Samhain

As this Samhain approaches, what is ending in you? What do you have inside that it is time to let go of? No healing is complete until you get beyond recovery.

At the same time, be ready to plant the seeds of the new. What would you like to become involved with? A new type of job? A more meaningful spiritual path? A better way of relating with your partner? While something old is gone, also use the energies of Samhain to plant the seeds of the new.

Samhain is also a time of Remembrance: of Ancestors and Spiritual guides who have passed over, but also of friends and family members who have recently left us and are awaiting rebirth. Samhain is a good time to remember them.

November 2 is traditionally Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. The tradition is that families bring the favorite foods of recently deceased relatives and have a picnic with them, sharing photographs and memories.

The tradition of ancestor worship is old and transcends cultures. It is well-known in Eastern religious traditions but there is evidence that the paleolithic tribes that eventually became the Celts also practiced it, as did the Norse. In prehistoric Scotland, there is evidence that the neolithic tribes that eventually became the Picts included the bones of honored ancestors in  the dirt ledges in their stone huts (such as Skara Brae). There is even evidence that some ancestors were mummified in peat bogs and kept around the house so they could comfort and advise their descendents. Take some time during Samhain to remember who you are and where you came from. Your ancestors certainly determined your genetic makeup, and much more.

Tentative Schedule -

This Samhain festival is hosted by CUUP's and being put on by several of the Pagan groups in the community. Please be sure to bring the following: Warm ritual garb, potluck item, container to hold hot ashes, money if you'd like to shop at the vendors or donate to the readers.

Be advised, times are estimates and events may be slightly earlier or later depending on how long some things might take.

1:00 - DOOR'S OPEN! Community gathering social time, & Vendors
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Reader's Open for 2 1/2 hrs. (Donations welcomed)
1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.- Poster Session
Four paths will be presented, plus posters for three of the local pagan groups. Representatives will be available to answer questions about their paths and groups.
2:00 - 4:00 Presentations and Discussions
Representatives of eight pagan paths will be giving a 15 minute  talk about their tradition and then answering questions.
2:00 p.m. - 4:00p.m.  - Crafts Table
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Labyrinth Open for meditation.
4:30 p.m.  - 5:00 p.m. -   Story of  Samhain, Ancestor Meditation, followed by Procession to Ritual.
5:00 p.m. -6:00 p.m. -  Ritual by Roots
6:00 p.m.  - 6:30 p.m.  Remembrance Table by CUUPS
6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Potluck
Pot Luck will include a stone soup from CUUPS. Celebrants are encouraged to bring a favorite meal of one who has passed over that you wish to honor, plus some. small memorabilia of that person to share.
7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.  Cleanup

*if you would like to be a reader, healer, or vendor contact Malissa - 509-263-1978