A day before the actual solstice, this gathering symbolizes our commitment to coming together, honoring our traditions, and finding warmth in the community.
This year's solstice service offers a unique blend of reflection, joy, and anticipation. As the night unfolds, we'll gather around our community tree, a symbol of hope and the returning light. Adorned with handmade ornaments, our community tree reminds us that light, beauty, and warmth are within reach even in dark times.
We will light battery-operated votive candles in the season's spirit, casting a gentle glow that mirrors our inner light. This act of illumination is not just about the physical light; it's a symbolic gesture toward igniting the light within ourselves and each other.
Amidst the flickering candles, we will engage in the soulful tradition of singing. As Dacha Avelin beautifully expressed, "After the longest night, tomorrow we sing up the dawn." Our songs will be a rejoicing, an acknowledgment that the sun, and indeed hope, is ever-present.
This gathering is also a time for setting intentions. As we stand at the threshold of a new cycle, as Margaret Atwood eloquently puts it, "the year's threshold and unlocking," we invite you to reflect on the past and envision a future filled with growth and possibilities. It's a moment to breathe deeply, acknowledge the stillness, and prepare for the journey ahead.
And, as always, our gathering wouldn't be complete without the aroma of freshly baked bread and the comforting warmth of tea.
So, as Scott Awbrey says, let's take part in this sacred cycle, feeling the renewal of our own lives. Join us in celebrating the sun's rebirth, a reminder of the continuous cycle of life and renewal.
Warm regards,
Edward Viljoen, Senior Minister
Photo by Paolo Nicolello on Unsplash
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