsely predicted that the Abomination of Desolation prophesied in the Bible would occur by March of 1997 promising he would be "totally discredited" and would "shut down" the ministry if wrong. On March 23, 1997 he apologized for the false prophecy but reneged on his vow to disband the movement. [Note: this group should not be confused with the Texas-based Lamb & Lion Ministries, a reputable Christian organization led by David R. Reagan.]
Lively Stones Fellowship,
Palatka, FL: New Age, reflexology, yoga, Body/Mind Centering.
Living Stream Ministry:
Publishing firm for The Local Church
Living Waters,
Lois Roden, Waco, TX: Sacred name; taught that the Trinity is Father, Mother (Holy Spirit) and Son. Published Shekinah newsletter. Now defunct. See Branch Davidians
L/L Research,
Louisville, KY: New Age, channeling, UFOs, attain Higher God-self.
The Lodge:
See Freemasonry
Lor'd Industries,
Hancock, WI: Occult, New Age periodical/catalog.
Lotus:
New Age periodical.
Louis Foundation,
Louis, Eastsound, WA: New Age, cosmic consciousness, Unmanifested Reality, Inner secrets, True Realization and Awareness.
Loving Relationships Training,
Sondra Ray: New Age, seminars, rebirthing
Lucifer:
Another name for Satan
Lucifer Trust/Lucis Trust:
See Arcane School
Lucis Trust:
See Arcane School
Lumen Foundation,
San Francisco, CA: Occult, Tarot, alchemy, esoteric traditions, KabbalahPublishes the Gnosis journal.
Lumin Essence Productions,
Oakland, CA: New Age, channeling, spirit entities, Ascended Masters Orin and DaBen. Publishes Birth Into Light newsletter.
Luna Astrological Services,
Flint, MI: Astrology
Mackey, Albert:
See Freemasonry.
MacLaine, Shirley:
Former film actress turned New Age author; seminars, channeling, pantheism, reincarnation, chakras
Mafu:
Spirit supposedly channeled by Penny Torres
Magi Center, Inc.,
Paradise, CA: [[#Psychic|Psychic channeling, Higher Beings, meditation, cosmic friends, astral worlds.
Magic—The Gathering:
A fantasy role playing card game involving Satanism, witchcraft (see Wicca), and the occult
Maharishi Ayur-Ved Foundation:
Promotes teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation
Maharishi International University,
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Fairfield, IA: New Age or Hindu beliefs, started by founder of Transcendental Meditation
Mahavira:
See Jainism
Mahikari,
Kutama Okada, Houston, TX: Japanese philosophy, Divine light purifies the soul, mind and body.
Malcolm X:
See Nation of Islam
Mandragore,
New York, NY: Egyptian rituals, alchemy, polytheism, goddess worship, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Marah,
Madison, NJ: Occult, magic, goddess worship, Egyptian revival, Wicca, moon festivals, divination, runes, astral journeys
Maranatha Ministries,
Brooklyn, MI: End-times false prophecy group. Taught Christ would return in 1998.
Mark-Age,
Miami, FL: New Age, light-Body manifestations, UFOs, Lord Sananda, Christ-consciousness
Mark Probert's Educational Foundation and Kethra E'Da (Teachers of Light):
See Church of E Yada di Shi-ite
Mary's House of David,
Mary Purnell,
Benton Harbor, MI: Founded by the widow of Benjamin Purnell. See House of David
Masonry:
See Freemasonry
Masters, Roy:
Founder of the Foundation of Human Understanding
Matagiri Sri Aurobindo Center:
New Age, yoga, Divine reality, Great Mother, self perfection.
Maya Factor,
Jose Arguelles: New Age book on which the Harmonic Convergence was based.
Mayan Order,
San Antonio, TX: New Age, Unity between man's Inner force and Cosmic Universal force. Publishes Mayan Mysteries magazine.
McKean, Kip:
See International Churches of Christ
Mega:
Periodical of the New Age Community Church
Megiddo Mission Church,
L.T. Nichols, Rochester, NY: Denies Trinity; Heaven and Hell are illusions; the Devil is of man's imagination.
Menhir:
"Long Stone." See Stonehenge
Mesmer, Franz:
Founder of Mesmerism
Metaphysical Institute for Research and Development,
Dallas, TX: New Age, Christ-consciousness, man is divine, meditation breathing, God is All.
Meyer, Aleta,
Albuquerque, NM: New Age, psychic, channeler
Michael, Sandra:
Channeler, astral projection, rebirthing
Midwest Research of Michigan,
Walled Lake, MI: Visualization, deep relaxation techniques, Subliminal tapes.
Miller, Monte Kim:
See "Concerned Christians."
Mind/Body Medical Institute,
Herbert Benson, Cambridge, MA: Affiliated with Harvard Medical School, the Institute was founded by Dr. Herbert Benson, the Chief of Behavioral Medicine at Harvard, to research and train practitioners in holistic health
Mind Power Technique:
New Age process to read auras and balance chakras
Miracle Distribution Center,
Fullerton, CA: A Course in Miracles promotional organization. Publishes The Holy Encounter newsletter.
Mitchell, Wayman:
Founder of the Potter's House church movement.
Mo Letters:
See The Family (Children of God).
Mother Ruth:
See Science of Man
>
Monroe Institute,
Robert Monroe, Faber, VA: Out-of-Body experiences, Evolution of Human Consciousness.
Moon, Sun Myung:
Founder of the Unification Church
Moonies:
Nickname for followers of Rev. Sun Myung Moon's Unification ChurchConsidered a derogatory term by members.
