Adam & Eve’s Day

December 24, 2019Celestial Event, Chicago Event, Festival, History, Insight, Remembering, Rudolf Steiner Quote~hag

24 December 2019 – “Speaking with the Stars”: Look for the Christmas star within; & then look up & out to see Orion shining in the East, his three-star Belt is nearly vertical, pointing down to where Sirius, the brightest star of the night, will rise around 7 pm. When Sirius is low next to the horizon it often twinkles miraculously, flashing the vivid sacrifice of the color beings.

1st Holy Night: Christmas Eve, Adam & Eve’s Day

Constellation of Pisces, The 2 Fishes

The Sphere of the Human Being (ruling the feet)

Virtue: Magnanimity Becomes Love

Image result for pisces painting — Jill Hamilton

‘From the light, thru the darkness, into new light’ – this is the path of human evolution symbolized by the region of the 2 Fishes. One fish swims down into the physical, where we are graced with 2 feet to walk upright upon the earth, until we are ready to swim back up to spirit.

It’s thought-provoking to remember that each epoch is ruled by a prevailing constellation, guided by a particular Time Spirit. Right now we are in the age of Pisces, guided by Michael. For our contemplation of the Holy Nights, it is interesting to think back to the last time the forces from this region of the Zodiac were raying down their influence. Rudolf Steiner’s research tells us it was when the Sun separated from the earth. The Christ-Being left the Earth with the Sun. The light that was within, began to shine from outside us.

And this constellation will be active again when the Inner Spiritual Sun, won thru individual freedom, begins to rise out of the darkness in the human soul. This is possible because Christ made the descent & united Himself with earthly evolution thru the mystery of Golgotha, gradually awakening the higher Sun-Self in humanity, making us worthy to become the 10^th Hierarchy.

This has been the work of the Mystery schools since Lemurian times, referred to as the initiation of the Fishes. We see this reflected in many cultural legends: The great Manu learns of the impending flood from the Fishes. While in the Gilgamesh epic Enkidu is called ‘Son of the Fish’. The Guardian of the Grail receives the name the Fisher-King…etc…

John the Baptist had the task of preparing Jesus of Nazareth for the Fish-initiation which he performed at the Baptism in the Jordan. And of course the closest disciples of Christ-Jesus were fishermen (Luke 5:10). Later the ancient symbol of the Fishes came to be associated with those that could be called the Bearer of the Christ.

How striking it is to think that at the 1^st Christmas, the symbol of the Fishes pointed, not only back, to the epoch when Christ left the Earth together with the Sun; but also prophetically, to our time now, (since the 1930’s) where humanity has the possibility to experience the ‘Second Coming’ of Christ in the etheric; & then to the future time, when Christ will shine fully once again within the free & conscious human soul.

Image result for alpha and omega painting

So here on the 1^st Holy Night, in the constellation of Pisces, we find the Alpha & Omega of human evolution, expressing the very essence of Anthropos.

On this night what would it be like to hold a picture of our past selves, informing our present & future selves?

Blessings & Peace ~Hazel Archer Ginsberg

Christmas Eve = Adam & Eve’s Day – the start of the 13 Holy Nights which are especially fruitful for mystical deepening.

Feast of the Seven Fishes (Italian Americans)

Juleaften (Denmark)/Julaften (Norway)/Julafton (Sweden)

Nittel Nacht (certain Orthodox Jewish denominations)

Nochebuena (Spain and Spanish-speaking countries)

1818 – The first performance of “Silent Night” takes place in the church of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria

1851 – The Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., burns.

1865 – Jonathan Shank & Barry Ownby form The Ku Klux Klan.

1905 –Birthday of Howard Hughes, American businessman, engineer, & pilot

1914 – Deathday of John Muir, Scottish-American geologist, botanist, & author, founded Sierra Club

1914 – the Wedding of Rudolf Steiner to Maria Von Shivers

***

Image result for angels christmas painting — Ven Dex

Christmas Mood
I feel as from enchantment freed
The spirit-child within the womb of soul,
In clear serenity of heart
The holy Cosmic Word has now begotten
The heavenly Fruit of Hope,
Which grows rejoicing into worlds afar
Out of my being’s Godly ground.
~Rudolf Steiner

***

The 12 days of Christmas or 13 Holy Nights fall between Adam & Eve’s day & 3 Kings Day, exemplifying 2 paths, one of a god towards humanhood & the other, of a human toward godhood.

The Paradise Play, the Shepherds’ Play & the 3 Kings’ Play are known as the Oberufer Christmas Plays, ancient tales 1st collected by Rudolf Steiner’s teacher Karl Julius Schroer, named after the Austrian village of Oberufer, an island in the Upper Danube. This river’s source begins in the Black Forest of Germany & flows through Bavaria & Austria. It was from this magical region that these powerfully symbolic plays came.

The first, called The Paradise Play, tells the story in the book of Genesis of the creation of the world, & of Adam & Eve’s expulsion from the garden of Eden after they succumbed to the temptation to eat the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge too soon, the tree of Good & Evil. It is from this primordial tree that we get the modern tradition of the Christmas tree; in the olden days they called it the Paradise Tree. And Christmas Eve, used to be referred to as the Feast of Adam & Eve. Since the fall from paradise represents that point in human evolution, which precipitated the necessity for the incarnation of Christ.

Image result for oberufer shepherds play old

The Shepherds’ Play, tells the story of the proclamation of the Birth of Nathan Jesus to the shepherds in the field. This is the nativity story told in the Gospel According to Luke.

Image result for oberufer the Kings Play old days

The third of the Oberufer Plays is the Kings Play, which tells of the visit of the 3 wise men, the Magi, to the birthplace of the Zarathustra Jesus child, & of the murderous atrocities of Herod in his attempt to destroy the New born King. This is the nativity story told in the Gospel According to St Matthew, usually performed on the 5th or 6th of January, 12th night, the feast of Epiphany, or 3 Kings day.

The knowledge of these 2 Jesus Children given to us to consider by Rudolf Steiner as early as 1909, is also revealed in many examples of Renaissance art. This open secret is supported in many of the apocryphal gospels, in Gnostic texts & especially in the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered in a cave by the Essene enclave near Nazareth, some 40 years after Steiner spoke about these mysteries.

The Kingdom of the New Jerusalem will be able to come into the world when “The Two Become One, & the Outer Becomes as the Inner’. This quote expresses the occult reality of the coming together of the 2 Jesus children to create the perfect human vessel for the Christ. And so it came to be that the prophesy was fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth.

& Now my friends, the rest is up to us.

***

Holy Nights 2019-2020 – The New Mysteries of the ‘Christmas Conference’ Renewed! Dear Friends – Join us this year for an Extra Ordinary Holy Nights. We will gather at the Branch from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CST to attend a new initiative with folks from around the world; ‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering – Hosted by the Anthrophosophical Society in America with Organizers: Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster, and Hazel Archer-Ginsberg.

