In a world that is increasingly polarized, the need to come together in meaningful ways grows ever greater. Traditionally, the winter solstice has served as a symbolic time to gather in the face of darkness and uncertainty. Solstice means “the sun stands still,” as at the darkest time of the year the pulse of life stops for a timeless moment, before the light can return and renew the energy of people and the Earth.

Traditional cultures around the world imagined that humans play a role in bringing the light back from the darkness. The rebirth of the sun in the darkest time reflects a potential awakening of the heart and soul of each person. When the light of the soul grows within us, it also contributes light and life to the world.

In the midst of the anxieties, conflicts and tragedies affecting us all, it is the sense of timelessness and sacredness that we most need. In facing the darkness together we can find and touch the divine spark of life, as each soul connects through prayer and song to the living Earth and the Soul of the World.