Supernaturalist - No 1 - 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: The Supernaturalist
Issue: ONE
Publication Date: Autumn 1981
Publisher: The Parasearch Organisation
Editor: Andrew Collins

This inaugural issue of 'The Supernaturalist' presents a deep dive into the evolving landscape of UFO phenomena, parapsychology, and 'earth mysteries', framed within the context of New Age thinking. The publication aims to foster open speculation and gain acceptance for these subjects.

Contents and Key Articles

A New Dawn Fades... This introductory piece reflects on the meaning of psychic awareness, defining the 'earth mysteries' subject and general New Age thinking. It posits that psychic faculties, often misunderstood or suppressed by religious dogma, are a natural part of human potential, now being studied under the umbrella of 'parapsychology'. The article suggests a growing societal tolerance for these abilities and a yearning for deeper understanding.

UFOs - The Changing Face of Acceptance This is part one of a two-part socio-psychological history of the UFO phenomenon. It begins by tracing the origins of the term 'flying saucer' back to Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting. The article discusses how initial skepticism and ridicule gradually gave way to a cultural belief system that accepted the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors. It highlights the progression from simple sightings to claims of landed craft, 'beings', and eventually, contact and communication, citing George Adamski as a key figure in this development. The piece also touches upon early theories like 'Was God an Astronaut?', which sought to explain religious accounts as alien visitations.

The Aveley Abduction - A New Look This article re-examines the 'Aveley Abduction' case, which involves the Avis family's claims of a UFO encounter and abduction in the Greater London countryside in autumn 1974. The author notes that years after the initial investigations and reports in publications like 'Flying Saucer Review', new speculative ideas are emerging. The narrative recounts the family's journey home, the sighting of a glowing blue oval mass (believed to be a UFO), the subsequent failure of the car's engine and electrics, and their encounter with a luminous green mist that caused a three-hour time loss. The article questions the nature of the beings involved and the true events of that night.

Ghosts - The Not So Romantic Truth? This section explores alternative, less romantic explanations for ghosts, moving beyond the traditional view of them as spirits of the undead.

The Path of the Dragon This article, part one of a series, delves into the history of the 'earth mysteries' subject, starting from the 1500s and leading up to Alfred Watkins' discoveries in the 1920s.

Essex' First Ley Hunter A study focusing on the work of Donald Maxwell, an eminent antiquarian and author from the 1930s.

Aftermath This piece discusses the significance of the Toxteth riots in relation to New Age mystics.

Parasearch and Related Concepts

'Parasearch' is introduced as a research body founded in September 1978, aiming to study the paranormal. It has been involved in organizing UFO conferences and now seeks to broaden its audience through 'The Supernaturalist'. The journal's content is aligned with 'earth mysteries', which encompasses man's connection to nature, geomancy, folklore, and prehistory.

The issue also touches upon the 'contactee' syndrome, where individuals claim communication with extraterrestrial beings, often from planets within our solar system. The rise of UFO cults, such as George King's Aetherius Society, is discussed, highlighting how these groups integrated UFO beliefs with spiritual and occult practices, filling a void left by declining religious adherence.

Alternative theories for UFOs are explored, including time travelers, secret weapons, and inter-dimensional vehicles. The article also examines the idea that ancient religious texts and myths might be interpreted as accounts of alien interaction with early human civilizations, leading to the 'Was God an Astronaut?' theory.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

'The Supernaturalist' positions itself as a serious research publication dedicated to exploring the paranormal, UFO phenomena, and earth mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to move beyond preconceived notions and foster a greater understanding and acceptance of these subjects. Recurring themes include the historical evolution of UFO beliefs, the psychological and sociological impact of these phenomena, the potential connection between ancient myths and extraterrestrial visitation, and the broader context of New Age thinking and spiritual exploration. The publication emphasizes the importance of re-examining cases and theories with fresh perspectives.

Acknowledgements

The editor thanks Bob Baston, Jean, Pat, Dave, and Jeff Saward for their contributions to the production of the issue.

