Dear Community,
Just a hop and a skip away on the other British Isle is our wonderful MMS Ireland team! Based primarily in both Derry/Londonderry in Northern Ireland AND Dublin in Ireland this team stands for Unity.
Join us today for a heartfelt share from Divina Ann Donnelly and her team, plus the recap of their (wildly successful) Charity Run!
In London? Tonight as part of Metaphysical Wednesdays is the 7 Mystery Schools class, and it’s a really interesting one. See you there.
For Initiates, bookmark the special call Planning Your Spiritual Progression in 2025 and 2026 coming up on 2 May 2025 at 7.30pm.
With love,
Modern Mystery School UK & EU Team
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P.S. See you at Chi Do tonight, free and online as always!
From the Heart of Ireland
I had the honor of interviewing the beloved Dr. Divina Ann Donnelly about her team, the Modern Mystery School Ireland and about her personal journey to finding (and studying in) the Modern Mystery School for many years. I asked her to share her experience on this ‘path to knowing thyself’. And wow… she blew me away. Do yourself a favour, and settle in with a cup of tea to enjoy Divina Ann’s words.
~ Jackie Nonweiler, Life Activation Practitioner, Healer & Ritual Master Apprentice, London, UK
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“Many years ago, I was searching big time, and the thing I was searching for most was peace. I had been on various different paths. I started obviously in the medical world, and I worried about everything and everyone. And I couldn’t stop worrying. My head was never at peace. Ever. The only way to describe it is that I was full of angst. When I had just come back from Australia and I was working in a hospice, I was really giving a lot to people. Your heart energy is so important when you are working with people who are looking at the existential questions for life. It’s at that point that they are asking themselves, ‘Why? Why me? Why now? What’s on the other side of this life?’ They’re asking themselves huge questions. And I, as their doctor, was asking myself those questions as well. I wanted them to find it for themselves, and was looking for it myself, too.
I went down many paths: I became a yoga teacher, I studied different ways of approaching health from Eastern philosophies, acupuncture, homeopathy. I wanted to know how to control my angst. I did things like neuro-linguistic programming, tapping, emotional freedom therapy, whatever I could, and I actually found that it really helped my patients as a GP also. But at one point, when I was searching for different classes, I saw this meditation class in Belfast. Before this meditation – anytime I went to Belfast – I always felt, and the only way to describe it is, like a prickly energy. I know this sounds awful, and bless all the people in Belfast, because it’s not like that now. But it used to be really, really tense, as the peace process was in the very early days, and everyone was still suspicious of each other. And do you know what? I went from that prickly energy into the room where the meditation was, and suddenly I felt exactly what I was looking for, I felt peace. My mind was quiet. You know, I even thought, ‘Oh my God, what exactly is going on here?’ It was so quiet.
I thought, there is something here that I’ve been looking for! When I did the meditation, and I came out of it, I asked, what’s next? It was a Life Activation and Empower Thyself. I did the two very close to each other. In truth, I came out of the two days of Empower Thyself, and at that time, I couldn’t remember anything about what happened in those two days, apart from the tools that I was given. But I started to work with the tools right away, because I thought, look, if I’m going to make this work in my life, I am going to try to bring what I felt in that room into my everyday.
And so it started! I came back to the hospice, used the tools and first thing I noticed was that when I was working with patients at that heart level, opening up to all the questions that they had, I was able to appreciate where they were at without getting lost in it, and without carrying it home with me and being exhausted at the end of the day! That was like a miracle for me. It actually brings a tear to my eye to even think about that.
For people who are really sensitive or are really struggling because of their sensitivity, and who even find it hard to be in the company of other people because of that, I would impress upon you that there is a way. There is a way to live in this world, to be the beautiful, empathetic person that you are, and to not have to struggle with that. For me, that was huge. Not only that, I found that as I continued to use the tools from Empower Thyself, I started to notice how I was not triggered by things that were going on in everyday life. Prior to Empower Thyself, I would have ruminated and worried about things for weeks on end. Whereas now, I was able to get over stuff so much quicker. Then as I continued on the Path as an Initiate, that ability became stronger and stronger. Before I stepped on this path of Initiation, I was actually searching for something that would make me (I’m going to admit to this) so at peace that nothing would ever upset me again. I would look at people like the Dalai Lama and think ‘I would like to be like you’. Then I realized as the path went on, that I have challenges in my life, and the challenges do not stop. That would be like not living in this world anymore, and we are here to live life! So, if you’re going to live life with an open heart, you are going to experience pain. That is the truth of it. But it’s what you do with that pain!
