The Rosicrucian Fellowship, a Christian mystic organization, was founded in 1909 by Max Heindel. This organization aimed to herald the Aquarian Age and promote the true philosophy of the Rosicrucians. With its headquarters on Mount Ecclesia in Oceanside, California, the Fellowship has become a significant part of the esoteric Christian movement. This article delves into the historical roots and establishment of the Rosicrucian Fellowship, highlighting
its foundational principles and early development.
The Vision of Max Heindel
Max Heindel, the founder of the Rosicrucian Fellowship, was deeply influenced by esoteric teachings. In 1908, he began rewriting a draft of teachings under the guidance of Elder Brothers in a temple near the border of Bohemia and Germany. This work culminated in the publication of "The Rosicrucian Cosmo-Conception" in 1909. The book was initially printed in Chicago, and despite some distribution challenges, it quickly gained traction, leading to a second edition.
Heindel's vision was to create an organization that would serve as a meeting ground for art, religion, and science. He believed in the harmonious development of the mind and heart, preparing individuals for selfless service to humanity. The Fellowship's mission was to promulgate a scientific method of development suited to Western people, aiming to hasten the Second Coming.
Establishing the Fellowship
The formal constitution of the Rosicrucian Fellowship took place on August 8, 1909, in Seattle, Washington. Prior to this, the first Rosicrucian study center was formed in Columbus, Ohio, in November 1908. Heindel lectured and taught there, distributing free copies of his lectures. These lectures were later compiled and published as "The Rosicrucian Christianity Lectures."
Following the establishment in Seattle, additional centers were formed in North Yakima, Washington, Portland, Oregon, and Los Angeles, California. In Los Angeles, Heindel's lectures attracted large audiences, further spreading the Fellowship's teachings.
The Headquarters at Mount Ecclesia
On October 28, 1911, the international headquarters of the Rosicrucian Fellowship was opened at Mount Ecclesia in Oceanside, California. The groundbreaking ceremony involved planting a large cross with the initials C.R.C., symbolizing Christian Rosenkreuz, the legendary head of the original order. The headquarters served as a center for spiritual healing and esoteric studies.
The Fellowship's temple, known as The Ecclesia, was dedicated on December 25, 1920. It was built to provide more powerful means for healing diseases, with spiritual healing meetings held daily. The establishment of Mount Ecclesia marked a significant milestone in the Fellowship's history, solidifying its presence as a hub for esoteric Christian teachings.
The Rosicrucian Fellowship's origins and foundation reflect a deep commitment to spiritual development and service to humanity. Through its teachings and practices, the Fellowship continues to influence individuals seeking a deeper understanding of esoteric Christianity.