Title: The Supernaturalist
Issue: 27
Volume: 3
Date: August 1977

This issue of The Supernaturalist delves into the profound and life-altering experiences of the Avis family, focusing on their alleged 1974 UFO abduction and the subsequent paranormal phenomena they encountered. The magazine explores the family's transformation, their developing psychic abilities, and offers a detailed examination of ghosts and hauntings.

The Changes Begin

The article begins by detailing the dramatic lifestyle changes experienced by the Avis family following an encounter with a 'luminous green mist' that caused them to lose three hours of time. John and Elaine, the parents, gave up smoking and drinking. The entire family, except the youngest child, Stuart, lost their appetite for meat, finding the smell and sight of it repulsive. These changes were accompanied by a growing respect for nature and a desire to revert to a more natural lifestyle. John developed artistic talents, painting, writing, sculpting, and renovating old items, speaking of understanding natural forces and the mind. Elaine became a herbalist, focusing on natural healing and avoiding processed foods and unnecessary medication.

Despite these positive shifts, the changes took a toll, particularly on John, who experienced periods of unemployment and a partial nervous breakdown in mid-1975. He found work with the mentally handicapped, a role he felt drawn to. Elaine took up child nursing full-time. The children showed marked improvements in their creative school subjects. The mystery of the lost three hours and the green mist encounter persisted.

Dreams

John and Elaine's only connection to the lost three hours came through vivid dreams. They experienced images of brightly lit operating rooms and encounters with grotesque, dwarf-like beings. As these dreams became more lucid, a yearning to discover the truth grew within John.

Paranormal Manifestations

As the family's routine lives stabilized, paranormal incidents began to surround them. Strange droning noises, taps, knocks, and bumps were heard. Dark, silhouetted apparitions manifested, and sightings of weird aerial lights served as reminders of their 1974 encounter. A particularly strange incident in 1976 involved two tall, identically suited men visiting John's parents' home. They claimed to represent a religious group and warned of future cataclysmic upheavals if humanity did not change its course, before leaving without further interaction.

Psychic Faculties

Further changes manifested as apparent psychic abilities. Both John and Elaine developed intuition, precognition through dreams, gut instinct, and the ability to sense atmospheres. They realized they could achieve results through concentration of thought.

The Correct Time

John felt it was time to share his experiences. He attempted to do so on a radio show in early 1977, but his voice became inaudible due to interference, and he was cut off. In May 1977, he contacted the Essex UFO Study Group, which led to an interview with the author. The author was satisfied that the family was genuine and that their account, including the lost three hours and subsequent life changes, was indicative of an abduction case, unusual for the country at that time.

Hypnosis

Following the initial interviews, investigations included surveying the encounter site and reconstructing the family's route. A second interview led the author to believe hypnosis could help recall the lost three hours. John hesitantly agreed, and Dr. Leonard Wilder, a qualified hypno-therapist, was arranged to conduct the sessions. During interviews prior to hypnosis, John and Elaine began recalling images of a large 'hanger'-like area with entities in silvery-grey suits, and medical examinations in brightly lit rooms. They described two types of entities: dwarf-like with bat-like faces, and tall, serene beings with high cheekbones and pink eyeballs.

Three hypnosis sessions were conducted in London, confirming the conscious recollections of a bizarre encounter with alien entities aboard a spacecraft. The family recalled being engulfed by a conical white beam of light after entering the green mist, and then finding themselves in the hanger-like area.

Personal Conclusions at the Time

The author, as a relatively new investigator, was amazed by the recall of the lost three hours, believing the Avis family had been abducted. The lost time, lucid dreams, and dramatic life changes were seen as strong indicators. John also suggested that the influence of the abductors was still affecting their destiny and that these beings might have visited Earth thousands of years ago.

After the Investigation

Throughout 1977, contact was maintained with the Avis family. The author noted any strange incidents. After the formal investigations concluded, a friendship developed, involving discussions about the supernatural. John often spoke at length about past cultures, religions, and ancient wisdom, sometimes lapsing into a philosophical mood and speaking on subjects he seemingly knew little about. He would then often cease talking, asking what he had been saying, suggesting a 'psychic' faculty.

