I wrote this brief reflection/working for the Winter Solstice Rite I’m running at ORW this year. I really like the imagery of passing the light. It gives us time to honor the holy dark, but also look to finding hope. If you’d like to do this working, you’ll need a candle (or electric candle) for each person present, and the overhead lights turned off. 

The Winter Solstice is dual-faceted: a time that represents the depths of darkness, but also a time that marks the Return of the Light.  As we hold these candles, with the lights turned off, I invite you to think on the darkness that has been present in your life this past year.  Where have been those hard moments that push you towards despair?  And as you listen to this song, I encourage you to think of the community that supports you.  Listen to the words, and remember:

“Now comes the time of year when shadow yields the throne”

Things move in cycles, and now is when we can surrender that darkness, and welcome light and hope back into our lives.  Dark times must end, and we can lean on each other for support to see us through.  

“Our hearts bring back the light” 

So, as you sit in darkness, look around you, and when you feel moved, light your candle.  Let the lights of those around you buoy your spirit. 

Keep faith and keep your candle. / The sun is sure to rise.

My wish this Solstice Night / is grace and peace to you.