INVITED TO THE FEAST

 There are a number of reasons why I'm really looking forward to our 26th Circle Birthday party this Sunday-- including the fact that we're still continuing to grow as a spiritual community 26 years later. And that we'll have a great big, tasty birthday cake! Also high up on the list is the delicious potluck lunch we're certain to enjoy immediately following our Morning Circle.

 

FED BY THE PROCESS

     There's always something magical about the wide variety of food that Circle folks bring to our communal feasts. Even without a signup sheet or advance planning, invariably there's a delightful balance between vegetarian and meat entrees, spicy and mild side dishes, vegetables and desserts. Some folks clearly spend a lot of time preparing their favorite, home-cooked specialty; others grab something from the deli section at Whole Foods, or perhaps some crackers and chips from the corner store. Each has their own style and preferences, but the wonderful thing is that when they all come together on the buffet table, everything always seems to work out perfectly, with a wide assortment of tasty foods that's more than enough for everyone present.

 

BLESSED BY THE GIFTS

     In many ways, this potluck process seems like an apt metaphor for our independent, interfaith Circle community, comprised of individuals from a wide variety of faith backgrounds, lifestyles and modes of expressing our inner selves. Many were raised with traditional Christian backgrounds and are now seeking to widen their understanding of other traditions; some have a personal meditation style arising from their interest in Buddhism or a yoga practice, but are wanting to ground themselves in a wider community. Some are seeking a deeper connection to the Earth; others are seeking transcendental experience; some are longing for a place where they can dance and celebrate their faith to the rhythms of live music, while others prefer to remain seated and simmer in stillness.

 

TOUCHED BY THE WHOLE

      But each time there is a Circle gathering and our sacred space is created, all of these individuals become part of the greater whole that is our Circle family - and all are miraculously fed by the process, each according to her own needs and his own understanding.

      I, for one, embrace all of it, and am deeply grateful for what you - like every other person involved - bring to the ever-evolving, ongoing feast that is the Celebration Circle. I really hope to see you at our Birthday Party this Sunday, or sometime soon, and send rich blessings to you on your unique spiritual path.

 

With joy,

Rudi Harst

THANK YOU for holding the Circle in your heart by visualizing a generous flow of financial abundance. Thank you for supporting us as we continue our work of fostering a creative, inclusive approach to spirituality. We are deeply grateful.