Pagan

Join us on the Solstice to celebrate the return of the Sun and affirm our community fellowship to see us through the dark half of the year. We will gather, rain or shine, in the National Arboretum around 11:30 for a start time of noon for the ritual. There are no tables, so you needn’t bother with any potluck dishes, but if you want to bring a hot beverage to share, it would be most welcomed.

\*\*\*Meditation in our sacred space will begin promptly at 7:15 pm. Please refrain from entering after 7:15 pm. Additionally, space is limited to the first 35 attendees. Your RSVP here does not guarantee you a spot and tickets are available first come, first served. \*\*\* Donations are appreciated, and the average donation is generally $20, but all are welcome regardless of means! A portion of all proceeds will help fund the Crystal Ashram non-profit project where the Human Activation School of Expanded Consciousness will be located. A unique musical experience called a "Sound Bath" Sound bath! What's that? According to sonic specialist Monte Hansen from Annapolis MD, "A sound bath is an immersion in sound frequency that cleans your soul." Leave your rubber ducky at home. Bring your blankey instead, for this super relaxing immersion! According to cutting-edge doctors from Harvard, some of the deepest most profound healing in the body are accomplished with sound frequency. That's old news though. A 2nd century stone relief in the Himalayan mountains shows us that Buddha and his entourage knew this before Christ walked the earth. The stone relief depicts the Buddha and his buddies playing ancient Tibetan singing bowls. A sound frequency specialist from the [Human Activation School](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=d6674b4603&e=465ba11f44), will be playing several of these rare Singing Bowls, some of which are over 200 years old. A magical alchemy of 7-12 different metals rings in the past, present, and future for our relaxing enchantment. Even modern doctors are using these old metal bowls for healing, and they are not practicing Buddhists! As a matter of fact, modern Buddhists no longer use the bowls in their practice. Come experience these gifts from the past in this NON-religious practice of our present. Come be rejuvenated or just captivated by this unique musical performance. Bring your pillows, blankeys, and yoga mats and snuggle into the comfort of the tranquil sounds. Feel free to sit, lay, or even stand! ***Did You Know?*** Singing bowls invite the mind and body into a tranquil state of being in which remarkable healing can occur, events that are unexplainable from a conventional biomedical perspective” *Music and the Meditative Mind: Toward the Science of the Ineffable*[Source](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=9222616fc4&e=465ba11f44) "The sound bath meditation provides a nurturing space to connect and grow spiritually. The group atmosphere is welcoming and fun, and the meditation work is soothing and enriching. Loved it!"**-Cara** 7:00 pm - Meditation Reception\*\*\*Meditation in our sacred space will begin promptly at 7:15 pm. Please refrain from entering after 7:15 pm.\*\*\* 7:15 - Doors Close & Meditation Begins 8:15 - Meditation Ends, Followed by Community Reflection \*Please be respectful of Sticks and Stones employees and their instructions upon entering and exiting the space for the meditation\* A portion of all proceeds will help fund the [Crystal Ashram](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=11664c3011&e=465ba11f44) non-profit project where the [Human Activation](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=41699e76d8&e=465ba11f44) School of Expanded Consciousness will be located. Community sharing and engagement following after the meditation Questions? Please email [robert@humanactivation.com](mailto:robert@humanactivation.com) or visit [crystalashram.com](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=7d92f9b8f7&e=465ba11f44)\. \|

We had a wonderful session in September so let’s do it again! A Reiki Circle this is a gathering of Reiki practitioners who work in a group to provide Reiki treatments on each other. The main purpose of the Reiki share is to give and receive Reiki in a casual atmosphere of friendship, encouragement, and positive energy. We will share our wisdom and skills, socialize and make new friends in this Reiki community. Space is limited to 10 people. We will see if we need to grow or shrink from there. Let us know if you have and questions! See you there! Shaman Phil

Merry Christmas Deplorables! This month's meetup will be our annual Christmas Party at Crystal City Sports Pub. We're pulling out all the stops and getting every group together for this EXTREME ULTRA NUCLEAR MEGA MAGA Christmas party! Christmas BEST DRESSED contest! Wear your best holiday flair and compete to win! We will have the 3rd floor all to ourselves. Friday, 12/19, 8:00pm-12:00pm DJ Echo Mike will be rockin' the house so get ready to dance! Merry Christmas! Fox Magee

