WELCOME TO THE SEASON OF CHRISTMASTIDE
On the fifth day of Christmas, Elder Beth Wylie will guide us through an exploration of the Celtic roots of the celebration of Christmastide, or the Festival of Christmas. Drawing upon the research of Westhope’s frequent Advent Retreat leader, the author and speaker Alexander John Shaia, we will share meditations and reflections on the deeper meanings of Christmastide traditions…and a celebration of the wonder and awe of birth.
The ancient Celts celebrated for 13 days at the Winter Solstice in honor of the mysteries and power of birth, believing the Solstice to mark the rebirth of the sun and with its growing light the promise of life returning amid the barrenness of winter.
Early Christians saw the beauty and truth of the Celtic rituals and added a new layer to the story—the story of a universal Jesus the Christ, born anew like the sun, in the midst of our own seasons of outer and inner darkness.
During these turbulent and troubling times, we must remember that darkness is not the end. Rather, in the very moment of the deepest dark, new life begins.
Join us as we gather in sacred community
to LISTEN. to SPEAK. to ENGAGE.
Your voice matters. Your presence matters. Your healing matters.
SUNDAYS 10AM
ALL ARE WELCOME
IN PERSON and ONLINE