River Blessing
Rev. Helen James filmed and edited this video to honour the sacredness & sentience of water and highlight the important work communities are doing across Britain, creating Water Blessing ceremonies.
The Mayor of Calne in Wiltshire, Cllr Robert MacNaughton has devoted his year in office to carry out River Blessings, led by Shamanic Practitioner, Kate Dineen. The ceremony included really profound and joyful contributions from each and every person in the circle. There were around 40 people of many faiths and none, Mayors, councillors, scientists, artists, Christian, Druid, Goddess, Hindu, Buddhist, Sufi, earth-based spirituality, activists, all bringing their local waters to co-create a blessing of love and gratitude. They spoke from their hearts honouring Water as sentient. They highlighted the need to put pressure on Water Companies to stop polluting water courses with poo and chemicals. They want the Government to take action and protect Britain’s Rivers.
Kate says, “The ceremony deepens animacy, enhances 'indigenous' belonging, and helps people step into their personal power in relation to nature.” Tara the Water Maiden, The Bards of Avalon, Paul Syrett, and Stroud's Pioneer Minister Rev'd Simon Howell made heart-felt offerings including songs and poetry on St Brigid’s on 1st February which also marks Imbolc.
Thanks to The Bards of Avalon for the music - ‘The River is Flowing’ and ‘Water - you are Life’, and Rev’d Simon Howell for leading the singing at the end of the film. Thank you to all those present during the ceremony who gave their permission to be part of this film. Thank you to David Johnson for the photos used in the film and the thumbnail.
“Wow! What a beautiful film. A mini documentary! Thank you so much. You really captured the essence of the ceremony and the spirit of the river in such a respectful and sensitive way. I feel that you truly honoured us all and I absolutely love that you immediately ‘got it’ when you saw for the first time the river at the spot where she flows under the bridge. Thank you again for such devotional work. With love and gratitude.”
The views, information and opinions expressed during this video are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Rev Helen James. Helen is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained within this series. The primary purpose of this video series is to share opinion, educate and inform. The series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services.