Rev. Starlene Joyner Burns Founder | National Spiritual Science Center Historical Society
As the founder, my goal is to preserve the history and integrity of the National Spiritual Science Center’s academic program, which was at risk of being lost. The curriculum was rigorous, requiring deep study of complex occult texts, weekly assignments, daily meditation reports, and demonstration of spiritual development—all demanding a high level of discipline as your spiritual gifts unfolded.
Missing more than three classes, arriving late, or failing to complete assignments could result in dismissal, making the journey even more challenging for those committed to the path.
I wasn’t an easy student—nor was the program. I wasn’t the kind of student who simply absorbed information without question. I was deeply committed to learning, and for me, learning was an active process, not a silent one.
In 2003, a fellow student who joined our third-year class asked me to stop asking questions, saying they gave her a headache. Perhaps my questions were thought-provoking, or maybe my voice challenged her comfort. Or was it something deeper—an attempt to dim my light?
I chose to stay true to myself. I had come too far to suppress my curiosity or shrink into a version of myself molded by someone else’s selfish need for control. She had the option to revisit the third year at another time. But when it comes to the occult, one cannot walk blindly or follow without discernment. I stepped in with eyes wide open and a past already rich in spiritual growth and enlightenment. My mission was self-discipline, deeper wisdom, transformation, and continued spiritual expansion.
Every class was an opportunity to uncover hidden mysteries waiting to be explored and integrated into my life.
The Energy of Learning & Spiritual Discipline
For serious students, the desire for esoteric knowledge is a powerful vibration—one that resonates and deepens as we evolve. There was a time I arrived for class and immediately felt the thick, discordant vibrations of the room before even stepping inside.
The frequencies were unsettling, clashing with my own. I couldn’t bring myself to enter. Feeling comfortable enough to share my experience, I told my teacher what I was sensing. Though the classroom was empty, the atmosphere was heavy and stagnant. She performed a powerful yet simple clearing, instantly shifting the energy of the space.
I was fortunate to have a teacher skilled in clearing stagnant vibrations—a methodology she not only demonstrated but one I continue to use to this day. May she rest in power.
A Message from Spirit
In 2001, Spirit (God-self) sent me a clear message one cold night after class. I had decided I was done—the ego-driven energy in the environment made me feel that NSSC wasn’t for me. But my inner God had other plans, and those plans were about to be revealed.
That night, as I approached my car, the doors refused to unlock. A classmate tried to help, but nothing worked—the door remained sealed shut. I finally accepted a ride home and told my husband about the issue. Without hesitation, he walked back with me to the school in silence. That silent walk gave me time to reflect and read the message Spirit was sending me.
Upon arriving at the car, my husband effortlessly unlocked the door.
The message was clear: this was not the time for me to leave. I had to stay and complete my ministerial program. Interestingly, I never had another issue unlocking my car. Spirit speaks in ways we can all understand—if we just listen.
A Lifelong Journey of Spiritual Exploration
Four years later, after countless questions, rigorous studies, and deep personal growth, I received my final evaluation, ordination, and ministerial credentials.
Today, I continue my research into the occult, spiritual and alternative healing, mediumship, and the Tarot—because spiritual growth is a lifelong journey.
📜 Preserving the Teachings, Expanding the Knowledge.
🔮 Honoring the Past, Enlightening the Future.