Theosophical
Society
Torbay
Ancient Aliens
Dr. Michael Rhodes
Join Dr. Michael Rhodes, one of our own Lodge members, as he delves into the fascinating and often controversial theory of Ancient Aliens — examining the evidence put forward, the debates it continues to provoke, and what light Theosophical thought may cast on this enduring question.
Introduction
Torbay Lodge was founded in 1914 as part of The Theosophical Society in England. The Society has lodges in over 70 countries, with its international headquarters at Adyar, India.
We study the Ancient Wisdom through the works of Helena Blavatsky and writers who have remained true to her original teachings. Our programme includes talks, study groups and introductory meetings — all are welcome.
What is Theosophy?
The word Theosophy comes from the Greek theosophia, formed from theos (meaning "god," "the divine," or that which concerns ultimate reality) and sophia ("wisdom"). It is commonly translated as "divine wisdom" or "wisdom concerning the nature of reality."
The term first appears in written form between the 3rd and 6th centuries, used by the Alexandrian Neo-Platonic philosophers. For them, Theosophy did not refer to belief or doctrine, but to direct insight gained through lived experience, rather than through abstract or purely intellectual reasoning.
Over time, the word has been used to describe individuals working in this same spirit of inner enquiry. Figures such as Meister Eckhart in the 14th century, Jacob Boehme in the 17th century, and Emanuel Swedenborg in the 18th century have later been described as "theosophers" — not because they shared a common system, but because each sought understanding beyond the boundaries of formal religion.
In 1875, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky (1831–1891), Henry Steel Olcott (1832–1907), William Quan Judge (1851–1896), and a small group of like-minded thinkers founded the Theosophical Society. In doing so, they brought the term back into wider use and helped shape the modern Theosophical Movement — one strand of which continues today through lodges such as ours.
About Torbay Lodge
Torbay Lodge is a local branch of the Theosophical Society in England, and forms part of the International Theosophical Society (Adyar). Its purpose is simple: to study and share Theosophy, and to act as an active centre of Theosophical life.
The Lodge was formally chartered on 31 January 1914, when its Charter was signed by Dr Annie Besant. In 2014, the Lodge marked 100 years of Theosophy in Torbay.
The work of the Lodge centres on serious study and reflection, drawing on the Theosophical tradition often referred to as the Ancient Wisdom. This includes the writings of H. P. Blavatsky, W. Q. Judge, and others associated with the Theosophical Society. The Lodge does not impose belief or doctrine and places a strong emphasis on freedom of thought.
Torbay Lodge occupies its own building near Torquay Harbour. The property was left as a legacy in 1925 to the English Theosophical Trust for the use of the Lodge, with the intention that it provide a permanent place for study and meeting. We see this bequest as a responsibility — both to care for the building and to use it in a way that reflects the Society's aims.
The Lodge maintains a library of esoteric literature, along with media resources, and provides a study room for members. Meetings, talks, and study groups take place at the Lodge, and visitors with a genuine interest in Theosophy are welcome to attend.
Finding Us
From Torquay Harbour, proceed up Torwood Street, away from the clock tower. After approximately 200 yards, turn right at the traffic lights onto Parkhill Road. The traffic flow continues onto Meadfoot Road, where there is a public car park; however, fork right to remain on Parkhill Road. Torbay Lodge is approximately 100 yards along on the left.
Please note that parking near the Lodge is limited to short-stay (two-hour) spaces or residents only. The Meadfoot Road car park is the nearest public parking.
Contact
Address
26 Parkhill Road
Torquay
TQ1 2AL
Telephone
01803 203195
A volunteer is usually available between 9:30am and 12:30pm. Outside these hours, please leave a message on the answering machine.
