Often what we hear is "noise." We hear competing voices bantering on TV. We hear the sounds of cars engines and horns and airplanes flying overhead. There is always some kind of "noise." Let's consider that the "noise" could be the music of life, the drum-beat of love, a salve to our souls. Perhaps all the "noise" is a matter of perception. | | |
Rev. Gil Olmstead is RGCSL’s Spiritual Director. Rev. Gil’s ministry and service is grounded in collaboration, community, and compassion. When he first came to RGCSL, he felt it was home. He’s excited about our magical journey together and for what is unfolding.
Rev. Gil also works with his wife, Robyn, in their ministry, Live Inspired. They host "Rockin’ the Love," a weekly podcast, where they share insights from over 20 years of spiritual play, disappointments, triumphs, and growth as a couple.
You can check out their latest episode here:
https://www.youtube.com/live/r-GQCzh-jqc?si=cYqm_ygkPCIpREhX
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Susan Clark is RGCSL's Director of Musical Inspiration. A hard-working musician and talented songwriter, she inspires and motivates congregants to dive deeper into spirituality each time she performs. Outside of RGCSL, she shares her talents with Alzheimer's patients and veterans. Susan has received numerous awards and collaborations with New Thought performers. She has produced several CDs, including "Sunlight of The Soul," which contains many of her spiritual songs, specifically crafted with the New Thought community in mind.
For more information about Susan, go to
https://www.facebook.com/susanclarkmusic/
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Kent Pittsenbargar on drums
Music has always been a huge part of my life; it is deeply spiritual and soothingly healing as well. I am very happy working with Susan Clark, director of music at RGCSL. Susan is a very talented singer, songwriter, pianist and all around a Wonderful Soul. We are Blessed to enjoy her creative talents, and I am grateful to be here with RGCSL.
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Monthly Theme: Practicing of Becoming
CSL Weekly Affirmation: Today, I recognize the voice of truth within my inner silence.
| | Dr. Norm's Affirmation from Last Sunday | | Solid Grounds Announcements | | |
Come and enjoy a wonderful evening of music and community this Friday! Doors open at 6:30, show is at 7 p.m. Solid Grounds welcomes all to enjoy snacks and music free of charge! Love donations are encouraged and gratefully accepted.
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Solid Grounds is always looking for volunteers to help with the fun on Friday nights. If you would like to be one of the many sets of hands that help bring this awesomeness to life each week, please contact Robyn (818-300-3911 or rcrice1@aol.com).
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April 17, 2026 - Acoustic Gap
| | Randy McFadden and Condi Cone | |  | |
Susan Holmes.
Photo courtesy of Jon Graboff
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Acoustic Gap is a trio of three very accomplished musicians. Based in the northern New Mexico area, they have been delighting audiences with their refreshing, quiet yet powerful sound. With Randy McSpadden and Cindi Cone as the heart of the group, they are joined by Susan Holmes on bass. Each band member has had a long career in his/her own right before forming this band in 2024. All three contribute expressive vocal work, and together they mesh perfectly on a variety of musical styles – a heavy dose of Swing and Western swing, with elements of jazz, Americana and bluegrass. Their 3-part harmonies will put goosebumps on your arms, and their excellent musicianship will inspire and amaze you.
Acoustic Gap is:
Randy McSpadden on guitar and vocals – Randy grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he started his lifelong quest of the guitar at the age of 6. Since he was a teenager he has played in bands too numerous to mention, in Oklahoma and Colorado, also having been a studio musician in LA and Philly. Residing in Denver, Colorado from 2011 thru 2024, he has free-lanced in both the bluegrass/ acoustic music scene as well as the vibrant jazz scene on the Front Range. In addition to performing, he teaches intermediate and advanced level guitar students privately & provides band coaching.
Cindi Cone on fiddle and vocals –Born and raised in Connecticut, and spending the bulk of her adult life in Colorado, Cindi has played in many bands over the years and has done lead and backup vocal work in Nashville studios. She is a former Rockygrass fiddle contest winner and holds an Associate’s Degree in bluegrass/country music from South Plains College in Levelland, TX.
Susan Holmes on bass and vocals - Bassist/songwriter/producer Susan Holmes has been a valued member of the musical family along the Santa Fe-Albuquerque corridor for years, laying down solid lines and rhythms for everyone from Bill and Bonnie Hearne to the Santa Fe All-Stars, Redd Volkaert, David Berkeley, the Alpha Cats, Rosie Flores, Shannon McNally, Eliza Gilkyson, Max Gomez, Boris McCutcheon and more.
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April 24, 2026 - The Waylon Bailey Band
The Waylon Bailey Band is a high-energy country music group from New Mexico, led by the charismatic and talented Waylon Bailey. The band's sound is deeply rooted in traditional country music, with a mix of 90s and dirt road country.
https://youtu.be/s9LuXmxTuPo?
https://youtu.be/XjUgD-Fq3jM?
