The Aetherius Society – A Spiritual Brotherhood

An important aspect of many churches and spiritual organizations is a sense of community. We all naturally like to feel that we are supported, and part of something greater than ourselves. 

The Aetherius Society, founded by Master of Yoga Dr. George King is no different. In fact, it is part of our aims and objectives “to form a brotherhood based on the teachings and knowledge of the Cosmic Masters.” This aim was one of the first seven aims and objectives, which were dictated by the Ascended Master Saint Goo-Ling in the 1950s. 

What is a brotherhood? Dictionaries define brotherhood as a group of people (men and women) who come together with a common purpose. 

Common Purpose

Members of The Aetherius Society believe that service is desperately needed in the world today. 

We also have all chosen to work in service, through The Aetherius Society in various different ways. Dr. King has left a legacy of opportunities for us to work together in service to humanity, such as by attending Operation Prayer Power, our regular Services, or through Spiritual Healing, pilgrimages and more. 

All Members of The Aetherius Society have a common purpose. We share in the teachings, and knowledge of the Cosmic Masters, and we believe that being of service – in addition to helping our world – is the best way to evolve. 

Cooperation

In order for us, as a spiritual brotherhood to achieve our common purpose, cooperation is essential.

Mars Sector 6, a Cosmic Master who spoke through Dr. King, describes the importance of cooperation:

“Oh brothers of Earth, co-operation will be that key which will open the door to your salvation. Co-operation between man and man, and organisation and organisation, will be the platform upon which salvation can be built. In these days you stand at the cross roads of decision. If you choose one path, then suffering is your choice. If you choose the other path, then service is this choice. Choose well, oh brothers, at this time, for verily do you stand upon the threshold of history.

“If you, using the light of pure logic as your guide, do choose the path to service, then you must bring into being those lines of co-operation which make co-existence a living thing. Such a movement can be demonstrated by the metaphysical groups throughout your Earth. Indeed, such a demonstration as this is the duty of these groups, of these bodies of thinking humans. In order to forge these lines of co-operation, you must be prepared to meet your brother, to sink your petty difference, to sink your ego in the all-consuming fire of service!

By having a strong brotherhood, we can work together better. We can, as a group, be of better service to others. When we cooperate with others, there is mutual respect, kindness and friendship.

Friendship

Dr. King, described friendship in this lovely analogy:

“Friendship is like a flower, planted by two or more people. All the planters of that flower, or both of them, have to tend this fragrant blossom of friendship. One cannot do it alone. If one tries to do it alone, it brings an imbalance to the delicate plant; its blossoms fade, its leaves wither and fall off. 

But if two people or more continually nurture the fragrant blossoms of friendship, then that flower will live and it will bear more and more blossoms which become more fragrant and more beautiful as the years go on and will continue to do so…”

Most friendships have had ups and downs. Periods of joy and periods of growth. As with all relationships, they sometimes are easy flowing, and sometimes take a bit more effort. But this effort that we put in, strengthens the friendship. Additionally, we learn from these experiences. Not just about the other person, but we learn about ourselves, and how to cooperate with others a little bit better. 

In 1979, Dr. King emphasized the importance of friendship in an address in 1979:

“…we should be entering a new spiritual age for The Aetherius Society. And all of you should enter this new spiritual age. An age where pure brotherhood means more to you than ever before. Not to pay lip service to, but to live. Where genuine friendship is more important than your lunch or breakfast or dinner. Where wisdom, and you’ve been given wisdom, is the very breath of life to your mind. If we do this, if we have this outlook, all of us—and you’re just as responsible for having this outlook, for performing in this way, as I am, because you’re part of a whole; it’s a small whole but it’s a whole, and you’re part of that—and if you vibrate in the right way, you gradually help the whole to vibrate in the right way. 

When we create better friendships, we can cooperate more effectively, as a stronger brotherhood, and help The Aetherius Society towards its common purpose. 

In my personal experience, we have a very strong spiritual brotherhood. In fact, when I initially found The Aetherius Society, this feeling of community was a significant reason why I kept coming to Services and events. I had met some kind, friendly and supportive people. 

I have been very fortunate to meet many Aetherius Society Friends, Members and sympathizers from around the world. I have lived at several different centers. But this brotherhood, this friendship and community has meant that I always feel at home. 

We have a unique spiritual brotherhood, and because The Aetherius Society is so active, and we focus so much on the various different ways we give service to the world, the brotherhood aspect can be overlooked. 

We may not always notice that this community exists, but we can all work on it daily, without necessarily noticing. It makes us stronger, it gives us support and friendships, but most importantly, it helps the whole of The Aetherius Society.

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About the author
Lisa Rosser is a full-time staff member at the American Headquarters of The Aetherius Society in Los Angeles. Lisa has had a keen interest in spirituality for over 20 years. She is particularly passionate about helping others and world healing.