Gospel Ceremony
2024-12-06 19:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | Sanctuary at Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, MA, 01760, United States
Experience Jesus’ message of love holistically in an inclusive spiritual setting, without any dogma or sectarianism blocking the way.
Fri, Dec 6th, Doors at 7pm, ceremony begins around 8pm and lasts several hours
The heart of this Gospel Ceremony is a dramatic reading of the entire Gospel of Mark (lasts just under 2hrs) facilitated by Rev. Dr. Ian Mevorach, director of the Common Street Spiritual Center; he has been a student of Jesus and other great prophets and spiritual teachers for over 20 years.
The.reading of the Gospel will be offered with very minimal explanation, in trust that it speaks for itself, and will be accompanied by embodied practices of remembrance and enactment that will awaken our imaginations and give us ways to somatically experience the meaning of the story.
Such practices may include meditation, journaling, mindfully drinking cacao, coffee and/or tea, sharing the ritual bread and wine of communion, prayer, singing, contemplative or dramatic readings, partnered or small group reflective practices, etc. These practices will be woven organically into the experience of the Gospel story, similar to audience participation in improvisational theater contexts. There will be plenty of laughter and serious moments in this sacred gathering insofar as the Gospel itself is both a divine tragedy and divine comedy.
While the Gospel writings are essential to Christianity, Christianity is not essential to the Gospel writings; similarly, Jesus is essential to the Gospel writings, but the Gospel writings are not essential to Jesus. The goal of the Gospel Ceremony is not to convert participants to any form or sect of Christianity, but rather to create an inclusive and dynamic space where people of diverse belief systems and philosophical perspectives can share in an authentic experience of the Gospel of Jesus, which is a message of love that transcends religious categories and forms; insofar as this sacred message does relate to religious traditions like Christianity, it tends more towards their deconstruction and transformation rather than their establishment and maintenance.
People of all beliefs, spiritual paths, and religious identities, and those who do not identify as religious and/or spiritual, are all equally welcome to participate, and people of all ages are also welcome. There is no charge to attend the Gospel Ceremony, though donations to the Spiritual Center are always welcome at www.commonstreet.org/give. Also, ceremony participants are very welcome to arrive early or stay late to help with setup/cleanup, and to offer assistance and contribute their talents and energy in various ways during the ceremonial practice itself.
What to bring:
Water bottle, yoga mat and/or meditation cushion to sit on (or you can borrow one, or use a chair), a journal (optional), Bible (optional if you want to read along), blanket (optional), mug for coffee/tea (or we’ll have paper cups).
For questions, or to volunteer, please contact Ian at ian@commonstreet.org

The Uncommon Cafe at the Farmer's Market
2024-12-07 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-12-14 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-12-21 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-12-28 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-01-04 09:00 - 12:00 | Sanctuary Lobby @ Common Street Spiritual Center
Every Saturday 9am-12pm
Start your weekend with us at the Farmer’s Market and enjoy the unique offerings of The Uncommon Cafe!
Menu Highlights:
Coconut Maple Coffee: A harmonious blend of coconut oil, Vermont maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla for a warm and inviting flavor.
Ceremonial Cacao: A rich, heart-opening drink infused with cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla—perfect for a mindful and nourishing start to your day.
What Else to Expect:
Specialty Goods: Browse our collection of Palo Santo, Sage, and freshly restocked 1lb ceremonial cacao.
Local Treats: Discover new chocolate creations from Prophecy Chocolate, including Classic Maple and Wild New England bars, crafted in Hardwick, VT.
Coffee Made with Love & Intention: Every cup we brew is a personal experience. We ask what intention you’d like to set for your day and infuse it into your drink as we pour it—making every sip as meaningful as it is delicious.
Not Sure About Our Unique Coffee? We get it! If you’re on the fence, we’re happy to offer samples of our Coconut Maple Coffee so you can experience the flavor before committing.
Let’s make Saturdays uncommon together!

Common Street's Holiday Banquet
2024-12-07 17:00 - 22:00 | Sanctuary at Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, MA, 01760, United States
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Style at the Common Street Spiritual Center’s All-Holiday Banquet!

This year, let’s come together again to celebrate the beauty of the holiday season, embracing all traditions in one spectacular evening! Join us for a magical night filled with fun, community, and festive spirit.

Plant Based Feast!We’re serving up a delicious main course of Penne Aribbiatta Pasta , and a selection of other foods prepared by plant based chef Amanda Short. Together, we’ll enjoy a diverse and delectable feast.

