Michaelmas Celebration

Since ancient times, Sept 29th was not dedicated to the Archangel Michael alone, but280bc2af544efafb7aed9af04d2e15d9 to all the legions of mighty hierarchical beings who bring inspiration, new life and courage to man. As Autumn begins, the Sun forces recede and we must turn inward to find the strength to face the coming darkness. Archangel Michael is the Archangel of the Sun and Prince of all the 9 hierarchies. He stands before man as a threshold being who recalls to us the nearness of the heavenly worlds. Through him, we may meet the Christ. For this reason, he is regarded as the ‘Countenance of Christ’. He is also victor over the forces of the dragon who has been cast down upon earth in battles long ago where he now torments, deceives and weakens man’s soul forces. Michael supports our striving to overcome adversity, to rise out of our lower self and become citizens of the spiritual world once again.

Our celebration this year will be a collaborative artistic event in which you are invited to share readings of poetry, short prose or mantram that speak to the themes of spiritual courage, self sacrifice, inner awakening or the battle between light and darkness. If you have images of St George or Michael, please bring them along. A group of lyrists will perform evocative pieces between the recitals including internationally acclaimed lyrist John Billing.  Samantha Embrey who lent us her iron gongs last year will be returning to shower us with deep, resonant tones to awaken our senses.  And finally, if you would like to bring some small snack to add to our refreshment table, that will be much appreciated.

We hope that by having many people participate in bringing words that are significant to them, we will have a diverse, stimulating and creative experience as we awaken together in community.

Harvesting Seeds of Soul to Carry into the Future

images-11This is a Biography and Social Arts workshop presented by Certified Biography worker Sarah Putnam PhD. In honor of this Michaelmas season in which we harvest what we have sown, we will reflect on the life lessons that have matured in this past year and the labor that has brought them forth.  Which soul endeavors in your life have born fruit, nurtured you and others and what are the seeds that will bear fruit into the future? Reflecting on the events that have shaped this past season, we will strive through artistic process and conversation to discover the working of the spiritual world in our lives. What seeds of soul will You be able to bequeath to the future, whether in this life or the next?

Sarah Putnam PhD. is a gifted and experienced workshop leader who is adept in using a subtle touch to guide her hidaejae1-2students and client’s to new insight and purpose. Her easy laughter and sensitivity to others make her workshops a safe place for personal discovery. They are also surprisingly powerful in building a sense of connectedness and community among the people who attend. Even if you have no experience in biography work and are an absolute klutz in anything artistic, do not despair. This workshop is for you and for all of us who want a deeper understanding of life’s meaning.