A new feature - because our events are so inspiring, and to give you a taster of more to come, we will add a summary of past events here, with comments from participants.

Remembrance:

On November 14th we thought about Remembrance and Memories. We explored the idea of family or tribal memory - how can we trace back the collective memory of our family or culture? How does that shared memory shape our identity? What memories are important to us? What special memories do we want to pass on to future generations, to be remembered for? We decided to start a Tree of Life memory quilt: we designed the tree and each made a small patch to add to the quilt, with a memory message we wanted others to share. We'll add to it at future events and post some pictures so you can see our progress!

Diwali and All Souls:

On Saturday 31st October we explored the themes of light and darkness in a celebration influenced by the festivals of Diwali, All Souls and the Celtic festival of Samhain. Caroline Mackenzie, a local artist who lived in India for many years, led us in meditation, chanting and a journey into the labyrinth.
We shared a festival tea, and ended with mythical stories inspired by the sea voyage of Beowulf and the Christian theme of the Harrowing of Hell.

We explored the season as a time of dying and new beginnings, when nights draw in and our natural fear of darkness may grow. Through lighting candles, we experienced the Hindu tradition of externalising our fears through being in darkness together then reaching the light; seen not as a fight against darkness but recognising that the divine, however that is conceived, is to be found in the darkness. The labyrinth could represent many things; a heart, a womb or even a tomb.

Our stories took us on an epic journey in the cocoon of a sailing ship and the dark expanse of the ocean; we were reminded of Beowulf's heroic struggles with the monsters of the deep. Our second tale imagined the hours just after Jesus died, and explored hell as darkness and the light as restorative justice.

Participants feedback:
"Peaceful" "Looking for the light in everyone I see" "A feeling of relaxation" "A sense of peace" "Such a wonderful nurturing, interesting day" "A wonderful enriching experience"