Mormonism:
Common name for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Moses de Leon:
See Kabbalah
MSIA,
John-Roger Hinkins: See Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness
Muhammad:
See Mohammed
Muhammad, Elijah:
See Nation of Islam
Murray, Arnold:
Pastor of the Shepherd's Chapel
Music Square Church:
See Alamo Christian Foundation
Muslim:
Follower of the religion of Islam
Mysteria Products Company:
See Dorene Publishing
Mystical Crossroads,
Atco, NJ: Occult, magick, neo-paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca). Access to over 35,000 metaphysical books; sells incense, oils, cauldrons, candles, crystals, statues and the complete "Wiccan Altar Set."
National Council for Geocosmic Research,
Westchester, IL: Astrology, magic, karmaPublishes the Tree of Life newsletter.
National Institute for Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine, Mansfield Center, CT: Hypnosis, visualization, Neuro-Linguistic Programming
National Spiritualist Association of Churches, Cassadaga, FL: Occult, spiritualism, mediums
Natural Law Party:
Political party started by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the father of Transcendental Meditation (TM) Critics allege it exists to promote the Maharishi's religious movement at taxpayers' expense through campaign matching funds provided for political candidates in the United States.
Nature's Sunshine,
Kristine Hughes, Spanish Fork, UT: Holistic health, especially iridology, reflexology, muscle testing; also visualizationPublishes the Natures Field newsletter.
Nelson, Bernard,
San Antonio, TX: Occult, talisman, charms, amulets, UFOs, alchemyPublishes The Illustrated Cosmic Machine newsletter.
Neo-Orthodox Christianity:
Development associated with the strong reaction of Swiss theologians Karl Barth and Emil Brunner against the barrenness of liberal Christianity They felt that Scripture, although a flawed, fallible, human product, could still be used by God to accomplish His purposes. Thus the Bible becomes inspired in its proclamation when the Holy Spirit quickens faith and obedience in its hearers. Thus, like liberalism, this view results in a subjective, existential encounter, which denies absolute propositional truth in revelation.
Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church:
See Proclus Society and Neo-Pythagorean Gnostic Church
Nettles, Bonnie Lou:
See Heaven's Gate
New Age:
See the Definitions section in the introduction. Profile available.
New Age Church of The Christ,
Thomas Printz, Long Island, NY: Ascended Masters, karma, death is an Illusion, Father-Mother God, man is divine.
New Age Journal,
Brighton, MA: New Age periodical.
New Age Medicine:
See Holistic Health
New Age Music:
While there is music composed to promote New Age philosophy and/or facilitate altered states of consciousness and meditation, much of the music sold as such is not explicitly New Age in doctrine.Some light jazz, instrumental music has been labeled (or re-labeled) "New Age" simply as a marketing category.
New Age Symposium,
Houston, TX: New Age periodical.
New Age Teachings,
Brookfield, MA: New Age, meditation, cosmic vibrations, divine energy.
New Church:
See Swedenborg Foundation
New Dimensions Foundation,
San Francisco, CA: New Age, shamanism, Native American spirituality, homeopathy, goddess worship, Sufism
New Life,
Vernon Howard, Boulder City, NV: New Age, channeling, cosmic power.
New Life Clinic,
Baltimore, MD: Parapsychology, psychic phenomena, clairvoyance Headquartered at Mount Washington Methodist Church. Associate director, Olga Worrall, and her husband, Ambrose Worrall, are also affiliated with Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship and the Association for Research and Enlightenment
New Realities,
Washington, D.C.: New Age periodical.
New Thot Free Thot,
Bill Greenhouse, Los Angeles, CA: Seeks to combine the teachings of Christian Science, Unity School of Christianity and New Thought philosophy.
New Times,
Seattle, WA: New Age periodical.
New World Publishing,
Phoenix, AZ: New Age, uses A Course in Miracles, channeling, Christ-consciousness, pyramidology
New Worlds,
St. Paul, MN: Catalog of occult publisher Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.
New World Translation:
Official Bible translation published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract SocietyKey verses have been inaccurately rendered especially to obscure the deity of ChristThis translation has been universally rejected as inaccurate by competent Bible scholars.
Newbrough, John
: See OAHSPE
Nightingale-Conant,
Chicago, IL: Publishes books and audio tapes on personal growth, business, positive mental attitude, and self help. A significant portion of their material contains New Age themes.
Niscience,
Glendale, CA: New Age, karma, thought talisman, meditation, Christ-consciousness
Nizhoni School of Global Consciousness,
Galisteo, NM: Higher self, Kundalini, meditation
NLP:
Acronym for Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Noahides:
See B'nai Noah
Nova 8,
Pueblo, CO: Mother Earth, Christ-consciousness, Native American "Great Spirit" is at the heart of all beings. Publishes the Living Love newsletter.
Nova Mystery School:
Alchemy, Atlantis, Druids, shamanism, Kabbalah
The Nubian Nation of Moors:
See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
Nuwaubians:
See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
Oasis Fellowship,
Florence, AZ: Similar to Unity School of Christianity
Occult:
From the Latin word, hidden. See under the Definitions section in the introduction.
Occult Americana,
Panesville, OH: Occult / pagan periodical.
Odinism:
A return to the gods of Norse mythology, Odin being the chief or supreme god, also known as Woden or Wotan. Originally worshipped as the god or warriors or leaders, it is his responsibility to delay, as long as possible, Ragnarok, the day of doom. He gained use of the Runes and passed these on to men.
Olcott Library,
Wheaton, IL: New Age library, Theosophy, parapsychology, reincarnation
Omega Institute for Holistic Studies,
Hudson River Valley, NY: New Age, aromatherapy, Kabbalah studies, astrology, crystals, Mystical Quest.
Omega Press,
New Lebanon, NY: SufismPublishes the Omega Press newspaper.
One to Grow On,
Trenna Sutphen, Malibu, CA: New Age, subliminal tapes for children, magic, and higher self.
ModalismProfile available.
