You may wonder why the name is sooooo long. Here is a brief explanation of our name.

Southern Cassadaga:  Cassadaga (a Seneca Indian word meaning, “Water beneath the rocks”) is a village in Chautauqua County, New York, United States. The village is located within the northeast corner of the town of Stockton, east of the hamlet of Stockton, south of and immediately adjacent to Lily Dale in the town of Pomfret, and north of the village of Sinclairville. (Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cassadaga,_New_York)

Residents from our Northern “sister” community of Lily Dale desired a warmer Southern location in which to spend the winters. Think “snowbirds.” 

George Colby, a young Spiritualist from New York, believed that Spirit had commissioned him with the task of locating such a place. In 1874, with the guidance of his five spirit guides, Colby, along with about twenty others, traveled via Flager’s infant rail system, from New York to Jacksonville, Florida. From Jacksonville, they boarded a steamboat for a 120-mile cruise down the St. John’s River to Blue Springs Landing (which was then a commercial wood port). From Blue Springs, on foot with pack mules, they traversed the raw, tropical wilderness searching for a place with seven hills and interlocking lakes. Spirit brought them to what is now Cassadaga, Florida.

Spiritualist:  Cassadaga, Florida, was incorporated in December of 1894, as a Spiritualist community. Spiritualism being a science, religion and philosophy based on the continuity of life. That life continues after the change called “death.”

Camp:  There were no dwellings in the new-found Cassadaga. The first visitors camped in tents.

Meeting:  Cassadaga, Florida, was initially a place to hold Spiritualist conventions during the winter months. A place for those of like-mind to meet and fellowship during the cold Northern winters.

Association:  Webster’s Dictionary defines association as being “an organization of persons having common interests, purposes, etc.
Thus, you have it. If Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Meeting Association is too much of a mouthful, just try SCSCMA!

​Written by: Cara Cobb 

Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp provides people the opportunity to learn and grow in their own unique Spiritual beliefs. This Spiritual Religion called Spiritualism provides the freedom to choose, to develop and grow an individualized spiritual perspective. It’s quite radical and refreshing currently.

Think about it!  How truly radical and refreshing this religion is.  Coming from a religious background that had specific dogmas, rules and a creed to follow became very constrictive in my search for spiritual truth as an adult.  As a child I feel that it was a wonderful beginning to my spiritual path. But as an adult my spiritual beliefs were expanded beyond the physical 5 senses. I knew something else was happening deep within and that I had to begin my journey and search for my spiritual truth. This spiritual journey was frowned upon by the very religion that I grew up with. The feeling of needing answers to the many spiritual questions started a path of searching.

Like most people in search for spiritual answers beyond the physical; I came to learn that the answers came by way of searching into the metaphysical realm.  Most of us have touched upon the metaphysical by way of prayer.  Praying is acceptable and encouraged by all religions. But something happens when you allow yourself to go deeper into the silent moment of prayer. My prayers became different.  I would ask or say the typical religious prayer as taught but then would linger in the moment of sweet bliss and love that happened when I held the love that I felt within.  An “A Ha” moment happened when I learned what I was really doing was meditating and connecting to a real infinite consciousness beyond myself and listening to the guidance. 

Services in Colby Temple provide moments to reflect upon the guidance that has been given to you. Whether the guidance has come to you by way of prayer, a deep intuitive knowing, a personal message from a deceased loved one, or by way of meditation. You are encouraged to listen, discern and follow the spiritual guidance given. This is your spiritual journey.  It is encouraged and supported here at Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp.

There is an opportunity here at the campus to listen to speakers who provide a wide range of topics for you before the temple service. This is held in a forum called Lyceum which is an Adult Sunday School. There is no religious dogma taught. Only opportunities to think and discern what spiritual perspective resonates with you. Lively discussions are held, and everyone has a wonderful time. If you are seeking a one-to-one spiritual guidance session for connecting with a deceased loved one or for every day spiritual guidance, you can schedule a Reading with a Medium.

The many Mediums, Healers and Intuitive Teachers that provide classes on the campus or online have a goal to inspire you along your spiritual path. They want you to learn the truth that is waiting to be connected within yourself.  You hold the key to learning and exploring your own Spiritual truth.  

If you aren’t quite ready to participate in person then come to the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Book Store. Here you can find a book that you resonate with to nurture your spiritual hunger.  

This Spiritual Religion called Spiritualism provides you the freedom to choose, to develop and grow an individualized spiritual perspective.  You can keep the beliefs you learned as child in the religion you grew up with and expand them in the realm of Spiritualism.  You can be a free thinker with others like you who seek spiritual freedom.
 
 Written by: Sandra Lord 
 
 
 
 
 

 Sunday Service at Colby Memorial Temple in Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, 1250 Marion St., is something to experience at least once in one’s life. It’s why I started participating in Sunday activities. The building is made out of sandstone brick and the numbers on the front of it read: 1923. The Sunday service starts at 10:30 a.m. The first part of the service is the healing guided meditation in which people may remain seated in the pews, or they can go back to receive a hands on healing. The speaker gives a lecture on topics related to Spiritualism, which includes Natural Laws. Of course, we pray, sing songs and have announcements just like any other church service. Finally, the speaker returns to give messages to several in attendance. This is intended to prove the continuity of life and to demonstrate what we as mediums do.  If the speaker is not a medium, the pastor provides one because it is an important part of our service, to prove the continuity of life. As Spiritualists, we have our Declaration of Principles, which are already published on our site and are below:
 
When you read them and contemplate them, think about how they relate to you and your thoughts about religion. I truly believe a lot of people are Spiritualists and don't even know because of something they may have heard about the religion. Really think about them:

1  We believe in Infinite Intelligence
2  We believe that the phenomena of nature, both physical and spiritual, are the expression of Infinite Intelligence.
3  We affirm that a correct understanding of such expression and living in accordance therewith constitute true religion.
4  We affirm that the existence and personal identity of the individual continues after the change called death.
5  We affirm that communication with the so-called dead is a fact, scientifically proven by the phenomena of Spiritualism.
6  We believe that the highest morality is contained in the Golden Rule: “Whatsoever ye would that others should do unto you, do ye also unto them.”
7  We affirm the moral responsibility of the individual, and that he makes his own happiness or unhappiness as he obeys or disobeys Nature’s physical and spiritual laws.
8  We affirm that the doorway to reformation is never closed against any human soul, here or hereafter.
9  We affirm that the Precepts of Prophecy and Healing contained in the Bible are Divine attributes proved through Mediumship.
 