Each gathering will begin with an opening verse and acknowledgment of the zodiac constellation corresponding to that night. Then a special offering will be shared by different friends representing many North American groups, branches, and regional councils. These unique contributions will range from meditative readings and thoughtful poems, to enlivening eurythmy and artistic activities, to insight into the cosmic script of the zodiac. This will be followed by work with the Foundation Stone Meditation and conclude with a closing verse.
December 24 12 noon CST
December 25 – 30 6:30 PM CST
December 31 “Hidden Night” – No Meeting
January 1 – 5 6:30 PM CST

The gatherings will be recorded for later viewing if you are not able to join us live. Register using the button above to access both the live presentations and recordings.

Here is the link with info. for this free Zoom Call gathering.

Here is the Link to Register

Then from 7:30pm – 8:30pm CST we will take up our own study of the ‘Laying of the Foundation Stone’ from The Christmas Conference 1923/1924. (There are copies of ‘The Red Book’ in the Library)

Most Nights are from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CST except:
24 Dec. Zoom Call at NOON CST, afterwards we will decorate the tree with the signs & symbols
*26 Dec. The Rudolf Steiner Branch is Hosting this Nation-wide event. Meet in the Upper Room at 6 pm CST.
*28 Dec. Olaf Åsteson practice 3 pm – 5 pm CST – Performance at 7 pm CST.

*29 Dec. Mandaamin Institute’s 2019 Open House! 4-6pm Zoom call 6:30pm up there

1st Holy Night: Tuesday 24 December 2019 – Christmas Eve, Adam & Eve’s Day (no meeting at the branch) Zoom call at NOON CST – A Goethean Conversation

2nd Holy Night: Wednesday 25 December 2019 – Christmas Day. 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. 1st hour hosted by ‘The Sophia Holding Group’. Our study: Rudolf Steiner’ Opening Lecture. pg. 43

*3rd Holy Night: Thursday 26 December 2019 – Boxing Day – Feast of St. Steven. 1st hour hosted by us the Rudolf Steiner Branch, Chicago: “The Vast & Holy Night” a liminal performance of spoken word & eurythmy honoring the dark from which the light is born. Our study: The Laying of the Foundation Stone of the General Anthroposophical Society through Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 68

4th Holy Night: Friday 27 December 2019 – Feast of St. John -1st hour hosted by Mary Stewart Adams. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting pg. 98

*5th Holy Night: Saturday 28 December 2019 – The Dream Song of Olaf Åsteson with Debbie Barford & Mary Tom 3pm – 5pm practice 7 pm – 9 pm performance. Come gather to work with the Legend of Olaf Åsteson in the afternoon to be part of the community ensemble 3pm – 5pm with a dinner break returning for the performance open to all from 7 pm – 9 pm. $10 Donation Encouraged. Contact Debra Barford for more info.

or Zoom Call: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm hosted by The Dallas Maitreya Branch. Lisa Dalton

6th Holy Night: Sunday 29 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Rockford TN. Group.William Rogers

4 pm – 6 pm You are invited to the Mandaamin Institute’s 2019 Open House! This year we intend to report on the great progress we have made with breeding, testing, and getting our high quality, nutrient efficient corn out together with our farmer, university, and company colleagues.

However, we also need now to consider, does it make sense to do research and to breed crops for organic farmers if the farmers are going out of business?

The last few years have been very tough for farmers and there is a real danger that we will lose the smaller scale farmers who practice biodynamic and organic farming. It is increasingly clear that farmers cannot do it alone. Consumer awareness and action are critical for ensuring the best food possible and a healthy planet.

Therefore, this year we will highlight Mark and Petra Zinniker, who run the oldest biodynamic farm on the continent in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. They will share with us the amazing things they have been doing to produce the healthiest food possible, while at the same time, saving the planet through their farming methods.

We will share with you our problems, our plans, and our hopes. Please forward this invitation and the attached flier to anyone who is concerned about food and water quality, climate, and planet health.

Sunday, December 29, 2019

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 7194 Madaus Street, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Drinks and snacks will be provided. Please RSVP by contacting Bente Goldstein at: (262) 642-9738 or benteg@centurytel.net

Then dear friends, from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm We will hold the Holy Nights ‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering hosted by ASA friends around the country’. Here is the link with info. for this free Zoom Call gathering. Here is the Link to Register

PLEASE CONTACT HAZEL IF YOU WANT TO CAR POOL

for those who opt to stay in the City – Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 110

7th Holy Night: Monday 30 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Eastern Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 138

***

– NYE–The 13th Hidden Night Tuesday 31 December 2019-2020
7:30 pm – 1 am – $20 + Potluck Food & Drink to Share
Live Music & Folk Dancing with Jutta & the Hi-Dukes ™ 8 -9:30pm
Biography Playshop
Spacial Dynamics & the Loving Kindness Meditation with Deborah Rogers
Cut Away & Call in – A Ritual of Renewal
Seeking the Holy Grail Within – with Hazel Archer Ginsberg
Lead (Wax) Casting Divination for the NY
More TBA…

***

8th Holy Night: Wednesday 1 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Tess Parker & The Youth. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 183

9th Holy Night: Thursday 2 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Western Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 192

10th Holy Night: Friday 3 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Portland Branch. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 204

11th Holy Night: Saturday 4 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Brian Gray. Our study: The Envy of the Gods – the Envy of Human Beings, Looking back to the burning of the Goetheanum, by Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 231

*12th Holy Night: Sunday 5 January 2020 – Epiphany, ‘Three Kings’ – 1st hour hosted by The Central Regional Council. Alberto Loya, Marianne Fieber, Lisa Dalton, Hazel Archer Ginsberg. Our Study: On the Right Entry into the Spiritual World – The responsibility Incumbent on us, by Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 260

for more info. contact Festivals Coordinator Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

Eve of the Eve

December 23, 2019Winter~hag

Dear friends – Can you feel the gentle movement toward birth – The anticipation resolving into a labor of love – a shift from the dark toward the dawn?

Together with the Anthroposophical Society in America, we are about to embark on a historic journey, which is ironic since we will be entering into a Space out of Time which defines the Holy Nights.

Image result for Rosicrucian constellations painting

Each of these 12 days & 13 nights – From the Eve of the Sacred Birth, to the Eve of Epiphany, can be seen as a microcosmic experience of the macrocosm, allowing us to approach the sublime gesture of the divine spiritual beings, whose outer vestments are the constellations of the zodiac, while simultaneously contemplating the events in our own lives, in order to uncover the golden threads connecting us to each other, as well as to the goals of Earth evolution, & to the divine spiritual nature that comes to birth again & again at this darkest time of year.

This sacred ‘Time out of Time’ provides an opportunity to contemplate, not only the great journey of the Cosmic Christ thru the zodiac into the body of Jesus; but also the path of Jesus to Christ; as well the evolution of every Human Being as a Star unfolding in an Earthly biography – for we as human beings are following both paths.

Image result for human being as sunhead painting

Tomorrow on Christmas Eve, we begin the contemplation with Adam & Eve, remembering that the fall was the reason The Christ Being made the sacrificial journey from the Godhead to become the Son of Man. The Holy Nights are completed on Epiphany, also recognized as the Baptism -when the Son of God – The Christ – entered human form.

Image result for christ in center of a circle the 12 apostles painting

So, when we look at the circle of the Zodiac during the Holy Nights we can find imprinted there a memory of that significant track from spiritual heights to human depths. The 12 apostles formed an outer version of these constellations around Jesus Christ. And we all incarnate into these various signs on our way to becoming spirit once again.