How does it motivate you to make this planet, this world, your life more beautiful, more loving, more caring despite the pain? Because you have to be someone who is willing to hold your heart open no matter what. No matter what. For me, the Path gives me the strength to realize that, for example, when a judgment would creep in, that that judgment is my world, seeking to make sense of what I see around me. But I’m not walking in the shoes of other people, and I haven’t experienced what they’ve experienced. So in order for me to keep my heart open, I have to set aside judgements, because they are a reflection of me, not a reflection of the person in front of me. Then I can continue to flow light and love and remind the person of what they are capable of and who they truly are. I’ve found that when people appreciate that, when they understand or receive that, my hope is that they come to understand that that is possible for them too. Because when I experienced it inside that room in Belfast, I knew that if it was possible inside that room and inside me, then in all honesty, it is possible for everyone.
In the Mystery School we are creating Shamballah, which is where we are all unified with one goal, to understand, appreciate each other and ourselves, to ‘know thyself’ and to encourage that for everyone else on this beautiful planet of ours. For me, the path to know thyself was the one that clicked, that gave me that permission to keep my heart open, understand that I wasn’t wrong, to understand that, you know, when I would see other people struggling, and that when people were hurting the reason was not because of the hurt, but because they had closed off their hearts. And their hearts were closed so that they wouldnt get hurt again, but if people can keep their hearts open no matter what, we will have a different world. That is what I feel we have to offer in Ireland, and in the Modern Mystery School, where we lead from the heart chakra.
That is what this school offers. That is what it offered me: permission. Permission to understand that I wasn’t wrong, and that keeping my heart open, and showing that love, no matter what, is okay.”
~Dr. Divina Ann Donnelly, Head of MMS Ireland, Modern Mystery School International Instructor, Guide and 3rd Step Ritual Master
Irish Initiates Share Their Wisdom
What led you to the Modern Mystery School?
I was introduced to Divina Ann by my good friend Samo, and my first experiences of the work were mind-blowing and yet deeply comfortable and familiar. I’ve done much energy work and spiritual stuff over the years and have been on a deep path of self-work and self-love, but the Mystery School, under the guidance of the amazing Dr. Divina Ann, took me to new heights in my own awareness of my life and path. I became much more comfortable in myself and in relating to others, both personally and professionally. I have become less anxious about my perceived image and yet more confident in projecting my true self, which many people have noticed.
The rituals from Empower Thyself gave me the discipline and energy to truly move forward and clear many blocks which previously held me back.
From your heart, what does it mean to you to be an initiate in Ireland?
Being an Initiate in Ireland, for me, is very special—to feel part of such a strong lineage. Through bringing the energy into my own life, work, home, and family, I have strengthened my sense of purpose and love of my journey. It’s difficult to express, but the cleanliness of the energy I create through my rituals and the depth the meditations have brought me to, have greatly eased my connections with others in my life.
I feel more loved, supported, and creative in my ability to create my own life path. The ongoing learning of trusting, letting go, and allowing the teachings to go deeper into myself and my life is exciting—if not a little scary! But daily rituals are so important to me now.
What is your biggest takeaway so far from the path?
My biggest takeaway so far from the path would be the awareness and felt experience in my body of being the creator God or force directing MY life.
I truly know that I have the power and feel that power flowing through every part of my life.
Such a blessing to be part of the Irish Mystery School and experiencing the profound connections and teachings at each step on this path.
~Emmet Griffin, Adept, Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland
What led you to the Modern Mystery School?
I was living in Ireland, my children were very young—2 years and 4 years old—and I was internally unhappy. On the outside, I had everything I wanted, but on the inside, I felt lost. I was working at the time as a Complementary Therapist and was finding it difficult not to be affected by people’s energy. I was looking for some kind of teaching that would help me feel better but also protect me as I worked. I kept asking people in my profession what they do to help them set up their space and energy before they see clients, and I even did a few courses, but nothing seemed to work very well.
And then I met a Ritual Master who said that there is a way, and after speaking to her about the Lineage, I felt straight away that this was it. I had a Life Activation and was like, wow—I instantly felt hopeful. I remember walking out after the session, and the colours in my world were brighter. As the days and weeks wore on, I realised I wasn’t as empty as I felt before.