Order of Rhea,
Chicago, IL: Magic, paganism, occult
Order of the Cross,
J. Todd Ferrier: States of realization, Christhood (see Christ-consciousness),
meditation
Order of the Star:
See Krishnamurti Foundation of America
Ordo Adeptorum Invisiblum,
Chicago, IL: Magic rituals, Egyptian goddess Maat, teachings of Aleister Crowley
Ordo Templi Ashtart (OTA),
Pasadena, CA: Rosicrucianism splinter group. Publishes The Seventh Ray journal.
Ordo Templi Baph-Metis (OTB),
James M. Martin, Corpus Christi, TX: Occult, Satanism
Orr, Leonard:
See Rebirthing International
Our Lady of Enchantment,
Sabrina, Danville, CA: Paganism, witchcraft (see Wicca), "the craft," goddess worship, moon festivals, psychic powers.
Any experience in which a person believes that his or her spirit has temporarily left the physical body and then returned to that same body. Some OBEs are associated with near-death experiences; others are induced through occult or mystical practices, especially in Astral Projection.
Pacific Institute,
Louis Tice, Seattle, WA: New Age, stress management seminars, changing core beliefs.
Pacific West Fellowship:
Splinter group of The Way International
Pagan Spiritual Alliance,
Selena Fox, Mt. Horeb, WI: Paganism, worship of gods and goddesses, Mother Earth. Publishes Circle magazine.
Pagan Way,
Philadelphia, PA: Paganism, denies reality of sin.
Historically, paganism has been used as a generic term to describe primitive non-Christian religions and superstitions, including religions centered on the occultMore recently paganism is used as an umbrella term referring to Wicca/witchcraft, ceremonial magic, nature worship, polytheism (especially female deities), and ancient mythologies (Celt, Norse, Egyptian, Greek and Roman).
Pan-American Indian Association:
Promotes Native American spirituality
Parascience Institute,
Evanston, IL: Psychic powers, yoga, psychometry, auras, telepathy.
Pastoral Bible Institute,
Milwaukee, WI: Bible Students group.
Path of Light,
Charlotte, NC: New Age, auras, chakras, Universal Mother, reincarnation
Pathways:
Ramana Maharshi, Sarasota, FL: Mixture of Hinduism and TaoismPublishes Pathways: The Journal of Spiritual Traditions
Patrick, Ted:
Controversial practitioner of deprogramming
Patripassianism:
Name for a kind of modalism or monarchianism; the word means that the Father (patri-) suffered and died (-passian) on the cross.
Peace Community Church,
Washington, D.C.: Jesus the mystic, "crystal clear vibration" techniques, Christ-consciousness, mystical meditation
Peace Pole:
New Age / occult; poles or obelisks around which people sit in order to practice meditation or visualization of World Peace or other topics important to those meditating.
Peacevision,
Houston, TX: Visualization; known for the blue and white bumper stickers that read "Visualize World Peace."
Pearl of Great Price:
One of the scriptures or "Standard Works" of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Pelley, William D.:
New Age author.
Pentecostal Churches of Apostolic Faith:
Oneness Pentecostal denomination.
People House,
Denver, CO: New Age, subjective truth, Inner wisdom guiding, karma
Peyote Way Church of God,
Anne L. Zapf, Willcox, AZ: Native American rituals, use the drug peyote as a sacrament. Publishes The Sacred Record newsletter.
Phanes,
Grand Rapid, MI: New Age, paganism, goddess worship, alchemy, Kabbalah
Philadelphia Church of God,
Gerald Flurry, Edmond, OK: Armstrongism splinter group. Publishes The Philadelphia Trumpet magazine.
Philadelphia Congregation of Yahweh,
William Scampton, Philadelphia, PA: Sacred name group. Publishes the Yahweh's Watchman magazine.
Philosophic Community Center,
Denver, CO: New Age, Egyptian rites, man is Divine. Publishes the Colorado Mind, Spirit and Soul Report newsletter.
Philosophical Publishing Co.,
Quakertown, PA: See Rosicrucianism
Philosophical Research Society,
Manly P. Hall Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Kabbalah, past lives (reincarnation), third eye, Buddhism, Zen, Christ Principle (cf. Christ-consciousness).
Pike, Albert:
See Freemasonry
Plain Truth, The:
Magazine of the Worldwide Church of God
Planet Health,
Arlington, TX: Yoga, meditation
Plural Covenant:
See Dual Covenant
Poltergeist:
From German ("rattling ghost"); an apparently supernatural disturbance attributed to a ghost or spirit. Usually associated with the visible movement of physical objects by an unseen spiritual (that is, occult) force. See Demon, Spiritualism, Necromancy
Wayman Mitchell, Prescott, AZ: Originally called Victory Chapel, churches affiliated with Mitchell go under the names Praise Chapel, The Door, Grace Chapel, The Christian Fellowship, La Capilla de la Victory, La Casa Del Alfarero, and La Puerta. Begun in 1970, Mitchell has over 1,000 churches in 73 countries including Mexico, South America, Australia, Europe, and the Philippines. Numerous former members have alleged mind control and authoritariandivbusive leadership, and the group was the focus of a CBS News 48 Hours investigative report. Mitchell's churches are not affiliated with the Potter's House in Dallas, TX, pastored by T. D. Jakes. Also, The Door is not affiliated with the religious satire magazine by the same name.
Power for Abundant Living:
Older name for the main recruitment and initial indoctrination course (and book by the same title) for potential members of The Way International, as developed and taught by its founder Victor Paul Wierwille. His successor, Craig Martindale, produced a revised version of the course entitled The Way of Abundance and Power.
PPPANA,
Macan, GA: New Age, yoga, meditation, goddess worship.
Praise Chapel:
See Potter's House
Prana:
See Chi
Presleyterianism:
See First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine<
Project X:
See Jamilian University of the Ordained
Prophet, Elizabeth Clare and Mark:
See Church Universal and Triumphant
Prosveta U.S.A.,
Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov, Los Angeles, CA: Yoga, clairvoyance, [[#Esoteric|esotericHinduismPublishes the Circle of Light newsletter.
