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By Bronwen Mayer

Rose Hermon is currently a member of the Ivyland New Church in Pennsylvania

How did you discover the New Church?

"In the late 1960s, I saw an article in a magazine, about a book called Heaven and Hell. I was intrigued, so I contacted the Epsilon society and they sent me a copy of the book. After reading Heaven and Hell several times, I became very interested. Inquiring further to the Epsilon society, I began to receive sermons in the mail once a month, and attended the Bryn Athyn Cathedral service occasionally."

What ideas stood out to you, when you first discovered the Church?

"As a child, angels had always captivated me. Discovering the New Church as an adult, I love the emphasis on the fact that there really is a Heaven and Hell. I previously wondered why there needed to be a hell. Why would a loving God need to have a hell? Heaven and Hell cleared it up for me; hell is were you take yourself if you want to go there."

What do you love about the NC?

"I love the teachings. I have a strong feeling that this is where I am meant to be. It answers many questions that I always had as a Lutheran and Presbyterian. The New Church is not pushy, and I love that here I learn about how to live a daily life that will benefit everyone; myself and other people."

How has the New Church impacted your life?

"It has reinforced my feelings that the Ten Commandments should be ultimate in every individual's life. It has made me a better person. I have kept every sermon that I have ever received. One sermon flew away from me on the beach, and perhaps today it is in someone else's hands."