Lay ministers celebrate Winter Solstice

By Monica Moen

The longest night of the year didn’t seem so bleak to the more than 80 folks gathered to celebrate Winter Solstice 2006 Dec. 21 at the Catholic Renewal Center in Fort Worth.

The camaraderie over a hearty potluck dinner warmed our hunger for rejoicing in the season with friends as well as our nutritional hungers Following dinner, there was no room for darkness as the room was lit by the gentle glow of firelight, inspired readings, quiet reflections and the music of longing and promise.

Each year, this Solstice Celebration, which is hosted by Ministries Outreach, is coordinated by volunteers recruited from Partners in Ministries graduates. This year’s logistical team included Debbie Johnson, Elizabeth Fox, Marti Seaton, Monica Moen and Maisie Kashka of Denton with Jane Moynagh of Krum, providing for a variety of needs from programs to ambiance to table and chair set up. Maisie Kashka, Fran Dornan and Lurline Dupree led the music on piano, cello and recorder, while Julia Moen and Hester Dornan led the singing.

This delightful night of hope and ritual has become for many of those gathered a wonderful lead in to the celebration of the Incarnation and another avenue to join their response to daily ministry.

Maranatha – Come Lord Jesus.