**Winter Solstice Gathering** You are lovingly invited to an evening of quiet beauty and sacred remembrance as we honor the Winter Solstice—the longest night and the gentle returning of the light. We will begin indoors, gathered in a circle around the Sundance drum, allowing its steady heartbeat to awaken our spirit with Lakota prayer songs. From there, we will move outside together to walk the candlelit labyrinth, each step a soft meditation, each breath a release. As the night deepens, we will gather around our fire circle for a guided Temple Gate blessing and purification fire ceremony, offering what we are ready to lay down and calling in the light that is ready to rise within us. We will close with a collective sharing and prayer, sealing the evening in gratitude and connection. Please dress warmly and in layers, as we will spend part of our time beneath the winter sky. We look forward to sharing this sacred turning of the season with you. ✨ Also, this might be a crowded event so please carpool if possible 💫 For First-Time Visitors No prior experience is needed. Please arrive 15 minutes early to settle in. You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 Directions Address: 15406 Riding Stable Rd. (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. 💖 Energy Exchange To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of $22–$44. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance to request such. With love and gratitude, we welcome you to our circle.

This is a family friendly event so come have informal fun around the Winter Solstice. Light a friendly candle in the hope of making the world a more peaceful and better place. Converse with a fellow freethinker. This is a modern, Human-centered "holiday" celebration is sponsored by the WASH MD chapter. Contact Gary Berg-Cross at gbergcross@gmail.com. While the event is free and open to everyone we'd like to know who plans on coming so contact one of us so that we make proper arrangements. This is planned as family friendly and we are looking forward to a time to chat, eat and chill out in a warm way. We will have: * a rolling pot luck "dinner" (bring what you like bur something that you will enjoy. * Contact Gary to inform him of what you will bring. There is a Google doc link posted to keep track of items at [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a_Xx2F20I6vwwoDHcDeKVAv-EQQD63lj3IAFI0yuc1c/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a_Xx2F20I6vwwoDHcDeKVAv-EQQD63lj3IAFI0yuc1c/edit?usp=sharing) . * Candle lighting for Reason, Compassion, and Hope….and maybe a toast for Humanity * And we have our annual free raffle (probably around 7-8) complements of Mary and Fred Edwords. Everyone gets a ticket and will get something with first called getting the item of their choice. Again, this is a free and relatively informal, ritual-free secular celebration near the winter solstice. Background if Humanlight is New to You Humanlight a secular holiday that celebrates Reason, Compassion, and Hope -- and brings people together to recognize the passing of one year as we look forward to a new one.Established by the New Jersey Humanist Network in 2001 HumanLight provides a specifically Humanist celebration with a sense of belonging that families and friends can enjoy near Christmas and the northern Hemisphere's winter solstice as a celebration of "a Humanist's vision of a good future." It’s an event to Illuminating Humanism's Positive Secular Vision that the HumanLight organization promotes to “illuminate Humanism's positive secular vision” and as the AHA said in a 2009 announcement – “affirm the positive values of humanism during the time period of the “traditional” winter holidays.” It’s just a small, fun step towards a new tradition and something to make this December a little bit fuller time for non-believer. Gary Berg-Cross Potomac, MD 240-426-0770

Sticks and Stones proudly presents our first gallery opening, featuring the work of our very own Carmilla Harker! Founder of Pain in the Neck Art, Carmilla is best known for her spiritual and gothic artworks, leaning impressionistic in style. Her original paintings and prints will be on display in our event space and available for purchase. Commission requests will also be open, so if you don't see anything that speaks to you, there will be an intake box for custom pieces. This holiday season, give the gift of art to your loved ones. Light refreshments will be available. Free Entry!

