This past Sunday at our Easter service, during the homily I went out on a limb and said that the story of our brother Jesus leading up to the day of resurrection was really a "Cinderella Story" of sorts. You know, the kind of story where someone overcomes odds, adversities or setbacks to triumph in the end. 

Isn't that what we all do throughout our lives? Don't we all experience our own "Cinderella Stories" at some point? The story of Easter and the resurrection reminds us that we can always triumph over the shadow that we may experience. 

"Just remember, in the winter, far beneath the better snow, lies the seed, that with the sun's love, in the Spring, becomes The Rose." 

So, here we are, Roses! The sun's love is shining down on us and it is time to bloom and be beautiful!  

And what better place to do some serious blooming than our beautiful Spiritual Home? 

This evening at 7:30 p.m., we wrap up our exploration of the first 50 lessions of  A Course in Miracles led by Rev. Jim Webb from Takoma Metaphysical Chapel. Each class has featured enlightened discussion and reflections. Feel free to come to last class in this series and become part of the conversation! 

On Sunday April 3, we are thrilled to be presenting our very first   Spanish language service, taking place at 2 p.m. The service will be preceded by hospitality at 12:30 that transitions from the 11 a.m. service, followed by meditation and mini-healings. You won't want to miss this special worship and celebration experience. 

The rest of April is shaping up to be pretty amazing too! Classes include: Metaphysical Perspectives of the Old Testament, led by the ISD Ministerial Staff on Tuesdays, April 5, 12, 19 and 26; and  Tarot for Self Guidance led by Lyriel Claire Thursdays, April 7, 14, 21 and 28; We are also excited about a new "Intro to Veganism" workshop, led by Carol McCaffrey, which will take place on April 10. More information about Intro to Veganism will come in the next issue of ISDetails. 

Need some time in the stillness? Remember to check out the recently-updated ISD meditations page, where we are beginning to post some of our Sunday service wellness meditations and our bi-monthly evening meditations.

Ready, set, bloom!

In love and rebirth, 

Rev. Rob Banaszak

Pastor, Institute for Spiritual Development, Washington, D.C.