Psionics:
See First Universal Church of God-Realization
Psychedelic Venus Church
San Francisco, CA: Paganism, goddesses Venus and Aphrodite.
Psychiana,
Frank Robinson: New Age, metaphysics, not all have sinned, similar to Christian Science or Unity School of Christianity
Psychic Healing:
An occult form of New Age, holistic health care involving the alleged use or balancing of healing energy through touch or hand movements by the practitioner over the patient to bring health. Also, employing spirit guides to aid in health.
Psychic Learning Center, Martha Woodworth
Rockport, MA: Occult/New Age, Tarot reading, psychic advisors.
Psychomancy:
A form of divination based on communication with spirit entities or ghosts
Psynetic Foundation,
Anaheim, CA: New Age, channeling, astrology, promotes A Course in MiraclesPublishes Psynetic Calendar newsletter.
Puranas:
Hindu sacred scriptures consisting of myths, legends, and historical events; also occasionally used by those in the New Age movement.
Qabalah/Qabbalah:
Alternative spellings for Kabbalah.
Quartus Foundation,
John Price, Boerne, TX: New Age, meditation, healing the planet, Journey to the Fourth Dimension.
Quest For Excellence,
Dallas, TX: New Age, Star Chamber for altered states of consciousness, self-realization, metaphysics
Radiant School,
Kenneth Wheller, Mount Shasta, CA: New Age, Ascended Masters, Great White Brotherhood.
Rainbow,
Dallas, TX: New Age, psychic, meditation, metaphysics, uses A Course in Miracles text, shamanismPublishes the Rainbow newspaper.
Rainbow,
Charlotte, NC: New Age, Ascended Masters, rebirthing, past life regressionPublishes the Pathways newsletter.
Rainbow Earth Dwelling Society,
J. Christine Hayes, San Antonio, TX: New Age, chakras, telepathy, Tarot
Rainbow Group
(Rainbow People): Nomadic, New Age, communal society found mostly in the southeastern U.S.
Raja Yoga:
See Yoga
Ram Dass,
a.k.a. Richard Alpert: New Age guru
Rastafarianism,
(Ras Tafari, Rastas) Marcus Garvey: African/Jamaican religion. Teaches that the late king of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, is God. Profile available.
Ray, Sondra:
See Rebirthing International
Recovery Version of the New Testament:
Version used by the The Local Church
Remnant of YHWH,
Mark Deacon, Abilene, TX: Sacred Name splinter group from House of Yahweh; teaches Sabbatarianism, British Israelism
Reverend Ike,
a.k.a., Frederick Eikerenkoetter, II: Pantheism; general prosperity doctrine.
R I Research,
New York, NY: New Age; selects people called Beyonders, claims to possess Superior Essence.
Rice, Anne:
Author of The Witching Hour, Vampire Chronicles, Interview with A Vampire, and other books with occult subject matter.
Rice, Nancy,
Broomfield, CO: New Age, Tarot cards, psychic counseling, past life regression, clairvoyance
Right Knowledge:
See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
Righteous Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
Gerald Peterson, Cedar City, UT: Small polygamous, Mormon Fundamentalist splinter group of about 100 people. Peterson claimed that the spirit of Rulon Allred, who founded the Corporation of the Presiding Elder of the Apostolic United Brethren, returned to restore the priesthood to him.
Right Way, The:
See Chen Tao
Road Less Traveled, The:
Book written by Peck, M. Scott
Robins, Anthony (or Tony):
Business consultant, empowerment, personal transformation and motivational speaker whose theories often contain New Age philosophies.
The Rock of Ages:
Annual music concert and convention held by The Way International
Rocky Mountain Institute of Yoga and Ayurveda,
Denver, CO: Eastern mysticism, karma, Tantra, Raja and Bhakti Yoga
Rocky Mountain Research Institute,
Fort Collins, CO: Paranormal research, reincarnation, self-realization, dowsing, hypnosis
Rocky Mountain Spiritual Emergence Network,
Boulder, CO: New Age, magic, mystic rituals, astrology, alchemyPublishes the R.M.S.E.N. Times newsletter.
Ro-Hun Therapy:
Balancing the energy fields of the human body (see chi).
Rosicrucian Anthroposophic League,
S.R. Parchment, New York, NY: Break-off of Rosicrucian Fellowship
Rosicrucian Foundation,
Swinburne Clymer, Quakertown, PA: Oldest group of Rosicrucianism in the U.S.; reincarnation, astrology
Rowan Tree,
Paul Beyerlf, Minneapolis, MN: Paganism, Mother Earth, magic, astrologyPublishes The Littlest Unicorn newsletter.
Russell,
Charles Taze: Founder of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society.
Sabellianism:
Alternative name for Modalism
Sabin, Robert:
A well-known Oneness Pentecostal pastor, writer, and speaker.
Sabo, Sandra,
Gloucester, MA: Channeler, crystal healing, spirit guides.
Sacred Cycles,
Bette Barr-Glover, San Juan Capistrano, CA: Paganism, divine feminine in each person, numerology, astrology, guided meditationPublishes the Sacred Cycles newsletter.
Sacred Order of Mystic Christianity,
Mountain View, CA: New Age, mystic keys, Inner God, Christ within, higher self.
Sadhana Society
Prescott, AZ: New Age, ESP, Astral Projection, telekinesis, levitation, clairvoyance.
Sage Center,
Ann Garner, Arlington, TX: New Age, Use The Urantia Book as the primary text.
Sage Woman,
Point Arena, CA: Paganism, Egyptian rituals, goddess worship.
Saint Germain Foundation,
Schaumburg, IL: Similar to the I AM Movement
Samhain:
(pronounced Sah-ween) Alternative name for Halloween
Sanctuary of Gaia,
Santa Cruz, CA:Gaia, paganism, Earth festivals.