I signed straight up for Empower Thyself with Divina Ann, and that weekend I had found what I was looking for—and it worked and changed how I worked. Life was feeling a lot better than it had been for, well, ever.
From your heart, what does it mean to you to be an initiate in Ireland?
Being an Initiate in Ireland, for me, I suppose is a little different, as I am originally from Australia and found the Modern Mystery School when I’d been living in Ireland for about 6–7 years. I live in a town with the highest rates of unemployment, with a community that are the kindest I know. I didn’t know where home was until I came here. I can’t really explain it in words, but I was like, ‘oh my god, this is home.’
I am a Ritual Master working in Mental Health in my community—a community that is so kind and caring, full of love in their hearts, always willing to help each other out when someone is in need, rallying and supporting organisations who are there supporting them. I feel so safe in my town I live, where others think otherwise. I have seen and experienced the real heart that beats here within the beautiful people of Strabane and Ireland, who treated me like family when I first came to Strabane—from friends to neighbours to work colleagues, and now my family, who I am lucky to have, that support the Path I have chosen.
What is your biggest takeaway so far from the path?
When I came to Ireland, I think I was meant to be here because then I found the Mystery School, and that’s when my life became so much better. I wouldn’t say that I was suicidal, but I wasn’t happy, and if anything happened and I died, I wouldn’t have been worried. My zest for life was gone. The Modern Mystery School brought this back for me. The moment I got my Life Activation, I felt it—it gave me back my zest for life. Then I did Empower Thyself, and that gave me tools to make me feel mentally stable during the day. I really needed that. I was the type of person that was driven by my emotions, and they controlled my life. I found that Kabbalah made me look at myself a lot, and I was able to work on myself really well. So Empower Thyself gave me the tools, and Kabbalah really gave me that foothold to work on myself and to know that I can actually change very quickly.
My Ritual Master path just propelled me forward to be better—just a better person in general, especially in my relationships and in my life. It made me really grateful for what I’ve got and how magickal it is to be human. It helped me realize this isn’t just something you do—it’s something you live. It’s a way of living, not just a ritual. That was the big difference, I suppose. It really made me see that this isn’t just some rituals I do—this is a way of living. It helped me in my discipline, and with that comes freedom and magick.
~Elizabeth Stevenson, Ritual Master Apprentice & Life Activation Practitioner, Strabane, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland
What led you to the Modern Mystery School?
A few years ago, I got an invitation to join a Max Meditation System™ class, and this was the start of my journey. Divina Ann ran the class every Wednesday, and she was my inspiration as I began the process (slowly) to gain insight into the Modern Mystery School.
From your heart, what does it mean to you to be an initiate in Ireland?
Being an Initiate in Ireland is very special, as our country needs healing to recover from past hurts and to move forward in the heavenly light to know ourselves. As we grow in numbers (Initiates), this has the capacity to benefit our nation and reach out to the world through the sharing of the light.
What is your biggest takeaway so far from the path?
This is undoubtedly Healers Academy. There was so much to this training and absorbing so much knowledge, etc. At the start of the program, I wasn’t sure if I should be doing this course, and it was probably on the last day I came to the realisation this was so meant to be for me. I felt liberated and came away wanting to share this gift with others.
~Catherine Downes, Life Activation Practitioner, Derry, Northern Ireland
The MMS Ireland Charity Run: Recap!
50% of donations went to the Dublin-based charity Liberty Soup Run, a grassroots charity, which is completely reliant on volunteers and donations. 7 days a week, 365 days a year volunteers drive a van packed with goods to help people sleeping rough and struggling with addiction. They distribute food, clothing and toiletries and they offer a listening ear, signposting those sleeping rough. Team Ireland joined them for the distribution, also handing out Easter eggs.
The other 50% of the funds went to Foyle Women’s Aid, a Derry/Londonderry-based charity providing emergency accommodation for families fleeing violence at home. They offer counselling, legal aid and children’s facilities. Currently, 19 families are resident in an inner city environment with no safe access to nature. The funds from Team Ireland are creating a garden space for everyone to enjoy!
They had 10 runners! There were another 4 runners who also raised funds but couldn’t join on the day.
Their goal was £2000, and they raised £3500 sterling! Well done Team Ireland!