Please join MoonFire on Sunday, December 21 at 12:00 PM, as we celebrate the Winter Solstice by honoring the transition from darkening to lightening days. Join us in ritual to explore the passing of the realm from the Holly King to the Oak King. Celebrate the coming of the light and the current Yuletide season. All are welcome! A potluck and time for fellowship will follow the ritual; you might like to bring food or drink to share, along with your own plates/utensils, or share our food and supply of washable re-usables. MoonFire holds ritual the 3rd Sunday of every month at the UU Church of Arlington, VA, starting at 12 PM with a pre-ritual briefing. Plan to arrive a little early so you can meet folks and get settled in. Rituals are usually followed by a potluck. We welcome everyone. If you are wondering whether to bring children, are new to Paganism, or plan to take pictures or write about our ritual, let us know ahead of time.

Greetings - Blessings to everyone! We welcome you to join us for our Winter Solstice Kirtan on **Sunday, Dec 21** in **Bethesda MD** (address below). 4***:00 - 6:00 pm.*** ***We chant the Hanuman Chalisa at 4 pm –there is a break after the Chalisa and the regular chanting begins at 4:30 pm*** \~\~ ***Doors open at 3:45 pm - come early to get settled*** \~\~g *(**Please note:** this will also be live streamed on **Facebook Live** – on our chanting page – **Bhakti Chant Kirtan)*** This is a private residence - open to the public - all are welcome - bring a friend, the family, the kids, the parents, the spouse, the tribe - comfortable setting. If you want to sit on the floor, it might be wise to bring something to sit on - Zafu or pillow or the like. *This is chanting with meditation* \- we chant in Sanskrit and English\, mantras and bhajans\, honoring the many aspects of the Divine\. Feel free to bring a percussion instrument, if you are moved to do so. (This will be percussion by committee!) ***Donation***: Suggested $10-20 (no one turned away) **On Paypal:** paypal.me/RufusJuskus **On Venmo**: Rufus-Juskus Snacks afterwards 

Many thanks -- peace and blessings to all! 


-Rufus Juskus **Address:** **5914 Johnson Ave** **Bethesda MD 20817** NOTE: The announcement page for this event on Facebook is here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FnqUf4Zjf/

Have any abduction stories? Want a group to make contact, CE5 style? Sleep paralysis? Starseeds? Join us for all things star beings!

**Please reserve your spot at [www.piesfitnessyoga.com.](http://www.piesfitnessyoga.com./)** The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at [www.piesfitnessyoga.com.](http://www.piesfitnessyoga.com./) **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** **Harness the Energy of the Moon to Manifest Your Dreams** Have you ever felt a quiet pull to align your life with the natural rhythms of the Earth and sky? Or wondered how the moon’s cycles could guide you in achieving your dreams? Imagine setting intentions in a supportive circle of like-minded individuals, with expert guidance to help you turn aspirations into reality. **New Moon Visioning Circle** is a transformative 90-minute monthly workshop series designed to align you with the potent energy of each New Moon. Whether you're new to lunar practices or seeking deeper connection and accountability, this series offers a nurturing space to reflect, grow, and manifest in harmony with nature’s cycles. **What to Expect** Each session integrates scientific insights, ancient wisdom, and community connection to support holistic wellness across your physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual layers. Together, we’ll explore the following steps: **Sacred Sharing Circle** Begin with compassionate sharing, where you’ll connect with others in a supportive space that honors your dreams and challenges. **Lunar Insights** Discover how the moon’s current phase, zodiac sign, and elemental energies influence both personal and collective experiences. As a former meteorologist, Kristi weaves science into these astrological teachings, offering grounded, actionable insights. **Shamanic Yoga Nidra** Relax deeply with a guided meditation uniquely crafted to match the month’s lunar energies. This practice connects you to your inner wisdom, bringing clarity to your goals and dreams. **Intentional Writing** Transform your meditation insights into actionable steps. Through journaling, you’ll create intentions, realistic goals, and affirmations that resonate with your authentic path. **Manifestation Ritual** Conclude with a ritual tailored to the moon’s elemental sign. This practice anchors your intentions and infuses them into an optional token (such as a crystal or jewelry) to serve as a touchstone for the month ahead. **Who Is This For?** This workshop is perfect for you if you: * Feel drawn to working with lunar cycles for self-growth and manifestation, regardless of your experience level. * Value a holistic approach to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. * Seek a supportive group for compassionate accountability and insight into breaking through barriers to your goals. * Enjoy blending yoga, shamanic practices, and astrology into your self-care and personal development. **Participation Options** You can join us **in person** at PIES Fitness Yoga Studio in Old Town Alexandria or **live via Zoom**. **What to Bring** * **A yoga mat** for comfort during meditation. * **A notebook and pen** for intentional journaling. * **An optional item** (e.g., a crystal or piece of jewelry) to charge with your intentions. * **An open heart and mind** to embrace the transformative process. **About the Facilitator** **Kristi Schwickerath** is a certified yoga therapist, shamanic practitioner, and former meteorologist who brings a unique blend of science and spirituality to her teachings. As a senior staff member of PIES Fitness Yoga Studio’s Holistic Yoga Teacher and Yoga Therapy Training programs, Kristi has spent over 15 years guiding individuals through yoga therapy, shamanic rituals, and lunar practices to cultivate clarity and alignment. Her work emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, helping participants transform their dreams into actionable steps while honoring their personal rhythms. Kristi’s compassionate and evidence-based approach empowers you to connect with your inner wisdom and the energy of the natural world. **About PIES Fitness Yoga Studio** Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, **PIES Fitness Yoga Studio** is a welcoming space specializing in holistic wellness. This black-woman-owned studio has been a hub for inclusive and therapeutic yoga practices for over 15 years. With its accessible location near the King Street Metro station, it’s a nurturing space for growth and transformation. **Ready to Manifest Your Dreams?** Reserve your spot today and step into a year of intentional living, guided by the moon’s wisdom and supported by a compassionate community. **Sign up at** [www.piesfitnessyoga.com](http://www.piesfitnessyoga.com./). **Sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.**