1978 Onwards

Numerous paranormal incidents continued to surround the family, including apparitions, strange sounds, UFO sightings, and poltergeist phenomena. These were now viewed with mystical interpretations rather than fright or puzzlement. The family experienced a period of continuous 'bad luck' involving bereavements, financial issues, car problems, and other misfortunes, which they initially dismissed as coincidence but later found concerning.

The Avis Family's Budding Careers

In 1979, John completed a fine arts foundation course and was pursuing a three-year course in sculpture, focusing on harmony, balance, and symbolism. Elaine became a trainee nurse. Their eldest daughter, Karen, developed an interest in the paranormal and was researching religions. The eldest son, Kevin, showed artistic talent and began experiencing out-of-body experiences related to earth mysteries, possibly through telepathy or unconscious recording from his parents.

Apparitions and Ghosts: What's the Difference?

This section of the magazine delves into the nature of apparitions and ghosts. Apparitions are described as figures that can interact and have personality, while ghosts are visual images of the past linked to a location, typically without personality or interaction. The article uses the example of Lord Thomas Lyttleton's alleged apparition and the 'man in grey' ghost of the Drury Lane Theatre to illustrate these distinctions.

It posits that ghosts are not necessarily earthbound spirits of the dead but could be manifestations of past events or emotions imprinted on a location. The concept of 'hauntings' is explored, including sensory impressions, atmospheres, and unaccountable phenomena. The article introduces the idea that the unconscious mind of individuals, particularly during periods of high trauma, can create situations akin to a haunted house.

So What Causes Ghosts?

The prevailing belief that ghosts are earthbound spirits of the dead is examined. The article suggests that ghosts might be a new concept born from understanding subtle energy fields, thought patterns, and stored energy. These emanations, akin to 'television waves,' can be imprinted on objects or structures and 'picked up' by sensitive individuals, leading to impressions of atmospheres or 'vibes' of a place, a phenomenon known as psychometry.

The article explores the possibility that the 'transmitter' of a ghost image might not be the deceased person but an observer who witnessed the event. It also discusses the 'transmitter/receiver theory,' suggesting that ghosts may not be spirits of the undead but could be manifestations of intense emotional states, such as deep depression.

Further Reading

Readers interested in the Avis family's experiences are directed to articles in 'Flying Saucer Review' (Vol. 23 No. 6 and Vol. 24 No. 1) and books by Jenny Randles ('UFOs - British Viewpoint' and 'UFO Study'), and Hilary Evans' 'The Aveley Abduction'.

Interesting Facts

This section includes trivia about John Avis's past as a drummer with the Small Faces and his prediction of John Lennon's death, which he attributed to CIA manipulation via post-hypnotic suggestion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena, paranormal experiences, and psychic abilities. There is a clear interest in investigating unexplained events and offering alternative hypotheses beyond conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, seeking to understand the 'not so romantic truth' behind phenomena like ghosts and UFO encounters, suggesting that these may be rooted in subtle energies and psychological processes rather than purely supernatural or spiritual causes. The issue emphasizes the potential for these phenomena to be linked to advanced intelligences and ancient civilizations.

This issue of 'The Supernaturalist' delves into a range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and esoteric beliefs. It explores the nature of hauntings, the efficacy of spiritual and religious interventions, and the historical research into ancient sites and landscapes.

Ghosts and Their Manifestations

The magazine begins by examining the phenomenon of ghosts, questioning why they appear in certain locations and not others. It posits that manifestations are dependent on several factors: the strength of thought patterns transmitted by the sender, particularly extreme emotions or trauma; the time elapsed since transmission; and the sensitivity or 'openness' of the receiver. Environmental conditions like weather, time of day, temperature, and time of year are also suggested to play a role. A key theory presented is that crystalline structures within building materials, such as quartz in sandstone, can receive, store, and re-transmit energy fields. These structures may also act as catalysts for poltergeist activity, inducing phenomena like temperature drops and nervous tension in receivers.

