SPI Enigmas - no 18

Magazine Overview

Title: ENIGMAS
Issue: No. 18
Date: November/December 1989
Publisher: Strange Phenomena Investigations (S.P.I.)
Price: £1

This issue of ENIGMAS, the journal of Strange Phenomena Investigations (S.P.I.), offers a diverse collection of articles exploring unexplained phenomena, from alleged hauntings and UFO encounters to religious implications of alien life and the mystery of crop circles.

Editorial: The Question of God and Alien Life

The editorial, penned by Malcolm Robinson, delves into profound questions about the existence of extraterrestrial life and its potential implications for religious beliefs, particularly Christianity. It ponders whether God's creation extends to other planets and if Jesus' sacrifice is unique to Earth or if similar events have occurred elsewhere. The editor references Stuart Holyrood's book 'Alien Intelligence' and expresses a belief in a 'super intelligence,' suggesting that reported Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs) and Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) might indicate a connection to this intelligence. The editorial concludes by posing questions about the nature of creation and the role of this super intelligence in human existence, emphasizing the need for an open mind.

S.P.I. Case Research Work: The Strange Experiences of Mrs Jean Smith (Part One)

This section details a complex case investigated by SPI involving Mrs. Jean Smith, who reported numerous paranormal occurrences at her home. The investigation began in January 1987, with researchers Brian Ratcliffe and Walter McClelland interviewing Mrs. Smith. The reported phenomena included the materialization of people and objects, strange smells, and disembodied arguing sounds. Mrs. Smith also described seeing strange shadows, apparitions of friends, a pantomime slipper, three strange men in her kitchen, unseen movements causing air displacement, and the sudden appearance of photographs. The article notes that Mrs. Smith was a frightened individual seeking help and that the Falkirk Spiritualist Church had dismissed her case. SPI committed to a thorough investigation, with further details promised in the next issue.

A Manchester Seance

This report, contributed by Margaret Newson, describes a seance held in Manchester on December 4, 1988. The seance involved a medium who entered a trance, and spirit communicators named Gerry (an aborted boy) and Rosemary (a mentally retarded girl who died in a car accident) made contact. Phenomena observed included flashes of light, cool breezes, and a bell being tinkled. Gerry spoke to his father, and Rosemary commented on the difficulty of penetrating the Earth's atmosphere. Following the seance, a handmade quartz necklace from Burma appeared on the table, replacing a cowbell.

Looking Back Through The S.P.I. Files: An OOBE of a Different Kind?

This article recounts the experience of John Davidson, a 55-year-old man from Alloa, Scotland, who claims to have had an out-of-body experience (OBE) on October 24, 1986, while meditating. He describes finding himself inside a 'Flying Saucer,' where a 'being' explained the craft's capabilities. He observed a circular room with control panels and five occupants, and a central bubble revealing machinery. He was shown four planets and claims the object traveled to the moon, where he saw buildings in a crater. The experience lasted approximately 10-15 minutes. The article notes that Mr. Davidson claims no prior knowledge of UFOs beyond television and press information. The report also mentions that Mr. Davidson had previously predicted the sinking of the Herald of Free Enterprise and the Kings Cross tragedy through an OBE.

Stigmata. By Daphne Plowman.

This article, originally from the SSPR Newsletter of May 1989, explores the phenomenon of stigmata, spontaneous wounds or bleeding resembling those of Christ's crucifixion. It begins by referencing St. Francis of Assisi as the first known stigmatic and notes that hundreds of people have since exhibited similar phenomena. The author discusses two recent cases: one involving a woman experiencing poltergeist manifestations and deep wounds on her back, and another where a couple experienced scratch marks, possibly linked to clinical depression and self-hate. The article questions the physiological mechanisms behind stigmata, considering factors like stress, mass hysteria, multiple personality, fraud, visualization, and self-hypnosis. It also touches upon the potential influence of religious art and the varied presentation of wounds among stigmatics. The author concludes that stigmata represent a manifestation of human personality requiring further research.