Happy Holidays!! Join us for a warm and welcoming Vegan Christmas Potluck! All holidays are welcome, not everyone celebrates Christmas. This is a great chance to meet other vegans, make new friends, and share delicious plant-based food with people who share the same values. Holiday attire is encouraged! 🤩Best holiday fit wins a small prize!!🏆 📅 Date: Thursday 12/25/25 ⏰ Time: 12pm - 3pm 📍 Location: It’s All Natural! Temple Store Bring a vegan dish to share and post in the comments of this event what you’re bringing so we can avoid duplicates. Doors open at 12pm to begin setting up, but we aim to start the feast between 12:30pm and 1pm. Come hungry, come friendly, and come ready to connect. Card games will be available too! We can’t wait to celebrate with you! ‼️ REMINDER ‼️ If you arrive to the temple early, please do not ring the doorbell or knock before 12pm. Some people may be in prayer and we do not want to disturb them. Simply wait in your car. Thank you for understanding and being considerate of this! 😊

As we prepare to enter a new year, the Burning Bowl Ceremony offers a powerful and heartfelt opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us and make space for new beginnings. You are warmly invited to join us for this sacred and reflective ritual. The Burning Bowl Ceremony is a beloved Unity tradition—an empowering moment where we release old patterns, worries, or limiting beliefs by writing them down and symbolically releasing them into the flame. This act of letting go opens the door to clarity, peace, and transformation.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

This is our weekly meeting. Come by and play some casual chess. Please bring your own chess boards and clocks if you have them. Players of all ages and strengths are welcome. We meet in the Tuttle Mall Food Pavilion each Saturday from 1 PM until 9 PM.

Topic details coming soon. AGENDA: 7:00pm - Opening announcements 7:10pm - Main Topic 7:50pm - Q&A

You are invited to participate in one of Unity’s most meaningful and empowering traditions—the **White Stone Ceremony**. As we enter a new year, this sacred ritual gives you the opportunity to listen within, connect with Spirit, and claim a new name or intention for your life. In ancient times, receiving a white stone symbolized freedom, new identity, and fresh possibility. Today, we continue that tradition by holding a smooth white stone, entering a quiet meditation, and allowing Spirit to reveal a word, name, or message that reflects who you are becoming.