The Churches’ Fellowship for Psychical and Spiritual Studies (CFPSS) is a UK-based charitable organisation founded in 1953. Its purpose is to promote the study of the science behind psychical and spiritual phenomena from a Christian perspective. The group aims to encourage and support exploration into these areas to further the understanding of the nature of consciousness, the reality of the survival of the human soul after death, and the possibility of communication with the deceased.
The CFPSS has its roots in several Christian denominations, including the Church of England, the Free Churches, and the Roman Catholic Church. Its early members included clergy, theologians, and psychical researchers who felt that the scientific study of psychic phenomena could inform and enrich Christian theology and practice. They sought to provide a safe space for the open-minded and balanced examination of these subjects, which were often marginalised or dismissed by the mainstream Christian establishment at the time.
The Fellowship’s approach is based on the conviction that the scientific investigation of psychical and spiritual claims is both valid and necessary. They argue that the study of these phenomena, using methodologies compatible with Christian principles, can shed light on the nature of reality and the human condition. CFPSS members believe that the findings of psychical research can complement and expand traditional Christian beliefs around the nature of the soul, the afterlife, and the relationship between the living and the dead.
Key areas of interest for the CFPSS include mediumship, survival, spiritual healing, and the relationship between science and religion. They host lectures, study days, and conferences to explore these topics, and publish a quarterly journal, the Christian Parapsychologist, to share research and ideas. Membership is open to all who share the organisation’s aims, regardless of religious affiliation.
Some notable activities and achievements of the CFPSS over the years include:
- Providing a platform for the discussion of psychical and spiritual themes in relation to Christian theology and practice. This has helped to raise the visibility and legitimacy of these subjects within religious circles.
- Supporting research projects and collaborations between psychical researchers, theologians and other scholars exploring the scientific and religious implications of psychic phenomena.
- Building bridges between the psychical research community and Christianity, promoting mutual understanding and dialogue.
- Offering education and resources for clergy and laity seeking to engage with psychical and spiritual issues as part of their Christian faith and ministry.
- Supporting those seeking guidance on spiritual matters through its Prayer Circle and Healing Wing.
- Maintaining a library and archives of key research, publications and historical materials in the field.
The CFPSS remains an influential and respected voice in the interface between Christianity and psychical research, its work continuing to promote the serious study of these fascinating questions that have puzzled humanity for centuries. As we increasingly understand the complexity of human consciousness and the nature of mind and soul, the Fellowship’s mission is more relevant than ever in uncovering the truth of our existence and relationship to something greater than ourselves.
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For more information visit: https://www.churchesfellowship.co.uk/
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