Sanctuary of Revealing Light,
Mildred Smith: Spiritualism; see also International General Assembly of Spiritualists
Sankirtana:
Religious chant or mantra repeated over and over to draw practitioners into an ever closer state of God-consciousness.
Savior of All Fellowship,
Montclair, CA: Universalism
School for Esoteric Studies,
New York, NY: Masters of Wisdom include Jesus; influenced by Alice Bailey. See Arcane School
School of Ageless Wisdom,
Arlington, TX: Occult, teachings of Alice Bailey. See Arcane School
School of Alchemy,
Boulder, CO: Occult, alchemy, Kabbalah, goddess worship.
School of Metaphysics,
Dennis Rodgers, Norman, OK: New Age, reaching ultimate potential, karma, astral projection, clairvoyance
School of Natural Order,
Ralph M. deBit, Baker, NV: Mixture of ancient Egyptian, Greek and Eastern philosophies.
School of Thought,
Hope Troxell, June Lake, CA: New Age, Cosmic Brotherhood.
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures:
Principal text of Christian Science
Science of Mind:
Textbook of Religious Science, written by its founder, Ernest Holmes.
Science of Mind Church,
Lunn Gardner, Mobile, AL: New Age, channeling, intuitive powers.
Scientology:
See Church of Scientology
Scripture Research Association,
College Park, MD: Sacred Name movement, the names Jesus and Christ are pagan.
Scully, Nicki,
Eugene, OR: Egyptian rituals, magic, Mayan ceremonies.
Search and Prove,
St. Paul Park, MN: New Age, karma, astral projection, astral plain, Ascended Masters
The Secret Doctrine:
See Theosophy
Secrets,
Norma Cox, Marshal, AR: UFOs. Publishes the Secrets newsletter.
Seeing Beyond,
Capitola, CA: New Age, psychic, pyramidology, Reiki
Self-Realization Fellowship,
Paramahansa Yogananda, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Awaken the God within, yoga, meditation
Self-Revelation Church of Absolute Monism,
Swami Premananda, Washington, D.C.: Pantheism
SEVA, CRISTAL:
See Spiritual Human Yoga
Seven Oaks,
Madison, VA: New Age, channeling, Celebration of Female Spirit, Native American Vision Quest, Mother Earth, Gaia
Shafenberg Research Foundation,
Ernest Shafenberg, Kingfisher, OK: New Age, occult, iridology, reflexology, astrology, channeling, reincarnation, psychic readings.
Shambhala Institute,
Asheville, NC: New Age, visualization, Transcendental Meditation
Shambhla Publishing,
Boulder, CO: New Age publisher
Shared Heart Foundation,
Joyce and Berry Vissell, Aptos, CA: New Age, promotes numerous mystical and esoteric writers.
Shenoa Retreat Center,
Philo, CA: New Age, consciousness healing, uses A Course in Miracles, Hinduism, Buddhism
Shriners:
See Freemasonry
Siegel, Bernie:
New Age author/doctor promoting meditation, spiritism, visualization and holistic health
Sikhism,
Nanak: A religion, based mostly in the Punjab province of India, that attempts to blend Hinduism and Islam The movement is based on a vision and subsequent teachings of founder Nanak in the 15th century AD. Disciples, called Sikhs, follow the one true God named Sat Nam ("True Name"). Their main scriptures are contained in the Granth Sahib ("The Lord's Book"), compiled by the guru Arjan, and salvation is viewed as a merging with the universal force (as in pantheism) .
Silver, Marshall,
Tempe, AZ: New Age empowerment seminars, hypnosis
Singer, David:
New Age, seminars, based on Church of Scientology
Singh, Sant Thakar:
See Kirpal Light Satsang
Sino-American Buddhism Association,
San Francisco, CA: Basic Buddhism philosophy.
Smith, David J.:
See Church of God Evanglistic Association
Smith, Joseph:
Founder of The Church of Jesus Christof Latter-day Saints
Societas Rosicruciana In America,
Palmer, New York, NY: Astrology, reincarnation
Society for Organizational Learning (SoL),
Boston, MA: An affiliate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the SoL researches and promotes learning organizations that facilitate institutional evolution and the rethinking of conventional and reactionary beliefs.
Society of Pragmatic Mysticism,
Mildred Mann, New York, NY: Esoteric Christianity, karma, reincarnation
Solar Quest,
Seneca, MD: New Age, God is the Higher Energy Force, cosmic energies, vibration patterns, homeopathy
Soka Gakkai Buddhism,
Nichiren Daishonin: A mystical form of Buddhism based on the teachings of 13th century Japanese fisherman Nichiren Daishonin, who taught that the true interpretations of Buddha's teachings were recorded in the Lotus Sutra.
Solar Temple:
See Order of the Solar Temple
Songs of David,
Marvel, TX: See Church of the Most High God
Sons of Noah:
See B'nai Noah
Sophia:
Greek goddess of wisdom also personified in neo-paganism Goddess worship.
Soul Sleep:
(Psychopannychy) The doctrine that human souls sleep or cease conscious existence between death and resurrection. Usually (but not always) a doctrine associated with Adventism
Soulmates:
Marriage partners from previous lives. See Reincarnation
Southern Dharma Retreat Center,
Hot Springs, NC: New Age/Hinduism, yoga, teaches from A Course in Miracles, meditation
Sovereignty, Inc.,
Eastsound, WA: New Age periodical.
Spangler, David:
Prominent New Age writer and lecturer.
Spirit of Prophecy Ministry,
Las Vegas, NV: Predicted the return of Christ in 1998. Publishes Insights into Prophecy
Spiritual Advancement of the Individual Foundation,
Sai Baba, Los Angeles, CA: Eastern philosophy, avatars, Akashic records, teachings from the so-called lost years of JesusPublishes the Sathya Sai newsletter.
Spiritual Advisory Council,
Orlando, FL: New Age, psychic counseling, Mastering the Life Force; promotes Benjamin Creme and Steve Halpern's works.
