Tag Archive for: Rev. Karen Hering

An Infinite Expectation of the Dawn

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An Infinite Expectation of the Dawn
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By Rev. Karen Hering

Easter’s celebration of resurrected hope and new life invites us all to consider how hope rises in the midst of loss and despair. “We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake,” wrote Thoreau, “not by mechanical aids but by an infinite expectation of the dawn.” What habits, spiritual practices and bonds of community will nurture our “infinite expectation of the dawn”? How do we keep our hearts awakened to the dawning of the morning star? Wear your Easter hat or bonnet to continue the tradition started last year.

Rev. Karen Hering serves as consulting literary minister at Unity Church-Unitarian in St. Paul, Minnesota. She is author of Writing to Wake the Soul: Opening the Sacred Conversation Within and leads guided writing sessions and retreats in congregations and other community settings in the Midwest and beyond. She grew up in Appleton and is a graduate of Appleton East. www.karenhering.com

Remembering Forward

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Remembering Forward
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by Rev. Karen Hering

Halfway between the fall equinox and the winter solstice, when the ghosts and ghouls of Halloween appear on our doorsteps, is a time regarded in many cultures as one when the veils between this world and the next are thin or even lifted. We will mark the occasion, known variously as All Souls or All Saints Day, as the Days of the Dead and as Samhain, by remembering those who have gone before us and honoring our connections both to them and to those who will come after us. The service will include an ofrenda, an altar of remembrance, and children and adults are encouraged to bring mementos of loved ones you have lost. You are invited to place your photos, small objects, treasures and offerings of love on the ofrenda at the beginning of each service and may take them home with you at the close. Rev. Karen Hering serves as consulting literary minister at Unity Church-Unitarian in St. Paul, Minnesota. She is author of Writing to Wake the Soul: Opening the Sacred Conversation Within and leads guided writing sessions and retreats in congregations and other community settings in the Midwest and beyond. She grew up in Appleton and is a graduate of Appleton East. www.karenhering.com