The Earth Circle is an alternative form of worship first introduced in my book: The Emergence of God.Â
It is based on celebrating the two solstices, the two equinoxes, and the four days between those days.Â
In addition, the life cycle of all human beings is honored as are various rites of passage.
 It is a service meant to be open to people of all faiths.
Set the Altar
Opening Words
Welcome
Opening Chant: Gathered Here
Gathered here in the mystery of the hour.
Gathered here in one strong body.
Gathered here in the struggle and the power.
Spirit draw near.
Check In
Lighting the Chalice
Invocation Chant: Chant for the Seasons
Winds of change have turned the star wheel. {season} is upon us.
Seasons come and go as we share the stories of our lives unfolding.
Winds of change have turned the star wheel. {season} is upon us.
Shared Readings
Chant: Sing and Rejoice
Sing and rejoice. Sing and rejoice.
{season} is here, let us all sing and rejoice.
Ritual of the Walking Stick: Honoring ________________
Prayer and Meditation
Meditation Chant: Let Your Heart Speak (Langer)
Come into silence, come into peace.
Come into gratitude and let all anger cease.
Claim sacred ground, seek what you seek.
Open your heart and let it speak.
Check Out
Closing Words
Parting Chant: Go Now In Peace
Go now in peace, go now in peace.
May the light of love surround you everywhere,
Everywhere you may go.
Date: December 21
Season: Midwinter
Age: Birth
Themes: New Beginnings
Living with purpose?
Color: Green
Ritual: Child Namings
Date: February 1
Season: Beginning of Spring
Age: Childhood (Pregnancy)
Themes: Creativity and Imagination
Color: White
Ritual: Child Dedications
Date: March 21
Season: Mid Spring
Age: Adolescence/ Fertility
Themes: Mystery and Wonder?
Color: Yellow
Ritual: Adulthood
May 1
Beginning of Summer
Partnership (Connections)
Forgiveness?
Color: Orange
Ritual: Celebration of Unions (separations?)
June 21
Midsummer
Life Work
Belonging and Home?
Color: Red
Ritual: Careers and Avocations, MOving
August 1
Beginning of Autumn
Adulthood (fulfillment)
Love and Loneliness?
Color: Purple?
September 21
Mid Autumn
Retirement (release)
Gratitude and Celebration?
Color: Blue
Ritual: retirement
November 1
Endings
Beginning of winter
Challenge and Transformation?
Color: Black
Ritual: honoring the dead