First Spiritualist Church of Austin

About The First Spiritualist Church of Austin

The First Spiritualist Church of Austin was established in 1926, becoming a vital part of the spiritual landscape in Austin, Texas. In 1928, it officially joined the National Spiritualists Association of Churches (NSAC), an organization that provided national recognition and resources for spiritualist communities across the country. The church was founded by Reverend August Cervin, a Swedish immigrant, who, alongside his wife, Jennie, sought to create a community centered around spiritual healing, mediumship, and enlightenment. Jennie was a gifted clairvoyant medium, healer, and reverend, playing a pivotal role in the foundation of the church.

Early Services and Community Building

In the early days, Austin Spiritualists gathered in makeshift locations, first meeting at the old Labor Temple located at 10th and Brazos. The church was a welcoming space for those seeking spiritual guidance, healing, and a deeper connection to the divine. Sometimes, services were also held at the iconic Driskill Hotel, symbolizing the church’s growing presence and importance in the city. These gatherings helped cultivate a close-knit community of like-minded individuals drawn to the teachings of spiritualism and its focus on personal transformation and healing.

Leadership Transition: Rev. Alma Cervin Johnson

When Reverend August Cervin passed away in 1940, his daughter, Rev. Alma Cervin Johnson, stepped into the leadership role, continuing her father’s legacy of spiritual guidance and community building. Rev. Alma was instrumental in leading the church through a time of growth and expansion, ensuring that the teachings of Spiritualism remained relevant to the evolving needs of the congregation. Her leadership marked a significant period of stability for the church, and she continued to serve as the guiding light for the congregation until her death in 1965.

Permanent Home in Hyde Park

In 1941, the church secured its permanent home in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Austin, a move that solidified the church’s place within the community. The new location provided a stable and dedicated space for services, spiritual teachings, and community activities. This was a turning point for the church, offering a consistent environment for spiritual development, mediumship, and healing. The church building itself became a physical representation of the church’s growth and evolution, providing a safe and sacred space for all who sought spiritual connection.

Legacy and Continuing Mission

The First Spiritualist Church of Austin continues to serve as a center for spiritual growth, mediumship, and healing in the Austin community. While the leadership and the community have evolved over the years, the church’s core mission of promoting spiritual enlightenment, personal healing, and mediumship remains unchanged. With a rich history of dedication to the spiritual needs of its members, the church continues to honor the legacy of its founders by offering a space for people to connect with their spiritual selves and one another.