On this night, we gather in Circle within the final dark before the Solstice dawn — a sacred pause before the Sun’s rebirth — to honour the wisdom of winter, the Crone’s embrace, and the quiet glow that stirs within the womb of creation.

As we approach the Winter Solstice, we find ourselves at the turning point of the year — the deepest descent into stillness, where life moves underground and the Earth reminds us to rest, release, and receive. This moment holds potent magic: a space between endings and beginnings, darkness and light, reflection and renewal.

Although life may be presenting us with a never-ending list of things to do, you are invited to return to sanctuary — a temple space where we gather to simply be present, to honour nature, and to reconnect with the rhythm she mirrors back to us. All we need to do is look outside and see that nature herself is slow. She calls us inward, to candlelit spaces, to catch our breath, and to remember that stillness is fertile.

Together we will journey through meditation, heart-led sharing, seasonal ritual, candle-making, and song — weaving intention and celebration into our closing of the year. The medicine of cacao will be shared to nourish body, mind, and soul, gently opening our hearts as we prepare for the returning light. (An alternative drink can be provided if preferred.)

This circle is an invitation to gather in community, to slow down, to honour the cycles within and around us, and to celebrate all that has been and all that is to come.

Come as you are — to rest, to reflect, and to rekindle your inner flame before the light’s return.