new church life: jan uary/february 2017
The longest chapter of the book considers each of the signs of the zodiac
in order, starting with Aries and continuing on through Pisces at number
12. Each one is discussed at some length with a description of the mental
characteristics of people who are born under that sign. Also each one is
assigned one of the Biblical tribes, one of the apostles, and other associated
features.
The information given is apparently drawn from both the
Writings and traditional astrological literature. Also included are many
artistic depictions done by several members of the Barnitz family, including
Downing Barnitz, Nell Barnitz Nilson and Robin Barnitz. Their family
seems to be highly gifted.
The Foreword was written by the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Rose, a well-known
Swedenborgian scholar and translator. Overall it is a challenging and thought-
provoking book. I suppose that most New Church people would prefer to
focus their spiritual study directly on the Writings, but for those who may
wish to explore the possibility that astrology contains a remnant of wisdom
from the Ancient Church this book would be a good starting point.
new circle in charleston
The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith is pleased to announce the formation of the
Charleston Circle in South Carolina. The Rt. Rev. Alfred Acton II and the
Rev. Geoffrey Howard have retired in the area and are providing regular
services to the people there.
O U R N E W C H U RC H V O C A B U L A R Y
Part of a continuing series developed by the Rev. W. Cairns Henderson, 1961-1966.
INNOCENCE
By this term is meant willingness to be led by a power not one’s own. Spiritual innocence,
or the innocence of wisdom, consists in an interior willingness to be led by the Lord rather
than by self. It is adjoined with man and is the Divine good proceeding and leading man to
heaven. (See Arcana Coelestia 7902, 9938; Heaven and Hell 280)
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