Call to circle
Child rings bell three times then says
I ring the bell
To cast the spell
Let sacred time begin
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be
Let sacred time begin.
____________________________________________________________________
Circle Cast
High Priestess walks circle with sea salt & water.
High Priest walks circle with fire & incense.
High Priestess walks circle with athame.
Great Mother,
Weave around us
A circle of radiant light
Where we can honor
Our Lord and Lady.
Protect us, guide us and love us.
____________________________________________________________________
Quarter Call
East
East, winds of knowledge,
Bearing your gifts of wit & truth,
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.
South
South, fires of creativity,
Bearing your gifts of courage & heat,
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.
West
West, waters of empathy,
Bearing your gifts of emotion & intuition
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.
North
North, cornerstone of strength,
Bearing your gifts of patience & stability
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.
____________________________________________________________________
Call to Deities
The Circle has been cast
The Ancient Ones have been called
Now it is time to welcome The Goddess and the God.
Great Mother,
Whose symbol is the bright night moon,
Heavenly father,
Whose symbol is the fiery sun,
We ask you to join our family
For this Imbolc Celebration.
____________________________________________________________________
Ritual
HP says:
Awake O Earth from your slumbers!
Awake O Sun and restore the Earth!
Mother - we are in darkness.
HPS picks up a jug of water, and pours it into the cauldron saying:
The waters are broken.
The ice melting towards Candletime.
Blood has been along the track,
but now the ways are clear of death.
Old and grey I was,
but here in the mystery of the waters I am renewed.
For I am the one you sought, but could not find.
For I was singing to my child unseen,
beneath the hills of birch and rowan.
HPS takes the asperge, and all circle around her. She asperges each person as they pass, and on the last round, hands each person a white candle. When everyone has a candle, the circling stops, and HPS lights the main candles and says:
The darkness of winter is passing:
the Earth awakens once more from its slumbers;
the Virgin walks among us again,
and brings Her blessings upon the land and upon our lives.
Everyone shouts:
Brigid is Come! Brigid is Welcome!
HPS then lights the main candle and says:
Let the inner light bear fruit in our own lives,
even as the Earth bears the first flowers. I am Brigid:
She of the Golden Hair; Queen of the White Hills,
and rider of the White Swan.
I bring three gifts of fire.
The first is the flame of creation;
of the poet and artist;
of the lovers' passion for union with the beloved.
The second is the flame of purification and testing,
the flame of truth.
With this flame all dross and weakness are
made clear and cleansed from thee,
so thou become like a true and tested sword.
The third is the greatest of all,
for it is the healing flame born out of the love that gives all,
the maker of peace and harmony.
But I do not give these gifts one by one;
I give them as a whole in the form of the growing Sun.
Everyone then lights their candle from the main candle, and starts to circle
deosil, lighting the candles around the room as they go, chanting:
Thus we banish winter,
thus we welcome spring;
Say farewell to what is dead,
and greet each living thing.
When all the candles are lit, everyone places their candle in a sand pot, and
the chanting ceases.
Communication
Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you.
Ritual Finish
HPS:Night gives way before the growing God
All: We feel the power alive in the world
HP: The Goddess walks the Earth again
All: And sings us awake with wind and rain
HPS: The promise of life is newly made
All: Our winter's debt to darkness paid, Blessed be!
____________________________________________________________________
Simple Cakes & Ale
Child should pperform this
____________________________________________________________________
Deity Thanks
We thank you God and Goddess
For sharing this special time
With our family.
May we keep you in our hearts,
And follow your path of love
Every day.
Blessed be!
____________________________________________________________________
Quarter Release
North
North, cornerstone of strength,
Thank you for your gifts of patience & stability
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.
West
West, waters of empathy,
Thank you for your gifts of emotion & intuition
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.
South
South, fires of creativity,
Thank you for your gifts of courage & heat.
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.
East
East, winds of knowledge,
Thank you for your gifts of wit & honesty,
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.
____________________________________________________________________
Child rings bell three times then says
I ring the bell,
Release the spell
And Sacred Time will end.
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be,
Until we meet again.
____________________________________________________________________
Circle Dismiss
HP:The Circle is open
And yet it remains a Circle.
Around and through us
Always flow its magical powers.
This ritual is over.
Greetings Quarter Call
I greet the East, direction of Air:
Gentle breezes and strong winds,
Realm of the beauty of clouds and birds,
Bearer of the weather that touches us all,
The breath of life I inhale and exhale.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the South, direction of Fire:
Candle flame, bonfire, starlight, and sunlight,
The energy that warms me and gives life to the world I inhabit,
The energy that pulses along my nerves.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the West, direction of Water:
Rain, snow, rivers, and lakes,
The great encircling ocean from which all life first came,
The blood which flows through my veins still bearing the saltiness
of that original home.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the North, direction of Earth:
Metal and stone, hill, and valley,
Mother who bears and nourishes all life--root and leaf,
Fur and feather and scale and skin,
Muscle and bone and brain cell.
I am a part of all around me.
______________________________________________________________________
I thank the North, direction of Earth:
For metal and stone, hill, and valley,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, North, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the West, direction of Water:
For rain, snow, rivers, and lakes,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, West, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the South, direction of Fire:
For candle flame, bonfire, starlight, and sunlight,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, South, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the East, direction of Air:
For gentle breezes and strong winds,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, East, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
Gentle breezes and strong winds,
Realm of the beauty of clouds and birds,
Bearer of the weather that touches us all,
The breath of life I inhale and exhale.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the South, direction of Fire:
Candle flame, bonfire, starlight, and sunlight,
The energy that warms me and gives life to the world I inhabit,
The energy that pulses along my nerves.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the West, direction of Water:
Rain, snow, rivers, and lakes,
The great encircling ocean from which all life first came,
The blood which flows through my veins still bearing the saltiness
of that original home.
I am a part of all around me.
I greet the North, direction of Earth:
Metal and stone, hill, and valley,
Mother who bears and nourishes all life--root and leaf,
Fur and feather and scale and skin,
Muscle and bone and brain cell.
I am a part of all around me.
______________________________________________________________________
I thank the North, direction of Earth:
For metal and stone, hill, and valley,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, North, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the West, direction of Water:
For rain, snow, rivers, and lakes,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, West, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the South, direction of Fire:
For candle flame, bonfire, starlight, and sunlight,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, South, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
I thank the East, direction of Air:
For gentle breezes and strong winds,
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, East, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will.
Blessed Be.
Lyric Quarter Call
Quarter Call
[East]
Winged One, Spirit of Air,
your children invite you here.
Come on the winds of the sunrise,
give us your vision so clear.
You are the gentle spring breezes,
you are the glory of flight.
Winged One, Spirit of Air,
keep us wise through our rite.
[South]
Fierce One, Spirit of Fire,
your children invite you here.
Come with your blazing noon passion,
banish all sorrow and fear.
You are the flickering candle,
you are the bonfire bright.
Fierce One, Spirit of Fire,
keep us brave through our rite.
[West]
Swift One, Spirit of Water,
your children invite you here.
Come on the waves of the sunset,
bring to us joy and good cheer.
You are the well of deep comfort,
you are the crashing waves height.
Swift One, Spirit of Water,
keep us sure through our rite.
[North]
Hoofed One, Spirit of Earth,
your children invite you here.
