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The ritual

This non-religious ritual includes gathering around a meal, centering and calming our hearts with an attention to our heartbeats and breath for just a minute, lighting a candle for hope, and then hearing some brief poetry and music that spark conversation. It is completely scripted, meaning that the words are there to guide you in all of these actions. Spiritual Care Encounters believes that language can be inclusive of those who are part of diverse faith traditions or no faith tradition so the whole ritual draws from common language and symbols without referring to any one religious practice. Please note that we have included two versions: a long-form version and a short version for those who would like a simplified experience.

The activities

The activity document helps you use the image of the "heart" in many ways that include many generations. It has ideas for making the ritual "rich" for all people as well as extending the good vibes after the ritual. We believe that "delight" is an important part of healing body, mind, and heart so we hope that all ages will enjoy in these activities. We also believe that when we find solace within our hearts, it compels us to make the world a better place.

I am a ritual artist.

My background in the performing arts and stagecraft collided with a Masters in Theology and a PhD in Ritual Studies and what popped out was someone insatiably curious about how and why we humans create meaning–no matter our religious background or affiliation. For over 20 years I've had a big appetite for creating and enacting ritual art in all kinds of settings.

I believe that when people dive deep into meaning and purpose for their lives through intentional inner and communal "pilgrimage," they end up transforming not only themselves, but the world they inhabit.