Earth Circle CUUPS

Text Box: As Unitarian Universalists, we share a Living Tradition which draws from many sources, including the Sixth Source of the Unitarian Universalist Principles and Purposes: “Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.” Earth Circle provides opportunities to celebrate and learn about a variety of earth-based traditions through the celebration of sun circles throughout the calendar year. As a chapter of CUUPS (Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans), we are a community of people who follow varied spiritual traditions that weave strands together like a tapestry, with ties to nature and to each person’s inner voice. Our worship celebrations honor our members’ earth-centered paths through music, dance, visual arts, poetry, story and creative ritual. We also strive to foster balance and healing relationships with the earth and all the earth’s children.

Text Box: Sun Circles The following sun circles, otherwise known as sabbats, are traditionally celebrated on the quarters and cross-quarters of the solar year. They are publicly celebrated by the Earth Circle CUUPS Chapter at 6 Locke St, Andover, with the exception of Yule, Litha, and Lammas, which are held at outdoor locations. Mabon - September 20, 2009, 5 p.m. The celebration of Autumn Equinox, this sabbat celebrates the balance of day and night and marks the beginning of the transition from summer to winter. The autumn harvest will be celebrated with a wine tasting and a sampling of other fruits of the harvest. Samhain - November 1, 2009, 7 p.m. The Celtic New Year celebration, this sabbat focuses on honoring death as part of the sacred circle of life and remembers those who have crossed over. Yule - December 27, 2009, 7 p.m. This winter solstice celebration marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. This sabbat welcomes the rebirth of the sun with an outdoor ritual around a bonfire followed by a wassail party afterward. Call for location. In case of inclement weather, the celebration will be held at the UU Congregation , 6 Locke St., Andover, MA. Imbolc - January 31, 2010, 5 p.m. Otherwise known as Candlemas, this sabbat celebrates the growing daylight and new beginnings in ourselves. Ostara - March 21, 2010, 5 p.m. The celebration of the Spring Equinox, this sabbat is a celebration of balance within and the awakenings of nature without. Beltane - May 1, 2010, Time to be announced. This is the celebration of the fertility of the earth made possible by the light and warmth of the sun. For Beltane, Earth Circle will be joining EarthSpirit or Cosmic Muse for their Beltane celebrations. Contact us for more information.

Text Box: Litha - June 19, 2010, 9 a.m. This sabbat marks the summer solstice and celebrates the sun’s life-giving warmth and ability to make things grow. Call for location. Lammas (Lughnasadh) - August 1, 2010, 5 p.m. This is the celebration of the first harvest and the recognition of the shortening days and lengthening nights. Contact us for location.

Text Box: Sun Circles: Celebrating the Wheel of the Year

Earth Circle Labyrinth