Come from the mountains of midnight,
with new strength and vigor appear.
You are the field of our pleasure,
you are the source of our might.
Hoofed One, Spirit of Earth,
keep us strong through our rite.
[Center]
Winged One...
Fierce One...
Swift One...
Hoofed One...
Keep us pure through our rite.
___________________________________________________________________
Quarter Release
[East]
Wise One...
[South]
Brave One...
[West]
Sure One...
[North]
Strong One...
[Center]
We bid you now hail and farewell.
Go by the powers that brought you,
Go by the unweaving spell.
As thy bright pentagrams fade,
Depart, 'ere the circle is gone.
[East]
Winged One...
[South]
Fierce One...
[West]
Swift One...
[North]
Hoofed One...
[Center]
As we say, be it done!
[East]
Winged One, Spirit of Air,
your children invite you here.
Come on the winds of the sunrise,
give us your vision so clear.
You are the gentle spring breezes,
you are the glory of flight.
Winged One, Spirit of Air,
keep us wise through our rite.
[South]
Fierce One, Spirit of Fire,
your children invite you here.
Come with your blazing noon passion,
banish all sorrow and fear.
You are the flickering candle,
you are the bonfire bright.
Fierce One, Spirit of Fire,
keep us brave through our rite.
[West]
Swift One, Spirit of Water,
your children invite you here.
Come on the waves of the sunset,
bring to us joy and good cheer.
You are the well of deep comfort,
you are the crashing waves height.
Swift One, Spirit of Water,
keep us sure through our rite.
[North]
Hoofed One, Spirit of Earth,
your children invite you here.
Come from the mountains of midnight,
with new strength and vigor appear.
You are the field of our pleasure,
you are the source of our might.
Hoofed One, Spirit of Earth,
keep us strong through our rite.
[Center]
Winged One...
Fierce One...
Swift One...
Hoofed One...
Keep us pure through our rite.
___________________________________________________________________
Quarter Release
[East]
Wise One...
[South]
Brave One...
[West]
Sure One...
[North]
Strong One...
[Center]
We bid you now hail and farewell.
Go by the powers that brought you,
Go by the unweaving spell.
As thy bright pentagrams fade,
Depart, 'ere the circle is gone.
[East]
Winged One...
[South]
Fierce One...
[West]
Swift One...
[North]
Hoofed One...
[Center]
As we say, be it done!
Song of Circle Casting
[Starting in the Center, then walking]
This ae night, this ae night, Every night and all;
Power and might of dark and light, Come answer to our call.
[East (Air)]
Queen Above, Below as well, Every night and all;
Listen as we strike your bell, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to South]
Silver Huntress of the night, Every night and all;
Put the evil ones to flight, Come answer to our call.
[South (Fire)]
Lord of Lust, warrior fell, Every night and all;
Lend Your aid unto the spell, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to West]
Golden Starlord of the Flame, Every night and all;
Your children from You warding claim, Come answer to our call.
[West (Water)]
Ancestors beneath the seas, Every night and all;
Guard your sacred mysteries, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to North]
Ye who to the Gods are bound, Every night and all;
Make the circle strong and sound, Come answer to our call.
[North (Earth)]
Midnight sun and midday moon, Every night and all;
Harken to the ancient tune, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to East]
East and South, then West and North, Every night and all;
Your people sing to call ye forth, Come answer to our call.
[Turning in the Center]
By fertile Earth, blue Water fair, Every night and all;
By rushing Fire, and whirling Air, Come answer to our call.
By Your sacred names revealed, Every night and all;
Your circle now is cast and sealed, Come answer to our call.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Circle Closing:
[Turning in the Center]
This ae night, this ae night, Ye answered to our call;
Power and might of dark and light -- Farewell unto ye all!
Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun, Ye answered to our call;
Our thanks to Thee, our magic's done. Farewell unto ye all!
Earth and water, fire and air, Ye answered to our call;
We bless thee for thy love and care. Farewell unto ye all!
Merry meet and merry part, Ye answered to our call;
In love and trust, by magic's art. Farewell unto ye all!
This ae night, this ae night, Ye answered to our call;
Power and might of dark and light -- Farewell unto ye all!
This ae night, this ae night, Every night and all;
Power and might of dark and light, Come answer to our call.
[East (Air)]
Queen Above, Below as well, Every night and all;
Listen as we strike your bell, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to South]
Silver Huntress of the night, Every night and all;
Put the evil ones to flight, Come answer to our call.
[South (Fire)]
Lord of Lust, warrior fell, Every night and all;
Lend Your aid unto the spell, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to West]
Golden Starlord of the Flame, Every night and all;
Your children from You warding claim, Come answer to our call.
[West (Water)]
Ancestors beneath the seas, Every night and all;
Guard your sacred mysteries, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to North]
Ye who to the Gods are bound, Every night and all;
Make the circle strong and sound, Come answer to our call.
[North (Earth)]
Midnight sun and midday moon, Every night and all;
Harken to the ancient tune, Come answer to our call.
[Walking to East]
East and South, then West and North, Every night and all;
Your people sing to call ye forth, Come answer to our call.
[Turning in the Center]
By fertile Earth, blue Water fair, Every night and all;
By rushing Fire, and whirling Air, Come answer to our call.
By Your sacred names revealed, Every night and all;
Your circle now is cast and sealed, Come answer to our call.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Circle Closing:
[Turning in the Center]
This ae night, this ae night, Ye answered to our call;
Power and might of dark and light -- Farewell unto ye all!
Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun, Ye answered to our call;
Our thanks to Thee, our magic's done. Farewell unto ye all!
Earth and water, fire and air, Ye answered to our call;
We bless thee for thy love and care. Farewell unto ye all!
Merry meet and merry part, Ye answered to our call;
In love and trust, by magic's art. Farewell unto ye all!
This ae night, this ae night, Ye answered to our call;
Power and might of dark and light -- Farewell unto ye all!
Recurring Dreams
Most dreams contain messages that serve to teach us something about ourselves. Unfortunately many a times we forget what we dream about as we go about our daily routine. With recurring dreams, the message may be so important and/or powerful that it just will not go away. The frequent repetition of such dreams forces you to pay attention and confront the dream. The dream is trying desperately to tell you something. Such dreams are often nightmarish or frightening in their content, which also helps you to take notice and pay attention to them.
Recurring dreams are quite common and are often triggered by a certain life situation or a problem that keeps coming back again and again. These dreams may recur daily, once a week, or once a month, but whatever the frequency, there is little variation in the dream content itself. It usually points to a personal weakness, fear, or your inability to cope with something in your life - past or present.
The repetitive patterns in your dream can reveal some of the most valuable information on yourself. It may point to a conflict, situation or matter in your waking life that remains unresolved or unsettled. Or some urgent underlying message in your unconscious is demanding to be understood.
Following are some tips in overcoming your recurring dreams.
1. In understanding your recurring dream, you must be willing to accept some sort of change or undergo a transformation.
2. You must be willing to look within yourself and confront whatever you may find no matter how difficult it my be.
3. You must be able to look at the dream from an objective point of view. Try to get pass the emotional and reactive elements of the dream and get down to the symbolic images. Many times dreams are masked by elements that are disturbing preventing you to delve any deeper. This is a defense mechanism that your unconscious may be putting up.
4. Be patient. Do not get discourage if these dreams still recur even after you thought you have come to understand them.