Our path leads from the feet, our grounding on the earth, thru the 12 constellations of the zodiac to a conscious union with the whole world of the Hierarchies, all the way up to unite with the Mystic Lamb at Epiphany.

So far 600 people registered for this new initiative!

Image result for may human beings hear it'

‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering’
Hosted by the ASA with Organizers:

Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster, &Hazel Archer-Ginsberg.

24 December: 12 noon CST
25 – 30 December: 6:30 PM CST
31 December 2019-2020: “Hidden Night” – No Call –
1 – 5 January 2020: 6:30 PM CST

The online gatherings will be recorded for later viewing if you are not able to join us live. Register below to access both the live presentations & recordings. Register for the Holy Nights Gatherings

Hope to you will join us in this mighty undertaking.

Blessings & Peace –

~hag

a Miracle happened here

December 22, 2019Festival, Winter~hag

Blessings on this 1^st Night of Hanukkah

Image result for Kislev rainbow painting

Kislev, the name of the Jewish month when Hanukkah the festival of Light is celebrated. The mazal (constellation) for Kislev is Sagittarius, the keshet (arching bow). The arching bow reminds us of the rainbow & of our responsibility to be guardians of the earth. In Genesis 9:12-17, God places a rainbow in the sky as a covenant a promise never to destroy the earth with water again. The bow of Kislev also reminds us of the bows of the Maccabees.

Image result for maccabees temple oil painting

During the second century BCE, the Maccabees, fought against Antiochus & his army, who had a policy of stifling Jewish religious life, including banning Shabbat observance. Thanks to Judith (see below) the Hebrew people were victorious & reclaimed their religious life. To purify the Temple, they needed oil to rekindle the eternal flame. The story is told that they found only enough oil to last one day, but a miracle occurred, & the oil lasted for eight days. With this miracle of light the Temple was rededicated. Hanukkah means dedication.

Here are a few customs to celebrate:

Image result for lighting the hanukkah candles painting

Lighting the Hanukah Candelabra, the special eight flame menorah, with a ninth shamas or servant flame.

Telling the story of Judith: Among the Sephardim women traditionally gather on the seventh night to tell Judith’s story (found in the apocryphal Book of Judith ) eat cheese blintzes, sing & dance, & receive special blessings. Some Ashkenazim tell the story of Judith on the eighth night of Hanukkah, in Yiddish.

Giving gifts to daughters: Some Sephardim call the end of Hanukkah the “New Moon of the Daughters” when parents give special presents to their daughters.

Image result for playing dreidel on hanukkah painting

Playing dreidel: Dreidel is a classic Hanukkah gambling game. The letters on the dreidel–nun, gimmel, hay, shin–stand for a Hebrew sentence that translates to mean, “A great miracle happened there.” Some say that the origins of the game are German, & that the letters correspond to the directions for playing the game: nichts (“nothing”); ganz (take “all”); halb (take “half”), and stell ein (“put one in”). It is also said that it was a way of remembering their religion when they were not allowed to practice.

Eating chocolate Hanukkah gelt (coins).

Eating salty foods, especially salty cheeses, are traditional because legend has it that Judith fed the enemy general Holofernes salty foods to make him thirsty for wine. As he lay in a drunken stupor she was able to slay him, thus saving Jerusalem from siege. And because of the miracle of the oil, oily foods are also traditional, including latkes & jelly doughnuts, which are a Hanukkah favorite in Israel.

Judith Painting - Judith by Gabriel Ferrier — Gabriel Ferrier

Here is the Story of Judith

Once upon a time a certain king came up against Jerusalem with forty thousand warriors and besieged the city for many days. The Israelites suffered tremendously during this siege and were in great distress. Now, there was a pious widow, Judith, daughter of a prophet, who devised a plan to help her people. She removed her mourning attire and dressed in beautiful clothes and jewels and went out with her maidservant.

When Judith and her maidservant reached the gates of Jerusalem she said to the watchmen: “Open the gates for perhaps God will perform a wonder for us, and I shall slay the king. Israel will be saved by me.” So the gatekeepers opened the gate and Judith and her helper left Jerusalem. They continued on and eventually entered the royal pavilion and came before the king, Now, Judith was an exceedingly beautiful woman and when the king saw her, she found favor in his eyes. He asked, “Who are you? Where do you come from and where do you wish to go?” And she answered, “I am one of the daughters of the prophets and from my father I heard that you will conquer the city and take possession of it, so I came to seek to save myself and my father’s household when you take the city,” The king replied, “I will do what you ask. I wish to take you as my wife.”

That night the king held a feast to celebrate his new bride-to-be. At the feast the king drank a -great deal of wine, became drunk and fell asleep. When all the guests left, only Judith and her maidservant remained. Judith turned her thoughts to God, lifted her sword and cut off the king’s head. Judith then took the king’s head and passed unnoticed through the camp until she reached the gates of Jerusalem. There she summoned the -gatekeepers and said to them, “Open the gates, for the Holy Blessed One has aided me and I have slain the foe.” But they did not believe her. Judith then showed the head she was carrying. The captain confirmed that it was indeed the head of the king. The gatekeepers opened the gate, Judith’s deed became known in Jerusalem. And the people shouted at the top of their lungs, “Hear 0 Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One!” When the king’s men saw the Israelites they ran to the royal pavilion. Finding their king dead, they fled.

Stories of other powerful woman were also often told –

The 3 “Women of Light”:

Image result for hebrew woman Sarah painting — Sara Stein

Sarah lit candles at the beginning of Shabbat. Miraculously, the flame burned throughout the entire week, lighting the tents of Abraham and Isaac.

Image result for hebrew woman Rebecca painting — Simon Norton

Rebecca inherited the task of lighting these candles when Sarah died. Because Rebecca was also a righteous woman, her candle light shined throughout the entire week as Sarah’s had.

Queen Esther was known as the Ayelet HaShachar (the morning star) who brought a bright, rekindled spirit to the Jews after the dark night of suffering at the time of King Ahashuaros. The king’s chief advisor, Haman, is offended by Esther’s cousin and guardian, Mordecai, and gets permission from the king to have all the Jews in the kingdom killed. Esther foils the plan, and wins permission from the king for the Jews to kill their enemies, and they do so. Her story is the traditional basis for Purim

Image result for hebrew woman Deborah painting — Malkah Devinski

Deborah was a wise and important Judge who lived in the twelfth century BCE. In the Torah Deborah is referred to as the “Woman of Lapidot.” In Hebrew, lapid means torch or flame, and so the Talmud refers to Deborah as a “woman of flames.” A contemporary midrash teaches that Deborah made candle-wicks which lit before fire ever touched them; the candles were illuminated from the light inside of Deborah, which grew as she grew.

The 3 “Women of Light” remind us that each one of us can share her light without diminishing it. They also invite us to remember the female ancestors in our own families every time we light the Shabbat and Hanukkah candles.

Chanukah Candle-Lighting Blessings

First night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our bodies.

Second night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our minds.

Third night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our souls.

Fourth night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our children.

