Sacred Friendships: Choosing a Spiritual Circle
Sermon Notes 2/8/26 Rev. Sheryl Padgett
Key Teaching
Life is relational; joy and meaning are multiplied when shared.
Sacred friendships are a spiritual and health practice.
Unity Foundation
“Man is not a separate being… He is part of a great unity.” — Charles Fillmore
Consciousness is contagious; we become like the company we keep.
Research
Harvard Study of Adult Development: relationships predict happiness, health, and longevity.
Loneliness linked to heart disease, dementia, depression (CDC).
SLIDE — Fillmore Quote
“It is the law of Spirit that we must be that which we would draw to us…”
What Makes a Friendship Sacred
Shared commitment to spiritual growth
Mutual uplift
Honest, safe communication
Presence in joy and pain
Prayerful support
SLIDE — Choosing a Spiritual Friend
Set intention prayerfully
Pay attention to inner response
Look for shared values
Set loving boundaries
Core Insight
Sacred friendships support awakening, healing, and resilience.
We awaken together.
Affirmation
I choose sacred friendships rooted in love, truth, and spiritual alignment, truth, and spiritual alignment. I attract relationships that support my growth and honor my becoming. I walk with others in compassion, courage, and grace. I am divinely connected, and I belong. And so it is. Amen.