Eduard Meier: My Contention

Written by Margaret Fry, this article presents the author's opinion that the case of Swiss UFO witness Eduard Meier, including his photographs and claimed contacts, is genuine. Fry acknowledges that information is largely secondhand from books and articles. She contrasts the views of photography experts with the realities of poverty faced by families like Meier's, suggesting that experts may not fully grasp the context. Fry argues that Meier, living in a rural village and relying on social security, would not have had the means for elaborate hoaxes. She also mentions that Meier's photographs were examined and deemed genuine by photo shop owners. The article suggests that while some contactees may embroider their experiences, Meier's case warrants serious consideration, and that the implications of alien contacts are potentially frightening.

Going Round In Circles by Ralph Noyes

This article, originally from 'Country Life' magazine, discusses the phenomenon of crop circles appearing in Southern England. First noted in 1980, the circles, which flatten cornfields, have increased in number and complexity. The author notes that the disturbances occur mainly in cornfields between May and September and are distinct from damage caused by weather or humans. The article describes various patterns, including single circles, doublets, triplets, quadruplets, quintuplets, and ringed circles. Over 400 circles had been reported by 1988, with notable occurrences near Winchester and Avenbury, Wiltshire. The phenomenon remains baffling to scientists, with early theories suggesting summer whirlwinds, though no scientific explanation has been widely accepted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of ENIGMAS are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, hauntings, and psychic events, and the exploration of their potential implications for our understanding of reality, religion, and human consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the collection and dissemination of accounts while avoiding definitive conclusions. The magazine aims to present evidence and encourage critical thinking, as seen in the discussions on stigmata and the Eduard Meier case. There is a clear emphasis on research and the accumulation of evidence to establish a "firmer foundation" for understanding these subjects.

This issue of ENIGMA'S, The Journal of Strange Phenomena Investigations, dated November-December 1989, offers a diverse range of articles exploring UFO sightings, crop circles, paranormal encounters, and psychic phenomena. The cover prominently features a review of "Fire In The Sky," a BUFORA booklet detailing the Peter Day UFO film.

Crop Circles and Meteorological Explanations

The issue begins with an article discussing crop circles, noting occurrences across various English counties. Dr. Meaden is highlighted for his extensive research and his efforts to rule out hoaxers and helicopters, suggesting meteorological terms as a potential explanation. The article mentions the "Journal Of Meteorology" as a source for further information. It also touches upon more speculative theories, including Ley-Lines and ancient legends, contrasting them with scientific approaches.

Review: "Fire In The Sky" - The Peter Day UFO Film

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of BUFORA's booklet, "Fire In The Sky," which pertains to a UFO film obtained in Buckinghamshire in January 1973. The film reportedly shows an orange glowing ball moving slowly. The review notes that "The Investigation by Contact UK" uncovered other witnesses. A primary theory discussed is that the object might have been a F.III jet that had crashed, possibly having dumped its fuel. However, the reviewer suggests there are sound arguments against this explanation, encouraging readers to purchase the booklet for a full analysis. The case is considered one of the British top ten unexplained UFO cases.

SPI/SSPR Lecture Report

A report details a joint SPI/SSPR lecture given by Professor Archie Roy of Glasgow University. The lecture focused on the history of 19th-century Spiritualism and the role of psychic investigators. Professor Roy emphasized that strong criticism of psychic phenomena often comes from those who have not investigated it. He discussed the abilities of mediums like Daniel Home and Albert Best, and pointed to parapsychology labs in America and Edinburgh University that have provided scientific evidence for PSI (Psi-Information System). Professor Roy concluded that human beings might be linked by a "psychic substratum."