Fifth night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our parents.

Sixth night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our communities.

Seventh night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the restoration of health and wellness to those who are ill, suffering, or grieving.

Eighth night:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows from this season, we light this candle for the health and wellness of our world.

Shamash:

For the blessing of well-being and transformation that flows through the Shekinah, the Source of Healing Wisdom and Inner Light.

Image result for menorah painting — Jodi Bonstan

First Blessing: Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-he-nu Me-lech ha-olam a-sher ki-de-sha-nu be-mitz-vo-tav ve-tzi-va-nu le-had-lik ner Cha-nu-kah.

Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and instructs us to kindle the Chanukah light.

Second blessing: Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-he-nu Me-lech Ha-olam she-a-sa ni-sim la-avo-te-nu ba-ya-mim ha-hem bi-zman ha-zeh.

Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forebearers in those days, at this time.

May we all live into this season of light

~hag

***

Dear Friends –
We have a wonderful opportunity to continue the initiative started at our Michaelmas Festival of supporting the Spiritual Science of the Bio-Dynamics movement right in our own backyard:
On Sunday 29 December 2019 from 4 pm – 6 pm
You are invited to the Mandaamin Institute’s 2019 Open House!
This year we intend to report on the great progress we have made with breeding, testing, and getting our high quality, nutrient efficient corn out together with our farmer, university, and company colleagues. However, we also need now to consider, does it make sense to do research and to breed crops for organic farmers if the farmers are going out of business?

The last few years have been very tough for farmers and there is a real danger that we will lose the smaller scale farmers who practice biodynamic and organic farming. It is increasingly clear that farmers cannot do it alone. Consumer awareness and action are critical for ensuring the best food possible and a healthy planet.

Therefore, this year we will highlight Mark and Petra Zinniker, who run the oldest biodynamic farm on the continent in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. They will share with us the amazing things they have been doing to produce the healthiest food possible, while at the same time, saving the planet through their farming methods.
We will share with you our problems, our plans, and our hopes. Please forward this invitation and the attached flier to anyone who is concerned about food and water quality, climate, and planet health.

Sunday, December 29, 2019
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
7194 Madaus Street, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Drinks and snacks will be provided.

Please RSVP by contacting Bente Goldstein at: (262) 642-9738 or benteg@centurytel.net

PLEASE CONTACT HAZEL IF YOU WANT TO CAR POOL

Then dear friends, from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm We will hold the 6th Holy Night Online Holy Nights Gathering up there at the Mandaamin Institute hosted by The Rockford TN. Group. William Rogers

For those who opt to stay in the City – Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 110

Here is the Full Holy Nights 2019-2020 – Schedule:

We will gather at the Branch from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CST
to attend a new initiative with folks from around the world;
‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering
Hosted by the Anthrophosophical Society in America with Organizers:
Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster, and Hazel Archer-Ginsberg.

Each gathering will begin with an opening verse and acknowledgment of the zodiac constellation corresponding to that night. Then a special offering will be shared by different friends representing many North American groups, branches, and regional councils. These unique contributions will range from meditative readings and thoughtful poems, to enlivening eurythmy and artistic activities, to insight into the cosmic script of the zodiac. This will be followed by work with the Foundation Stone Meditation and concludes with a closing verse.

December 24 12 noon CST
December 25 – 30 6:30 PM CST
December 31 “Hidden Night” – No Meeting
January 1 – 5   6:30 PM CST

Register for the Holy Nights Gatherings ›

The gatherings will be recorded for later viewing if you are not able to join us live.
Register using the button above to access both the live presentations and recordings.

Then from 7:30pm – 8:30pm CST
The Rudolf Steiner Branch will take up our own study of the ‘Laying of the Foundation Stone’
from The Christmas Conference 1923/1924. (There are copies of ‘The Red Book’ in the Library)

Most Nights are from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CST except:

24 Dec. Zoom Call at NOON CST (no meeting at the branch)
*26 Dec. The Rudolf Steiner Branch is Hosting this Nation-wide event.
Meet in the Upper Room at 6 pm CST.
*28 Dec. Olaf Åsteson practice 3 pm – 5 pm CST – Performance at 7 pm CST
29 Dec. The Mandaamin Institute’s 2019 Open House (carpool leaves at 2 pm, returns 8:30 pm)

The New Mysteries of the ‘Christmas Conference’ Renewed!

1st Holy Night: Tuesday 24 December 2019 – Christmas Eve, Adam & Eve’s Day (no meeting at the branch) Zoom call at NOON CST – A Goethean Conversation

2nd Holy Night: Wednesday 25 December 2019 – Christmas Day. 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. 1st hour hosted by ‘The Sophia Holding Group’. Our study: Rudolf Steiner’ Opening Lecture. pg. 43

*3rd Holy Night: Thursday 26 December 2019 – Boxing Day – Feast of St. Steven. 1st hour hosted by us the Rudolf Steiner Branch, Chicago: “The Vast & Holy Night” a liminal performance of spoken word & eurythmy honoring the dark from which the light is born. Our study: The Laying of the Foundation Stone of the General Anthroposophical Society through Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 68

4th Holy Night: Friday 27 December 2019 – Feast of St. John -1st hour hosted by Mary Stewart Adams. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting pg. 98

*5th Holy Night: Saturday 28 December 2019 – The Dream Song of Olaf Åsteson with Debbie Barford & Mary Tom 3pm – 5pm practice 7 pm – 9 pm performance. Come gather to work with the Legend of Olaf Åsteson in the afternoon to be part of the community ensemble 3pm – 5pm with a dinner break returning for the performance open to all from 7 pm – 9 pm. $10 Donation Encouraged. Contact Debra Barford for more info.

or Zoom Call: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm hosted by The Dallas Maitreya Branch. Lisa Dalton

6th Holy Night: Sunday 29 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Rockford TN. Group. William Rogers

4 pm – 6 pm You are invited to the Mandaamin Institute’s 2019 Open House!  This year we intend to report on the great progress we have made with breeding, testing, and getting our high quality, nutrient efficient corn out together with our farmer, university, and company colleagues.
However, we also need now to consider, does it make sense to do research and to breed crops for organic farmers if the farmers are going out of business?

The last few years have been very tough for farmers and there is a real danger that we will lose the smaller scale farmers who practice biodynamic and organic farming. It is increasingly clear that farmers cannot do it alone. Consumer awareness and action are critical for ensuring the best food possible and a healthy planet.

Therefore, this year we will highlight Mark and Petra Zinniker, who run the oldest biodynamic farm on the continent in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. They will share with us the amazing things they have been doing to produce the healthiest food possible, while at the same time, saving the planet through their farming methods.
We will share with you our problems, our plans, and our hopes. Please forward this invitation and the attached flier to anyone who is concerned about food and water quality, climate, and planet health.

