Embracing the Longest Night: A Winter Solstice Celebration at First Unitarian Church Of Dallas
As the year draws to a close and the air turns crisp, we approach the Winter Solstice—the longest night of the year. For centuries, this has been a sacred time for communities to gather, honor the darkness, and celebrate the inevitable return of the light.
On Saturday, December 20, 2025, the First Unitarian Church of Dallas invites you to pause the holiday rush and ground yourself in community and reflection at our Winter Solstice Potluck and Ritual.
Invitation to the Winter Solstice Ritual & Ceremony
Honoring the Longest Night of the Year Through the Ancient Story of Inanna’s Descent to the Underworld
As the longest night of the year approaches, let us gather in sacred space to honor the ancient wisdom of the Winter Solstice. Join us for a deeply transformative ritual as we travel to the depths of the dark season, inspired by the ancient Sumerian myth of Inanna, the Goddess of Love, Power, and Transformation.
Inanna’s journey into the underworld—her descent to meet her dark counterpart—holds timeless wisdom for us as we explore themes of death, rebirth, and the reclamation of our true power. The Solstice offers the perfect moment to surrender to the quiet, fertile darkness that nurtures our growth in the coming light.
We invite you to be part of this sacred ceremony where we will:
🌀 Journey to the Underworld: Walk with Inanna as she descends into the underworld to reclaim her power and wisdom.
🌀 Honoring Shadow and Light: Release what no longer serves, make space for new beginnings, and reflect on the lessons of the shadow.
🌀 Sacred Ceremony: Through ritual, song, and meditation, we will honor the darkness and call in the light that is soon to return.
What to Bring:
🌀 A dish to share in community potluck
🌀 An offering to the Underworld (a symbol of surrender, transformation, or release)
Pay What You Can
This is a pay-what-you-can event. Contributions are deeply appreciated and help cover the cost of supplies
Why We Celebrate the Solstice
In the Unitarian Universalist tradition, we draw from many sources, including earth-centered traditions that honor the rhythms of nature. The Solstice is a powerful metaphor for our own lives. It reminds us that even in the deepest winter, the spark of hope remains. It is a time to release what no longer serves us and set intentions for the coming year as the days begin to lengthen once more.
Breaking Bread Together
We will begin the evening with a Potluck Dinner at 5:00 PM. There is something profoundly spiritual about sharing a meal. Whether you bring a savory winter stew, a fresh salad, or a sweet treat to share, your contribution helps build the feast that sustains us. This is a time for laughter, connection, and the warmth of friendship.
The Ritual of Light
Following our meal, we will transition into a Solstice Ritual. Through music, meditation, and symbolic candle lighting, we will welcome the return of the sun. This ceremony is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all ages, creating a space of peace and wonder amidst the busyness of the season.
Event Details
Mark your calendars and invite a friend. Here is everything you need to know:
- Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM CST
- Location: Channing Hall First Unitarian Church of Dallas 4015 Normand Avenue Dallas, TX 75205
- What to Bring: A dish to share for the potluck and an open heart.
Join Us
Let us gather to embrace the quiet of winter and kindle the warmth of community. Whether you are a long-time member or visiting for the first time, you are welcome here.
We look forward to sharing the light with you.