A Night Filled with Fun Activities & Music
Throughout the night, our space will be transformed into a hub of festive events!
• Vendors to shop with for some holiday gifts that support a good cause!• A Give & Receive Massage Room for relaxation and connection• Game Night in the Fellowship Hall for laughs and friendly competition• Song Circle in the Moon room upstairs to gather in harmony and sing together• Ecstatic Dance for those who want to move and feel the rhythm

Plus, we’ll have live musicians and singers creating a joyful atmosphere

Call of Love Yoga
2024-12-08 08:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-15 08:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-22 08:30 - 21:30, 2025-01-05 08:30 - 21:30 | Sanctuary at Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, MA, 01760, United States
Call of Love
Channeled song and messages from the Divine
Experience channeled sources of Love into song while you relax at the end of a gentle yoga class. Your practice will include guided breathing, chair or mat asana, restorative poses and meditation. Coming home to the oneness in our hearts, we can cultivate a sense of unity that brings us together into wholeness, solace, peace and hope
8:30-9:30, Sundays mornings (except for the last Sunday of the month)
Common Street Spiritual Center Sanctuary
Donations welcome
Cash or Venmo: @Judith-Thapa
Judy O’Leary Thapa is a channel, energy healer, yoga teacher and yoga therapist. She has certifications in Sivananda yoga, Prenatal yoga, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy (Pryt.com) and with the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT.org). Judy has over twenty years of experience teaching students of all ages.
You can follow Judy on FB at Varunayoga

Open Circle Gathering
2024-12-08 10:30 - 12:00, 2024-12-15 10:30 - 12:00, 2024-12-22 10:30 - 12:00, 2024-12-29 10:30 - 12:00, 2025-01-05 10:30 - 12:00
The Open Circle is a weekly gathering of like-minded spiritual seekers who show up to connect authentically, share our truths, and be held in the space of a growth-oriented and loving community.

In the Open Circle, everyone has a chance to contribute as we move around the circle. You’re welcome to bring poems, songs, prayers, and insights to share.

Free and open to the public–yes, you can simply show up!

If you’re new to Open Circle, you’re welcome to register here so you can be in the loop for future gatherings: https://forms.gle/Aa18ZuGfyy4Nv3gq7\n
The Spiritual Center community is holding space for change in the lives of our members and in our world.
*we embrace diverse forms of spiritual practice and artistic expression
*we cultivate a hopeful societal vision built on principles of compassion and justice
*we support the growth of a consciousness of interconnection across human differences and between people and the whole web of life around us
*we build authentic community based on principles like love, respect, kindness, and collaboration

If this resonates, please join us! You’re welcome to become a member simply by filling out the form on this page: www.commonstreet.org/membership

Tuesday morning devotions
2024-12-10 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-12-17 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-12-24 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-12-31 09:00 - 10:00
Join us on ZOOM with your prayers, writings, songs, inspiration from any and all religious traditions, sacred scriptures, humor, and love. We “go around the circle” for those who wish to share, or just come along to enjoy the inspiration
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89987098568?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 899 8709 8568
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Mohanji Meditations
2024-12-12 19:00 - 20:15, 2024-12-19 19:00 - 20:15, 2024-12-26 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-01-02 19:00 - 20:15 | Choir Room @ Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, 01760, United States
The Mohanji Meditation is a powerful heart-opening guided meditation that offers release from binding patterns through love and gratitude.
All are welcome. No prior experience necessary.

Massage Party
2024-12-19 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-01-02 18:00 - 21:00 | Studio @ Common Street, 13 Common Street, Natick, MA, 01760, United States
As a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience, Kathryn Kevorkian has developed a deep and unique relationship with touch. She invites you to come together with a diverse group of people to explore and learn about the profound connection we share through touch.
This event is designed to be a safe and welcoming space where we can share our experiences, learn new techniques, and deepen our understanding of the healing power of touch. Whether you’re new to massage or have years of experience, there’s something for everyone.
What to Expect:
Interactive Sessions: Engage in hands-on activities that highlight different massage techniques.
Sharing Circle: An opportunity to share your experiences and learn from others.
Relaxation Time: Enjoy a calming environment where you can unwind and connect with others.
Come with an open heart and a willingness to explore the beautiful world of touch. Let’s create a community where we can support and learn from each other.