Spiritual Hierarchy Information Center,
Ft. Lauderdale, FL: New Age, cosmic Christ-consciousness
Spiritual Horizons Church,
Houston, TX: Esoteric Christianity, channeling, Tarot cards, Reiki
Spiritual Research Society,
Edward Cain, Grand Rapids, MI: New Age, Great White Brotherhood, channeling, cosmic-consciousness.
Spiritual Science Institute,
Santa Barbara, CA: New Age, hypnotic future life progression, UFOs, channeling, esoteric teachings.
Spring Hill Institute,
Robert Gass and Judith Gass Tierre: New Age, Inner Awareness.
Stallone Astrology Center,
Jacqueline Stallone, Toluca Lake, CA: Astrology center founded by the mother of actor Sylvester Stallone.
Starlight Mystic Awareness School,
Diane Tessman, Poway, CA: New Age, channeling life Forces, UFOs. Publishes The Star Netword Heartline newsletter.
Star Quest,
Argyle, TX: New Age, visualization, chakras, guided meditation
Starshine Center,
Corpus Christi, TX: New Age, Reiki, astral projection, past life regression, UFOs.
Steps to Awareness,
Telluride, CO: New Age, yoga, channeling, crystals, voodoo, rebirthing, Native American spirituality
Promotes philosophy of the Church of Scientology through business management services, aimed mostly at dentists, chiropractors, doctors, and veterinarians.
Stil-Light Retreat Center,
Waynesville, NC: New Age, meditation, Buddhism, Christ-consciousness, Theosophy
Students International Meditation Society:
A branch of Transcendental Meditation
Subud,
Bapak Mohammad Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo [1901-1987]: Originated in Java, Indonesia, Subud has spread worldwide. Subud stands for three words, Susila, Budhi, and Dharma. The three words taken together mean, "to follow the Will of God with the help of the Divine Power that works both within us and without, by the way of surrendering oneself to the Will of Almighty God" (Internet; http://www.subud.org/english/english.Btalk.html). This surrendering of oneself occurs primarily in a spiritual exercise known as the latihan (sometimes, latihan kejiwaan), a trance like state that can produce anything from ecstatic movement and utterance to profound calm. Disengagement of the "passions, desires, and thinking" is essential for entrance into the latihan. "Only by surrendering himself completely to God, not making use of his mind, his heart or his desire, is it possible for man to come into contact with the Power of God" (Ibid.). Thus all the higher critical faculties that set man apart from beast must be suspended. Whatever the experience thus induced, it is simply to be surrendered to and "received." From a Christian point of view this is a perfect recipe for demonic possession. Regular practice of the latihan enables one to discern one's true self, which apparently turns out to be God. "So this Divine Power, which works in us during the exercise, will bring to each person what is already in himself?. Therefore, Bapak says that it is God Who will lead you toward Himself and what really happens in the latihan is that you will be introduced to your real inner self—to the real ‘I'. You must not be afraid and you must not be worried because whatever comes to you in your latihan is only what is in you, and it comes from your inner self. It is the real you that arises in the latihan,?" (Ibid.).
Sufi Order of the Sons of the Green Light,
New York, NY: See Sufism
Summit Lighthouse/Summit University:
See Church Universal and Triumphant
Summum,
Salt Lake City, UT: New Age, UFOs, ascended consciousness, mummification.
The Sun
Chapel Hill, NC: New Age periodical.
Sundoor,
Peggy Dylan, Twain Harte, CA: New Age, self-realization, Native American spirituality, firewalking.
Superet Brotherhood for Mankind,
Josephine C. Trust, Los Angeles, CA: New Age, Father-Mother God, auras, Bible Mysteries.
Supersensonic Energy Technologies,
Boulder Creek, CA: New Age health, crystals, God is a force, pyramidology
Sutphen, Dick:
See Master of Life
SYDA:
See Siddha Yoga Dham of America
Synchronicity Foundation,
Faber, VA: New Age, Hatha yoga, meditation.
Taff, Signe Quinn
Sedona, AZ: New Age, astrology.
Taj Mahal,
Agra, India: A 17th-century mausoleum considered to be a holy building by some, including New Age followers.
Small stones or amulets believed to possess power in themselves to guard against evil spirits or for use in the invocation of demons by sorcerers. Also an ancient occult belief that certain objects or symbols contain supernatural magical powers, used for attraction of love, health, success and power to control nature or others. Closely aligned with witchcraft (see Wicca) and magic
Tao, TaoTe Ching, Tao Tsang:
See Taoism
Teachers of Light:
See Church of E Yada di Shi-ite
Temple of Danann,
Michael Ragan, Hanover, IN: Paganism/occult, magic, Wicca, astrology
Temple of Kriya Yoga,
Goswami Kriyananda, Chicago, IL: New Age, rebirthing, karma, astrology, astral projection, yoga
Temple of Set,
Michael Aquino: Satanism, Egyptian rituals, magic
Temple of the Ascended Master,
Ted M. Pierce, Yarness, AZ: New Age, channeling, God within, karma erasing.
Temple of the People,
William Dower, Halcyon, CT: Mixture of I AM and theosophical philosophy.
Temple of the Psychedelic Light and the Church of the Realized Fantasy,
Daniel Rakowitz, East Village, NY: Satanism, human sacrifice, cannabilism.
Temple of the Universe,
Amrit Desai, Alachua, FL: Eastern mysticism, yoga, guided meditation
Temple of Truth:
See Light of Truth Church
Teresa, Joan
(Power Products) Mars Hill, NC: See Joan Teresa Power Products.
Teutonic Temple,
Clarence Bartholomew, The Dallas, OR: Occult, sacred feasts, paganism
Texas Wholistic Network,
Azel, TX: Christ-consciousness, higher self. Publishes the Lightworker newspaper.
Theosophical Society in America,
Wheaton, IL: Main organization in the Theosophy movement.
