The Spiritist Teachings help us understand life

Ana Cristina Pardini (photo) worked for 37 years in the administration of UNESP university in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, where she first came into contact with Spiritism. She has a degree in Literature and worked at the university’s administration in her home city of Botucatu. She is a volunteer worker at the Caminho da Luz (Pathway to the Light) Spiritist Centre in Botucatu. In this interview she speaks about her experience in the local Spiritist Movement: 

How did you become a Spiritist? 

I began my professional career at the Agriculture Department of UNESP university, in Botucatu, in 1979. One of the lecturers there was a Spiritist, who attended the events at the Caminho da Luz Spiritist Centre. After many informal chats with him, in which he mentioned Spiritism, he began lending me, one by one, the books written by the Spiritual Benefactor, André Luiz. I was completely in awe. Gradually, I began to understand more about the Spiritist Teachings and I realised how rational and logical they were. So slowly but surely I began attending their Sunday meetings. I must mention something, however: since I was a young child I was fascinated by Spiritism. I knew very little about it, but I was aware, somehow, that it belonged in my life. My family, who were Catholics, had some restrictions in the beginning, but nothing so strong that it could put me away from Spiritism. 

What in Spiritism drew your attention in particular?

In the Teachings I found many clear explanations for the big questions I’d had. And that’s because it is, as I mentioned, a rational and logical set of principles, devoid of dogmas, rituals or secrets.  

You are passionate about research and you have a gift for writing. So what has been the focus of your studies?

The extent of my knowledge in Spiritism is still limited and I’m aware that I’m not an expert on any particular subject. But I have a particular interest in the lessons that Our Master Jesus has left us through his Gospels. I’m also interested in the issues of inner reform, the spiritual development of the different planets, the true values of life and our relationship with the animals, as well as their development. 

What is your assessment of the Spiritist Movement in Brazil?

Volunteer work in Spiritist Centres remains the main tool in the formation of all Spiritists. Their progress relies on their level of commitment and their determination to learn. Having said that, it’s clear that most Spiritist Centres have introduced new ways of teaching Spiritism, embracing integrated practices and new teaching methods. The development of the internet and IT has also revolutionised work in Spiritist Centres. With a smartphone in hand, a PC or a laptop we now have access to a huge range of tools that enables us to gather information and work in Spiritism. 

And what do you say about the growth of online meetings and events. Is it beneficial?

It’s undeniable that the Spiritist Movement has benefited from the growth of online events and meetings. As online materials became more easily available, people have had much easier access to articles, interviews, podcasts and events, such as conferences and workshops, as well as books, films and news in real time. There are so many Spiritist radio stations, online channels, and TV channels available today! And all of them make a great contribution towards the dissemination of Spiritism. 

If you had to pick one of the Spiritist lessons, what would that be and why?

I would say it’s how Spiritism teaches us to put into practice, in our lives, the principles of the Gospel of Jesus. Once you learn that, you become aware of the need to change and to improve. Even when that perception is at an early stage of development inside you, you have already changed and you’ll never be the same again. The seed of inner reform has already been sown. And our inner reform is the first and, I would say, the main step towards our spiritual evolution. That is the true reason why we are incarnated in this world. 

And which of the Teachings of Jesus would you highlight?

All that Jesus taught us is important, obviously, but I would like to highlight his emphasis on humility. When we are humble, we are able to see our own limitations, with modesty and without pride or selfishness. That will make us aware that we need to work hard in order to achieve spiritual progress.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

During my prayers, I elevate my thoughts towards the Spiritual Benefactors who look after all the Spiritist Centres. I ask them to protect and vibrate for the volunteer workers and all of those in charge of those Groups, so that they can carry on with their selfless and loving efforts to help those who knock on their doors looking for consolation and help. I also pray for them to help keep the atmosphere balanced and positive within the Spiritist Movement, which is formed by people who haven’t gathered by chance. We are here, together, for a reason and through the years we have become a true family.