The Fall Equinox: Make it Personal

The Fall Equinox is a time to slow down

…reconnect with the land, and reflect on the changing season. Just as the leaves begin to fall and let go, we can use this time as a reminder to release our worries, doubts, and things that no longer serve us, while trusting in the next season and whatever it may bring.

This is a season of change which can be a challenge. To help us transition, Venessa Cardinal, our Indigenous Cultural Helper, has organized these activities to create a peaceful and meaningful space for us to connect with ourselves, each other, the land, and the teachings of the season.

We will begin with a Fall Equinox craft, using watercolor paper to create leaf and nature prints from items we collect outside. Participants can also paint rocks gathered from the land. This activity is meant to encourage us to slow down and be present as we transition into the fall season. (1 p.m., Wednesday, September 23rd)

Teachings around tobacco and offering to the land will be incorporated. We will talk about the importance of giving thanks to the Creator and showing gratitude for what the land provides, while honoring the natural cycles of the land and of our own lives.

The following day, we will hold a Pipe Ceremony. This will be a meaningful way to begin the Fall Equinox season together through prayer, reflection, and connection. We will have an opportunity to release some of what we have been carrying from the past season and make space for what is ahead. (11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 24th)

Next week, we will have a very special Orange Shirt Making and Pin Making Day to honor and reflect on the significance of September 30th, Orange Shirt Day & National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This will be an opportunity to stand with Indigenous participants, staff, families and community to remember and acknowledge that Every Child Matters. (1:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 29th)

You are invited to share in these special fall activities, at the GSS Cultural Room which is now at the Horizon Pathways program in the Holyrood community at 9418-83 Street.

To attend, please email Venessa Cardinal at vcardiinal@gspady.ab.ca to help plan refreshments and supplies, and to get important parking information.