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We had the first 'official' meeting of our local group on June 24, 2000. We convened in Susan Hall's garden near Dayton,
Ohio. We were new at being local group contacts, so we went all out. We printed color invitations offering guests the opportunity
to "Celebrate the summer solstice. Commune with nature. Enjoy the music of the birds and the waterfall. Harmonize with
the Tao. Achieve serenity." Just in case that wasn't enough, the invitation continued: "Very casual. We'll have
margaritas, beer [the Ohio area analog to wine], and snacks. Bring additional drinks, eats, seats, and significant others
as desired."
We had not planned ahead. The summer solstice was nearly upon us, leaving time only to distribute the invitations at our
offices and to make an announcement on the World Pantheist Movement mailing list. Nevertheless, approximately twenty people
attended. Do you suppose it was the opportunity to achieve serenity, or the margaritas and beer? Probably the opportunity
to achieve serenity through margaritas and beer!
Seating was available in the arbor and by the waterfall, stream, and garden pond, but a light rain resulted in a retreat to
the covered patio. The food, drink, and conversation were wonderful. The garden was beautiful and the plantings and the
sound of the water kept the yard full of birds. Those who had intended only to drop by stayed and joined the groups discussing
gardening, religion, philosophy, and primarily, in those days of the election campaign, politics.
When the warm and happy crowd finally dispersed, we were determined to have more such gatherings. The printed invitations
proved to be a good way to reach local folks and should be used more, perhaps in combination with posters and ads. This gathering
was special because it was in our home and involved people who were already friends. We were soon to find out, however, that
meeting other pantheists for the first time is like a reunion with old friends.
Steve Cox, May 2001
Contact Steve Cox
Go to Susan Hall's Garden
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