Rev. Julie McKay-Wilkinson graciously took time from a very busy schedule to accept the invitation to be interviewed for this article. She leads an incredibly active life, not only serving as minister of Charlotte's Unity Center for Spiritual Living, but as host of "Spiritual Lifelines," a locally televised talk show aired on Time Warner Cable's channel 21 at 4:00 p.m. every Sunday. Rev. Julie recommends tuning in to the show to obtain a better understanding of the Unity philosophy.

How would you describe Unity Center for Spiritual Living to a newcomer?
   Unity Center for Spiritual Living is a spiritual and loving place where all will find a group of loving, supportive people who embrace diversity with open arms and hearts. We strive to encourage, empower and lift up everyone who chooses to attend. 

How did you become involved in the Center?
   I came to the Center in late 2003 and initiated a dramatic shift in the consciousness of the congregation. By following Divine Guidance and with the participation of spiritually-minded individuals, a new consciousness was established and a new Center was formed.

Could you elaborate on that point?
   Organizations are living things and need release and healing, just as our mind and body must undergo radical transformation for healing to take place. If an organization becomes complacent, ego can take a foothold and undermine the spiritual purpose. Spiritual surgery is the only way to release that which is no longer for our highest good in order to create a space for God to fill.

Please tell our readers how Unity Center for Spiritual Living may differ from other places of worship.
   UCFSL has no dogma, doctrine, or religious rituals which a more mainstream religion may embrace. Individuals are encouraged to develop a personal understanding of God and their relationship to the world. Rather than telling others what to believe, Unity encourages people to explore, expand and develop their own beliefs.

   The Bible is our basic textbook, however we interpret the scriptures metaphysically. We do not subscribe to fundamentalists’ practice of literal interpretation in which the Bible is believed to be the inerrant word of God. Although we respect and value world religions, Unity is best described as a spiritual way of life.

What is a typical service like?
   We begin our service at 10:30 a.m. each Sunday morning with a welcome song. Next is Prayers and Blessings which offers anyone in the congregation an opportunity to light a candle in an affirmative prayer or share a blessing with us. My spiritual messages are designed to address the whole person: body, mind and spirit. After service, a free lunch is provided creating a space for physical nourishment as well as spiritual community.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
   UCFSL is a relaxed atmosphere where you will find yourself laughing as well as experiencing deep introspection. We have a metaphysical bookstore open to the public, various classes including yoga, on-going groups such as “A Course in Miracles,” practitioners who provide massage therapy, and available space to rent for special events.

Unity Center for Spiritual Living
7300 Mallard Creek Road
Charlotte, NC 28262
704-599-1180

Rev. Julie’s email: revjulie3@carolina.rr.com
For more information please visit: www.ucfsl.com