The spring equinox marks equal hours of light and darkness, and in the northern hemisphere it is a time of moving toward growth in the natural world; an inspiration for accelerated growth in our lives.

As the equinox is a marking point, it is an opportunity for celebration of the spirit running through us all.

Here is a plan for an equinox celebration for a group of people to hold outdoors - at the beach, park, in the mountains, or another space big enough wherever you live.

The celebration ceremony

1. A central focal point is established. It could be a bon fire or candles or flowers - something universal to all, regardless of religious orientation.

2. To begin, everyone gathers round the central focal point in a circle and holds hands.

3. The leader or group recite a prayer for spiritual growth in personal peace and world peace. I like the “St. Francis Prayer for Peace.”

4. After the prayer follows a minute of silence for contemplation on the meaning of the equinox as a point in time signaling spiritual balance.

5. The silence flows into uplifting group singing or peace chants. If the group knows a simple circle dance that could come next.

6. At the end of singing and dancing everyone sits down in place for a few minutes of silent meditation on the theme of spiritual renewal - spiritual growth.

7. Rounding out the ceremony, all rise, join hands and sing an uplifting song for world peace and harmony. A recommendation is “Let There Be Peace on Earth and Let It Begin With Me” by Sy Miller and Bill Jackson.

It is fun to finish out the event with socialization in a potluck meal or dessert!

Circle Dancing - Meditation and Prayer in Motion
Easter Prayer
Easter Meditation
Easter Prayer for Children
World Peace Prayers and Affirmations
Friendship Prayer and Meditation
Group Meditation for World Peace
Meditation Garden

Article and photo credit Susan Kramer

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Meditation Lessons for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.