5. Learn to accept yourself truly and fully.
Often times, once you discover what your recurring dream is trying to tell you, these dreams will change or altogether disappear.
Recurring dreams are quite common and are often triggered by a certain life situation or a problem that keeps coming back again and again. These dreams may recur daily, once a week, or once a month, but whatever the frequency, there is little variation in the dream content itself. It usually points to a personal weakness, fear, or your inability to cope with something in your life - past or present.
The repetitive patterns in your dream can reveal some of the most valuable information on yourself. It may point to a conflict, situation or matter in your waking life that remains unresolved or unsettled. Or some urgent underlying message in your unconscious is demanding to be understood.
Following are some tips in overcoming your recurring dreams.
1. In understanding your recurring dream, you must be willing to accept some sort of change or undergo a transformation.
2. You must be willing to look within yourself and confront whatever you may find no matter how difficult it my be.
3. You must be able to look at the dream from an objective point of view. Try to get pass the emotional and reactive elements of the dream and get down to the symbolic images. Many times dreams are masked by elements that are disturbing preventing you to delve any deeper. This is a defense mechanism that your unconscious may be putting up.
4. Be patient. Do not get discourage if these dreams still recur even after you thought you have come to understand them.
5. Learn to accept yourself truly and fully.
Often times, once you discover what your recurring dream is trying to tell you, these dreams will change or altogether disappear.
Tarot Elements Spread
Layout:
Deal: Querent, East, South, West, North
Reading: Use to gain insight into aspects of the self which need
balancing or development.
Card Q: Querent
East: Intellectual or Mental Life
South: Sensual and/or Instinctual Life
West: Emotional Life
North: Intuitive and/or Spiritual Life
N
W Q E
S
Deal: Querent, East, South, West, North
Reading: Use to gain insight into aspects of the self which need
balancing or development.
Card Q: Querent
East: Intellectual or Mental Life
South: Sensual and/or Instinctual Life
West: Emotional Life
North: Intuitive and/or Spiritual Life
Tarot Line Spread
Layout:
5 4 3 2 1
Deal: Right to Left
Reading:
Cards 4 and 5 represent the future
Card 3 represents the prenysent
Cards 1 and 2 represent the past
Variation: A simple, and very commonly used, variation of the Five
Card Spread works as follows: instead of placing two cards on each
side of the present card, place three our four, yielding a seven or
nine card spread (or go higher if you wish). The further you get
from the center card, the further into the past/future you are
looking.
5 4 3 2 1
Deal: Right to Left
Reading:
Cards 4 and 5 represent the future
Card 3 represents the prenysent
Cards 1 and 2 represent the past
Variation: A simple, and very commonly used, variation of the Five
Card Spread works as follows: instead of placing two cards on each
side of the present card, place three our four, yielding a seven or
nine card spread (or go higher if you wish). The further you get
from the center card, the further into the past/future you are
looking.
Strawberry Turnovers
1 cup dehydrated strawberries
1 cup water, divided
2 tablespoons cognac
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup biscuit and baking mix
All-purpose flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
Let strawberries reconstitute in 1/2 cup water, cognac and brown sugar.
In bowl, mix baking mix (such as Bisquick) with 1/2 cup water. Knead handsful/portions in flour, spread flat and place in an oiled deep-dish frying pan or shallow cooking pot. Add "glob" of reconstituted strawberries to one side of dough and flip opposite side over top. Press down on the corners to seal. Cover pan and let bake at low temperature 7-8 minutes.
1 cup water, divided
2 tablespoons cognac
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup biscuit and baking mix
All-purpose flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
Let strawberries reconstitute in 1/2 cup water, cognac and brown sugar.
In bowl, mix baking mix (such as Bisquick) with 1/2 cup water. Knead handsful/portions in flour, spread flat and place in an oiled deep-dish frying pan or shallow cooking pot. Add "glob" of reconstituted strawberries to one side of dough and flip opposite side over top. Press down on the corners to seal. Cover pan and let bake at low temperature 7-8 minutes.
Fruit Kabobs
Bananas
Pineapple
Maraschino cherries
Marshmallows
Cut the fruit into 1 inch chunks, then lace alternately with marshmallows on kabob sticks (if wooden; soak in water first to prevent burning) Heat over coals until marshmallows are golden brown.
Pineapple
Maraschino cherries
Marshmallows
Cut the fruit into 1 inch chunks, then lace alternately with marshmallows on kabob sticks (if wooden; soak in water first to prevent burning) Heat over coals until marshmallows are golden brown.
Dinner's In the Bag
Marinate chicken in a zip-type plastic bags with chopped garlic, thyme and white wine. Chicken may be frozen with marinade in the bags ahead of time.
Quarter small red potatoes. Place in a separate zip-type plastic bag with some olive oil, chopped garlic and rosemary. Potatoes can also be prepared ahead of time.
Mix romaine and field greens in a separate zip-type plastic bag. Bring salad dressing in another small container.
To prepare, take chicken out of the bag and roast over hot coals on the grill or pan fry on camp stove. Wrap potatoes in aluminum foil and roast over hot coals. Takes about 1 hour to prepare. When chicken and potatoes are almost done, pour some salad dressing in the bag with the salad and mix up. Serve.
Quarter small red potatoes. Place in a separate zip-type plastic bag with some olive oil, chopped garlic and rosemary. Potatoes can also be prepared ahead of time.
Mix romaine and field greens in a separate zip-type plastic bag. Bring salad dressing in another small container.
To prepare, take chicken out of the bag and roast over hot coals on the grill or pan fry on camp stove. Wrap potatoes in aluminum foil and roast over hot coals. Takes about 1 hour to prepare. When chicken and potatoes are almost done, pour some salad dressing in the bag with the salad and mix up. Serve.
Campfire Potato Packets
6 large baking potatoes
1 large onion, chopped
4 ounces green chiles
4 ounces black olives, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper
Butter or margarine (optional)
Scrub and chop baking potatoes into pieces, but do not peel. Prepare 6 to 8 square pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, one piece per serving. Place equal portions of the ingredients on each foil square. If butter or margarine is available, place one teaspoonful on top of each packet. Fold the foil, sealing ends. Place on barbecue grill or in coals of campfire for about 45 to 55 minutes.
1 large onion, chopped
4 ounces green chiles
4 ounces black olives, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper
Butter or margarine (optional)
Scrub and chop baking potatoes into pieces, but do not peel. Prepare 6 to 8 square pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, one piece per serving. Place equal portions of the ingredients on each foil square. If butter or margarine is available, place one teaspoonful on top of each packet. Fold the foil, sealing ends. Place on barbecue grill or in coals of campfire for about 45 to 55 minutes.
Apple Pie on a Stick recipe
1 Jonathan or Rome apple for each person
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Push a stick or dowel through the apple top until the apple is secure on the stick. Place the apple 2 or 3 inches above the hot coals and turn the apple while roasting it. As the apple cooks, the skin browns and the juice drips out. When the skin is loose, remove the apple from the fire (but leave it on the stick). Peel the hot skin off very carefully.
Combine sugar and cinnamon. Roll the apple in the sugar-cinnamon mixture, then return it to roast over the coals, letting the mixture heat to form a glaze around the apple. Remove from coals and let it cool.
