history

Twenty years ago, on the evening of June 18, 1999 nearly thirty women gathered to celebrate the inaugural ritual which brought the dream of Stone Circle to fruition. The following morning on June 19, the first celebration of the Summer Solstice took place in an Orlando park.

The concept of Stone Circle evolved out of the desire of our founders to provide a resource to support women in their desire to deepen and enhance their spiritual journey. Janet Herrick and Salome Harasty combined their efforts for nearly two years following their dream.

The symbol of stone represents the innate strength of women. The circle represents equality. Young, old, and all ages, backgrounds, and experiences, the circle has no head, only a synergy of support circulating from one woman to another. The Stone Circle represents the strength, energy and power of women combined together for the good of all.

Our inaugural ritual celebrated during the setting of the sun celebrated and honored the gifts of all women, as the first circle of stones was built. Each woman added her self and her stone to the unbroken circle of women through the ages. In the years that have passed since the inception of Stone Circle women of various faith traditions confronted and consoled, laughter and cried, lost, gained and learned from each other.

Gatherings have taken place to celebrate the Summer and Winter Solstices. Time has been set aside for reflection and soul searching at weekend retreats. Saturday mornings once a month have found a group of women gathering to share topics that stretch the imagination and circle us in comfort and knowledge, as we bring our own special self to unfold with friends. The annual Decade Day has provided a wonderful opportunity for women to usher friends and loved ones into their next decade of life as we remember our own journeys through the current decade we share with others. Through the years we have added an annual cruise, trips within the U.S. and abroad, and of course opportunities to share simple meals together.

The rituals are rich. The experiences are inspiring. Stone Circle has provided a venue where we, as women, can feel free to speak or just listen to each other’s life stories. Spiritual, emotional and physical needs are met at all levels. 

The women of Stone Circle want to make a difference by living graciously and gratefully throughout their life experiences. Our experiences together allow us to continue to circle our strengths, our hopes, our trust, our gifts and even the wagons of life. Newcomers are always welcome because each gathering is a new experience to treasure and to share.