On Saturday, more than 100 people came looking for a word or two of encouragement from lost loved ones during the First Spiritualist Church’s Holistic Psychic Faire.

For the past 17 years, church members have organized the biannual fair, which serves as their major fundraiser. The nondenominational church was founded in 1903. Members believe there is life after death and that the living may communicate with the dead through mediums.

At Saturday’s faire, held in the Elks Club on Cranberry Highway, church member Beverly Sylvia was one of 20 mediums who offered readings.

This was Sylvia’s second time reading at the fair, and she said the church’s message resonates with many people.

“We believe in life after death and that it’s possible to reach out to loved ones who have passed away,” she said. “That’s very comforting to someone who has lost someone close to them.”

Among the visitors was Cindy Barg, a psychotherapist, public speaker and author from Sandwich.

Barg has traveled the world sharing a message of hope and inspiration based on experiences she’s had contacting those on the other side.  Barg said she takes a holistic approach to her practice. For her, Saturday’s faire was a chance to get together with like-minded individuals. 

“This is an opportunity for many to come together and meet locally to share our insights,” said Barg.

For more information on the First Spiritualist Church of Onset, visit www.church1.org.