Sunday, December 29, 2019
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
7194 Madaus Street, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Drinks and snacks will be provided.
Please RSVP by contacting Bente Goldstein at: (262) 642-9738 or benteg@centurytel.net

Then dear friends, from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm We will hold the 6th Holy Night Online Holy Nights Gathering up there at the Mandaamin Institute hosted by The Rockford TN. Group. William Rogers

for those who opt to stay in the City – Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 110

7th Holy Night: Monday 30 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Eastern Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 138

***

– NYE–The 13th Hidden Night Tuesday 31 December 2019-2020
7:30 pm – 1 am – $20 + Potluck Food & Drink to Share
Live Music & Folk Dancing with Jutta & the Hi-Dukes ™ 8 -9:30pm
Biography Playshop
Spacial Dynamics & the Loving Kindness Meditation with Deborah Rogers
Cut Away & Call in – A Ritual of Renewal
Seeking the Holy Grail Within – with Hazel Archer Ginsberg
Lead (Wax) Casting Divination for the NY
More TBA…

***

8th Holy Night: Wednesday 1 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Tess Parker, Abigail Dancey & The Youth. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 183

9th Holy Night: Thursday 2 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Western Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 192

10th Holy Night: Friday 3 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Portland Branch. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 204

11th Holy Night: Saturday 4 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Brian Gray. Our study: The Envy of the Gods – the Envy of Human Beings, Looking back to the burning of the Goetheanum, by Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 231

*12th Holy Night: Sunday 5 January 2020 – Epiphany, ‘Three Kings’ – 1st hour hosted by The Central Regional Council. Alberto Loya, Marianne Fieber, Lisa Dalton, Hazel Archer Ginsberg. Our Study: On the Right Entry into the Spiritual World – The responsibility Incumbent on us, by Rudolf Steiner. Pg. 260

for more info. contact Festivals Coordinator Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

Still

December 21, 2019Celestial Event, Chicago Event, Festival, History, Insight, Remembering~hag

Today on Winter Solstice, when the ‘Sun Stands Still’, Let us pause to reflect on the many customs associated with this powerful storytelling time of year.

Image result for dark before the dawn painting — Keey Withers

It is the dark before the dawn, the time of renewal, giving us the most primordial myths of humankind. The Sun of Mid-Winter draws in its breath, opening in new life at this time of deepest darkness.

In Old Norse mythology, the Sun goddess was swallowed up by the wolf of darkness, but was reborn as her daughter, the maiden goddess of the underworld, who rose again to illumine the world.

Image result for isis in the underworld painting

The esoteric meaning of this time of year can be gleaned from the ancient mystery schools. Initiates into the Mysteries of Isis had to undergo a ceremony of death & rebirth in which they entered the underworld to gaze upon the “sun at midnight.” This ceremony, speaks of the journey of the soul into the fecund depths of the subconscious mind, & even deeper into the great dark sea of space from which all creation comes forth, where it could be purified & born anew.

Dion Fortune describes this process in her book, The Sea Priestess:

Sink down, sink down, sink deeper and more deep
Into eternal and primordial sleep.
Sink down, be still, forget and draw apart,
Sink into the inner earth’s most secret heart.
Drink of the waters of Persephone,
The secret well beside the sacred tree.
Waters of life and strength and inner light –
Eternal joy drawn from the depths of night.
Then rise, made strong, with life and hope renewed,
Reborn from darkness and from solitude…

Throughout the ancient world, people gathered at sacred sites as far apart as Newgrange in Ireland & the temple of Karnak in Egypt, to celebrate the miracle of the sun’s return at the darkest time of the year. In the pitch-black sanctuaries of caves & earth chambers, our ancestors waited for the birth of new light & life.

Image result for cave of the soul painting — Beckwith Carplax

At a time when the fate of our planet & all her creatures hangs in the balance, let each of us journey down into the cave of the soul to drink from the secret well of wisdom & find the hidden flame within the dark — then return bearing our own unique gift of Light for the world.

May we re-member what came before, so that we can reflect on the now & create the future anew.

The ancient Romans celebrated from December 17^th to December 24^th with a festival called Saturnalia, during which all work was put aside in favor of feasting & gambling. The social order was reversed, with masters waiting on their slaves.

Saturnalia is named after Saturn, who is often depicted with a sickle, like the figures of Death or Old Father Time. Astrologically speaking, Saturn is saturnine: gloomy, old, dutiful & heavy, like the metal associated with it: lead. He was the god who ate his own children rather than let them surpass him.

For new life to flourish, for the sun to rise again, it is necessary to vanquish this gloomy old fellow. Therefore, the feasting & merriment of the midwinter season are required in order to combat the forces of gloom.

The day following the Saturnalia, was the Juvenalia, a holiday in honor of children, who were entertained, feasted & given good luck talismans. After vanquishing the Old King, it’s time to celebrate the New Year’s Baby.

Christ’s birthday was not celebrated on December 25^th until the 4th century. Before then, December 25^th was best known as the birthday of the Persian hero & sun-god, Mithra (an earlier form of Michael). The myth tells that he sprang up full-grown from a rock, armed with a knife & carrying a torch. Mithra journeyed into the underworld, winning gifts for humankind before his miraculous rebirth.

Lenaia was a women-only Athenian midwinter festival. They held ecstatic dances where a bull, representing Dionysus, was cut into nine pieces.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Mithras-solinvictus.jpg

In 274 AD, the Roman emperor Valerian declared December 25^th the Birthday of Sol Invictus, the Unconquerable Sun.

In the early years of Christianity Christ’s birthday was celebrated on January 6^th known to us now as Epiphany, represented by the Wise Magi, Kings who could read the omens in the starry script. The Eastern Orthodox folks knew that this was connected with the Baptism, when the Cosmic Christ Being entered into human form.

On the same date in pre-Christian times, this was when the Virgin Kore gave birth, celebrated in Alexandria with a festival called the Koreion. The image of the goddess, decorated with gold stars, was carried seven times around her temple as the priests cried, “The Virgin has brought forth the new Aeon!”

Image result for horus light of the world

This ritual recalls the Egyptian ceremony re-enacting the birth of Horus, the sun-god to Isis. All lights in the city were doused while Isis circled the sarcophagus seven times, then brought forth Horus who was called “the Light of the World.”

Image result for isis horus madonna and child

Statues of Isis holding the newly born sun god on her lap, presenting him to the world, prefigure the later Madonna & child archetype.

In Europe on Winter Solstice the ceremonies involved kindling the new light with a Yule log. Oak was popular in the north of England, birch in Scotland & ash in Cornwall & Devon, all associated with the Sun.

Image result for Cailleach Nollaich carved in wood

In some parts of the Scottish highlands, the head of the household finds a withered stump and carves it into the likeness of an old woman, the Cailleach Nollaich or Christmas Old Wife, the goddess of winter, the hag of night, the old one who brings death. Burning her image drives away the hardships of winter & protects the occupants of the household from death.

The Yule log is brought into the house with great ceremony, & decorated with holly & ivy & evergreens. Some prefer to use the Yule log as a decoration & place candles on it instead, transforming it into a candelabra. It is lit with a piece of last year’s log as described in Herrick’s poem, “Hesperides:”

Come bring with a noise
My merry, merry boys
The Christmas log to the firing
With the last year’s brand.
Light the new block,
And for good success in his spending
On your psalteries play:
That sweet luck may
Come while the log is a-teendling.

In Italy, the Yule log is called the Ceppo, & families gathered around the hearth pouring libations of wine upon the glowing wood, linking the Yule log with the custom of wassailing, & pouring out libations to the trees in the orchard.

