A Course in Miracles - How to Get Started

A Course in Miracles is a unique and universal self-study spiritual thought system. Its principles, while radical and uncompromising, can help heal abandonment, victimhood, and many other seemingly lifelong problems.

Pamela Whitman is an ordained ACIM minister and teaches the Course at Unity by the Shore, in daily conference calls, and speaking engagements. She also is a concert flutist.
How to Join

The first thing you need to do is buy a copy of a course in miracles. While there are online versions available, it is best to have the book in your hands so you can read and study at your own pace. Once you have the book, decide how you will read it – whether you start with the Text, or move on to the Manual for Teachers, Song of Prayer, or Psychotherapy Booklet; and at what speed. Some people choose to read one chapter a week, while others may want to read a section each day.

Next, find an online ACIM group that meets weekly to discuss the text and share experiences. There are many groups to choose from, so take your time and look for a group that is a good fit for you. You can also find a group that is led by a facilitator or minister who has been trained in ACIM. You will then be able to join the meeting using ZOOM with video from your computer, tablet, or mobile phone.
Getting Started

Getting started with ACIM is easy once you make a commitment to do it. All you need is the book, A Course in Miracles (often abbreviated as ACIM). There are online versions of the text and lessons but many people find it helpful to have an actual copy to read and study. You can purchase one at most bookstores and Amazon or borrow it from the library.

The text of A Course in Miracles is written at a very high intellectual level with sophisticated metaphysical, theological, and psychological concepts integrated into its teaching. Nevertheless, the Course teaches that anyone at any age or background can benefit from its message of universal love and peace. The Workbook for Students is a companion to the Text, providing practical applications of its spiritual teachings. It contains the daily lesson from the Course.

Unlike some religions, A Course in Miracles does not claim to be the only way to God. In fact, the course explicitly states that there are "many thousands" of other courses that lead to the same experience of God.

We meet weekly to discuss the Course's principles in an open, supportive environment. The meeting is facilitated by Gilda Sherwood, an experienced ACIM student and the director of our spirituality center. Gilda has been studying A Course in Miracles since 1989 and has found it life changing. Her passion is sharing the Course's tools with others to bring them freedom from fear and inner peace. You are welcome to join us, whether you have studied the Course before or not. Meetings are held at RMMC via Zoom and are open to everyone. After registering you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
What to Bring

A Course in Miracles (ACIM) is unique among spiritual teachings. Its uncompromising approach to healing can seem threatening, but it is very effective in helping you let go of fear, conflict and struggle. It teaches you to choose peaceful thoughts more consistently and thus experience the reality of love’s presence in all situations.

ACIM teaches that it is entirely appropriate, and in fact loving, to ask someone to leave a group if their behavior interferes with the safety and serenity of the other members. Whether it is to protect the group or the individual, this is always the right thing to do. This is also in keeping with the Course’s message that the only way to truly learn is by doing. Only then does the learning take place.