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Many, many moons ago, a group of women gathered at the
church for support, education, encouragement and friendship. And it was good. A
Circle was cast and opened to welcome and include all those seeking spiritual
connection through Sisterhood. Over the years, the group ebbed and flowed in
energy, membership and participation, trusting that all was as it was meant to
be. During that time, the gifts of the Circle flowed freely and we witnessed
transformation, growth and empowerment among those within the sacred space.
Perhaps more importantly was how the energy rippled out into the larger
community effecting change both locally and globally. We came to know the
beauty and responsibility of the Circle and saw firsthand how the gifts
blossomed when shared with honorable intentions and loving hearts.
Believing that for everything there is a season, it
has been recognized that the original purpose of the Circle has been met and
that the time has come to let go with the same grace, thoughtfulness and
intention that opened it almost fifteen years ago. In closing the Circle, we
clear the space for a new generation of creation in whatever form it takes. In
closing the Circle, we acknowledge, honor and celebrate its place in the Wheel
of Life. In closing the circle, we are aware that the goodness and the rituals
and the magick and the friendships continue. And it's still good.
We joined on Saturday, April 4,
2009 for the closing ritual. We brought mementos from rituals past, stories of what the group (or a
specific ritual) has meant to us, photos of our times together, copies of
favorite rituals, etc. The Circle also welcomed items from other parts of our lives
that were inspired by the Circle. We brought favorite chants and songs
and musical toys. Placing these on the altar, we began with a sharing
circle. As we shared stories and song, we each poured water into a communal
bowl. Then, we put the energy (and water) into motion by walking over to the
island and releasing it. With that, The Women's Spirituality Group and Drumming
Circle of The First Unitarian Church of South Bend closed.
Aho.
-- Kellirae Boann
In 2008 we put together a Sunday Service for
First U, using a script written by several of the women of our Central Midwest
District Women and
Religion Committee. Marie took some photos, which are
HERE!
In 2001, we made a CD to benefit a
small village in Belize! Most of the songs, and poetry on the CD are originals,
written by members of the group from all over Michiana. The music we
played is an eclectic mix of women's spirituality chants, Native American and
African tunes, with plenty of harmony.
The CDs
are now available through UU Women and Religion.
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