Embracing the Darkness and Welcoming the Light: A Review of Earth Centered Spirituality’s Winter Solstice Celebration
The longest night of the year holds a profound significance across countless cultures and spiritual traditions. It’s a time for reflection, for acknowledging the darkness, and for rekindling the inner light as we anticipate the sun’s return. This past Saturday, December 20th, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Earth Centered Spirituality’s Winter Solstice Celebration at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas, an event thoughtfully planned and led by the insightful Jenani Tzhone.
From the moment I stepped into the beautifully adorned space, a sense of warmth and anticipation enveloped me. The air was filled with the subtle scent of evergreens and beeswax, and the soft glow of candles cast dancing shadows, immediately setting a reverent and contemplative mood.
We celebrate a sacred ceremony where we experienced:
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.
Wha we enjoyed:
Delicious food we shared in a community potluck
An offering to the Underworld (a symbol of surrender, transformation, or release)
The Ritual of Light
Following our meal, we transitioned into a Solstice Ritual. Through music, meditation, and symbolic candle lighting, we will welcome the return of the sun.
The sanctuary had been transformed into the underworld, with strobe lights, mist, fog, curtains and a mesmerizing performance of signing and chanting.
Kudos to Jenani Tzhone for her vision and passion in helping and inspiring to us gather to embrace the quiet of winter and kindle the warmth of community.
To learn more,please visit:
First Unitarian Church Of Dallas