A spiritual sanctuary focusing on soul transcendence and inner awareness within the universal consciousness of love.
The Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness (MSIA) is a non-profit religious corporation established in California in 1971, with roots stretching back to its informal foundation in 1968 by John-Roger (born Roger Delano Hinkins). The organization has approximately 5,000 active students in over 32 countries, predominantly in the United States. MSIA’s core teachings revolve around soul transcendence, the practice of becoming aware of oneself as a soul and one with God, not merely as an intellectual concept but as a living reality. This spiritual path emphasizes direct inner experience and the application of spiritual principles in daily life.
John-Roger’s early life experiences, including a significant near-death experience following kidney stone surgery in 1963, played a crucial role in the development of his spiritual insights. He claimed to have encountered a higher consciousness named ‘John’ within himself, which led to his adopting the name John-Roger. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in psychology and post-graduate work in several universities, along with spiritual studies through correspondence courses with the Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis and occasional attendance at the Agasha Temple of Wisdom. Despite controversies and accusations of plagiarism from other spiritual traditions, particularly Eckankar, MSIA and John-Roger’s teachings have also focused on unique spiritual concepts like the Christ Consciousness and soul transcendence.
Criticism has been directed at MSIA and John-Roger over the years, including allegations of financial impropriety and sexual misconduct. The organization has also faced claims of being a personality cult, particularly due to the alleged behavior of its founder. Despite these controversies, MSIA has maintained a steady membership and continues to foster a community focused on spiritual teachings and practices. MSIA presents Jesus Christ as the head of their church, emphasizing that their work builds upon his teachings to enable individuals to transcend the soul realm and enter into a direct relationship with God.
In addition to spiritual teachings, MSIA has founded several related organizations, including the Peace Theological Seminary & College of Philosophy, the University of Santa Monica, and the Institute for Individual and World Peace, among others. These institutions and initiatives reflect MSIA’s broader commitment to spiritual education and global peace. Despite facing challenges and skepticism, MSIA has undergone a process of “routinization of charisma,” transitioning leadership smoothly from John-Roger to John Morton, indicating a sustainable organizational structure and continued influence in spiritual circles.
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