The Efficacy of Exorcisms and Rescues

The issue then addresses the effectiveness of methods used to dissipate such energies, focusing on Christian exorcisms and spiritualist 'rescues.' It suggests that these rituals work primarily through psychological means. By satisfying the receivers that the phenomena will cease, a mental block is created, preventing the 'spirits' from manifesting. Spiritualist rescues achieve a similar effect by convincing individuals that earthbound spirits have moved on. Beyond psychological influence, the magazine explores the potential for the exorcist's own strong emotional thought patterns to override or cancel out previously stored energy fields, replacing them with feelings of calm and peace. However, it is noted that if phenomena persist, the cause might be more complex and deeply rooted than simple imprinted emotions.

The Path of the Dragon: A History of Earth Mysteries

Part one of a series, this section reviews the history of understanding prehistory and earth mysteries, starting from the Elizabethan era. It highlights the historical neglect of ancient stone and earth monuments, often dismissed as heathen shrines by the Church. The Renaissance period saw a resurgence of interest in magic and mysticism, leading figures like Dr. John Dee to investigate sites like Glastonbury. Dee, an astrologer and alchemist, believed he had found 'Merlin's Secret' in the arrangement of prehistoric earthworks, suggesting they formed celestial patterns like the Zodiac. His work influenced the development of Rosicrucian ideals, which posited a hidden fraternity possessing divine knowledge.

The 'New Age of Enlightenment' following the Renaissance was curtailed by war and religious dogmas, but interest in earth mysteries persisted. John Aubrey, an antiquary, studied sites like Avebury, noting their significant placement. The Gale brothers, Roger and Samuel, continued this research, examining stone circles and barrows, and linking them to Druidic rites and older Celtic beliefs. Dr. William Stukeley, an eccentric naturalist, made monumental contributions by surveying ancient monuments and noticing solar alignments at Stonehenge. He proposed that Avebury's layout symbolized alchemical fusion and the 'true faith,' linking it to the serpent symbol of the Orm or Worm, representing the earth's life force.

Alfred Watkins and Ley Lines

The issue then introduces Alfred Watkins, who, in the early 20th century, discovered a network of straight lines connecting ancient sites across the landscape. He termed these 'ley lines,' suggesting they were ancient routes marked by specific place names. While his theory was initially met with skepticism and contradicted prevailing views on road construction, it inspired further research. Independent antiquarians confirmed the existence of these alignments, though the exact purpose of ley lines remained debated, with some suggesting they were more than just trade routes, possibly indicating spiritual significance or a vast, incomprehensible purpose.

The Glastonbury Zodiac and Landscape Geomancy

Katherine Maltwood's discovery of the 'Glastonbury Zodiac' is discussed, where she identified zodiacal figures superimposed on the landscape, suggesting a deliberate celestial mapping. This discovery, along with Watkins' ley lines, contributed to the growing field of earth mysteries, challenging the view of prehistoric peoples as primitive savages. The magazine notes that while these discoveries offered new perspectives, they were often met with criticism from orthodox archaeologists who doubted the sophistication of ancient cultures.

The Roman Church and the Serpent Symbol

The issue touches upon the symbolic transformation of the serpent, an ancient Celtic symbol of regeneration, into the Christian dragon, representing the devil. This shift occurred as the Roman Church superseded older mythologies. The serpent's association with divine knowledge, particularly from Egyptian traditions, is also mentioned.

Historical Views and Ongoing Research

Historically, prehistoric sites were often viewed as burial grounds, with little understanding of their potential astronomical or geomantic significance. The magazine contrasts this with the emerging theories that these sites were part of an 'orderly matrix' constructed by a wise, ancient culture. The ongoing debate between archaeologists and those studying earth mysteries is highlighted, with the latter group often facing skepticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interpretation of ancient sites, the nature of consciousness and paranormal phenomena, and the historical evolution of beliefs. There is a clear editorial stance favoring a deeper, more open-minded investigation into earth mysteries and unexplained phenomena, challenging conventional historical and archaeological perspectives. The magazine champions the work of pioneering figures who dared to question established narratives and explore alternative explanations for ancient human achievements and purported supernatural occurrences.

