In 1995, a group of friends with a shared interest in alternative spirituality and the arcane decided to start a group at their college to give like-minded people a place to gather and explore such topics. 

So the Society of Metaphysical Advancement (or SOMA as we lovinginly refer to it) was born and has been alive and kicking as a Recognized Student Organization at Eastern Illinois University ever since.

SOMA has evolved into an interfaith group that explores alternative religious beliefs and provides support for those members of the campus and Charleston community whose personal beliefs or interests might lie in these areas.

Past members have identified themselves as pagan, jewish, agnostic, atheist, christian or any number of other religious-orientations. They have all found SOMA. 

If you would like to find out more about us, drop by one of our weekly meetings. They are held every Wednesday at 7:45 p.m. in the Thomas Classroom, located in the basement of Thomas Hall at Eastern. 

Or drop us an e-mail at somaeiu@eiu.edu.