Midnight Christ-Mass
2024-12-24 23:30 - 2024-12-25 00:30 | Sanctuary at Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, MA, 01760, United States
Join us as we gather, just before midnight,
to celebrate the mystery of Christ’s birth,
to celebrate all the love and truth Jesus brought to this world,
and the mysterious way he continues to bring this love and truth to us after all these 2000+ years,
and to celebrate the birth and re-birth of God’s love
as we experience it, directly, in our own lives.
***
All are welcome!All faiths, all paths, all love!
***
The Spiritual Center cultivates a pluralistic, multi-faith, inclusive and love-centered community. We offer this Midnight Christ-Mass as a free offering to members, friends, neighbors, and strangers to our community. All are welcome, including people of all ages!
This service will be facilitated and co-led by center director Rev. Dr. Ian Mevorach and others in the community. The service will include readings of scripture, a very brief talk, meditation, burning of incense, song, and prayer. As we often do, we will gather in a circle and there will be space and time for open sharing of poems, prayers, songs, and words of wisdom from all who gather.
If you have something meaningful to share, like a song, a poem, or a prayer, please bring it with you in your heart and mind, and perhaps on a sheet of paper too if helpful 🙂
***
We look forward to celebrating together as a community at this special time!

Sufi Zikr and Whirling
2025-01-04 19:30 - 21:30 | Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, 01760, United States
We are offering a practice of Mevlevi Sufi Zikr in the tradition of Rumi with Karim and Noor Kerima Payton, Suleyman Loras and musicians friends from Orkestra Marhaba.
Join us for a magical experience of Mevlevi Sufi dancing and singing in celebration of Divine Presence. For over forty years, the Mevlevi Order of America has offered gatherings with music, poetry and dervish whirling and chanting. We will lead a Zikr practice in the tradition of Rumi.

The Mevlevi tradition hearkens back to Sufi master Rumi (1207-1273), who has become the best-selling poet in America. Rumi’s poetry is filled with a longing for God the Friend and the Beloved. His realization expressed the Source of all religions and spiritual paths, the Way of Love, that unites those of many cultures and traditions.
‘Zikhr’, a Sufi chanting practice, means ‘Remembrance of God’. It awakens us from the state of forgetfulness, forgetting why one has come to Earth. It is a channel opener which helps with attaining true knowledge.
Musicians from Orkestra Marhaba will share devotional music played on traditional instruments. Everyone attending a Zikr is a participant; as the gathering unfolds, all are tuned, by the music and language of the Heart, to the baraka (blessing)-filled atmosphere of love.

“When a human being performs zikr, their spirit—their heart starts to open. Their intelligence becomes more refined and more expansive. Their bodies become healthier. A beautiful condition comes about—similar to the one that is brought about by good music. The whole being opens up like a flower, and the divine secret—the things you couldn’t understand or know about before—begin to be revealed to you.”Suleyman Hayati Dede, founder of the Mevlevi Order of America

Suggested donation: $20+ (cash or Venmo at the door)
Advance registration available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/…/sufi-zirk-and-whirling…
About Marhaba: https://www.orkestramarhaba.com/#about-marhaba�
About Mevlevi Order of America: http://hayatidede.org/aboutmoa

Open Circle and Community Brunch
2025-01-05 10:30 - 12:00
On the first Sundays of the month, we combine our Open Circle Gathering with a community potluck brunch.

We gather and connect in a more relaxed, less structured way, yet with threads of meaning and spirituality tying it all together.

You’re welcome, if it would bring you joy, to contribute a food or drink item to share as part of the community brunch. Another option is to bring non-perishable food or toiletry items for our free mini-pantry.

If you’re new to Open Circle, you’re welcome to sign up here so you can be in the loop for future gatherings: https://forms.gle/Aa18ZuGfyy4Nv3gq7

Our community is finding a creative place in the spiritual world, where new forms of spiritual practice, artistic expression, and self-awareness are emerging to support humanity to meet the challenges of our times. We are finding balance within ourselves, making peace across differences, and stepping up to protect the Earth.

We welcome folks of all beliefs and backgrounds to build community with us as we align around a hopeful sense of common purpose. To become a member, please fill out the membership form here: www.commonstreet.org/membership

Healing Yoga for Everyone - Winter Series
2025-01-05 17:00 - 18:00 | Common Street Spiritual Center, 13 Common Street, Natick, 01760, United States
We heal one breath at a time. A safe and nurturing practice guides us gently into our inner experience, where we can explore the layers of our experience. The winter series honors the quiet and stillness of the season, bringing in breath work and movement that can build heat, welcome in rest, and brings in light. Each class will open with Pranayama (guided breath work), evolve into a gentle yoga flow, and will wrap with a guided meditation.
All are welcome, and modifications will be offered. Please bring a mat.
January 5th, 5 PM
January 12 (no class)
January 19, 5 PM
January 26, 5 PM
February 2, 5 PM
February 9, 5 PM
February 16 (no class)
February 23, 5 PM
Drop-in: $20 non-members / $15 members (join here: https://commonstreet.org/how-to-join/), cash at the door, or venmo @Maria-Vasilevsky
