Institute for Spiritual Development

A Metaphysical Church and School for Spiritual Development 

Welcome to a new and exciting future at ISD Oneonta!  What is the Institute for Spiritual Development? It's both a metaphysical church and an educational center originally founded 40 yrs ago in Sparta, NJ.

This new chartered chapter is harnessing the growing spiritual awareness movement in Oneonta, NY. Lovingly created by Rev. Diana Friedell & her sister Rev. Sue Landon, we are now led by a powerful leadership team, and executive board.  We are the fourth chapter- the other ISDs are in Sparta, NJ, Madison, NJ, and Washington, DC. Three others have sprung up since we began! Welcome Sarasota, FLA,    ISD Treasure Coast,  and ISD Middle Tennessee

 ISD is a church that focuses on healing, intuitive connection, and the joy of finding the spirit connection within rather than being told how it should or could be experienced. We welcome those who want to belong to a spiritual group of like-minded people, in which you can explore and find your own path in a community of love and support.


There are classes, services, events, and a sense of community and fellowship. Energy healing and intuitive messages are delivered as a regular part of the worship service. Classes offer many tools which will help you on your life path, and the community we are creating together is one of openness and acceptance, and the ability to adapt with  change and growth. 


To quote the Rev. Kathy Kerston, the Director of ISD Sparta:
"To live in health, happiness and prosperity is everyone's birthright, whether we choose to follow a certain path is our individual choice. No dogma or belief system is imposed upon anyone."


We hope you will join us in this auspicious beginning, the first steps of becoming a well-established institution that supports the people of Oneonta and the surrounding area in living full and happy lives.

In Peace,  Rev. Diana Friedell, Pastor
  • Please join us- "Friendsgiving" Open House Sunday, 1pm on at Darling Hill Retreat- See Calendar for Details!
    Please join us- "Friendsgiving" Open House Sunday, 1pm on at Darling Hill Retreat- See Calendar for Details!
  • Fun with Renee's Intuitive Development circle on Tuesdays @2:30p or Diana's Wise Wednesdays at 5:30- See calendar entry for ZOOM LINK. . .
    Fun with Renee's Intuitive Development circle on Tuesdays @2:30p or Diana's Wise Wednesdays at 5:30- See calendar entry for ZOOM LINK. . .
  • DREAM Circle on ZOOM every THURSDAY, 10am now facilitated by Amanda Hoover- See Calendar for zoom link!
    DREAM Circle on ZOOM every THURSDAY, 10am now facilitated by Amanda Hoover- See Calendar for zoom link!
  • Jan. 7th 1pm- Join us for our annual New Year's Retreat-- letting go of past regrets & bringing new light to your Intentions for 2023 w/Diana Leaving the past where it belongs... see calendar entry...
    Jan. 7th 1pm- Join us for our annual New Year's Retreat-- letting go of past regrets & bringing new light to your Intentions for 2023 w/Diana Leaving the past where it belongs... see calendar entry...
  • Friday, Dec. 2nd "Multidimensional Happy Hour" with Amanda Hoover! see calendar
    Friday, Dec. 2nd "Multidimensional Happy Hour" with Amanda Hoover! see calendar
  • 12-18-22 Come One Come All! 12 noon- ISD Holiday Party with Secret Santa- see Calendar for details. . .
    12-18-22 Come One Come All! 12 noon- ISD Holiday Party with Secret Santa- see Calendar for details. . .
Please join us- "Friendsgiving" Open House Sunday, 1pm on at Darling Hill Retreat- See Calendar for Details!
Please join us- "Friendsgiving" Open House Sunday, 1pm on at Darling Hill Retreat- See Calendar for Details!
Next Metaphysical Service
Sunday, December 4, 10 am
At ISD Lotus Center, 124 Co. Hwy 58, Oneonta, NY

Homily: "Spiritual Gifts"
by Rev. Story Lucile Ducey,
Emcee:  Rev. Amanda Hoover

or watch the simulcast of homily on 

With the belief that all paths lead us Home, ISD is dedicated to helping each spirit walk their path with courage and joy.

We stand for each individual’s right to seek their own personal Truth, as they respect the same right for others. We honor the sacred texts of all traditions of the Light.

We believe that communication with all spirits is possible and can be manifested.
The ISD Faculty join forces to explore the power of prayer. Science has shown that prayer is effective, but how do we start a practice? What words, what attitudes actually work? Please join us in Zoom Class every Thursday, and pick what to add to your spiritual garden. Register for one for $33, or $26 for ISD Members, or for the Entire Series for 15% OFF - $165  now $140- for all six sessions or $130  now $110 for ISD Members. CLICK on the Picture above for Details and Registration. . .
The Ministerial Program at the Institute

Are you called to spiritual leadership?
Using your gifts to help others along their spiritual and metaphysical path?

Through this program people are trained to be ordained ministers, with all the rights and responsibilities of any professionally ordained minister, priest, rabbi, or other religious designation.
Come to our first class- Ceremonial Leadership on Sept. 8th & find out if this program is for you!