Letters to the Editor

Several letters offer diverse perspectives:

• Michael Roll (Bristol) discusses the ongoing debate about the existence of parallel universes and the limitations of materialist thought, drawing parallels with historical scientific acceptance of the invisible and referencing experiments by Sir William Crookes and John Logie Baird concerning survival after death.
• Sajid Hussain (Glasgow) poses questions about the pyramids of Egypt, their construction, and the potential for pyramid power to influence energy fields and matter. He links this to psychic phenomena like ESP and telekinesis, suggesting that mankind may need spiritual and mental growth to understand the secrets of pyramids.
• Frank McKay (Balfron) writes about the importance of an "open mind" in researching strange phenomena, arguing that scientific facts are not always airtight and that new discoveries could challenge established laws. He also touches upon the issue of prejudice based on religion, color, or politics.
• Lindy Whitehurst (Dallas, Texas) critiques Jenny Randles' investigative style, particularly regarding her handling of a frightened visitor's account and her statements about the lack of psychological expertise among UFO investigators. She expresses concern about the potential for harm in hypnotic regressions.
• Dick Van Der Plas (Comrie, Scotland) further criticizes Jenny Randles' approach, questioning her statements about UFO investigators' knowledge of psychology and her handling of a case where she allegedly reassured a visitor that UFOs do not kidnap people, implying her approach was counterproductive.

Case Update: The Tolbooth Restaurant

This section details an investigation by SPI into an allegedly haunted restaurant, formerly a jail and hanging building, in Stirling, Scotland. A team, including medium Katrina McNab, spent a night in the building. The medium reported sensing people who had dealings with the place and experienced physical sensations. The team also recorded unexplained "moaning sounds" and a "heavy" dragging sound, as well as distinct "banging" sounds on a table, which could not be attributed to natural causes.

CE IV Interview

An interview with Brian McMullen Senior and Junior, members of the Glasgow rock group CE IV, who are devoted to bringing the UFO message into their music. They discuss their concept album 'ABDUCTION,' which deals with alleged UFO abductions worldwide. Brian Junior shares his musical influences, including The Stranglers and science fiction movie soundtracks. Brian Senior expresses his views on UFOlogy, finding it "conservative" and "snobby," with a preference for reaching the "man in the street."

Ghostly Experiences: Part Two

This section continues with a case from Ireland involving Mrs Eileen Pearson, who reported experiencing unexplained phenomena in a hotel room, including a consistent tugging at the bedcovers and a scratching noise on the headboard. The hotel was later found to be situated in an area known for murders.

Another account features Mrs Graham of Glasgow, who repeatedly witnessed the apparition of her deceased grandmother in her home.

UFOs: Contamination

This article discusses the impact of the Betty/Barney Hill case on UFO abduction reports, particularly the emergence of the "Missing Time" phenomenon and the standardized description of large-headed, black-eyed aliens. It suggests that the widespread reporting of this description, amplified by media coverage like the "Look Magazine" serial of "The Interrupted Journey," may have contaminated subsequent reports, leading to potential self-suggestion or imitation by witnesses. The article notes that slant-eyed abductors were initially perceived as an American phenomenon, with Europe only recently reporting similar cases.

News Desk

This section provides brief updates:

• New Address: The editor has moved to a new address.
• Sauchie Man Cured at Lourdes: A report on a man from Sauchie who was reportedly cured of severe back pain at Lourdes, though he still experiences pain from an earlier operation.
• Another Scot Cured at Lourdes: Tommy McInally of Coatbridge experienced a miraculous recovery from Parkinson's disease.
• Sir Peter Scott Dead: The passing of naturalist Sir Peter Scott, a believer in the Loch Ness Monster, is noted. His attempt to give the creature a scientific name, "Nessiteras Rhombopteryx," was humorously interpreted as an anagram by MP Nicholas Fairbairn.
• Heather & John Turnbull: Congratulations are extended to Heather and John Turnbull on their recent marriage.
• Russian Rubbish?: Jenny Randles has uncovered new information suggesting that reports of huge green aliens in Voronezh, Russia, may be false.
• Assistance Required: SPI is seeking individuals to transcribe cassette interviews.
• Closing Remarks: The editor thanks contributors and wishes readers a merry Christmas and happy new year.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, crop circles, and hauntings, with a particular emphasis on presenting evidence and encouraging critical analysis. The editorial stance appears to favor open-mindedness and rigorous investigation, while also acknowledging the potential for contamination of evidence and the need for scientific approaches. There is a clear interest in distinguishing between genuine phenomena and hoaxes or misinterpretations. The magazine also promotes the work of SPI and BUFORA in bringing these cases to public attention.