This issue of The Supernaturalist, identified by its page number '59', explores various mysteries, with a significant focus on ley hunting theories and their critique, particularly concerning the work of Donald Maxwell in Essex. The cover highlights topics such as the paranormal, UFOs, ghosts, earth mysteries, and the aftermath of the Toxteth riots.

Donald Maxwell's Ley Hunting in Essex

The article details Donald Maxwell's enthusiastic pursuit of ley hunting in Essex, driven by a desire to validate his theories and those of Watkin. Maxwell's approach involved travelling the countryside, visiting churches, hills, and villages, and seeking to establish 'sighting lines' that connected ancient sites and monuments. He was particularly interested in the concept of leys as remnants of ancient trackways, possibly used for trade, and the religious overtones associated with these lines.

Maxwell's research in Essex led him to focus on places like Maldon, known for its historical salt industry, and the area around St Nicholas' church in Laindon. He proposed that Laindon, situated on a prominent hill, was a center of pre-Christian worship, with four churches (All Saints' Stock, St Nicholas' Laindon, Stanford-le-Hope, and Holy Cross, Basildon) marking cardinal points and forming a 'sighting line'.

Critique of Maxwell's Theories

The article critically examines Maxwell's proposed ley lines. Using a six-inch Ordnance Survey map, it demonstrates that Maxwell's alignments often miss their intended markers by significant distances. For instance, the ley from Stock to East Tilbury is shown to be inaccurate, with the line passing east of Stanford-le-Hope and Mucking churches, and completely missing East Tilbury church. The article concludes that Maxwell's ley from Stock to East Tilbury is 'totally worthless and non existent in current terms'.

Maxwell's idea of Laindon as a center of pre-Christian devotion with beacon fires at the four cardinal points is also questioned. While the churches do lie roughly in the cardinal directions, they do not form a perfect geometric cross, and there is no archaeological evidence to support the beacon fire theory. The author suggests that Maxwell may have let his imagination run wild, attempting to force connections to support his theories and shake off critics.

Dragon Carvings and Pagan Symbols

The issue also features discussions on dragon carvings found in local churches, such as St Nicholas' Laindon and Holy Cross, Basildon. These 15th-century carvings are described as 'crude patriarchal cross piercing the dragon's back' and are interpreted as symbolizing the Christian faith's conquest of 'subtle subterranean forces' synonymous with Hell. The similarity between carvings in Laindon and Basildon is noted, suggesting a possible connection due to the historical linking of these parishes.

Another pagan symbol mentioned is the 'woodwose' or 'green man' design carved into a column in Mucking church, described as a rare representation in Essex and raising questions about its presence in a seemingly unimpressive church.

New Age Mysticism and Societal Upheaval

A separate section, titled 'Aftermath...', discusses the Toxteth riots and other street violence that occurred during the summer. It notes that community leaders and sociologists had anticipated such unrest due to economic recession and rising unemployment. However, New Age thinkers interpreted these events differently, viewing them as predicted signs of impending global cataclysmic changes leading to a 'new age' of peace and enlightenment.

The article explains that New Age propagationists believed the Earth's cosmic path was leading to significant natural upheavals, climate changes, and alterations in human consciousness. While those with a 'harmonious and balanced nature' would experience growing awareness, the 'unaware' population would suffer physical and mental degeneration, resulting in widespread violence and anarchy. The author concludes by noting that some of these predictions have occurred, while others are still awaited, and suggests a reserved judgment with an open mind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of ancient mysteries, the critical examination of popular theories like ley hunting, and the intersection of historical sites with spiritual beliefs. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded stance, presenting controversial theories like Donald Maxwell's ley hunting ideas but also providing detailed critiques based on evidence and current standards. The inclusion of topics like UFOs, ghosts, and New Age prophecies suggests a broad interest in the paranormal and unexplained phenomena, viewed through a lens that seeks rational explanation or at least a thorough investigation of claims. The editorial stance seems to favor evidence-based analysis while acknowledging the enduring human fascination with the supernatural and the unknown.