Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m Rev. Russell Heiland, Minister at First Unity of St. Petersburg, Florida.  I have had the pleasure of serving here since May 1, 2009.  And now I have the pleasure of writing a blog.  After all, it really is 2011… seems like the thing to do.

Facts. In Unity we teach the difference between facts, conditions and experiences that change (you know, like the weather) and Truth (our understanding of the omnipresence of Spirit).  So here are some facts about me:  In May 2007 I received both my ordination from the Association of Unity Churches International and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.  At the time I was serving as minister of Unity Christ Church of Wilmington, a beautiful spiritual community in Wilmington, NC.  In 1988 I received a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies degree from Miami University in Oxford, OH.  My hometown is Muncie, Indiana.  Throughout my blog entries, I’ll add other facts about me.  Or, if you have any specific questions, feel free to contact me.  I’m generally an open book.

Truth. My experience of Truth, the way in which I encounter the Holy, will be the focus of my blogs.  The filter for that experience is my personal mission statement I wrote many years ago as a part of the 4T Prosperity Program:  I am a man of power, surrendered to the Holy Spirit, dedicated to teaching Truth principles and the establishment of peace on earth. Periodically I review it; and I encourage you to review yours if you have one.  If you don’t, then make the investment of time to discern yours.  Clarity in your calling as a human being will allow you to live your greatness in meaningful ways.