Blessings of Peace and Love
Submitted by Lori Carter, certified medium, healer and teacher of the SCSCMA

​​1. Finding Your Reading in Cassadaga: 
Cassadaga is a hub for psychic exploration, boasting over 30 certified mediums. But with so many options, how do you choose the right medium to give you a reading? The beauty lies in their diversity!

Tailored Messages:
Some mediums are like whisperers from the beyond, specializing in messages from loved ones who have passed. These readings can bring closure and a powerful sense of connection.

Guiding Lights:
Other mediums focus on the present, acting as psychic guides. They offer insights into your current life path and potential futures, helping you navigate challenges and unlock personal clarity.

The Best of Both Worlds:
Some mediums even combine these skills, weaving messages from loved ones with life guidance.

2.  Finding Your Match:

Unlocking Clarity: Why Your Reason Matters for the Reading
Ever considered a reading but felt unsure where to begin? The truth is, the most important step might surprise you - it's all about you.

Before you start searching for a medium, take a moment to ask yourself: “Why do I want a reading?”  What are you hoping to learn? This might seem like a simple question, but you'd be surprised how many people haven't considered it.

Think of a psychic reading as a three-way conversation between you, the medium, and the spirit world. Just like any conversation, having a clear purpose leads to a more fulfilling experience.

By pinpointing your reason for seeking a reading, you're unknowingly setting the stage for success. Are you looking for closure from a loved one who has passed? Do you need guidance on a major life decision? Perhaps you desire a deeper understanding of yourself.

Once you identify your "why," you've already started to narrow down the best medium for you. Some mediums specialize in connecting with loved ones on the other side, while others excel at offering insights into your present and future paths. Knowing your goal allows you to find a medium whose expertise aligns perfectly with your needs. 

Why does this work?
It’s Cassadaga. By wanting a reading, the spirit world is aware of you. Because you have free will, you must decide the why and they will do their best to line up the best Medium. They have been doing this for 130 years, they’re pretty good at it!

3. Finding Your Perfect Match: Does a Medium's Gender Matter?

Rest assured, the answer is no. During a reading, mediums enter a heightened state, acting as bridges between the spirit world and our physical reality. In this state, judgment is set aside, allowing for pure information to flow. 

Keep in mind it shouldn’t matter to you either. If it does, you may shoot yourself in the foot. Trust the process!

Ladies (and everyone!)  rest assured: When asking about your present or future relationships, the gender of your medium doesn't matter. It's the spirit world that's ultimately providing the information to the medium.

4. Maximizing Your Psychic Reading: Tips for Success:

So, you've booked a psychic reading! To ensure you get the most out of the experience, here are some helpful tips:

Connecting with Loved Ones:

• Setting the Stage: If you're hoping for a specific loved one to come through, take some time beforehand to connect with them. Briefly say a prayer or have a conversation, letting them know you'd love for them to connect during the reading.
• A Familiar Touch: Consider bringing a cherished item that belonged to your loved one. This familiar object can act as a bridge, facilitating communication during the reading.

Seeking Life Guidance:

• Clarity Through Questions: If you're primarily focused on life guidance or have specific questions, write them down beforehand. Having a clear list helps you stay focused and ensures the medium can address your most pressing concerns.

Remember:

While you may have a specific focus, sometimes other spirits come through with unexpected messages. Remain open to these as well, as they might hold valuable insights for your journey. By following these simple tips, you can prepare for a successful and insightful psychic reading experience.

5. Open Communication: Key to a Successful  Reading

Psychic readings can be powerful tools for gaining insights and guidance. However, it's important to remember that not every reading will be a perfect fit.

 Knowing When to Speak Up:

While it's rare, there may be times when the information coming through doesn't resonate with you. Here's the key: don't hesitate to speak up. It's your reading, and your comfort level matters.

A Gentle Approach:

Within the first few minutes (5-10 at most), politely let the medium know that you're not feeling a strong connection. You could say something like, "Thank you for the information so far, but I'm not quite feeling what I was hoping for."

Respecting the Medium's State:

Remember, mediums put themselves in a focused state during readings. Your feedback allows them to adjust their approach or gracefully end the session if needed.

Open Communication: A Win-Win

By being open and honest, you can ensure a more successful reading experience. The medium can then tailor the session to better meet your needs, or you can choose to end it and reschedule with a different medium who might be a better fit.

Remember:

• It's okay to speak up if you feel you are not connecting with the medium reading for you.
• A gentle approach is key.
• Open communication benefits both you and the medium.

6. What are you waiting for? Time to take action:

Cassadaga, Florida boasts a vibrant community of certified mediums, each with a unique approach. Whether you seek closure, life guidance, or a blend of both, there's a perfect match waiting to connect you with the spirit world or illuminate your present path. Take charge of your journey – explore Cassadaga's mediums and find the one who resonates most with your "why."
Click the link to the Cassadaga Medium list. https://www.cassadaga.org/mediums.html