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Push a stick or dowel through the apple top until the apple is secure on the stick. Place the apple 2 or 3 inches above the hot coals and turn the apple while roasting it. As the apple cooks, the skin browns and the juice drips out. When the skin is loose, remove the apple from the fire (but leave it on the stick). Peel the hot skin off very carefully.
Combine sugar and cinnamon. Roll the apple in the sugar-cinnamon mixture, then return it to roast over the coals, letting the mixture heat to form a glaze around the apple. Remove from coals and let it cool.
Powdered Milk Bath in a Jar recipe
1 cup dry (powdered) milk
5 to 8 drops scented oil -perfume oil or essential oil
Mix dry milk with oil. Mix well. Add more oil for a stronger scent. Place in a container for gift giving.
Include a card with directions:
To use, add to running bath water.
5 to 8 drops scented oil -perfume oil or essential oil
Mix dry milk with oil. Mix well. Add more oil for a stronger scent. Place in a container for gift giving.
Include a card with directions:
To use, add to running bath water.
Grow A Garden
A garden provides flowers, vegetables, and environmental benefits. It can help to reduce soil erosion and may help to reduce some kinds of air pollution. Try to grow your garden using as few pesticides and chemical fertilizers as possible.
Feed The Birds
Birds need water to drink and foot to eat. Feeding birds not only brings a bit of nature to your backyard, it also helps rid the yard of many kinds of bugs. you can hang a birdfeeder from a tree or place it outside your window, or build a birdbath in your yard from which the birds can drink water.
Tarot Basics
What is Tarot?:
To people unfamiliar with divination, it may seem that someone who reads Tarot cards is “predicting the future.” However, most Tarot card readers will tell you that the cards offer a guideline, and the reader is simply interpreting the probable outcome based upon the forces presently at work.
Anyone can learn to read Tarot cards, but it does take some practice. It’s a highly intuitive process, so while books and charts come in handy, the best way to actually learn what your cards mean is to handle them, hold them, and feel what they are telling you.
Tarot Decks:
There are hundreds of different Tarot decks available. Some are based upon famous artwork, movies, books, legends, mythology, and even movies. Choose a deck that feels right for you.
If you’re not sure which deck is the best one for you, and you’re a beginning Tarot reader, pick up the Rider Waite deck. It is the one used most often as illustration in Tarot instruction books, and it’s a fairly easy system to learn. Later on, you can always add new decks to your collection.
About The Cards:
A Tarot deck consists of 78 cards. The first 22 cards are the Major Arcana. These cards have symbolic meanings focused on the material world, the intuitive mind, and the realm of change. The remaining 56 cards are the Minor Arcana, and are divided into four groups or suits: Swords, Pentacles (or Coins), Wands and Cups.
Each of the four suits focuses on a theme. Sword cards generally indicate conflict or moral issues, while Cups reflect matters of emotion and relationships. Coins focus on the material aspects of life, such as security and finance, while Wands represent things like jobs, ambition, and activity.
How Do Tarot Cards Work?:
Any experienced Tarot reader will tell you that reading cards is an intuitive process. Like any other form of divination, the cards become a focal point for your own psychic abilities. There is any number of different spreads, or layouts, which can be used in a Tarot reading. Some readers use elaborate layouts, while others may just pull out three to five cards and see what they need to see.
One of the most popular layouts is the Celtic Cross method. Other well-known spreads include the Tree of Life layout, the Romany spread, and the Zodiac method.
Reversed Cards:
Sometimes, a card comes up backwards or upside down. Some Tarot readers interpret these reversed cards in a way that is the opposite of the card’s right-side-up meaning. Other readers may not bother with a reversed interpretation, feeling that the messages may be incomplete. The choice is yours.
Keeping Things Positive:
Although you may pull half a dozen cards for someone that indicate all kinds of gloom, doom, and destruction is headed their way, try to keep things positive. If you believe some sort of illness is coming, or their marriage is in trouble, DON’T say, “Holy cow, this is bad!!” Instead, remind them that things can change at any time, based upon the decisions they choose to make in life.
Read for anyone and everyone who will let you – and don’t be afraid to tell people what you see. Eventually, you’ll get comfortable with reading Tarot cards, and that’s when your skill will really shine.
To people unfamiliar with divination, it may seem that someone who reads Tarot cards is “predicting the future.” However, most Tarot card readers will tell you that the cards offer a guideline, and the reader is simply interpreting the probable outcome based upon the forces presently at work.
Anyone can learn to read Tarot cards, but it does take some practice. It’s a highly intuitive process, so while books and charts come in handy, the best way to actually learn what your cards mean is to handle them, hold them, and feel what they are telling you.
Tarot Decks:
There are hundreds of different Tarot decks available. Some are based upon famous artwork, movies, books, legends, mythology, and even movies. Choose a deck that feels right for you.
If you’re not sure which deck is the best one for you, and you’re a beginning Tarot reader, pick up the Rider Waite deck. It is the one used most often as illustration in Tarot instruction books, and it’s a fairly easy system to learn. Later on, you can always add new decks to your collection.
About The Cards:
A Tarot deck consists of 78 cards. The first 22 cards are the Major Arcana. These cards have symbolic meanings focused on the material world, the intuitive mind, and the realm of change. The remaining 56 cards are the Minor Arcana, and are divided into four groups or suits: Swords, Pentacles (or Coins), Wands and Cups.
Each of the four suits focuses on a theme. Sword cards generally indicate conflict or moral issues, while Cups reflect matters of emotion and relationships. Coins focus on the material aspects of life, such as security and finance, while Wands represent things like jobs, ambition, and activity.
How Do Tarot Cards Work?:
Any experienced Tarot reader will tell you that reading cards is an intuitive process. Like any other form of divination, the cards become a focal point for your own psychic abilities. There is any number of different spreads, or layouts, which can be used in a Tarot reading. Some readers use elaborate layouts, while others may just pull out three to five cards and see what they need to see.
One of the most popular layouts is the Celtic Cross method. Other well-known spreads include the Tree of Life layout, the Romany spread, and the Zodiac method.
Reversed Cards:
Sometimes, a card comes up backwards or upside down. Some Tarot readers interpret these reversed cards in a way that is the opposite of the card’s right-side-up meaning. Other readers may not bother with a reversed interpretation, feeling that the messages may be incomplete. The choice is yours.
Keeping Things Positive:
Although you may pull half a dozen cards for someone that indicate all kinds of gloom, doom, and destruction is headed their way, try to keep things positive. If you believe some sort of illness is coming, or their marriage is in trouble, DON’T say, “Holy cow, this is bad!!” Instead, remind them that things can change at any time, based upon the decisions they choose to make in life.
Read for anyone and everyone who will let you – and don’t be afraid to tell people what you see. Eventually, you’ll get comfortable with reading Tarot cards, and that’s when your skill will really shine.
Moon Phases
Use this awesome web page when you need to calculate the moon phase
http://stardate.org/nightsky/moon/
http://stardate.org/nightsky/moon/
Rite to Honour Animals
If you have a pet that has passed away during this last year, you may want to include a photo or keepsake of them on your table during this rite.
Prepare a stew for your family that includes small amounts of as many different meats as you may have available -- beef, pork, game, chicken, etc. If your family is vegetarian or vegan, designate a non-meat ingredient to represent each animal and adapt the ritual as needed, eliminating lines that reference the eating of animals. When your stew is ready, gather the family around the altar table you prepared during the previous night's Harvest End Ritual.
