Winter Solstice
The winter solstice is almost upon us, the point in the year when one of Earth’s poles is tilted farthest away from the Sun. In our hemisphere, it usually occurs around December 21, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. After the solstice, daylight gradually increases, symbolizing the “Return of the Sun.”
The solstice has been celebrated around the world by many ancient cultures in Europe, China, Egypt and indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Modern day UUs pause to honor the solstice. The First UU Church of San Diego is hosting the Winter Schminter Solstice Concert, Dec. 21, 7:00 – 9:00 pm., featuring international music with ethnomusicologist Yale Strom and members of the Hot Pstromi Ensemble. Register HERE.
If you can’t attend the in-person concert, you can register for Blanketed in Beauty: A Winter Solstice Ritual Honoring the Gifts of the Darkness. This UU Ministry for Earth online service features three speakers and special music; it begins at 4 pm on the 21st.
Posted by Donna Gerhauser for the Climate Action Group