Theosophical Society – International,
Pasadena, CA: Offshoot of Theosophy
Theosophy Company,
Los Angeles, CA: Offshoot of Theosophy; see United Lodge of Theosophists
Third Eye:
Highest chakra, supposedly found in the middle of the forehead.
Thought Reform:
Robert Lifton's term for Mind Control, more popularly known as brainwashing
Thought Trends,
Roswell, GA: New Age newspaper.
TM:
Acronym for Transcendental Meditation
Touch for Health:
See Therapeutic Touch
Touch Stone,
San Francisco, CA: Occult/paganism periodical, Wicca, runes
Touch Therapy:
See Therapeutic Touch
Trance Channeling:
See Channeling
Transformational Seminars:
New Age, stress management.
Tree of Knowledge,
Westchester, IL: New Age, astrology, higher consciousness, Tarot, past life regression, Fall moon meditationPublishes the Tree of Knowledge newsletter.
Trick or Treat:
See Halloween
Triumph Publishing:
See Triumph Prophetic Ministries Church of God
True Mother and True Father:
Titles of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church, and his wife.
Tucson Tabernacle,
Tucson, AZ: See Branhamism
Two by Twos:
Alternative name for Cooneyites
UFOs:
Acronym for Unidentified Flying Object
UG,
Farmingdale, NY: Eastern mysticism, Applied Kinesiology
Understanding Inc.,
Daniel Fry, Tonopah, AZ: UFOs, Atlantis, ESP
A denomination formed in 1961 by the merger of the American Unitarian Association (the principal religious body teaching Unitarianism) and the Universalist Church in America (which emphasized universalism). While the two parent denominations were rooted in liberal Christianity, the UUA does not even profess to be a specifically Christian body. Its churches exhibit an eclectic blend of liberal Christianity, humanism, atheism, and neo-paganism
United Church of Jesus Christ:
Oneness Pentecostal
United Research,
James V. Goure, Black Mountain, NC: New Age, Christ-consciousness, energy fields, meditation, extra-dimensional communication. Publishes the U R Light newsletter.
Unitology Thought,
Indianapolis, IN: Meditation, visualization
Unity Churches:
Affiliated with the Unity School of Christianity
Unity of Knowledge Foundation,
Edith May Custard, Arlington, VA: Mixture of Theosophy and the teachings of Alice Bailey
Unity Village:
Unity School of Christianity headquarters in Lee's Summit, MO.
Universal Christian Movement,
Glencoe, IL: God is Power, uses Mind Power for healing; all humans are God. Publishes The Christian Liberation newsletter.
George Morley: Occult, karma, "at-one-ment" with the All Highest, channelingUses OAHSPE for text.
Universal Harmony Foundation,
Seminole, FL: Practical Metaphysics, REALization, Deity-and-Man.
Universal Life Church,
Kirby Hensley, Medesto, CA: All people have the right to do what they feel is right; subjective truth.
Universal Life Church of the Seven African Powers,
Miami, FL: Santeria; honor the god Ogun.
Universal Life Temple,
New Port, MI: New Age, Atlantis, aura, fifth dimensional consciousness, levitation, telepathy.
Universal Light of Christ Church,
Pat RaimondoAzle, TX: Raimondo claims that Jesus appeared to her; latter day revelation, Christ-consciousness
Universal Mother Mary's Garden:
See Mon-Ka Retreat…
Universal Network,
Aztec, NM: UFOs, space communiqués, cosmic telepathy, spiritual hierarchy. Publishes Universal Network newsletter.
Universal Spiritualist Association,
Chesterfield, IN: Spiritualism, occult, medium, reflexology, ritual magic, divine within.
Universal Temple of Divine Light,
Don Slocum, Baton Rouge, LA: New Age, spirit entities, reincarnation, pantheism, Satan and Evil are illusions.
Universariun Foundation, Inc.,
Portland, OR: New Age, Ascended Masters, channeling
University of the Trees,
Christopher Hill, Boulder Creek, CA: New Age, meditation for children, balancing energies (cf. chi), yoga
University of the 12 Rays of the Great Central Sun:
See University of the Christ Light
Upper Triad,
Manassas, VA: New Age, pantheism, karma, many paths to God, astral bodyPublishes The Upper Triad newsletter.
URANTIA Brotherhood,
Chicago, IL: URANTIA-based group established in 1955 and reorganized in 1989 after a corporate shakeup. See Fifth Epochal Fellowship
URANTIA Foundation,
Chicago, IL: Established in 1950. Holds the copyright on The URANTIA Book
Urshan, Andrew:
An early, well-known Oneness Pentecostal writer and speaker.
Vedas:
A compilation of four holy writings forming the oldest sacred scriptures of Hinduism.
Verse 1 of Psalms 91,
Marvel, TX: See Church of the Most High God
Vision Quest:
Native American spiritual ceremony involving out-of-body experiences or astral projection; also called the Way of Inner Journey.
Visions Travel,
Los Angeles, CA: New Age, crystals, dowsing, visualization, spiritual energies.
Voice of Reality,
Phoenix, AZ: New Age newspaper.
Voice of the Olive Tree, Inc.,
Bernard Harland, Monrovia, CA: Latter day prophet, Jesus' second coming was predicted for 1986 (see false prophecy).
Vorilhon, Claude:
(Rael) See Raelian Religion
Waldorf Schools:
Based on the occult and esoteric teachings of Rudolf Steiner, founder of the Anthroposophical Society
Walpurgisnacht:
Alternate name for Beltane
Warren Bible Students:
See Bible Students
Watchman Nee:
See The Local Church
Way Corps, The:
See The Way International
Weil, Andrew:
A medical doctor who helped popularize New Age alternative medicine or holistic health in his book, Spontaneous Healing
Western Nath Order,
Seattle, WA: Paganism, magic, guardian spirits, Inner being of Supreme light.
