Vernal Equinox 2008

In many cultures around the planet, the Vernal Equinox symbolizes new life. The return to life after the dormancy of the winter months is seen in the growing cycles of plants, crops, and livestock. The Agrarian societies have long celebrated this time when the day and the night equally share the 24 hour day of the earth.

This transition between winter and summer in the northern hemisphere occurs as the northern polar planetary axis of the earth begins to tilt towards the sun on its elliptical orbit around the Sun. At both equinoxes, Vernal and Autumnal, the Sun appears directly over the Equator of Earth, therefore spending equal amounts of time in both hemispheres during a 24 hour cycle; 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness.

Over ages of time, religions have incorporated this important time of renewal into the doctrines of faith for the populace. Ancient cultures existing today, including the Hopi celebrate this time with prayers and festivals. Purim, Passover, Easter, all are celebrated in relationship with the Vernal Equinox, traditional planting, lunar cycles and associated historic events. Many of these last for days.

For several thousands of years, the star constellation Aries has been the backdrop for the Sun to appear on the first day of Spring. This year, 2008, the Vernal Equinox or when the Sun enters Aries, will begin late on the 19th of March and progress around the globe during the early hours of the 20th.

Prayers for World Peace are traditionally made around the globe at this time. People of all religions and ideologies gather together to share in these expressions of gratitude and harmony among the peoples of the Earth. Global participation on an intentional level has been influential in the progress of spiritual evolution over time. We ask that all people who are inclined, join with others in prayer during this period. Some groups are selecting 8 PM local time on the 20th 21st and 22nd of March.

The Solstices and Equinoxes are designated by the seasons as they have occurred for thousands of years. They are landmarks in the cycles of life on Planet Earth and for that reason human beings have always acknowledged these changes of seasons. Each brings particular bountiful gifts bestowed by the planet, which can be harvested and continue the prosperity of humans. Without these cycles of renewal and bestowal, crops, fish and animals would cease to exist and so would the human population which relies on these for nourishment, shelter, and apparel. Other dates for gatherings and Prayers for Peace are Summer Solstice when the Sun enters the constellation Cancer, the 20th of June, Autumn Equinox when the Sun enters Libra the 22nd of September, and December 21st, Winter Solstice when the Sun enters the constellation Capricorn.

The differences in cultural and religious expressions on the planet at this time have caused confusion as to the divine purpose for souls to be on Planet Earth. Nationality and loyalty to specific spiritual leaders have distorted the intention of the concept of Universality, or All One Humanity which is the reality.

The spiritual evolution of individuals and the collective is dependent upon realization of this truth. In each person is the potential for Tolerance, Love, and Compassion. The act of praying for ones own ability to comprehend this responsibility intentionally is the foundation for growth in the Light. Prayers must then be acted out through manifested behavior for the soul to evolve. That is the reason for investment into a physical body on this plane. Without this opportunity, the soul could not develop these skills through experience. This is required as a stage of development in the journey of the soul.

To make the connection between prayers of peace, and the living present on the Earth, it is recommended that focus of intention on particular areas which are currently in need, be included at the Vernal Equinox gatherings. Tibet which has suffered occupation by the military Chinese for over 50 years is one such place. Another is Iraq where the civilian population has suffered military aggression by the United States of America which could have been directed specifically to terrorist organizations worldwide. There are other situations which are worthy to be included in prayer, and the selection of focus, as the style of gathering, are of free will choice.

Simple offerings, lighting candles, gathering with family and friends, feasting, and making prayers for peace are all typically associated with the Vernal Equinox celebration. Choose your manner of participation and take the time to reflect on all these wondrous matters. The expression of gratitude for blessings bestowed as the precious cycles of the earth replenish us is ancient. The compassionate recognition of those less fortunate and prayers for release from hardship is appropriate this Vernal Equinox season. Many faiths have rituals which include prayers for this occasion. Other prayers Suggested:

The Great Invocation

From the point of Light within the Mind of God let light
stream forth into the minds of men. Let Light descend on Earth.

From the point of Love within the Heart of God, Let love stream
into the hearts of men. May Christ return to Earth.

From the centre where the Will of God is known let purpose
guide the little wills of men —the purpose which the Masters
know and serve.

From the centre which we call the race of men let the Plan of Love
and Light work out. And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

Universal Prayer for Peace

We call upon the Light of the Father to cast out all agents of chaos.
We call upon the Love of the Mother to heal all anger and fear.

We call upon the Powers of Light to unite the nations of the World.
We call upon the Forces of Light to restore balance on Earth.

We call upon all Children of Light to come forward in the work for Peace.
Light, Love, Unity, Balance, Peace —So let it be for Eternity.