"How Great Thou Art"
Introduction
"I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some"
-- First Epistle of St Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians, 9.19
This site contains information on, and links to, a range of reflections, readings and teachings on spiritual matters. The topics listed on the Reflections page incorporate interfaith themes from various sources, especially the United Communities of Spirit (UCS) - a "coming together of many perspectives and traditions and voices, into a common framework and forum". UCS encompasses Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Taoism, Confucianism, and other faiths. Additionally, we draw from Lebanese-American philosopher Kahlil Gibran's writings, as well as contemplations by Elvis Presley. We also include the Liberal Catholic Church (LCC)'s weekly intents, or devotional topics.
The Elvis Connection
Although Elvis's religious beliefs were based in Christianity, his spiritual search was far broader - he read widely and explored various religions. His contemplations on life and death, love and friendship are covered on this site, courtesy of Elvis ~ A Lighted Candle. We are not claiming to put Elvis Presley on an equal footing with the great religious leaders and teachers of the World. However, anyone who is knowledgeable about Presley is aware of his deeply spiritual nature, and may find his insights useful. His communication medium was music rather than the spoken or written word. His gospel songs still carry his message, conveying passion, conviction and depth of feeling.
Where there are conflicting and contradictory rumours and stories about a person, one should look at that person's beliefs and deeds to seek the truth. Elvis did not campaign publicly or join protest movements, but he led by example. He employed black gospel singers at a time when racial discrimination was rife. In 1969 he refused to perform a concert unless his black female gospel singers were welcomed too. His quiet generosity towards friends and strangers alike is legendary, much of it still undocumented, and he showed extraordinary compassion for others in distress.
Quote from Elvis ~ A Lighted Candle:
Sufi master Pir-O-Murshid Inayat Khan asked his "spiritual teacher", how one could recognize a Godly man. His teacher replied: "It is not what he says, it is not what he seems to be, but it is the atmosphere that his presence creates. That is the proof, for no one can create an atmosphere which does not belong to his spirit."
**We have approached /shall be approaching the various authors/publishers quoted for permission to quote.**
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