Communion of Heart

Communion of Hearts

"We swear by peace and love to stand
Heart to heart and hand in hand.
Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now,
Confirming this our Sacred Vow."
   ___ Druidic prayer of unity

   The "Sacred Vow" of unity in this prayer is sworn 'by peace and love' - the two requisites without which any spiritual communion is invalidated. In every assembly of human beings, there is a wide variety of different opinions, beliefs, and perspectives; each unique viewpoint is essential to prevent abnormal homogenization, wherein people suppress their personal views and maintain a phony unity. A communion of hearts is focalized by an act of intention that includes each unique opinion but goes beyond personal boundaries, entering the circle of Spirit.
   The mantle of unity is conferred - only can be conferred - by Spirit, which manifests in many different forms to those who are gathered together. Even to those with a formal religious upbringing, Spirit will be present to each person in the most immediate metaphors and appearances. Like a mountain, Spirit may be approached by many routes, and each route will influence the ways we see the mountain. Spirit offers us each a vision of unity if we will accept what we are uniquely shown: that the circle of life in which we stand encircles and includes everything and everyone we have ever known.

"Stand in meditation, visualizing those with whom you share the circle of life most intimately. Be aware of the rippling out of your circle in all directions. Be also aware of the many forms in which Spirit manifests to each of those in your circle. Make your own prayer ofcommitment to this circle, or use the one above."
[From: "The Celtic Spirit" by Caitlin Matthews]