Image result for yule log burning ancient

The Yule log is left to burn all night, &, if possible, throughout the 12 Holy Nights. The ashes are kept for good luck. They have magical properties & can be scattered in the field to fertilize the soil or sprinkled around the house for protection.

Another ancient midwinter custom is decorating with greens. The Romans decorated with rosemary, bay, laurel, holly, ivy & mistletoe. The holly & ivy were both important midwinter plants in Great Britain & Ireland, as seen in the mysterious medieval carol which mentions the rivalry between them, with the Ivy representing the cold gloominess of winter, & the Holly King, the jolly spirit of the season.

The Christmas tree is of more recent origin. The earliest record of an evergreen being decorated comes from Riga in Latvia in 1519, when a group of local merchants carried an evergreen bedecked with flowers to the marketplace, where they danced around it & then burned it.

Image result for christmas tree oberufer

Another possible source is the custom in 15th century Germany of hanging apples on a fir tree as a prop for the Oberufer plays performed on Christmas Eve, depicting Adam & Eve being driven out of Paradise.

Image result for battle between light and dark painting — Sumpra Tanz

Many traditions focused on this human battle between the dark & the light within. May we be willing to look into the dark before calling in the light.

Image result for hanukkah candles next to christmas tree

This is a natural time for letting go & saying farewell. Since this is the season when animals hibernate & nature sleeps & we can turn inward too. Then when you light your Hanukkah candles or your Christmas tree, do so with the intention of bringing light into the world. What are the ways in which you can help make the world lighter?

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Online Holy Nights Gatherings:“May Human Beings Hear It”

Hosted by the Anthrophosophical Society in America
Organizers: Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster, and Hazel Archer-Ginsberg
Each gathering will begin with an opening verse and acknowledgment of the zodiac constellation corresponding to that night. Then a special offering will be shared by different friends representing many North American groups, branches, and regional councils. These unique contributions will range from meditative readings and thoughtful poems, to enlivening eurythmy and artistic activities, to insight into the cosmic script of the zodiac. This will be followed by work with the Foundation Stone Meditation and conclude with a closing verse.
December 24 1:00 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada / 6:00 PM GMT)
December 25 – 30 7:30 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada / 12:30 AM GMT)
December 31 “Hidden Night” – No Meeting
January 1 – 5 7:30 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada / 12:30 AM GMT)

The gatherings will be recorded for later viewing if you are not able to join us live. Register using the button above to access both the live presentations and recordings.

Wise Cosmos is pleased to participate in this inaugural Holy Nights series sponsored by Anthroposophical Society in America. Brian Gray will be the featured presenter on January 4th.

Holy Nights 2019-2020 – The New Mysteries of the ‘Christmas Conference’ Renewed! Dear Friends – Join us this year for an Extra Ordinary Holy Nights. We will gather at the Branch from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CST to attend a new initiative with folks from around the world; ‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering hosted by ASA friends around the country’. Organized by: Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster, & Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

Here is the link with info. for this free Zoom Call gathering.

Here is the Link to Register

Most Nights are from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CST except:
24 Dec. Zoom Call at NOON CST (no meeting at the branch)
*26 Dec. The Rudolf Steiner Branch is Hosting this Nation-wide event. Meet in the Upper Room at 6 pm CST.
*28 Dec. Olaf Åsteson practice 3 pm – 5 pm CST – Performance at 7 pm CST.

1st Holy Night: Tuesday 24 December 2019 – Christmas Eve, Adam & Eve’s Day (no meeting at the branch) Zoom call at NOON CST – A Goethean Conversation

2nd Holy Night: Wednesday 25 December 2019 – Christmas Day. 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. 1st hour hosted by ‘The Sophia Holding Group’. Our study: Rudolf Steiner’ Opening Lecture. pg. 43

4th Holy Night: Friday 27 December 2019 – Feast of St. John -1st hour hosted by Mary Stewart Adams. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting pg. 98

or Zoom Call: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm hosted by The Dallas Maitreya Branch. Lisa Dalton

6th Holy Night: Sunday 29 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Rockford TN. Group.William Rogers

However, we also need now to consider, does it make sense to do research and to breed crops for organic farmers if the farmers are going out of business?

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Zinniker-petra-Mark.png

Sunday, December 29, 2019

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 7194 Madaus Street, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Drinks and snacks will be provided. Please RSVP by contacting Bente Goldstein at: (262) 642-9738 or benteg@centurytel.net

PLEASE CONTACT HAZEL IF YOU WANT TO CAR POOL

for those who opt to stay in the City – Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 110

7th Holy Night: Monday 30 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Eastern Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 138

***

***

8th Holy Night: Wednesday 1 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Tess Parker & The Youth. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 183

9th Holy Night: Thursday 2 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Western Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 192

10th Holy Night: Friday 3 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Portland Branch. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 204

for more info. contact Festivals Coordinator Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

***

O Radix Jesse

December 19, 2019History, Insight, Poetry, Remembering, Rudolf Steiner Quote, Speaking with the Stars, Winter~hag

The Sun of mid-winter draws in its breath, at this time of deepest darkness.

Soon we will be entering into the Longest Night, entering into the Birth of Light.

Image result for dark space between the stars painting

Let us live into the darkness of the space between the stars & planets –
the dark of the sea -the dark of the womb – & the promise of the tomb.

Wrap this darkness gently about you like a comforter. Float gently now in its soft depths. Grow here, nourished by an invisible cord that connects you to the Source of all life – Floating gently in the dark -Softly rocking in the dark…

And though it is dark, we realize that what surrounds us is not empty, but, like the womb, full of life. Take a breath & sense the swirling, nurturing energy of the dark.

And now, as the energy increases, imagine how it will give birth to the smallest spark conceivable, the spark of new life. See that spark as it glows, watch that spark, watch as it grows. Glowing brighter & brighter, it fans into flame. And as you look at this flame, its light fills you with warmth, with love.

Image result for present with a bow abstract painting — Amy Dixon

And as you feel increased love & warmth within you, the intensity of the flame slowly diminishes & as it does, in its place, slowly becoming visible, is the outline of a present. This gift becomes more solid, until you can see its form clearly, wrapped in a glistening filament of light.

This gift has your name on it, inscribed in the glimmering material. Is your name written in a special color? Is the inscription special in any other way?

Examine your present more closely. What shape is it? How big is it? What color is the wrapping? Pick it up: is it light? heavy? What do you want it to be?

And now – unwrap your gift. How easy, or difficult is it to unwrap? Finish opening it – & receive your gift. What is it?

Look at it carefully. Experience it fully. Accept it. Accept your gift with joy. Feel your heart warm with the love with which this gift is given to you – Given to you every year at this time.

Image result for sending out light from the heart painting — Jenifer Borme

And now, from your heart, send out gratitude for this gift; send out thanks for this gift; send it out like light, like a holy beacon back to Our Great Mother, back to the Universe: both the dark & the light. Send out your thanks for this gift.

