FAQs
Are children welcome at the Gathering?
Yes, with the understanding that we do not have a program for children, so they must be accompanied by an adult. If they can sit and listen they are welcome in the circle with the Elders. The grounds are open to parents and children who want to be outdoors. There are patches of prairie and oak shorelines to explore, but be sure to ask if any areas are restricted. The camp or Gathering staff will be happy to direct you.
What should i wear?
Kansas weather is unpredictable! Please check the weather schedule and be prepared for whatever Mother brings us. Dress is casual. If you plan to walk the prairie, bring boots. Rugged shoes are recommended because the camp roads are gravel. We have experienced snow, downpours, and a tornado. A good pair of rain boots and a poncho are suggested. FOR THE WOMEN: Although you are welcome to wear pants or jeans, as a way of showing respect for the traditions of the Elders, we do encourage women to wear a below-the-knee skirt during the Gathering. The staff will have a few extra skirts to share if you forget yours. While this is not a requirement, it is an important way to honor the Elders. The same skirt may be worn all weekend and long pants or shorts may be worn underneath.
Where can we find a schedule?
We publish an outline of the schedule on the website to help people decide which day to attend if they aren’t coming for the full weekend. All of the Elders will speak each day. If there is a particular Elder that you want to hear, you can be assured that each will speak all three days. Also, you will receive a Welcome Packet a few weeks before the Gathering which will include the detailed schedule. If there are last minute changes you will receive an email or phone call.
Saturday, the longest day, starts with the Sunrise Ceremony and Lighting of the Sacred Fire. We publish when sunrise occurs so that people can arrive before the ceremony begins. Saturday ends with a choice of activities like the drum-making workshop, films, or ceremony offered by an Elder. These activities can last until after 10:00 p.m..
Both Saturday and Sunday offer break-out sessions with each Elder. The details of those individually led sessions will be in your registration packet, but we always warn registrants that changes can occur. The Elders don’t always decide what they want to present until close to the event, and that is always subject to what Spirit guides them to talk about.
Saturday, the longest day, starts with the Sunrise Ceremony and Lighting of the Sacred Fire. We publish when sunrise occurs so that people can arrive before the ceremony begins. Saturday ends with a choice of activities like the drum-making workshop, films, or ceremony offered by an Elder. These activities can last until after 10:00 p.m..
Both Saturday and Sunday offer break-out sessions with each Elder. The details of those individually led sessions will be in your registration packet, but we always warn registrants that changes can occur. The Elders don’t always decide what they want to present until close to the event, and that is always subject to what Spirit guides them to talk about.
Since it’s my first time attending, is there something I should do to prepare?
You already did the most important thing and decided to come listen to the Elders! Bringing a friend to share the event with doubles the fun. Just relax and know that you are going to learn a lot about different cultures in a welcoming, safe, and accepting atmosphere. That doesn't mean there won't be controversy, but our discussions are always civil and bring out our best ideas. Talk to any friends who have attended.
Our resources section recommends books, films, and websites, that provide a valuable context for meeting the Elders and other attendees. We hold protocol sessions in the main lodge each day before the opening forum. Join a group with a "PROTOCOL" sign on the table and a board member will walk you through conventions like entering and leaving the Sacred Circle, letting the Elders go first at mealtime, the prayer and spirit plate before meals, how to tend the Sacred Fire, etc.
Our resources section recommends books, films, and websites, that provide a valuable context for meeting the Elders and other attendees. We hold protocol sessions in the main lodge each day before the opening forum. Join a group with a "PROTOCOL" sign on the table and a board member will walk you through conventions like entering and leaving the Sacred Circle, letting the Elders go first at mealtime, the prayer and spirit plate before meals, how to tend the Sacred Fire, etc.
What is the "Sacred Fire Circle"?
The Sacred Fire is located behind the Elder's Lodge. We light the fire on Saturday morning during the Sunrise Ceremony. The "Hotchka" as the Lakota call the Sacred Fire once it is lit, is the Heart of the Gathering. It connects all participants through its purifying influence. With the support and guidance of our Firekeeper the participants are with the fire until the Closing Ceremony, Sunday evening. During this time everyone is encouraged to sign up and be responsible for tending the fire (with the help of the FIreKeeper) and visit anytime with respect to all those in quiet meditation and prayer. Respectful space is also given for Elders who may be in the Fire Circle doing special ceremony.
Do i need to bring food?
There are no restrictions to bringing food to the camp. The kitchen staff provide three excellent meals daily during your stay. Coffee, tea (hot or cold), and water are always available in the Main Lodge. We hope you will think of Mother Earth and bring your own water container. The kitchen staff frown on us taking mugs to our cabins, so you could bring your own. Each cabin is equipped with a small refrigerator and microwave. If you have special dietary needs please let us know when you register.
how can i best show respect for the elders?
Common sense and courtesy should prevail in all circumstances. Specifically, do not interrupt an Elder or group, by voice or actions. Absolutely no photographs, video/audio recordings without the express permission of the Elder. Some have beliefs about this. When an Elder is speaking, please do not take any written notes. It's considered poor manners to do anything other than listen. Some Elders believe that when they are talking about Spirit that the Spirit or belief dies if someone writes down the words. This is our way of honoring their oral traditions.