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Outreach Committee Announcement
The Outreach Committee is happy to report that plans for our OPEN HOUSE on May 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. are underway. This is our chance to show who we are and invite the larger community to learn about us.
There will be FOOD, MUSIC, and an ART SHOW showcasing the talents of community members. If you make art, please contact Sue Klump if you’re interested in submitting your work. She can tell you all about it.
There will also be FUN, FROLICKING, and SURPRISES!
To make this event a huge success (think hundreds of folks coming through our doors), we need your help.
- If you have a mailing list or are active on any social media platform, consider using them to spread the word to your family, friends, and clients. We will provide text and images.
- Volunteer to help. The outreach committee has broken into subgroups to plan this important event.
Karen Ford heads the art show (310-776-0274)
Brian Kurtz is in charge of food (505-541-0265)
Robyn Rice Olmstead will find us music (818-300-3911)
Carol March is working on print/online/flyers for publicity, with an able group of
helpers (505-235-9753)
Tamara Williams (505-239-7111) is designing decorations with the enthusiastic
support of Sherry Noone
If you would like to assist, or have ideas for any of these functions, please contact the
team leaders. We need everyone’s creativity and support to create a resounding kickoff for our new vision of how RGCSL will flourish as we move forward.
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WANTED! Volunteers for Our Open House Event
Come join the fun and help make our special day a huge success.
Stop by the volunteer sign-up table on Sunday (look for Gracie Woods).
Many hands still make light work,.... Thank you
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CALLING ALL BAKERS!
We are having a good old-fashioned CAKE WALK as part of the FUN at our Grand Opening Open House, Saturday, May 2, 11-4pm.
We're asking for your help by contributing your mouth-watering home-baked goods (store-bought is ok too) to this family-fun activity.
Cakes & Cookies, Pies & Donuts, come take a walk-around and win a treat! $1 per ticket.
All items must be wrapped in clear plastic/bags and non-returnable containers only/etc.
Text Grace @ 719-431-0662 for more info
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Open House & Art Show
Join the Celebration!
Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living.
May 2, 11 AM to 4 PM.
Help us celebrate our new location at
2404 San Mateo Place NE, 87110.
Enjoy food (there will be food trucks available) and music. Explore our bookstore, The Quantum Portal, and an exhibit of art by local artists. All are welcome.
Come play with us!
| | "Where Time Rests" watercolor by Tamara Williams | | |
"Transformation Angel"
by Susan Solari
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Rev. Gil's Ordination
On Saturday, May 9th we will officially celebrate our beloved Reverend Gil Olmstead's ordination. Plans are in the works for a very special program; details will be coming soon. We will have the privilege of welcoming many out-of-town guests and would love to offer them a place to stay.
If you have a spare room you could offer to house a guest or two for the weekend, please contact Gil or Robyn.
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Do you have photos you can share of our transition process?
We want to do a slide show on the transition to our new home. We have some photos but could use more of the empty space, the move in, construction, etc. If you have any photos you can share, please send them to suzanneklump@gmail.com. Thank you!
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Liz Hamilton is the April RGCSL
Volunteer of the Month
We are thrilled to announce that Liz Hamilton has been selected as our Volunteer of the Month! 🎉
Her dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts to make sure the bookstore continued once Gilbert left have made a remarkable impact on our community. Thank you, Liz, for going the extra mile. You truly embody the spirit of service, Despite the constraints of much smaller accommodations, she, along with Practitioner and designer extraordinaire, Laura Snapp, has created a beautiful and inviting space. Make sure to stop in and say "hello," and while you are there, be sure to thank her for stepping up so graciously.
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Interested in helping out at the Center?
Contact Carol Ann Armijo at 505-980-5825, carolarmijo@msn.com to learn more or to sign up.
Ask Carol Ann how you can help out and she will match your gift to our need!
Thank you to EVERYONE who pitches in! Many hands make light work. Please considering volunteering for at least one thing once a month.
| | Spirit Bound Bookstore (The Quantum Portal) & Gift Shop News | | |
We are morphing into something new, and it is still in process. Check back for updates about our relaunching/rebranding of the bookstore. In the meantime, be sure to check out our new space. And while you are in there, be sure to congratulate Liz on being this month Volunteer of the Month!
10% off for all April birthdays and first timers.
Notice the bookshelves of free used books. Find something that moves and leave behind a love donation for a soon-to-be neighborhood library and mini-pantry. Help us as we extend the power of love in action into our new neighborhood.
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RGCSL Healing Circle
Sheryl Rae will offer healing services this Sunday. Sheryl says, "My ancestors called me to be a healer. Over the years, I learned Myotherapy (acupressure). I have used that gift to relieve pain from migraines, general muscle pain and even carpal tunnel syndrome. People have told me my hands and hugs are healing. I know I must share my gifts, and this is a great place to do that. If you need a healing touch, see me after service."
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Interested in A Course in Miracles?
