2.

Would it not be desirable for Spiritists to have a password, some sort of sign by which to recognize one another when they meet?

Spiritists form neither a secret society nor an affiliation; they should, therefore, have no secret sign by which to be recognized. As they teach nothing and practice nothing that cannot be known by everyone, they have nothing to hide. A sign, a password, could moreover be used by false brothers, and you would be no further advanced for it. You have a password that is understood from one end of the world to the other: it is that of charity. This word is easy for all to pronounce, but true charity cannot be counterfeited. By the practice of true charity you will always recognize a brother, even if he is not a Spiritist, and you must extend your hand to him, for if he does not share your beliefs, he will not for that reason be any less benevolent and tolerant toward you. A sign of recognition is, moreover, all the less necessary today since Spiritism no longer hides itself. For one who lacks the courage to affirm his opinion, it would be useless, since he would not make use of it; as for the others, they make themselves known by speaking without fear.