Once called the “religion of healthy-mindedness” by the philosopher William James, the New Thought movement was born almost 150 years ago as a revolt against the negative dogmas so prevalent in the churches of that day.
It was the ideas and writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson that caused the New Thought movement to be born, coupled with the prolific metaphysical healings of Phineas Parkhurst Quimby, the writings of Judge Thomas Troward added much, as well as the lessons and healings of Emma Curtis Hopkins.
All were strong influences on Ernest Holmes.The early New Thought Movement was driven by the discovery that physical healing was possible through the power of mind and spiritual awareness. As that initial idea unfolded into successful application, New Thought students began to see that the power of an uplifted consciousness could also bring healing to negative circumstances and conditions in one’s personal life.
As it evolves today, 21st century New Thought is driven by a far broader intention. Planetary healing through self-realization is emerging as the new promise of these teachings.
“The Science of Mind is the study of Life and the nature of the laws of thought; the conception that we live in a spiritual Universe; that God is in, through, around and for us.”
— Ernest Holmes
Who is Ernest Holmes?
Ernest Holmes 1887-1960
From time to time, we are blessed to know people of apparent genius, people whose insight, understanding and love are influential in changing the thinking of whole generations, and whose impact will be felt for years to come.
Dr. Ernest Holmes was such a person. He began teaching in 1916 and founded the movement we know today as the Science of Mind and Spirit in 1927.
The philosophy is found in a textbook written by Dr. Holmes called The Science of Mind. It was first published in 1926 and revised in 1938.
Raised in New England in the 1800’s, over time he was able to piece together the profound knowledge of many of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders and thinkers throughout history.
He studied science, philosophy, and religion, seeking out the greatest minds in each of these various fields. Throughout this investigation, his desire was to synthesize what he learned, to “put it all together” into one practical, usable philosophy that would lead to greater happiness, success, and prosperity in daily life. He achieved this goal.
What is the Science of Mind?
It’s New Thought and Ancient Wisdom. Our message and teaching are based on the culmination of the world’s greatest spiritual truths—that golden thread that runs through all, the opinions and ideas of philosophy, and the laws of science.
The Science of Mind and Spirit, founded by Ernest Holmes in the early 1900’s, believes that there is One Mind, One Creative Power that is within each of us, available to us to bring forth health, loving relationships, fulfilling work, abundance and so much more.
Simply put, the Science of Mind teaches “There is a Power within you to create the life you want!” We believe that the secret to living a successful life is to consciously choose positive and productive thoughts. Put another way, “As you think, so you become.”