We are now holding two classes per week!
Many of you have expressed interest in attending the ACIM study group, but perhaps Thursday evening just isn't a good time for you. Well, you are in luck because the Wednesday group that used to meet elsewhere is now holding their weekly meeting at our center.
Wednesdays - 12:00 - 1:15 p.m. (Toddy Dieckman host, 505-249-1220)
There is also a zoom meeting that occurs during the same time, if you are interested in that meeting, please contact Pat Dolan plmdolan@yahoo.com to receive a zoom invitation.
OR
Attend Nancy's class on Thursday nights at the Center or on Zoom. 6 - 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. No prior experience necessary. This class is done on a love-offering basis. Launch Meeting - Zoom Meeting ID: 849 8672 4452 Passcode: 536144 (Nancy Bowers host, 505-681-4744)
| For those of you who may have attended the Sunday meeting of Way of Mastery with Rev Geo (or not, but are interested), he has kindly provided us with information about his online The Way of Mastery: The Early Years. It is a zoom class, and the details can be found by clicking here. | | |
It's a new, exciting time for Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living, as we shift our focus to our abundance,
Financials are available upon request. Remembering that thoughts are creative and what we focus on expands, we are actively focusing on the love and gratitude we are as a community.
Our total reach for the week (Solid Grounds, Sunday service and classes) = 144
For those of you who were interested in the PowerPoint presentation from last Sunday, it can be found by clicking here.
| | Click here for Spiritual Tools from Home office. | | |
If you'd like to receive the newsletter from Home Office, you can sign up here.
For a free guided meditation, click here..
| | Compassion Ministries (CM) is an in-reach Ministry that is about unconditional positive regard for the spiritual health and well-being of our congregants in time of struggle, despair, grief, or at a time when there is a temporary need for a supportive lending hand. We are looking for more volunteers for this program. If you have a gift that you wish to share with our congregants, please let us know what you'd like to contribute when a need arises. For further information contact Susan Solari 510-225-5305. | |
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Prayer Support
We are blessed to have numerous Licensed Practitioners, and they are ready to respond to your prayer requests or to schedule a counseling/prayer session. You may also submit an online prayer request. May your strength of faith provide peace to your heart and to your mind.
For guidelines on respectful communication, please see: Respectful Communication | Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living
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Next Board Meeting has been changed to Sunday, May 3rd, in person and on zoom
RGCSL Board Meeting: Please note that time and date may vary depending on Trustees' schedules and availability. To attend any board meeting, please text Board President Sheryl Rae at (505) 918-8749.
Journey of One/The Way of Mastery, Every Other Sunday in person in the Sanctuary
Journey of One: Join Dr. Michele Coleman in the exploration to express the oneness that we are. Next Sunday, Rev Geo will join our next Oneness meeting to facilitate the Way of Mastery. This work is from the same author as ACIM, Jeshua. Held at noon(ish) every other week in the sanctuary on Sundays. See you on April 26th!
Qi Gong, Tuesdays, 9 a.m. In Person
QiGong: Join us for this moving meditation with YouTube videos in the sanctuary — a perfect way to begin your day! If you have questions, please contact Sherry Noone at 908-486-4442.
Access the Real You, Wednesday, 6:30 - 8 p.m. on Zoom
Access the Real You life check-in: Every Wednesday night call 6:30-8m MDT - now EVERY Wednesday night! Just go to Zoom, use meeting ID 505 541 0265, no password. Hop on and bring whatever challenges or concerns your life is presenting you now! All are welcome! For more information on his classes, please reach out to Brian Kurtz at 505-541-0265.
ACIM, Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 p.m. In-person AND on Zoom
A Course in Miracles Group: Join Nancy Bowers at the Center or on Zoom. Everyone is welcome. No prior experience necessary. This class is done on a love-offering basis. Launch Meeting - Zoom Meeting ID: 849 8672 4452 Passcode: 536144
Solid Grounds Music Cafe, Fridays, from 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Solid Grounds Music Cafe Come and enjoy a wonderful evening of music and community this Friday! Doors open at 6:30, show is at 7 p.m. Solid Grounds welcomes all to enjoy snacks and music free of charge! Love donations are encouraged and gratefully accepted.
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What's Happening at ABQCSL?
Following our joint Practitioner Retreat, in the spirit of Oneness, our centers are now sharing what's happening at each other's center.
| Head to our YouTube channel to view the most recent video from Rev Amani. New videos are uploaded each Sunday. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a video! | |
Do You Have News for Our Community?
If so, then please email your *short* article about RGCSL classes, group meetings and news that affects our community to announcements@rgcsl.org by Tuesday at 6 p.m. for inclusion in Thursday's bulletin. The newsletter team will respond to your request with a confirmation email or comments. Thanks!
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The Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living
Contact us at 505-224-9405 or office@rgcsl.org
Office Hours:
Mon - Thurs 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
www.rgcsl.org
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