'KindlingFire' Alchemy
KindlingFires
We are taking a break from our regular monthly KindlingFires this summer to concentrate on the many fire events we are hosting or helping other members of the community with. Once our schedules get back to almost-normal we will start these back up and look forward to seeing you by our fire.
2011
- Saturday, Jan 1st, gather 4:pm,
ritual 5-11:pm - Saturday, Feb 5th, gather 4:pm,
ritual 5:30-11:pm - Saturday, Mar 5th, gather 4:pm,
ritual 6-11:pm - Saturday, Apr 2nd, gather 6:30pm,
ritual 7:30-11:pm - Saturday, May 7th, gather 6:30pm, ritual 8-11:pm
- Saturday, June 4th, gather 6:30pm, ritual 8:30-11:pm
- Saturday, July 2nd, gather 6:30pm, ritual 8:30-11:pm
- Saturday, Aug 6th, gather 6:30pm, ritual 8-11:pm
- Saturday, Sep 3rd, gather 6:30pm, ritual 7:30-11:pm
- Saturday, Oct 1st, gather 6:30:pm, ritual 7-11:pm
For More Information...
- Map and directions
- More about monthly KindlingFires
- Photos from Recent KindlingFires
- RSVP or Contact
Us
What Is Alchemy?
Alchemy is the practice of the art of transformation. The ancient alchemists
explored physical transformations to understand spiritual transformation.
Their aim being, not to create gold from base metals but, to observer the
process of refinement that matter goes through as it changes through each
experiment. Their observations guided them to an understanding of the world
of matter to be a holographic realm where every part reflects every other
part. From this the ancients discovered what we know so well now, the most
profound transformation is that of human consciousness towards Spirit.
What Is an Alchemical Fire Ritual?
An Alchemical Fire Ritual is a laboratory
for experimenting with the art of transforming conscious. As we share
music, stories, dances and ourselves through the flow of the ritual,
we have the opportunity to discover those hidden parts of ourself
that we rarely get to see. All of this discovery happening in a safe,
welcoming and loving space. What makes this type of magik work is
full participation, as much as each person is able, by every one
present. The real magik we create together is being present in the
moment with each other so that we can perceive the wonder and bliss
around us.
In an Alchemical Fire Ritual, the ritual space is known as the laboratory.
Our lab has a particular set up that helps makes things work. At the center
of our lab is our fire. It is the center of all that we do. It's the light
we return to over and over again. It is the spark that lights our way through
the ritual. Immediately around the fie is an open space used for offerings
of movement, song, story, drama and wonder. This is where the action of
our ritual takes place. This area is bounded by a ring of torches we call
the Mars Line. From here folks can witness the magik of the ritual while
giving their bodies a chance to rest. On one end of the Mars line is our
Furnace, where the drummers and musicians gather to share their offerings
of rhythm. Outside the Mars Line, is open space for conspiring and around
all of this is a line of Prayer Ties.
No Bystanders
This ritual works through participation. Drummers and musicians make music
for everyone to dance and sing to as they help others learn to share
their rhythms. Singers share chants and help others to raise their voice.
Dancers share movement and help others learn to move. Bards share stories,
poems, news and help others to connect to their own story. We each share
what we are good at. We all share in the adventure of trying out new ways
of expressing ourselves in sacred space. The act of challenging yourself
to test what you believe to be a limit is a powerful magik. When you can
challenge yourself while surrounded by loving supportive witnesses the
magik deepens and often become “real”.
There is no script to this. There are no doctrinal rights or wrongs. We
are free to create with each other in the moment. And all are encouraged
to share as they are moved to do so.
Agreements
In order to help keep us all safe in the ritual, we do ask everyone to keep in mind a simple set of ritual agreements.
- As we play in Sacred Space we agree to be fully present and plugged into the groove that is happening.
- We help each other stay focused by acting on inspirations and creating opportunities to engage with each other, self and Spirit.
- Encourage each other to share the magik we bring.
- Keep casual conversation outside the ritual space.
- Be sober and response-able within the ritual space.
- Share what you are good at with the circle, but also try what you think you are weak at within the safety of the circle - you may be surprised.
- Allow silence when it happens.
This last agreement may need some explanation. A tool we use in Alchemical
Arts Circles is control. In particular, self control. One of the
ways we focus and deepen the energy we create through all our activity
is to allow silence from time to time. i.e.: at the end of a really
good drum set or a moving story. Rather than applauding, cheering
or condolences, we ask folks to let silence happen. Give yourself time
to really feel what you hear/see/feel. The amazing thing is that from the
silence, a voice always begins or a rhythm stars up. Give it a try and
see how it feels.
What to bring:
- Your self
- Your sense of play
- Your musical instruments and extras to share if you can
- Your favorite stories, poems, chants, etc. to share with everyone.
We look forward to seeing you at the fire.
How to join or find out more about us
We invite others in the DC metro area interested in our path to join us and find out if this is a direction for you to explore. If you are interested in learning more about us or have questions about the ideas we are exploring, please contact us.
All genuine seekers are welcome. If this is not what you are seeking, then please seek elsewhere and blessings be with you.
Namaste.
