That is exactly what Spiritist books provided Mariângela Rego Bettin Carvalho (photo), who lives in the Brazilian city ofTaubaté, where she was born. She is a retired teacher and works as a volunteer at the José de Anchieta Spiritist Centre. She’s the organisation’s current president.

In the following interview, she speaks about a number of issues, including the Spiritist Movement in Taubaté and her life in Spiritism.

When and how did you become a Spiritist?

I found Spiritism through a friend. We used to commute together to work every day, in1986. She was already a practicing Spiritist and used to talk to me about the Teachings, which raised my curiosity then. She lent me some Spiritist books and they began to give my life a new perspective. The first book I read was by Nancy Puhlmann Di Girolamo. That was only the first small step for me to become an avid reader of Spiritist books.

Which aspect of Spiritism means the most to you?

It is the fact that Spiritism is an endless source of knowledge, which can transform Spirits with moral deformities into virtuous beings. It reveals to all of us that we survive the death of the physical body and that through reincarnation we progress from the condition of imperfect Spirits towards perfection.

Tell us about the Spiritist Movement in your hometown?

Local Spiritist speakers and organisations work together to offer a wide range of talks and lectures on current and relevant themes. We also work together to promote meetings and events, encouraging camaraderie among Spiritists in the area.

How did you get involved with the activities of the José de Anchieta Spiritist Centre?

After staying away from regular work in the Spiritist Movement, for failing to find an organisation where I felt at home, I decided to resume the search. That’s when, in 2003, I came across the José de Anchieta Spiritist Centre, where I felt welcome and where I was given the opportunity to study and work with the Teachings I had embraced.

From all the activities carried out by the Spiritist Centre, which one draws your attention in particular?

They are all equally important, but I am particularly drawn to the work carried out by the mediums, who can communicate with Spirits with the guidance of the Spiritual Benefactors.

What would you like to say to those who are discovering Spiritism now?

They must allow themselves to study and understand the Teachings of the Spirits, which are accessible to everyone.

And what would you say to the veterans in the Spiritist Movement?

All the knowledge and experience they have amassed so far must not lead into preconceived ideas and attitudes, which may prevent them from seeking the best for everyone. And I would add that they must never stop studying the Spiritist Teachings.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish that in the near future many more people have access to these enlightening Teachings. I would also like to stress that all Spiritists must be get more involved in other charity work and social projects, which are as important as the activities already carried out at most Spiritist Centres.

I would also like to thank you for the opportunity to speak here, albeit briefly, about my experience, my respect and my gratitude for what Spiritism has given us.