Place the stew pot in the center of the table, with a large serving spoon or ladle. Make sure you have some good dark bread to eat as well. Each member of the family should have a bowl and spoon handy. Say:
Go around the family in a circle. Each person should take a scoop of stew from the pot and place it in their bowl. Younger children may need an adult's help with this. As each person gets their helping, say:
When every family member has their stew, each takes a piece of bread. As they do, say:
Take your time finishing your meal. If you have pets, don't be surprised if they come visit while you're eating your stew tonight -- animals tend to be very aware of the spiritual plane! If there is any stew left over, leave some out for the spirits. Any extra bread can be thrown outside for the wild animals and birds.
Prepare a stew for your family that includes small amounts of as many different meats as you may have available -- beef, pork, game, chicken, etc. If your family is vegetarian or vegan, designate a non-meat ingredient to represent each animal and adapt the ritual as needed, eliminating lines that reference the eating of animals. When your stew is ready, gather the family around the altar table you prepared during the previous night's Harvest End Ritual.
Place the stew pot in the center of the table, with a large serving spoon or ladle. Make sure you have some good dark bread to eat as well. Each member of the family should have a bowl and spoon handy. Say:
Samhain has come, and it is the end of the Harvest.
The crops are in from the fields,
And the animals are preparing for the coming winter.
Tonight, we honor the animals in our lives.
Some have died that we may eat.
Some have provided us with love.
Some have protected us from that which would do us harm.
Tonight, we thank them all.
Go around the family in a circle. Each person should take a scoop of stew from the pot and place it in their bowl. Younger children may need an adult's help with this. As each person gets their helping, say:
Blessed are the animals,
Those who die that we may eat.
Blessed are the animals,
Those we love and who love us in return.
When every family member has their stew, each takes a piece of bread. As they do, say:
As the Wheel of the Year continues to turn,
The harvest has ended, and the grain has been threshed.
The animals sleep for the winter.
We thank them for their gifts.
Take your time finishing your meal. If you have pets, don't be surprised if they come visit while you're eating your stew tonight -- animals tend to be very aware of the spiritual plane! If there is any stew left over, leave some out for the spirits. Any extra bread can be thrown outside for the wild animals and birds.
Water Gazing
One of the most pleasant, relaxing and ancient forms of divination is water-gazing. Though nearly everyone is familiar with the practice of crystal-gazing, few seem to know it's ancestor.
there are 3 basic forms. All use the same technique but different focal points. These are:
1. Gazing into running water, such as that of a stream or brook.
2. Gazing at the shimmering of the Sun on the surface of a lake, or on the ocean.
3. GAzing at the reflections caused by the Sun on water, as on the sides of a boat or ship, a nearby structure, or any close object.
It may take a bit of searching to find an ideal place, and in a pinch a swimming pool will substitute for the last form, but once found, the major dificulty is over.
Find a comfortable spot to sit. Relax, still your mind of the thousand-thousand thoughts that course through it every waking second. Gently, with eyelids relaxed but not quite closed, gaze into the water, or at the shimmerings of the Sun dancing like diamonds, or at the reflections the water casts up by the Sun's light.
Allow your thoughts to vanish. If you need an answer to a specific question, once you have attained this drowsy state formulate the question while still gazing. if no answer immediately comes to mind (and beware the tricks of the conscious mind, which may send wish-fulfilling answers0 stop and try again in a few minutes.
If you are inquiring about an absent friend, or alost article, see that person or object in your mind, let the image dissolve, and see what comes to take it's place within your mind's eye.
If, however, you have no special purpose in water-gazing, sit quietly and wait until feelings, emotions, symbols, or pictures paint themselves before your eyes, aided by the evermoving, mysterious water.
Though a bit of practice is usually necessary before psychic messages or images are percieved, once attained you have the art forever.
I have spent hours sitting on a point that juts out into the Pacific Ocean, gazing at the sun's sparkles on the deep blue expanse.
I have also water-gazed from the end of piers, on the walls near an outdoor swimming pool, in a fountain in a public park, a puddle in the middle of a sidewalk, even in the bathtub while the sun shone through a window and sent reflections splashing crazily on the tiled walls.
One note of caution: very bright reflections can be damaging to your eyes. If you can't look at the sun's shimmerings for more than a few seconds without blinking, do not attempt water-gazing. Wait till the Sun's light is softer.
there are 3 basic forms. All use the same technique but different focal points. These are:
1. Gazing into running water, such as that of a stream or brook.
2. Gazing at the shimmering of the Sun on the surface of a lake, or on the ocean.
3. GAzing at the reflections caused by the Sun on water, as on the sides of a boat or ship, a nearby structure, or any close object.
It may take a bit of searching to find an ideal place, and in a pinch a swimming pool will substitute for the last form, but once found, the major dificulty is over.
Find a comfortable spot to sit. Relax, still your mind of the thousand-thousand thoughts that course through it every waking second. Gently, with eyelids relaxed but not quite closed, gaze into the water, or at the shimmerings of the Sun dancing like diamonds, or at the reflections the water casts up by the Sun's light.
Allow your thoughts to vanish. If you need an answer to a specific question, once you have attained this drowsy state formulate the question while still gazing. if no answer immediately comes to mind (and beware the tricks of the conscious mind, which may send wish-fulfilling answers0 stop and try again in a few minutes.
If you are inquiring about an absent friend, or alost article, see that person or object in your mind, let the image dissolve, and see what comes to take it's place within your mind's eye.
If, however, you have no special purpose in water-gazing, sit quietly and wait until feelings, emotions, symbols, or pictures paint themselves before your eyes, aided by the evermoving, mysterious water.
Though a bit of practice is usually necessary before psychic messages or images are percieved, once attained you have the art forever.
I have spent hours sitting on a point that juts out into the Pacific Ocean, gazing at the sun's sparkles on the deep blue expanse.
I have also water-gazed from the end of piers, on the walls near an outdoor swimming pool, in a fountain in a public park, a puddle in the middle of a sidewalk, even in the bathtub while the sun shone through a window and sent reflections splashing crazily on the tiled walls.
One note of caution: very bright reflections can be damaging to your eyes. If you can't look at the sun's shimmerings for more than a few seconds without blinking, do not attempt water-gazing. Wait till the Sun's light is softer.
Gathering & Drying Instructions
Plants have different parts:
Leaves: Cut rather than pulling, to reduce harm to the plant. What time of year is best, to harvest this particular plant? Do not gather wet leaves; if they need washing, rinse them with a watering can the day before. Remove dead or discoloured leaves. Fasten stems in bunches with a rubber band, label, and hang to dry. After two to three weeks (or longer if weather is very humid), store in whole-leaf form in sealed, airtight containers.
Wood: Cut into thin slices or chips while still soft. Spread on mesh screens or paper towels to dry; stir or turn daily. May take a month or more to dry, depending on thickness of pieces.
Roots: Wash in cold water, scrub if necessary, but do not soak. Some roots should be peeled, others should not. Dry as for wood.
Bark: In most cases, it is the inner layer of bark that is wanted. Harvest small twigs, peel bark as soon as possible, and dry as for wood. In the case of willow, gather long pieces, and save the peeled wood for basket weaving.
Flowers: Gather as soon as possible after they open. Hang or spread to dry.