What made you decide to participate in the Charity Run?
Divina Ann had shared information about the charity run in our WhatsApp group and the Random Acts of Kindness charity really spoke to me. It is an amazing way to live life. I am not a runner, nor even really that great a walker, so at first, I very nearly declined!! Then I decided to push myself for a really great cause. As Divina Ann shared the Irish charities, the push to take part became even stronger.
What was your experience like?
The charity run was an amazing, exhilarating, joyful experience. I met many of the Irish team members for the first time, as well as a few non-Irish, which was amazing. The sun was shining, albeit a little cold on that Derry morning! Divina Ann had picked a beautiful route over the Peace Bridge and along the river in Derry. It was as if the day had been made especially for us.
Leading up to the run, I struggled with just not thinking there was any hope that I would be able to finish it and be able to do it. But with some long walks and training, I became more confident. I took the route much slower than most, but the amazing Lizzie stayed with me the whole way, and it was wonderful.
I felt so proud of myself when I finished, and all the smiling faces of our Irish group waited to hug and congratulate me. We then had lots of fun eating buns and drinking tea. Knowing everything was for two wonderful charities made the day extra special, and we shared love, joy, and light in Derry.
How was it to distribute some of the charity items to the people in Dublin?
It has been one of the most humbling and fulfilling times in my life meeting the charity workers in Dublin, hearing their stories and being able to contribute in a small way towards what they do. Everyone in the shops where we purchased the items were so helpful and generous. Being able to provide something small that brightens the day and life of another person was very rewarding. The months of preparing, fundraising, and rallying my community before the charity run were part of what made this experience so rich.
I think what struck me most was how normal, how just like you and me, the homeless are. We heard stories of an elderly man who had been on the streets for two years. We met some young people who had no home. It is so easy to see the homeless as different, as somehow causing their own problems. That is so not true, and it shakes you to know it could be your dad, your son in the same situation.
It was particularly striking at how little made such a difference: a pair of socks, a pair of underwear, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, a bit of chocolate, a can of lemonade. Things we take for granted every single day. It brings it home how lucky I am to go to sleep in a warm bed, to open a fridge and find food—small things that feel so big now.
I know how blessed I am, how much abundance I have in my life, and am so grateful for it. My experience with the Liberty Soup Run, their staff, and the people they help has made me even more grateful. It was a complete privilege and honour to meet the charity staff who give so much of their time and work so diligently, ensuring every donation goes directly to those in need.
In the background of all this, I’ve also been navigating big life changes—shifting careers and building something new from the heart, including offering the Max Meditation System™ in Belfast. This experience reaffirmed for me how much abundance exists even in times of transition.
~Deborah McGurk, Life Activation Practitioner, Derry, Ireland
7 Mystery Schools Class
In this informative class, you will learn about the planet’s 7 Mystery schools, including their location, mission, purpose, and deep insights.
For years, these schools have been closed to the public. The teachings were only offered to royalty and the extremely gifted, but humanity’s consciousness has been shifting to new heights, and now all are ready to receive this information and teachings.
This class offers a more in-depth look at these and the information and mystery contained within them.
To register please email [email protected]
Click here for more information.
Where: The Columbia Hotel, 95-99 Lancaster Gate, London W2 3NS
When: 7-9pm Wednesday 23 April 2025
Investment: £45.
To register please email [email protected]
Plus, don’t miss these coming Metaphysical Wednesday events
30 April 2025 Spiritual Intuition Class
Check out our calendar for more dates and details!
Quick Reminder
For all Initates, click on link below for more information.
Where: In your home, on Zoom!
When: 7.30-8.30pm Saturday 2 May 2025
To register please email [email protected] with your student number and ask to join the ‘Progression Zoom call.
Chi Do this Wednesday at 7:30pm GMT
Password : peace
Calculate the time for Chi Do in your time zone here.
NEWSLETTER TEAM
Diana Cinpoeru, Monday Newsletter Editor
Amanda Camenisch, Reporter & Visual Arts team
Grace Hui, Contributing Author
Jessica Rea, Reporter, Visual Arts team & Social Media
Caroline Latour, Contributing Author, Reporter, Sub-editor & Social Media
Jackie Nonweiler, Contributing Author, Reporter, Sub-editor & Editor
Julia Tiffin, Editor-in-Chief, Visual Arts team leader
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