Lifeways Councils

Birthing Council

Ancient peoples acknowledged the creation of new life, from conception and pregnancy to a healthy birth, as dependent on the grace of the gods. Elders and community supported the laboring mother and gathered to honor the arrival and unique path of the newborn child.

Today, we are increasingly disconnected from the cycles of fertility and the inherent sanctity of the doorway of birth. Parents preparing for the arrival of a child no longer do so in deep relationship with the gods and the world around them. Community no longer exists to gather in ritual and celebration to embrace each new life and honor the child’s deepest heart.

The Birthing Council offers support and counsel to calm the fears that surround our modern birth culture, to reduce the trauma created by those fears, and to reconnect to the joy of bringing forth and sustaining life. Led by coordinator Lisa Lichtig and open to men and women, the Council works to uphold rituals that celebrate the sacredness of birth and to encourage practices that reconnect us with the value, wisdom, and joy in the cycle of creation. Open forum calls, special fires, and venues for sharing birth stories are available to explore the mysteries and passages of birthing.

Contact the Birthing Council for more information
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Death and Dying Council

In traditional cultures, death was honored as part of life. The elderly were given respect and care by the younger generations, and death itself was a sacred passage to the realm of the ancestors. For those left behind, grieving was recognized as an essential part of the death process, honoring the gift of the life that was and cleansing the way for new life to come.

Modern culture has lost this ancient perspective. Fear, guilt, denial and confusion abound. This disconnection has led to alienation and tremendous suffering for those facing death as well as for those struggling to deal with the loss of loved ones.

The Lifeways Death and Dying Council serves to remedy this disconnection and help us to honor death as a sacred doorway and a natural part of life. Led by community elder Prema Sheerin, the Council offers support and counsel for individuals facing death, as well as for their families and friends. Through conference calls, one-on-one support, and special fires for communities dealing with death, a safe and loving space is created to explore feelings and beliefs about death and to recognize it as a profound teacher for life. The Council also offers information about shamanic funerary rites that are available.