The faculty of mediumship is used by all kinds of peoples, for many different purposes.  Here, we'd like to point out some key points to understanding the vision and purpose that drives the application of mediumship within the Spiritist Centers, where this application is carried out under the guidelines established throughout the teachings of the higher Spirits.

•  It should first be made clear that mediumship is one thing and Spiritism is another; they are not to be equated.  Spiritism is a doctrine of an elevated spiritual degree that serves to promote the elevation and progress of humanity.  Mediumship is a faculty that allows human beings, of any religious or spiritual belief, to channel the thoughts and ideas of the Spirits.

• In the Spiritist practice of mediumship, three principal objectives for those of us in the material realm are: 1) cooperation between  incarnate and discarnate beings in the service of bringing comfort to the suffering and enlightenment to the ignorant; 2) self-education, through the renewal of sentiments-- achieved by applying the teachings given in messages of a higher degree; and 3) the construction of precious ties of affection with the spiritual plane, thereby consolidating the bases of superior cooperation and friendship.   ("Studying Mediumship", Ch XXIX)

• In addition to the objectives above,  another application of mediumship that falls under the umbrella of practical Spiritism are the scientific investigations related to matters of the spirit.  After all, Spiritism is a doctrine of philosophy, religion, and science. As the spiritual assistant Aulus, in the book "In the Domains of Mediumship" (by Spirit author, Andre Luiz), says, "The laborious efforts of Science are just as holy as the heroism of faith. Intelligent Study, with its balances and beakers, also works to serve the Lord.  Investigating and recording mediumistic phenomena, science will be one day register psychic vibrations, thus guaranteeing the dignity of Religion in the New Era."

•  The ultimate goal of mediumship work, in the Spiritist view, is of a very noble sense.  Spiritist mediums view their faculty as a gift from God that should be used, in cooperation with Jesus and the higher Spirits,  to help their brothers and sisters, both discarnate and incarnate.

• The Doctrine of Spiritism teaches us about the seriousness of the work involved in mediumship and, consequently, of the moral and disciplinary responsibilities of the medium who wants to have the guidance, cooperation, and protection of good Spirits.  Spiritist mediums who are true students of the Doctrine and who are dedicated to their work, heed these lessons and strive toward behaviors, both in and out of the Center,  that reflect their understanding of these responsibilities. (see "Necessary Virtues" on menu bar at left)

• It should be pointed out that within the Spiritist vision of mediumship, falls the education of its students, regarding the roles that the Superior Spirits play in carrying out a session of mediumship work.  Just as the mediums have more responsibilities than merely showing up at the given time and fulfilling their role as channels for the Spiritual realm, the Spirits themselves have much greater roles than just appearing and fulfilling their end of the mediumistic exchange. In studying the books of the Doctrine (for example, books like those of Andre Luiz), we learn more about the involvement of the Superior Spirits  in the Center's work and the extent of their efforts before, during, and after the Center's mediumistic tasks are carried out, the objective of these efforts being to ensure, as much as possible, the protection and success of the work.  As one delves deeper into the wealth of knowledge that the Spiritist Doctrine has to offer on this subject, one can only feel an even greater sense of admiration and respect for the organization and loving dedication of our those brothers and sisters of the Spirit Realm. 

• Lastly, though some may presently have a much more ostensive mediumship than others, the lessons to be learned that result form the serious employment of this faculty are open and applicable to all of us who believe.  Spirit author, Odilon Fernandez, writes, "The spiritual messages that come from mediumship, inviting man to an inner renovation, frequently have the mission of awakening the conscience of those who are insisting on making errors." These messages are very important for us, for as this same author also adds, "So far, the biggest challenge for the incarnate Spirit is not to believe that life goes on after the death of the physical body but to live in this world with the sense of eternity."

Estudando A Mediunidade  Ch XXIX Objectivos do Mediunismo, pgs 157-160  /  Ch XL Mediunidade Sem Jesus pgs 205-211 / Cristo Redivivo Ch 227-230

We Are All Mediums  Ch 26The Mission of Mediumship, pg 105-107

The Gospel According To Spiritism Ch 26, Freely You Have Received, Freely Give,  "Free Mediumship" pgs 252-254