Tai Guey Taino Woods Sanctuary Community,

As we transition into the fall, we want to take a moment to honor the significant events and gatherings that have brought our community closer and to prepare ourselves for the sacred ceremonies that lie ahead. Here’s what’s happening in September and beyond:

🔥 Honoring Our Fire Keepers and Nature Quest Participants

A huge shout-out and heartfelt thank you to the dedicated Fire Keepers, the four brave men who completed the Nature Quest, and their supporters. We are especially grateful for the invaluable contributions of Bearclaw, Elizabeth, and Roman, whose wisdom, guidance, and support were pivotal during this intense journey. Your commitment to the community and the sacred fire has left a lasting impact on us all.

🍂 Fall Equinox Prayer: A Time of Transformation

Join us from October 4th through October 6th for our Fall Equinox Prayer and Purification Lodge. This sacred ceremony, led by the esteemed Behike Miguel Sague, offers a profound opportunity to connect with the rhythms of the Earth and the cycles of Life, Death, and Rebirth. Engage in special teachings, prayers, and the deeply transformative sweat lodge. This is a powerful time to align with the energies of the equinox and embrace the changes that the new season brings. 

As we honor the Fall Equinox, we recognize the pivotal moment in the ceremonial cycle of the cemies, where Yoka Hu, the male spirit of Energy and Life, completes his journey. Yoka Hu’s cycle begins at the Spring Equinox, where he is born of his Earth-and-Water Mother, Ata Bey. He reaches full maturity and strength at the Summer Solstice and then begins to decline during the late summer, finally descending to the watery underworld at the Autumnal Equinox. Here, Yoka Hu is reunited with his mother’s womb, awaiting rebirth at the Winter Solstice, and the cycle begins anew.

This narrative of Yoka Hu embodies the deep connection to the natural world and the cycles that influence our lives, reminding us of the importance of death and renewal as part of our spiritual growth. During our Fall Equinox celebration, we will also honor the sacred foods associated with the Taino Medicine Wheel: green squash, black beans, cassava, and corn. These foods symbolize our gratitude and connection to Atabeyra, reinforcing the unity and communal spirit of our ceremonies.

For the full story and a deeper understanding of this tradition, please visit The Taino Equinox Celebration
– Caney Indigenous Spiritual Circle.

Arikona bu (thank you), Behike Miguel Sague, for your guidance and dedication to preserving and sharing these sacred traditions. It is with your great help that we continue to grow and strengthen our Calmunity!

Register now to secure your spot!

💪 Volunteer Weekends: Preparing for Winter

As we prepare for the colder months, we urgently need your help to split wood for the winter lodges. Without your support, we won’t be able to hold our sacred winter ceremonies. Join us for our upcoming volunteer weekends on September 6th, September 14th, and October 18th. Your contribution ensures that we can keep the fires burning and continue our winter traditions. Sign up to volunteer today!

🔨 Lodge Build: Strengthening Our Sacred Spaces

On September 14th, we will also be holding a special Lodge Build day. This is an incredible opportunity to contribute to the physical and spiritual infrastructure of our sanctuary. Come ready to work, connect with fellow community members, and be part of something truly meaningful. Your efforts will directly support our upcoming ceremonies and gatherings. Learn more and RSVP!

🧼 Interested in Natural Soap Making?

We’re gauging interest in holding a natural soap-making workshop. This hands-on event will explore the traditional methods of creating natural, eco-friendly soaps. Using natural soap is a gentle and nourishing choice for your skin, free from harsh chemicals that can cause irritation. It’s crafted with natural ingredients that not only moisturize but also bring the added benefits of antioxidants, all while being kind to Atabeyra (Mother Earth) with biodegradable components. Embrace a healthier routine for your skin and the environment with natural soap.

We’re considering hosting on October 26th-October 27th. We only have room for 10 participants. Please sign up right away to ensure this workshop will happen by emailing us at: events@tainowoods.com or RSVPing on our Gatherings Page!

🎶 Tekinas In-Person Gatherings

Our Tekinas will be gathering in person on Saturday, September 14th, and Saturday, September 28th, with a special session on October 4th for the Fall Equinox Prayer with Behike Miguel Sague. These meetings are essential for those committed to cultural preservation and deepening their connection with our Taino traditions. If you haven’t already, join our Tekina group on our membership-exclusive Taino Social to stay informed about these and other virtual meetings. Join the Tekina Group!

💚 Support Our Sanctuary: Membership and Donations

Becoming a member of Taino Woods Sanctuary is more than just a subscription; it’s a commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and sacred traditions of our land. Membership offers exclusive benefits, including access to special events, gatherings, and our online community, Taino Social. Your support is vital to our ongoing efforts. If you’re not yet a member, we invite you to join us today. Become a Member!

Your generosity also helps sustain our sanctuary. Whether it’s through monetary donations or offering your time during volunteer weekends, every contribution makes a difference. Donate here!

Join us in these enriching experiences and continue to be a vital part of our community’s growth and harmony. For more details and to register for gatherings, visit our website: Taino Woods Sanctuary.

In Calm-Unity and Reverence,
Taino Woods Sanctuary