Concord UU Sanctuary
Unitarian Universalist Church of Concord, NH

The grove where we hold our rituals

Earth-Centered Spirituality Group

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend?
All events listed on these pages are free and open to the public. You do not have to be a member of the group or of the church to attend. All are welcome, regardless of faith, beliefs, spiritual background, or religious leanings. (It goes without saying that race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, and sexual orientation are non-issues here.)

What to expect from this group?
This is truly an eclectic group, which includes members and participants who are Wiccan, Druidic, Heathen, Buddhist, animist, shamanic, and generally and comprehensively pagan. We share a respect for each other's beliefs and a joy in celebrating the divine as manifest in nature and in the turning of the seasons. Visitors and seekers are welcome at all public events. Depending on weather, day of the week and any number of other factors, we usually have somewhere between 35 and 50 people at each ritual. The Winter Solstice is in a category by itself, drawing between 150 and 200 people each year. Rituals are led by volunteers, striving to present a variety of approaches to earth-centered worship.

Although the group is eclectic, we do celebrate the seasonal holidays recognized by most Wiccans - the solstices and equinoxes, as well as the four "cross quarter days" between them. Rituals are casual - most folks wear street clothes, but ritual robes are welcome as well. All rituals are appropriate for children, but be aware that attendance by very young children can be a trial for both the child and his parents, particularly during quiet, meditative moments.

The church has a lovely grove with a fire pit that is available to us for outdoor rituals when the weather permits. Indoor rituals are generally incense-free, and take place in the parlor, with views of the lawns and woods, or in our beautiful candle-lit chapel.

It is important to understand that this group is not a coven. There are no degrees of priest(ess)hood, there is no formal initiation process, and we do not follow or teach any particular tradition. We occupy a middle ground between solitary practice and the formality of a coven.

Attention minors!
We believe it is a parent's right and responsibility to guide the religious education of their children. If you are under the age of 18, please bring your parent or guardian with you so that we know it's ok for you to attend. Thank you!

How do I become a member?
All events listed in these pages are open to the public, and you do not need to be a member to   attend. However, you may become a member by first attending at least two of our public rituals,   
then helping with the planning and presentation of two rituals and participating in a 2-hour      
Membership Orientation class. After that, general membership is maintained through a minimal level of service each year, for example by leading one ritual or assisting with two per year. Voting membership in the group is attained/maintained through greater levels of leadership/services each year. Our newsletter regularly announces opportunities for leadership. We currently have 24 members.

What are the benefits of membership?
General members have the opportunity to participate in full moon circles and other gatherings that offer more personal connections than the larger public holiday celebrations. In addition, Voting Members have a voice in the shaping of the group and it's future.