The Light Center was created as a place where people could come to pray and meditate anytime, any day of the year. It is dedicated to prayer for personal and planetary transformation.  A deep desire to know God, to seek answers, and the study of the holy scriptures of the various religions of the world led to insights that generated the "7 STEPS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER" which is available to all. The use of these 7 steps promotes the placing of loved ones in “bubbles of light” to protect them. This practice led to the realization that the same could be done for the entire planet, and a group was formed to use the Effective Prayer to expand  the consciousness of all.

In 1970, this group met in prayer and received guidance as to a location to pursue these ideals. One word was received in prayer, "Swannanoa."  Swannanoa, Virginia was the only locale of which the participants were cognizant. Through expanding concentric circles, Swannanoa, North Carolina, was discovered along with the current location of the United Research Light Center, Lodge  and grounds. The nurturing energy of these mountains, coupled with the spiritual atmosphere, and the group’s continued prayer for peace every day led to the awareness and knowledge of this glorious place.  Soon people from all over began to want to experience this feeling and were led to be a part of this new way to pray.

In 1976, UNITED RESEARCH, INC. was formed as a nonprofit corporation to provide a vehicle for the receipt of unsolicited donations toward education in prayer and the building and maintenance of a prayer center. In October 1979, the Light Center was dedicated. The Light Center is a two-story, white geodesic dome surrounded by the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. There are no memberships, requirements, creeds, doctrines, or dues. There is information on how to use effective prayer, the use of colored rays of light, and inspired music as an enhancement for prayer. Tens of thousands of people have come to the Light Center from all over the world to join in prayer. Prayer groups have formed throughout the country and the world to hold true to the Divine within all people and all things. In addition, United Research has sponsored prayer missions to more than 50 nations around the planet.

The people of United Research have expanded their awareness of the oneness of the Creator through continued unceasing prayer.  Daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly happenings at the Light Center, directing all to enlightenment, also assist in this awareness.