About Our Interfaith Celebrations

We typically have one regular celebration per month, on the second Sunday, appropriate for adults and older teens. We also offer an intergenerational gathering for all ages. The times and days of our intergenerational celebrations may vary, so please check our calendar page for specifics.

Second Sunday Celebration Circle

An engaging and uplifting Interfaith celebration that weaves together prayer, meditation, singing, poetry, and simple ritual from many traditions. Each monthly celebration is a unique and heart-opening experience that creatively integrates:

  • guided meditation and silent reflection
  • uplifting songs and sacred chants
  • prayers, poetry and inspirational readings
  • a short talk exploring a spiritual topic
  • simple, participatory ritual designed to integrate the teaching
  • an opportunity to share from the heart, in supportive spiritual fellowship

Drawing upon wisdom from Buddhism, Sufism /Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, Earth-based religions, Taoism, and much more, this eclectic celebration invites us to open more fully to the Divine, however we experience that. Recognizing that "there are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground," we honor and celebrate all the beautiful faiths that grace the human spiritual garden.

Second Sunday Celebration Circle
Led by Rev. Jody Kessler, Interfaith Minister
2nd Sunday of the month, 7:00-8:30 PM
Ahimsa Yoga Center, Dewitt Mall                                                             
215 N. Cayuga Street, Ithaca, NY                                                                                              

For more information call Rev. Jody at 607-227-5683
or email
revjody@commonheart.org

  Because of the meditative nature of this circle, we ask that you arrive on time, and that you do not bring small children. Donations are gratefully accepted to help cover expenses.

Intergenerational Celebrations: An interfaith gathering for all ages, honoring diverse traditions with music, story, poetry, prayer, reflective silence, creative activities and simple ritual. Delightfully engaging for everyone, from tots to elders. Led by Rev. Jody Kessler and Aileen Fitzke.  Dates and times vary, so check our calendar page for specifics.



Prayer flags for peace, made by participants during one of our Celebration Circles:



Although it has been said that the Essence of Spirit cannot be named, we recognize that there are many names for That which is the Source of all Being. In our celebrations we may refer to Spirit in a variety of ways: God, Goddess, Divine Presence, Beloved, and many more. Whereas different names may resonate with different individuals, we recognize that, in the realm of Spirit, all language is limiting. As Lao Tzu wrote, “The Tao that can be named is not the eternal Tao.”