Hartland
For years, the First Universalist Society of Hartland has held a winter solstice celebration for attendees to experience that range of emotions. Tonight’s event runs from 7-8:30 p.m.
“In our tradition, Universalist Unitarianism, we have folks from many different backgrounds of faith and many different faith traditions, so we have a number of folks who identify most strongly with Earth-centered traditions,” said Paul Sawyer, minister of the congregation. It is possible to honor the darkness while at the same time wishing for light to return. “It can take you to a deeper space of reflection and attention,” Sawyer said.
The celebration begins with a meditative service in the sanctuary that includes “some singing, and some silliness as well,” Sawyer said. It’s followed by a bonfire at which the group burns the names of loved ones who have died, which were collected during November’s All Souls Day service.
The bonfire is also an opportunity for people to “either be casting away something they need to let go of from the old year, or casting a wish or hope or prayer for something new in the new year,” Sawyer said. “It’s both reflective and celebratory, and a lot of fun.”
Editor’s note: The free celebration takes place at First Universalist Society of Hartland, 8 Brownsville Road, Hartland Four Corners. For more information, call 802-436-2592. Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com or 603-727-3221.
