Spark of Divinity Congregation in Palmyra

YEAR BEGAN 2006

FAITH an interfaith, non-profit organization

LEADERS Pastor Jeffrey E. Jacques and Pastor Meddy Jacques
Spark of Divinity Congregation, started by Pastor Jeffrey E. Jacques and Pastor Meddy Jacques, is an independent interfaith community that honors the ancient and modern traditions of Spiritualism, which include healing and mediumship. Spiritualism is a science, philosophy and religion that strives to understand and comply with the seen and unseen physical, mental and spiritual laws of nature, the laws of God. As in 1 Corinthians 12, the church honors the unique blessings of the gifts of Spirit.

What is the mission of Spark of Divinity Congregation?

 “Spark of Divinity Congregation is an interfaith, non-profit organization that is built on the belief of unity through diversity, one journey — many paths. It is believed that spiritual growth can be obtained through the merging of mind, body and spirit. We choose to lead by example in our service to others, and spread our individual and collective light wherever and whenever possible. Our purpose as humans was to be good stewards as defined in many holy writs. Proper respect for life going beyond tolerance to ensure equality and mutual understanding of spiritual practice is how we strive to live. Our belief is that if we can follow the commandment to “Love One Another”, then we can overcome any obstacle. Our church does not have separate chairs for the pastors or a raised dais. No one is above anyone else. We all have equal opportunity to teach and to learn.”

What is one of the church’s special ceremonies and its reason for being?

“Part of each weekly service is dedicated to healing. Various music selections assist participants in relaxing, meditating and being thoughtful. Healing by the laying on of hands is especially important in today’s society, where we more often text or email rather than embrace one another. Whether or not someone chooses to go to the healing bench, this is the time to ‘be still and know God’. We close each service holding hands, everyone connected together, singing ‘Let There Be Peace on Earth’.”

How long has the church been in existence and how did it get started?

“The church was started in 2006 in Williamson by the Rev. Meddy and the Rev. Jeff Jacques as a relaxed Sunday evening service, an alternative to a traditional morning service. We began with about six members and have grown to 30 regular members. Services switched to Sunday mornings three years ago by popular request. We incorporated officially as an independent religious organization in the fall of 2008.”

Why move to Palmyra?

“The decision to move to Palmyra from Williamson was made with the understanding that Palmyra was more centrally located and offered new opportunities for continued growth and service to our communities. Our members come from many areas, from Lyons to Webster to Rochester and Clifton Springs.”

What is your approach to ministry?

“Our approach to ministry is, ‘Come as you are’. This includes what you wear, what station you might be in financially and whatever you carry in your heart. There is no such thing as shame, only lessons to hone our spirit into stronger beings. Our offering vessel is called the blessing bucket. It is a covered container that allows each person to privately add their equal sacrifice, whether that is prayer, something that jingles or folds, or even a proposal to do something like maintenance. Each offering is a valued gift. Our weekly bulletins are available just outside the doorway.”

About the church

WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday at 11 a.m. Fellowship follows.

ADDRESS 236 E. Main St. in Palmyra, in a storefront just west of the flagpole and two doors down from Mark’s Pizzeria.

INFO the church can be found on Facebook, by visiting

www.sparkofdivinity.net or by calling 597-5597.   

Tell us about your house of faith. Email tcurry@ messengerpostmedia.com.