Earth Spirit Service - Druid Grove Service

The Alder Grove Service

Alder is the tree of courage and protection. Rooted in wet ground and standing at the edge of waters, Alder teaches resilience, integrity, and the strength to stand firm where worlds meet. It is the tree of bridges, between inner truth and outer action, between feeling and responsibility, between what we know and what we must now do.

Together, we will gather at the edge of the woodlands, close to the presence of water and earth. An opening blessing will mark our arrival, before we set out on a gentle pilgrimage through the trees. As we walk, we will reflect on the places in our lives where we are being asked to stand our ground, to act with courage, to protect what is vulnerable, and to remain rooted even when the ground beneath us feels uncertain.

We will be invited to consider the choices we face, the responsibilities we carry, and the quiet strength that allows us to act without aggression and to lead without domination. Alder reminds us that true power is not force, but steadiness, the strength that comes from being deeply rooted while remaining open to the flowing waters of change.

Our journey will lead us to a sacred circle of trees. Here, there will be space to rest and to sit, and at the centre, a firepit, a focal point for prayer, song, blessing, and ritual. In this quiet and reverent space, we will honour the Alder Tree as it stands within the Ogham Calendar: In this quiet and reverent space, we will honour the Alder Tree as it stands within the Ogham Calendar: keeper of the threshold, rooted in flowing waters, calling forth courage, balance, and integrity of soul.

Practical Information

• Meeting Time: 11:30am
• Service Begins: 12:00 noon
• Meeting Point: Ness Botanic Gardens Car Park
• Address:
  Ness Botanic Gardens, Neston, Wirral, CH64 4AY
• Service led by the Rev. Phil Waldron (07828 883484) 

From the car park, we will car-pool to the private woodlands, which are approximately three minutes away. Fewer cars entering the woodland is important, so shared travel is encouraged.

Following the service, we will return to the car park, where those who wish may gather for lunch or refreshments at the Ness Botanic Gardens Café, a gentle way to continue our time of fellowship and reflection.