**NOTE PROGRAM LOGISTICS BELOW RITUAL DESCRIPTION.** PLEASE CONTACT EARTHRISING@UUFP.ORG WITH ANY QUESTIONS. FOR THIS MONTH’S EVENTS: Planning and Ritual are onsite (varying indoors, in the Sanctuary building, and outside, weather permitting). For in-person attendance, masks policy depends on local COVID rates; please check uufp.org for current status. No virtual platform offered at this time. Ritual: Special items to bring to the event are customarily announced on Announcements and/or EarthRising’s Facebook group. Unable to join an onsite or virtual gathering? The beauty and meaning of the Ritual can still be appreciated. Imbolc (alternatively spelled Imbolg) marks the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. Thus, it is a fortuitous time to take stock, assess supplies, physical and spiritual, cleanse and purify tools, and prepare ourselves for the year to come. Imbolc means “in the belly of the Mother”—that is where seeds are beginning to stir as Spring approaches. Some years, our Ritual focuses on the cycle of the winter season phasing into Spring. Other times, we aim the ritual more towards honoring the Celtic goddess, Brighid, in her many aspects as a deity of fire, healing, poetry, crafts and fertility. This is also a time of new beginnings and of purification, a fortuitous time to look to the future, clearing out the old, making both our outer and inner spaces ready for new beginnings.​​ **LOGISTICS VARY DEPENDING UPON LOCAL COVID RATES: Unless otherwise noted, both Planning sessions and Rituals occur at 7:00 p.m. (set-up at 6:00), on the dates noted in the chart, in or around the surrounding property of the UUFP sanctuary. If onsite events are suspended, EarthRising@uufp.org can advise about opportunities for virtual gatherings. PLANNING SESSIONS are open to all of good will. We often state that the “Real Magic” takes place at our Planning sessions, as insights and ideas spark, kindle, and grow into inspiration and creation. RITUALS begin with an in-gathering. Children accompanied by parents are welcome. If you’d like someone to guide you through the Ritual, you may be paired with a friend. Rituals are followed by a potluck feast (unless otherwise noted) and social time. EarthRising strives to be inclusive, fun and safe for all ages and abilities, respectful of the Earth and all her creations, and to provide meaningful opportunities to experience the mysteries of the Universe. Blessed be! 2023 Planning & Rituals Visit EarthRising for more info!