Image result for heart of the mother painting — Sk Picmia

Now, if you wish, find a place to keep this gift, a place to put this present, so that it is always on hand; so you can open it whenever you need to remember that the light is born from the darkness. An inspiration & reminder of these words by Rudolf Steiner:

My eager heart aspires
To be a torch to bear the Spirit’s light
Into the dark night of a wintry world
Blessing and blest.
Bright shoots of soul
Shall be sunk in the gardenbed of the world.
Shining from the sensual dark,
Inner meaning — the Word — resounds through all Reality.

***

Image result for venus in capricorn painting

19 December 2019 – “Speaking with the Stars”: Venus gleams in the southwestern sky after sunset. The brilliant goddess of Love stands out just a half hour after sunset, when it appears above the horizon, & remains on display until 6 pm. She is by far the brightest celestial object in the evening sky, residing in far western Capricornus, having crossed the border earlier today from Sagittarius.

***

Rudolf Steiner’s Lectures on this day

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY

Looking at the past to see the present, co-creating the future:

“History, historical life, will only be seen in the right light when a true consciousness of the connection of the so-called living with the so-called dead can be developed” ~Rudolf Steiner – The Living and the Dead

Image result for abraham painting — Gilbert Walfert

According to Rudolf Steiner’s spiritual research, today is the Birthday of Abraham interestingly regarded as the father of the faithful by all 3 monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, & Islam

Birthday of Lot, nephew of Abraham

Also celebrated today: O Radix Jesse
O Radix Jesse, qui stas in signum populorum,
super quem continebunt reges os suum,
quem Gentes deprecabuntur:
veni ad liberandum nos, jam noli tardare.

O Root of Jesse, standing as a sign among the peoples;
before you kings will shut their mouths,
to you the nations will make their prayer:
Come and deliver us, and delay no longer.

Isaiah had prophesied: “A shoot shall come out from the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Isaiah 11:1

“On that day the root of Jesse shall stand as a signal to the peoples; the nations shall inquire of him, and his dwelling shall be glorious.” Isaiah 11:10

Jesse was the father of King David, & Micah had prophesied that the Messiah would be of the house and lineage of David and be born in David’s city, Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Also compare Isaiah 45:14, Isaiah 52:15 & Romans 15:12

150 – Deathday of Clement of Alexandria. His parents were educated pagans, having rejected paganism as a young man due to its perceived moral corruption, he travelled in Greece, Asia Minor, Palestine & Egypt. In his Protrepticus he displays an extensive knowledge of Greek mythology & mystery religions, which could only have arisen from the practice of his family’s religion. In Greece, he encountered the Ionian theologian, Athenagoras of Athens; while in the east, he was taught by the Assyrian, Tatian, & a Jew, Theophilus of Caesarea. In around 180, Clement reached Alexandria, where he met Pantaenus, who taught at the Catechetical School of Alexandria. Clement studied under Pantaenus, & was ordained to the priesthood by Pope Julian before 189.

As his three major works demonstrate, Clement was influenced by Hellenistic philosophy to a greater extent than any other Christian thinker of his time, & in particular by Plato & the Stoics. His secret works, which exist only in fragments, suggest that he was also familiar with pre-Christian Jewish esotericism & Gnosticism. In one of his works he argued that Greek philosophy had its origin among non-Greeks, claiming that both Plato & Pythagoras were taught by Egyptian scholars. Among his pupils were Origen & Alexander of Jerusalem.

Clement is regarded as a Church Father & is venerated as a saint in Coptic Christianity, Ethiopian Christianity & Anglicanism

1776 – Thomas Paine publishes a series of pamphlets in The Pennsylvania Journal entitled “The American Crisis“. The first was released during a time when the Revolution was still viewed as an unsteady prospect. The opening lines are as follows: “These are the times that try men’s souls: The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman”.

The pamphlet, read aloud to the Continental Army on December 23, 1776, three days before the Battle of Trenton, attempted to bolster morale as well as shame neutrals & loyalists toward the cause: “Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph”.

Along with the patriotic nature of The American Crisis, it displayed Paine’s strong deist beliefs, inciting the laity with suggestions that the British are trying to assume powers that only God should have. Paine states that he believes God supports the American people, “that God Almighty will not give up a people to military destruction, or leave them unsupportedly to perish, who have so earnestly and so repeatedly sought to avoid the calamities of war, by every decent method which wisdom could invent“.

Paine believes that Britain is essentially trying to enslave America. See The American Crisis – Common Sense pamphlet – The Age of Reason

1848 – Deathday of Emily Brontë, English novelist & poet

1907 – 239 coal miners die in the Darr Mine Disaster in Jacobs Creek, Pennsylvania

1932 – BBC World Service begins broadcasting as the BBC Empire Service

1941 –Adolf Hitler appoints himself as head of the Oberkommando des Heeres

Image result for 1974 – Nelson Rockefeller is sworn in as Vice President

1974 – Nelson Rockefeller is sworn in as Vice President of the United States under President Gerald Ford under the provisions of the 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution

***

POD (Poem Of the Day)

~I have come
To this dark world
Like a satellite streaking —
I am the open eye gleaming —
A laser, sculpting, reality
With precise rays of promise
Sparking eternity —
Come Beloved, bring forth your art
& let us co-create the heart…
~hag

***

Holy Nights 2019-2020 – The New Mysteries of the ‘Christmas Conference’ Renewed! Dear Friends – Join us this year for an Extra Ordinary Holy Nights. We will gather at the Branch from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CST to attend a new initiative with folks from around the world; ‘May Human Beings Hear It: An Online Holy Nights Gathering hosted by ASA friends around the country’. Laura Scappaticci, Angela Foster.

Here is the link with info. for this free Zoom Call gathering.

Here is the Link to Register

1st Holy Night: Tuesday 24 December 2019 – Christmas Eve, Adam & Eve’s Day (no meeting at the branch) Zoom call at NOON CST – A Goethean Conversation

2nd Holy Night: Wednesday 25 December 2019 – Christmas Day. 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. 1st hour hosted by ‘The Sophia Holding Group’. Our study: Rudolf Steiner’ Opening Lecture. pg. 43

4th Holy Night: Friday 27 December 2019 – Feast of St. John -1st hour hosted by Mary Stewart Adams. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting pg. 98

or Zoom Call: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm hosted by The Dallas Maitreya Branch. Lisa Dalton

6th Holy Night: Sunday 29 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Rockford TN. Group. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 110 William Rogers

7th Holy Night: Monday 30 December 2019 – 1st hour hosted by The Eastern Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 138

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8th Holy Night: Wednesday 1 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by Tess Parker & The Youth. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 183

9th Holy Night: Thursday 2 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Western Regional Council. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 192

10th Holy Night: Friday 3 January 2020 – 1st hour hosted by The Portland Branch. Our study: Continuation of the Foundation Meeting. pg. 204

for more info. contact Festivals Coordinator Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

***

The Christian Community in North America

Winter Youth Conference 2020

THE COURAGE TO LOVE THE WORLD THAT WE’RE IN

For young people ages 14-19 – January 17 – 20, 2020 MLK weekend in Washington DC

WHAT DO YOU LOVE? -WHAT IS IN NEED OF YOUR LOVE?

