About ACIM

Welcome to the story of A Course in Miracles—a spiritual path that has inspired millions around the world.

“There must be
a better way.”

Dr. Helen Schucman and her colleague Dr. William Thetford were struggling with tension and conflict in the New York City psychology department where they worked.

In June of 1965, Bill made an impassioned plea for change: “There must be a better way,” he said. Bill was tired of all the friction and wanted to find a way, in his words, “to cooperate rather than compete.

To her surprise, Helen jumped up and agreed to help him find it. Little did they know, this simple moment of joining would spark a journey that would change their lives–and the lives of countless others.

Dr. Helen Schucman and her colleague Dr. William Thetford

Dr. Helen Schucman and her colleague
Dr. William Thetford

a page in helen schucman's notes

The page from Helen Schucman’s notebook that contains the beginning of A Course in Miracles

“This is a course in miracles. Please take notes.”

Shortly after Helen and Bill’s “better way” moment, Helen began to experience vivid inner visions and dreams. Then, in October of 1965, she started hearing a clear inner voice, which she identified as Jesus. The voice said, “This is a course in miracles. Please take notes.” Though Helen was initially reluctant, she felt compelled to write down what she heard.

Over the next seven years, Helen acted as a scribe for the voice, filling dozens of notebooks with material that would later become A Course in Miracles: a Text, a Workbook for Students, and a Manual for Teachers. Bill supported her throughout the process, typing up her handwritten notes each day.

A modern spiritual classic is born.

When the scribing was complete, Helen and Bill were joined by Ken Wapnick and Judy Skutch Whitson. Together, they formed the Foundation for Inner Peace and partnered to bring the Course into the world.

In 1976, the first published version of A Course in Miracles was released. With its innovative teaching and practical application, the Course quickly gained a dedicated following. Spiritual seekers from all backgrounds were immediately drawn to its message of forgiveness as the way we let go of the illusions that keep us trapped in fear and conflict, thus revealing the love that is always present.

Helen and Bill joined by Ken Wapnick and Judy Skutch Whitson

Ken Wapnick, Judy Skutch Whitson, Helen Schucman, and Bill Thetford

A Course in Miracles

Today, ACIM has become a global movement.

Each day students around the world study the teachings, attend groups, and find personal transformation through the Course’s daily lessons. A Course in Miracles has profoundly impacted the lives of millions and continues to grow in popularity each year.


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