Berries: Gather as soon as fully ripe, unless instructed otherwise. Hang or spread to dry. You may wish to slice larger fruits, to speed drying.
General drying and storage instructions: Hang or spread to dry in a place where there is good air circulation, minimal dust, and no direct sunlight. Do not use heat to speed drying. Once herb is fully dry, store in as whole a form as possible, in an airtight container, in a cool, dry, dark place. Glass containers are best because they are most inert chemically. Plastic containers are next best. Wooden or metal containers may react chemically with the herb. Paper bags will absorb valuable oils from the herb, and are not airtight; they are a very poor choice. Label and date every package; include source info if applicable.
Leaves: Cut rather than pulling, to reduce harm to the plant. What time of year is best, to harvest this particular plant? Do not gather wet leaves; if they need washing, rinse them with a watering can the day before. Remove dead or discoloured leaves. Fasten stems in bunches with a rubber band, label, and hang to dry. After two to three weeks (or longer if weather is very humid), store in whole-leaf form in sealed, airtight containers.
Wood: Cut into thin slices or chips while still soft. Spread on mesh screens or paper towels to dry; stir or turn daily. May take a month or more to dry, depending on thickness of pieces.
Roots: Wash in cold water, scrub if necessary, but do not soak. Some roots should be peeled, others should not. Dry as for wood.
Bark: In most cases, it is the inner layer of bark that is wanted. Harvest small twigs, peel bark as soon as possible, and dry as for wood. In the case of willow, gather long pieces, and save the peeled wood for basket weaving.
Flowers: Gather as soon as possible after they open. Hang or spread to dry.
Berries: Gather as soon as fully ripe, unless instructed otherwise. Hang or spread to dry. You may wish to slice larger fruits, to speed drying.
General drying and storage instructions: Hang or spread to dry in a place where there is good air circulation, minimal dust, and no direct sunlight. Do not use heat to speed drying. Once herb is fully dry, store in as whole a form as possible, in an airtight container, in a cool, dry, dark place. Glass containers are best because they are most inert chemically. Plastic containers are next best. Wooden or metal containers may react chemically with the herb. Paper bags will absorb valuable oils from the herb, and are not airtight; they are a very poor choice. Label and date every package; include source info if applicable.
Being Alone
The most important relationship we have in our lives is with our selves. And even though we are the only ones who are present at every moment of our lives—from birth onward—this relationship can be the most difficult one to cultivate. This may be because society places such emphasis on the importance of being in a romantic partnership, even teaching us to set aside our own needs for the needs of another. Until we know ourselves, however, we cannot possibly choose the right relationship to support our mutual growth toward our highest potential. By allowing ourselves to be comfortable with being alone, we can become the people with whom we want to have a relationship.
Perhaps at no other time in history has it been possible for people to survive, and even thrive, while living alone. We can now support ourselves financially, socially, and emotionally without needing a spouse for survival in any of these realms. With this freedom, we can pursue our own interests and create fulfilling partnerships with friends, business partners, creative cohorts, and neighbors. Once we’ve satisfied our needs and created our support system, a mate then becomes someone with whom we can share the bounty of all we’ve created and the beauty we’ve discovered within ourselves.
As we move away from tradition and fall into more natural cycles of being in the world today, we may find that there are times where being alone nourishes us and other periods in which a partnership is best for our growth. We may need to learn to create spaces to be alone within relationships. When we can shift our expectations of our relationships with ourselves and others to opportunities for discovery, we open ourselves to forge new paths and encounter uncharted territory. Being willing to know and love ourselves, and to find what truly makes us feel deeply and strongly, gives us the advantage of being able to attract and choose the right people with whom to share ourselves, whether those relationships fall into recognizable roles or not. Choosing to enjoy being alone allows us to fully explore our most important relationship—the one with our true selves.
Perhaps at no other time in history has it been possible for people to survive, and even thrive, while living alone. We can now support ourselves financially, socially, and emotionally without needing a spouse for survival in any of these realms. With this freedom, we can pursue our own interests and create fulfilling partnerships with friends, business partners, creative cohorts, and neighbors. Once we’ve satisfied our needs and created our support system, a mate then becomes someone with whom we can share the bounty of all we’ve created and the beauty we’ve discovered within ourselves.
As we move away from tradition and fall into more natural cycles of being in the world today, we may find that there are times where being alone nourishes us and other periods in which a partnership is best for our growth. We may need to learn to create spaces to be alone within relationships. When we can shift our expectations of our relationships with ourselves and others to opportunities for discovery, we open ourselves to forge new paths and encounter uncharted territory. Being willing to know and love ourselves, and to find what truly makes us feel deeply and strongly, gives us the advantage of being able to attract and choose the right people with whom to share ourselves, whether those relationships fall into recognizable roles or not. Choosing to enjoy being alone allows us to fully explore our most important relationship—the one with our true selves.
Meeting The Great Goddess Within
The Goddess Within has many names. She is the Great Goddess, the Mother Goddess, the Star Goddess. She is the ground of all existence. She is the Pregnant Void that exists in the blackness between the stars and beyond the subatomic particles. She is the quantum field of all potentiality, the Mother of everything that has taken form in this universe. She is also the Divine Energy that lives within each human body, known as the Kundalini. Reawakening Her is the Great Work of this millennium . . . the spiritual act which can save the physical world.
And we awaken the Great Goddess not only "out there," but within each of us. This is how She regains Her place and power in the world.
It's not enough to think about the Goddess. It's important to meet Her, to know Her intimately. This is the process of spiritual endarkenment, the complement to spiritual enlightenment. And it's also indescribably wonderful to know the Goddess personally. It's the wellspring of joy, of love, of meaning.
How do you bring this to life within you? There are lots of ways to invoke the Goddess Within, worship Her, and become aware of Her existence within you.
A useful way to begin is by pondering who the Great Goddess is, to you.
-What does She represent?
-What qualities does She have?
-How does She act in the world?
-What would She look like?
-What service does She desire?
-How does She challenge you?
-What gifts does She offer?
This is something to be explored deeply, if you really want to connect with the Goddess. A surface appraisal and quick response are not going to take you the distance.
-Spend some time with your journal. Meditate on the Great Goddess - through stillness or song or however you gain clarity - and write what comes.
-Then make a visual representation: a drawing or collage or something that gives you an image of the Goddess. It doesn't matter what it looks like, so don't fret if you have little skill in visual art. What matters is the process of clarifying your idea of the Great Goddess.
-Then use movement to express what you've come to understand and feel about Her. Dance, or enact your devotion to the Great Goddess. You can use prayer dance as a potent way of experiencing the Divine moving through you. The Divine Mother Prayer Dance, in particular, is a practice that deepens your union with the Goddess Within.
-Finally, write a poem about Her. Don't get caught up in expectations about quality or style. A poem is simply the language of soul, speaking with words. Let it be open and easy, whatever you want to say, just in a form more spontaneous than prose.
It may seem unnecessary to do all four, but it's usually the activity you resist which will have the most new information for you. This doesn't need to be done all at once. And of course you can do whatever part/s of it you wish - you're in charge of your spiritual path.
But the joys of relationship with the Goddess Within are so great, I encourage you to give yourself and the Goddess the gift of coming to know Her to the best of your ability.