Rev. Carol Kelly, Rev. Paul Newton, Anna Silber, Samuel Parker, Ultra-Violet Archer, Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

fee $300 (Financial assistance available)

contact Rev. Carol Kelly carolkelly.cc@gmail.com

full flyer: Christian community DC2020

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30 Jan. – 2 Feb. 2020 Prep-makers conference at Michael Fields Institute

Fellowship of Preparation Makers Gathering

BD 501 and 508 – Tools to bring the cosmic light into the earth.

January 30^th – February 2^nd, 2020

Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, N8030 Townline Rd, East Troy, WI

The mission of the Fellowship of Preparation Makers is to ensure that good quality biodynamic preparations are available now and into the future throughout North America.

Schedule:

Thursday, January 30th

10—10:30 am Registration for Chromatogram Intensive

10:30am Chromatogram Intensive – All levels welcome. Presenter: Ryann Herring

12 —1pm Lunch on your own

1-3pm Chromatogram Intensive

3—5pm Registration and Social Time

5-6:30pm Supper

7-8:30pm Welcome from Perry Brown, and Candlemas Festival with Hazel Archer Ginsberg

Friday, January 31st

7:30-8:30am Registration, Breakfast and Social Time

8:30– 10 am History of Fellowship of Prep Makers, and Introductions.

10-10:30am Morning Break

10:30–12:30pm Why Biodynamics? Presenter: Mac Mead

12:30-1:45pm Lunch

2-3:30pm How the cosmic works in the earth? Presenter: Hugh Courtney

3:30-4pm Afternoon Break

4-6pm Different ways to make and use BD501 & BD508. Practical hands on session with Marjory House and Lloyd Nelson

6-7:30 pm Supper

7:30-9pm The Journey of a Prep Maker, A history circle, Facilitator: Brian Wickert

Saturday, February 1st

7:30-8:30 Registration, Breakfast and Social Time

8:30-10am History of Silica on Man’s Evolution (Lamuria to today) Presenter: Mac Mead

10-10:30am Morning break

10:30– 12pm Silica and the Human Presenter: Dr. Mark Kamsler

12-1:30pm Lunch

1:30-3pm Interpretation of Chromatograms Presenter: Ryann Herring

3-3:30pm Afternoon Break

3:30-5pm Kolisko Institute Presenter: Dr. Mark Kamsler

5-7pm Supper

7-8:30pm Quality Comparison of BD501 & 508 Show and tell how you make and use the preps. Facilitator: Wali Via

8:30 pm Evening Social/Brew City Drifters

Sunday, February 2nd

7:30-8:30 am Breakfast & Social Time

8:30-10am Round Table Discussion: Peppering for Pests and Weeds Panel: Mac Mead and Hugh Courtney

10-1-:30 Morning Break

10:30– Noon Fellowship presentations, evaluations and closing circle.

Noon Lunch

Registration and Lodging

Full Conference Fee $250

Single Day $125

Single Talk $25

Single Meal $15

Chromatogram Intensive $25

Homestays Available

Airport pickup from MKE available

Questions:
Allison Pratt-Szeliga
apszeliga@michaelfields.org
262-642-3303×107

Home stay and airport transportation arrangements will be handled by:
Petra Zinniker
petrazinniker@gmail.com
262-581-7574

We will work to provide home stays for everyone who requests one. Some homes will be free and others may have a cost. Please contact Petra with your requests. Home stays will be reserved on a first come first served basis.

Local accommodations are also listed below:
Quality Inn & Suites (1.8 miles away)
2921 O’Leary Ln, East Troy, WI 53120•(262) 684-2183

Alpine Valley Resort (1.6 miles away)
W2501 Co Rd D, Elkhorn, WI 53121•(262) 642-7374

BD 501 and 508 preps for quality comparison:
If you have them, please bring or send BD 501 and BD 508 preps for quality comparison and closing ceremony.
Preps can be mailed to Petra Zinniker, N 7399 Bowers Rd, Elkhorn, WI 53121

Presenters:

Hazel Archer-Ginsberg

Mac Mead

Hugh Courtney

Marjory House

Lloyd Nelson

Dr Kamsler

Ryan Herring

Wali Via

Sponsors: Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, Demeter, Biodynamic Association

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The Central Regional Council and the Association for Anthroposophic Psychology present: View this email in your browser

Karma and Anthroposophic Psychology
— an Easter-Tide RetreatMaundy Thursday 9 April 2020 Noon thru Easter Sunday at 3 pm
Rudolf Steiner Branch 4249 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL AAP:James A. Dyson, M.D., Roberta Nelson, Ph.D., and David Tresemer, Ph.D. with Susan Overhauser, Ph.D.CRC:Marianne Fieber, Alberto Loya, Hazel Archer-Ginsberg, David Howerton, Lisa DaltonEurythmist: Mary RuudActivities:Art-ActsStar WisdomThe Karma ExercisesExperiential PAGEANT on Holy Saturday: ‘Know Thyself’Easter Sunrise SongtrailOptional service at the Christian CommunityCommunal meals and time for ConversationLectures:‘Living into Karma through the Senses’‘How to find the Self in a Sea of Karma’‘Unfolding the Enigma of the Saturn Path’‘The Gesture of Karma’‘Christ as Lord of Karma — how do I access this in terms of my personal psychology?’(Program subject to change) $125 Conference fee includes 1 meal a dayFor more information and to register, contact Alberto Loya aloyavaca@peoplepc.com

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Festivals for the Dead. Then & Now. Renew, or Create Your Own Tradition.

with Hazel Archer-Ginsberg – Founder of Reverse Ritual Understanding Anthroposophy through the Rhythms of the Year. Essayist, Lecturer, Poet, Trans-denominational Minister, ‘Anthroposopher’, working as the Festivals Coordinator & Council Member of the Chicago Rudolf Steiner Branch, The Traveling Speakers Program, & the Central Regional Council of the Anthroposophical Society.

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Rudolf Steiner Branch of The Anthroposophical Society, 4249 North Lincoln Avenue. Chicago, IL 60618 (map)

Check out our Web site! (Anthroposophical Society in America)

The Elderberries 3-Fold Space & the Flex Space are available for rental on PEER SPACE for classes, events, meetings, retreats, art exhibits, family parties, etc..

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ON-GOING:

Community Study – Wednesdays at 9:30 am – 11 am at the Branch – Working with Rudolf Steiner’s Karmic Relationships Vol 4

‘Anthroposophy’, which means Wisdom of the Human Being is a ‘Spiritual Science’ built on the research of Rudolf Steiner. Our current conversation explores: the riddles of existence, the truth of karma, the mystery of evil, historic connections, life after death and more. We incorporate ‘The Calendar of the Soul’, eurythmy, focused discussion and seasonal artistic explorations in our study.

For more info. contact Hazel Archer Ginsberg

Cognitive Ritual

~Confessions of a Modern Rosicrucian

Adam & Eve’s Day

Eve of the Eve

a Miracle happened here

Still

O Radix Jesse

30 Jan. – 2 Feb. 2020 Prep-makers conference at Michael Fields Institute

Fellowship of Preparation Makers Gathering

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30 Jan. – 2 Feb. 2020 Prep-makers conference at Michael Fields Institute

Fellowship of Preparation Makers Gathering

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