1. What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
My name is Sergio Moraes Júnior, was born in Rio de Janeiro and I joined the Theosophical Society in 1986, thirty years ago.
2. Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
I am an active worker in the Brazilian Section and serve as the actual Vice General Secretary. As an airline pilot I am able to travel around the country, lecturing and being in contact with many Theosophists in many different cities. It helps me to open new study groups and to work in a variety of ways to spread the Divine Wisdom throughout the country.
3. How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
I used to have some friends and some relatives who were already members of the TS. My curiosity and questioning spirit made them point the way, first via a book by Krishnamurti, and afterwards I was invited to attend some meetings of a Theosophical youth group, called Grupo Lótus. They were very enthusiastic about studying the deepest aspects of life. Their attitude of mutual respect, open minded intense study and reverence for everybody touched me deeply.
4. What does Theosophy mean to you?
Theosophy for me is the most precious jewel, the richest treasure, the most meaningful and transforming factor a human being can get in touch with. It is a wisdom that brings peace, order, a perception that transforms our lives deeply. And we may behave completely differently after getting in touch with this Wisdom and in such a profound way of seeing life. We become able to see the divine in every person and every being. In its purest sense, it is the perception of the Unity of Life, bringing Love and Compassion. In its practical form it is joyful living and enthusiastic service.
5. What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
One of my favorite books is At The Feet of The Master. Being simple and profound at the same time, we may invite many newcomers on this journey, inviting them to read this jewel and have a glimpse of this wonderful sea of Truth and Beauty called Theosophy.
6. What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
I think we, as part of this Society, face a huge challenge: how to maintain the spreading of this Ancient Wisdom making good use of modern means and modern methods. New technologies and means of communications are here and we may use many different languages and forms of expressions, from art to philosophy, from physical meetings to ideals spread via internet. Too much useless information is to be put aside and Theosophists should stand up for Truth and, while at the same time that Truth functions as a light beam to touch the souls of the seekers.
7. Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
I would wish for the Theosophical Movement the “enthusiasm” that we have here in Brazil, the “organization” we see in some western countries and the “profound and natural commitment” we see in eastern countries. May we be humble to learn and to acknowledge that every culture has its own expression of Beauty and Love, so there is a lot to learn from each other. Theosophy, ultimately, embraces all.
From the editor:
Opinions and ideas expressed in the mini-interviews are exclusively of those who are being interviewed. They don’t necessarily represent the ideas and opinions of the compilers of Theosophy Forward. The responses of the interviewees are not edited for content. Some contributors give short answers to the questions while others touch upon the subject more elaborately.