Here is a quick but effective way to contact the Goddess within you - Take some time to ground yourself, and come to a place of open relaxation. Gently notice your hand. Keep your gaze soft. Become aware of the contours, the hard bone and soft flesh that make up your physical hand.Now imagine looking very closely, and seeing the cells that make up the bone and flesh and everything else in your hand. Tiny pulsing living sacks, filled with watery fluid and protein molecules, joined to each other with silky, almost transparent connective tissue. Now imagine looking even more closely, and seeing the atoms that make up the cells. Infinitesimal whirling flashes of energy that are only half-there. Electron pulses that flit instantly from place to place, with no distance being traveled between, sharing information with all the other electrons in your body - and the universe - instantaneously. Imagine looking deep into the galaxy-scale distances between these particles, and seeing beyond them, to the black void of empty perfection. This is the quantum field that gives rise to those pulses of energy that give form to everything in existence, including your atoms and cells and flesh and bone. This is the field of pure Consciousness, and it is the essence of the Great Goddess. Breathe out into this field, and notice your breath being inhaled by the Goddess. Breathe in, and know that you are breathing in the exhalations of the Goddess. Maintain this connection through your breath for as long as you like. When you are ready, come back into ordinary consciousness, keeping your awareness of the Great Goddess within you.
What you have just experienced is the Womb of all creation. Whatever Consciousness calls forth from this Void, comes into being in the world.
This is the essence of you! This is not merely what you are made from, it is what you are.
You are the Great Goddess! She is within you, now and evermore.
This visualization makes it clear on a visceral level that nothing can separate you from the Divine - no more than a drop of the ocean can be imagined as not being water!
Allow this knowing to settle into all levels of your consciousness. Your atoms know it. Your cells know it. Your physical body knows it. Your mind knows it. Your soul and spirit already know it.
This is you!
So whenever you want to connect with the Goddess, all you must do is go within yourself. That's where She lives.
Now you know the Goddess on a profound level. But it doesn't stop there. The Goddess desires a personal, intimate relationship with you. She has an immense amount of love, guidance, and information She yearns to share with you. Now that you know where She lives, it's up to you to make time to build this relationship. Just like any relationship, it needs nurturing.
-Long quiet talks,
-Shared activities,
-Thinking of Her,
-Doing things just to make Her smile,
-Simply being together.
She's always here for you, always maintaining Her end of the relationship, always holding out a welcoming hand. All that's necessary for you to have the most perfect love relationship in the world, is to reach back.
That's the meaning of the Wiccan song:
Returning to the Goddess Within is the greatest gift you can give yourself. It's the greatest gift you can give the world.
And we awaken the Great Goddess not only "out there," but within each of us. This is how She regains Her place and power in the world.
It's not enough to think about the Goddess. It's important to meet Her, to know Her intimately. This is the process of spiritual endarkenment, the complement to spiritual enlightenment. And it's also indescribably wonderful to know the Goddess personally. It's the wellspring of joy, of love, of meaning.
How do you bring this to life within you? There are lots of ways to invoke the Goddess Within, worship Her, and become aware of Her existence within you.
A useful way to begin is by pondering who the Great Goddess is, to you.
-What does She represent?
-What qualities does She have?
-How does She act in the world?
-What would She look like?
-What service does She desire?
-How does She challenge you?
-What gifts does She offer?
This is something to be explored deeply, if you really want to connect with the Goddess. A surface appraisal and quick response are not going to take you the distance.
-Spend some time with your journal. Meditate on the Great Goddess - through stillness or song or however you gain clarity - and write what comes.
-Then make a visual representation: a drawing or collage or something that gives you an image of the Goddess. It doesn't matter what it looks like, so don't fret if you have little skill in visual art. What matters is the process of clarifying your idea of the Great Goddess.
-Then use movement to express what you've come to understand and feel about Her. Dance, or enact your devotion to the Great Goddess. You can use prayer dance as a potent way of experiencing the Divine moving through you. The Divine Mother Prayer Dance, in particular, is a practice that deepens your union with the Goddess Within.
-Finally, write a poem about Her. Don't get caught up in expectations about quality or style. A poem is simply the language of soul, speaking with words. Let it be open and easy, whatever you want to say, just in a form more spontaneous than prose.
It may seem unnecessary to do all four, but it's usually the activity you resist which will have the most new information for you. This doesn't need to be done all at once. And of course you can do whatever part/s of it you wish - you're in charge of your spiritual path.
But the joys of relationship with the Goddess Within are so great, I encourage you to give yourself and the Goddess the gift of coming to know Her to the best of your ability.
Here is a quick but effective way to contact the Goddess within you - Take some time to ground yourself, and come to a place of open relaxation. Gently notice your hand. Keep your gaze soft. Become aware of the contours, the hard bone and soft flesh that make up your physical hand.Now imagine looking very closely, and seeing the cells that make up the bone and flesh and everything else in your hand. Tiny pulsing living sacks, filled with watery fluid and protein molecules, joined to each other with silky, almost transparent connective tissue. Now imagine looking even more closely, and seeing the atoms that make up the cells. Infinitesimal whirling flashes of energy that are only half-there. Electron pulses that flit instantly from place to place, with no distance being traveled between, sharing information with all the other electrons in your body - and the universe - instantaneously. Imagine looking deep into the galaxy-scale distances between these particles, and seeing beyond them, to the black void of empty perfection. This is the quantum field that gives rise to those pulses of energy that give form to everything in existence, including your atoms and cells and flesh and bone. This is the field of pure Consciousness, and it is the essence of the Great Goddess. Breathe out into this field, and notice your breath being inhaled by the Goddess. Breathe in, and know that you are breathing in the exhalations of the Goddess. Maintain this connection through your breath for as long as you like. When you are ready, come back into ordinary consciousness, keeping your awareness of the Great Goddess within you.
What you have just experienced is the Womb of all creation. Whatever Consciousness calls forth from this Void, comes into being in the world.
This is the essence of you! This is not merely what you are made from, it is what you are.
You are the Great Goddess! She is within you, now and evermore.
This visualization makes it clear on a visceral level that nothing can separate you from the Divine - no more than a drop of the ocean can be imagined as not being water!
Allow this knowing to settle into all levels of your consciousness. Your atoms know it. Your cells know it. Your physical body knows it. Your mind knows it. Your soul and spirit already know it.
This is you!
So whenever you want to connect with the Goddess, all you must do is go within yourself. That's where She lives.
Now you know the Goddess on a profound level. But it doesn't stop there. The Goddess desires a personal, intimate relationship with you. She has an immense amount of love, guidance, and information She yearns to share with you. Now that you know where She lives, it's up to you to make time to build this relationship. Just like any relationship, it needs nurturing.
-Long quiet talks,
-Shared activities,
-Thinking of Her,
-Doing things just to make Her smile,
-Simply being together.
She's always here for you, always maintaining Her end of the relationship, always holding out a welcoming hand. All that's necessary for you to have the most perfect love relationship in the world, is to reach back.
That's the meaning of the Wiccan song:
She's been waiting, waiting
She's been waiting so long
She's been waiting for Her children
To remember, to return.
Returning to the Goddess Within is the greatest gift you can give yourself. It's the greatest gift you can give the world.
