"I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation that includes everyone, since the environment challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all" (Pope Francis, Laudato Sí, 14). In his encyclical 'Laudato Sí', Pope Francis shows the grave consequences of our blindness to the sacred, living earth. He quotes with enthusiasm Francis of Assisi: "Praise be to you, my Lord, through our Sister, Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruits with coloured flowers and herbs" (Canticle of Brother Earth and Sister Moon). Cosmic Sparks builds on the thesis that Earth is all we have; we come from Earth and unto Earth we shall return. The collection of rituals is about realising that Earth is sacred once and for all. With a stunning richness of resources, these rituals call heart and body into the profound mystery of soul - not of human beings alone, but of Earth herself, with her accompanying elements of Air, Water and Fire. All the manifestations of grounded reality are here in one place, enough for years of learning to relate to our complex, cosmic world. Through this book, Margie Abbott RSM is offering a detailed and practical resource that anyone can use to enter into a physical, heart-centred and nurturing relationship with Earth. This work is desperately needed in our precarious world, as Earth signals increasing distress in escalating ways. - Brenda Peddigrew RSM (NL. Canada). Writer, Facilitator, Teacher In order for us humans to grasp the enormity and implications of the Universe Story, we need constant reminders for it all to sink in. These rituals provide an opportunity for groups to express the sacred depths we encounter in the Earth community, to take up the challenges of our times in imaginative ways, and to deal with the grief we share that may otherwise leave us frozen. - Sally Neaves Rahamim Ecological Centre Bathurst The rituals are very contemporary, addressing issues such as Earth degradation, and other issues affecting the individual or humanity as a whole. There rituals are an excellent source for personal or group transformation at a time when we are crying out for meaningful ways to nurture the spirit. - Trevor Parton formerly Glenburn Ecological Centre