Whirling Dervish:
See Sufism
White Dove International,
Stuart Wilde, Taos, NM: New Age, human potential, higher self, stress reduction seminars.
White Dove Partridge:
See Mon-Ka Retreat…
White Eagle:
See Star Center for the Americas
White, Ellen G.:
See Seventh-day Adventist Church
White, Walter:
See Followers of Christ Church
Whitelights,
Westlake Village, CA: New Age, channeling, goddess Ashtoar and Athena, astral planes.
Whitney, Michael:
See American Temple
Whittaker, Terry Cole:
See Terry Cole-Whittaker
Whole Life Network,
Santa Cruz, CA: New Age, psychic, visualization, shamanism, rebirthingPublishes the Whole Life Network quarterly.
Wholistic Innerworks Foundation,
Randy Barns, Durango, CO: New Age; holistic health, specifically therapeutic touch, reflexology, Reiki, crystals, medicine women.
Wierwille, Victor Paul:
See The Way International
Wikima
Arlington, TX: Occult, paganism, crystal ball readings, spirit guides, shamanism
Wilde, Stuart:
Prominent New Age author and lecturer.
Williamson, Marianne:
Prominent New Age author and speaker. Best known for her book, A Return To Love; also wrote Illuminata and other books. See A Course in Miracles for underlying theology.
Willow Keep,
Wilton, NH: Paganism, talismans, crystals, magic, goddess quest.
Windsong Explorations,
Bonnie Simrell, Nederland, CO: Native American spirituality, Mother Earth, therapeutic touch, chakra balancing.
Wisdom Institute of Spiritual Education,
Dallas, TX: New Age, God-within.
WISE International,
Los Angeles, CA: Acronym for Worldwide Institute of Scientology Enterprises; promotes Church of Scientology
Wise Woman Center,
Susan Weed, Woodstock, NY: Pagan, goddess worship, Equinox and Halloween festivals.
Witness Lee:
See The Local Church
W.J. Publishers,
Brother Stanley, Toronto, Ontario: New Age, Cosmic-Psychic Treatment, Egyptian rituals.
Woman's Circle,
El Prado, NM: New Age, shamanistic journeys, visualization, Native American medicine bags.
Women's Federation for World Peace,
Hak Ja Han Moon, New York, NY: Connection with the Unification Church
Womyn Healing,
Sandra Boston de Sylvia, Greenfield, MA: Paganism, guided meditation, visions, Gaia festivals.
Word Over the World (WOW):
See The Way International
World Community, J.E. Rash, Bedford, VI: New Age, mystic, teaches the "five ancient Orders."
World Council of Churches:
An international agency promoting interfaith dialogue and ecumenical cooperation among churches. Most participants are mainline denominations dominated by the theological perspective of liberal Christianity
World Tomorrow, The: The now defunct radio and television program begun by Herbert Armstrong. See Armstrongism
Pasadena, CA: Under the leadership of its founder, Herbert W. Armstrong, this church rejected the essential doctrines of evangelical Christianity, denying the doctrine of the Trinity, the full deity of Jesus,Christ, and the personality of the Holy Spirit. The church epitomized the somewhat eclectic set of beliefs and practices that became known as Armstrongism Beginning in the early 1990s under the leadership Armstrong's successors, Joseph W. Tkach and his son Joe Tkach, this group has undergone remarkable doctrinal transformation. They now hold to a traditional evangelical position on the nature of God and the gospel, teaching the Trinity and salvation by grace alone, through faith alone. Large numbers of its membership have left to join splinter groups that still teach classic ArmstrongismPublishes The Plain Truth magazine. Profile available.
Worrall, Olda:
See New Life Clinic
WOW: (Word Over the World). See The Way Internationa
Yahweh ben Yahweh: Founder of Nation of Yahweh.
Yahweh's Assembly in Messiah, David Barnard, Rockport, MO: Publishes The Master Key, Unlocking Bible Truth magazine. See Sacred Name movement.
Yang:
See Yin and Yang
Yes Education Society, Washington, D.C.: New Age, yoga, palm reading, astrology, iridology
Yi King: Alternative form of the term I Ching,
Yoga Journal, Berkley, CA: New Age periodical. See Yoga
Yoga Research Foundation, Jyotir Maya Nanda, Miami, FL: Yoga, Eastern mysticism Publishes International Yoga Guide magazine.
Yoga Research Society, Phildelphia, PA: Eastern mysticism, yoga, meditation, alternative healing practices (i.e., holistic health. Publishes the Yoga Research newsletter.
Yogi: A teacher or master of yoga
York, Malachi Z., See Ancient Mystic Order of Malchizedek
Yule: Occult holiday celebrated on the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice (December 21). Because of its close proximity to Christmas, the term Yule has often been used as a designation for Christmas.
Zendik Farm, Wulf Aendik, Boulveard, CA: Paganism, cosmic connection, psychic realm.
Zentech, Don Mead, Surry, ME: New Age, meditation, dreamwaves.
Zerubbabel, Inc., Hopkinsville, KY: God is All pantheism, man is Christ in true essence. Publishes The Intercessor newsletter.
Zodiac: See Astrology
Zohar/Zolar: See Kabbalah
Zoroastrianism, Zoroaster: Religion thought to be founded about 600 BC in Persia (present day Iran). According to legend, Zoroaster received enlightenment by the Daitya river when, at age 30, he received a vision of Vohu Manah ("Good Thought") who took him into the presence of lord Ahura-Mazda. Lord Mazda taught Zoroaster the "true religion," rejecting magic and idol worship and promoting belief in heaven, hell, a devil (Angra-Mainyu) and one true god. Later followers, however, worshipped Zoroaster in addition to Mazda. Good Lord Mazda and evil Angra Mainyu are seen as equal in power. Teaches enlightenment and salvation by works, including fire worship and partaking of the hallucinogenic haoma soma in India.
Zwaan Rays: See Spirit Electronic Communication Society