Changing of the Seasons Ceremony 2011 Lake Obabika

"Beating the Drum in His Homeland - Alex Mathias" Copyright Mary Senchuk 2011

Over the weekend of September 17th, 2011 Alex Mathias, an Ojibway Elder, will host his annual Changing of the Seasons Ceremony to celebrate the fall equinox on his traditional family territory in the Temagami region of Ontario.

On Saturday there will be a 'Changing of the Seasons' ceremony, a group potluck lunch, visits to Spirit Rock, and guided hikes through the old-growth red and white pine forest. Attendees have the option of participating in group events after the ceremony, exploring the area on their own, or simply enjoying some quiet time on the lake. There is no structured agenda for the weekend and Sunday is an open day which may include a guided canoe excursion for those who are interested.

Participants are expected to provide their own food, camping gear, and if possible, canoes. Boat shuttles can be arranged for attendees who are not able to paddle across the lake to the gathering site on their own. Many people will be located at the main campsite on the north end of Obabika Lake where the ceremony will take place, however there are numerous other sites around the lake that people can use when there is a larger group.

We recommend that people leave on Friday morning (it is an 8 hour drive from Toronto) to ensure they arrive with some daylight. If you need a ride or you have a vehicle with space for others, let us know - we will do our best to set up carpools for registered participants. Please be aware that the last stretch of the drive is extremely rough and slow going (directions will be provided once you have registered).

All are welcome! If you have never been to Temagami and have always wanted to go, this is a great opportunity to experience the wilderness in a group setting.

A minimum donation of $20 per adult is requested to help offset the costs of the event.

If you are interested in attending, please contact Amber Ellis at 416-599-0152 x11 / amber@earthroots.org

I am planning on attending this event. If any of my friends or readership are interested, I can help you to attend. This is one of the most beautiful places on earth and very very high on my recommendation list. This trip is not for the faint of spirit!......it will take many hours, by many means!