**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. The annual Spring Equinox, called Ostara by modern Pagans, is celebrated with eager anticipation in many lands and religions, and is the next holiday on the Pagan calendar. This is time to emerge from the darkness and close quarters of Winter, assess the world around us, and begin to search for signs of life and growth in our surroundings. In the plant kingdom, seeds and shoots are beginning to sprout as Spring approaches. In the animal kingdom, creatures have begun to look for new sources of food, for opportunities to renew old acquaintances, and perhaps to start a family. This is a time of positivity, excitement and possibility. Another aspect of Ostara is the balance of dark and light, as the time of daylight has become equal with nighttime. Some years, our Ritual focuses on this balance of light and dark, as it applies to our lives, spiritual practices, and/or future. Other times, we aim the ritual more towards honoring the Germanic goddess, Ostara, in her many aspects as a deity of fertility, growth, awakenings and 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!