Sunday, December 13: Into Darkness

Worship Leader Elisabeth Hathaway

As we near the winter solstice we all face the prospect of entering into a place of darkness, the longest night, the darkest hour. Symbolically this is the belly of the whale, a narrow gate, a place of great unknown and unknowing, wihc can be terrifying and lonely, and many of us do much to avoid it. Yet this is also the spiritual symbol of great potential and profound transition, for out of the darnkess into the light is one the central metaphors for growth and rebirth across the ages and cultures: out of the darkness a child is born, a new year, enlightenment. Today we will have an experiential and meditative service, holding this place of darkness collectively, with its mystery, waiting and silence, before we emerge into the light of the celebration next week with the drumming circle. NOTE: This service will have a period of meditation; Be sure to bring a shawl or lap blanket if it is cold out so you are cozy sitting!