OGDEN -- Two dozen women are celebrating their common bond of womanhood as they've met in a Women's Spirituality Group for three years, generally every fourth Tuesday of the month.
And while their friendship and companionship has meant a great deal to those who have participated, the group is hoping to attract new members to share in their comradarie.
"The women who attend are from diverse backgrounds and bring a richness and depth that couldn't be achieved otherwise," said Kim Harbath, group organizer.
"Several of our meetings have simply been just to socialize and gather together for friendships," Harbath said. "While we offer programs, the biggest benefit is the sense of community and the close friendships that have been made. A lot of laughter is a big draw for everyone."
Group member Carolyn Somer, a retiree, said the group helps her address a need for spiritual investigation.
"I find myself at this time in my life more interested in studying different spiritual disciplines and teachings," she said.
Somer said Harbath has many contacts among those of varying spiritual backgrounds whom she brings along for discussion to the monthly gatherings.
"We've done things with Wiccans and Pagans," Somer said as an example. "My experience has been with major religions. This has helped me to expand."
Somer said her associations with the women have helped her feel at home in Utah even though she is far away from family.
"It puts you in communication with people who are like-minded," she said.
"We discuss all topics of spirituality without the 'religion' component," states an informational piece about the group. "Please feel free to join us regardless of what your religious background is."
Members describe the meetings as sometimes reverent and "sometimes wild and crazy."
"But they are always full of respect, laughter and caring for each other," states the informational piece.
Some of the recent meetings have centered around learning about Reiki; watching a video about Jizo, a Buddhist figure, and then making Jizo peace panels out of muslin; making bundles of lavender and fall leaves to hang above a door after learning about Earth-centered religions; having angel readings by a local practitioner; meditation; learning about the origins of May Day and making May Day baskets; visiting a Sand Tray therapist; learning about labyrinths; experiencing a traditional Seder meal; and watching "The Secret."
At a three-year celebration dinner, participants ate salad, casseroles and specialty desserts.
The women shared inspiring quotations from many people of various spiritual backgrounds. Arlene Szalay provided entertainment, singing and playing her guitar.
"All of our programs look at how we can incorporate a specific topic into our lives for betterment," Harbath said.
The upcoming November meeting will focus on the book, "The Shack."
In January, the group will participate in an overview of yoga. Also planned are a speaker from hospice, a follow-up program on the Buddhist figure Jizo, a discussion on Shamanism and drumming, and a talk about the concept of grace.
The Women's Spirituality Group meets in the cottage above United Church of Christ, Congregational's building at 3350 Harrison Blvd., from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every fourth Tuesday of the month,
The group is not sponsored by the United Church of Christ, Congregational.
Anyone who would like to attend may call Harbath at (801) 737-3667 to reserve a spot.
The group also has a FACEBOOK page, titled Ogden Utah's Women Spirituality Group, that visitors may also join.
There are no fees and no dues for participation in either the Facebook page or the group.
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