Dream Record
-Record the dream
-Outline the highlights
-Fill in details & clarifying timeline
-Avoid assumptions, & be completely honest
-Sign & date
-Title your dream
-Jot down observations
-Feelings
-First impressions
-Current life issues
-Interpreting the dream
-Explore the symbols
-Understanding your dream
-Follow-Through
-Apply the lessons
-Gratitude
-Outline the highlights
-Fill in details & clarifying timeline
-Avoid assumptions, & be completely honest
-Sign & date
-Title your dream
-Jot down observations
-Feelings
-First impressions
-Current life issues
-Interpreting the dream
-Explore the symbols
-Understanding your dream
-Follow-Through
-Apply the lessons
-Gratitude
Dream Analysis
Dream Analysis is the "work" part of dream work. But it's also the fun part, so maybe we should call it "dream play" instead! Okay, you've got your dream on paper and you're ready to begin interpreting your dream.
This is what dream analysis is all about. You take the dream, break it down, and look at it piece by piece. Each bit of your dream has a message for you. The subconscious doesn't waste any bandwidth! It will layer meaning within meaning, for you to discover - whenever you choose to know yourself and the Divine this intimately.
So in dream analysis, every little symbol, every person, even the setting tells you something. Now let's look closely at what your dream is trying to tell you.
Dream Symbols are the meat of the dream analysis. Here's where you begin to uncover the vocabulary that the Divine or your Higher Self uses to connect with you.
Symbols are the "words" that the Divine uses to communicate with you. Very few people "receive" verbal linguistic communication from the Divine. Rarely does anyone actually hear "turn left at the next corner" from their guides, angels, or god/desses. But even when they do, this is using symbolism. Words are just symbols for things and ideas. In the same way, dream analysis looks at the symbols as words in a letter. Symbols are the vocabulary the Divine uses to communicate. When you understand this, you can begin to comprehend the real power of dream work. Over time, you can master this dialogue with Divinity. You been to notice how She communicates with you in the waking world, just as in your dreams. Opening this channel of communication is one of the greatest benefits of dream analysis. Especially for Wiccans, whose spiritual path is one of co-creating life with the Divine.
So in this dream work method, we'll break the symbols down into categories.
But first, a word about dream dictionaries.
Let me clarify right away that there's no such thing as a generic one-size-fits-all "dream dictionary." It's not possible. Dreams speak in symbols, as we've seen. The thing is, everyone's symbols are unique. Your dreams will speak with a vocabulary of symbolism that relates to your personal experiences in life. Generic dream dictionaries are based on the fact that many people in a culture share certain symbolisms. For most Westerners, a car - for instance - signifies the "vehicle" in which you travel through your life. That is, your body, your life, or your experiences.
For many people, many of these symbols will resonate. So I don't mean to suggest that a dream dictionary is a waste of paper. For many people, a good dream dictionary can help clarify confusing dream symbols.
Yet for some people, some of the common interpretations won't fit at all.
A young teenager may see a car as freedom, or adulthood, or fearful new challenges to master. Someone who has been seriously hurt in an auto accident would have their own meaning for a car! And there can be a world of difference between the meaning of a car when you are driving, and when it's coming at you on the street.
So the only way to proceed is to learn to understand the symbolism in your dreams. As you practice dream analysis, you'll find that you are creating your own, personalized dream dictionary.
As well as gaining real insight into your inner being.
Read back through your dream. Underline all the major words: the objects, the people, the surroundings, the actions. Write these down in a list, underneath your dream. We call these "keywords." Now, make note of any associations and meanings that arise when you think of each keyword.
The best place to start dream analysis is with the objects in your dreams. These are all the nouns you wrote down. For example, if we were doing dream analysis for the dream of the car, we could write:
-Car
-Dog
-Passenger
-Office
-Ice
Then we go back through the list and fill in what each of these objects means to us.
Car
Vehicle, mobility, freedom, getting where I want to go, capable of achieving my goals, personal power, etc. As this example shows, in dream analysis you use literal associations as well as "free associations," that is, ideas that pop into your head when you think about the object.
Repeat this with each of the words.
Now go back through your dream and underline all the action words. For example . . .
-Running,
-Looking,
-Hearing,
-Picking up,
-Sitting down, etc.
List them like you did the objects, and then make note of any associations.
In the above dream, one action was "getting out of the car." This action can be broken down into two actions, with somewhat different meanings -
Getting out: Leaving, abandoning, hightailing it, moving on
Getting out of the car: Standing up, taking action, leaving behind my support to go ahead on my own
Use the same process with the settings in your dreams. The settings are the landscapes in your mind. You may not have thought of the surroundings when you first wrote the dream down, so you can go back now and ask yourself, Where was this happening? In our sample dream, I was driving across ice, like a frozen lake or maybe ocean. The office was on the ice as well.
Now ask yourself, What does this location mean to me? In our sample dream, you might come up with associations like.
On the ice of a frozen ocean:
Standing on water, walking on water, walking on thin ice, frozen emotions, deep unknowns perhaps lurking underneath, cold, chilled, like death, quiet passive death (freezing and drowning are)
You can see in this example how one association sparked another - "standing on water" made me think of "walking on water."
Go with these insights! They can be invaluable to the dream analysis process.
When you look at the people in your dreams, you really begin to see some of the levels of meaning that your dreams offer you. Start with the most basic. If you dreamt of your brother Bob, write down what qualities you associate with Bob.
Bob: Pushy, obnoxious, selfish, self-absorbed, caring, tries to help people in a heavy-handed way, good with tools, mechanic, eldest, . . . .
This will help you identify the characteristics that are being pointed out in your dream.
Are You Dreaming Of Others, Or Yourself?
We commonly feel that when we dream of another person, the dream is actually about them. This may or may not be true. If you dreamt of Bob getting a divorce, maybe it's signaling a problem in his marriage. But even if this is so, the dream is saying more than just that. You may have heard it said that everyone in your dreams is you. And it's true. There is an aspect of you that is like Bob. If this weren't so, he wouldn't show up in your dreams!
We don't often enjoy seeing ourselves in a negative way. It's easier for our subconscious to say that we have some Bob-like characteristics, by showing us an image of Bob, than to say to ourselves that we're being selfish or whatever.
This also happens in a positive way.
If you dream of Mother Teresa, there is a part of you that demonstrates some of her positive characteristics too. We all have both sides of the coin, the pure and the distorted qualities within us. So when you dream of Bob, the message is that there's a Bob-like personality aspect that's coming up in you.
For more clues, you can look to your relationship with the person. If Bob is your brother, then explore what "brother" may mean to you. It may be quite different from the meaning of sister, father, friend, stranger, etc.
The "I"
This is a surprisingly illuminating part of the process. Start by circling every time the word "I" appears in your dream. We naturally assume that the "I" in the dream is a constant, just as we assume who we are in life is the same "I" from moment to moment and day to day. In dreams, though, it sometimes becomes obvious that there are multiple "I"s, levels of "I"s. Have you ever had a dream where at first you were watching somebody, and then later you were that person, experiencing the action from their viewpoint? Or have you ever dreamt that you were watching yourself as you participated in the dream, as if from an outside perspective?
There can be many "I"s in every dream. Explore each "I" as if it were a unique individual. Which "I" was in the car, traveling across the ice?
Which "I" got out? And so on.
These "I"s are also aspects of your personality, like the people in your dreams. You can explore them in the same way.
-What part of you is the Do-er, of each action?
-What part of you is the Observer?
-Is there an observer of the Observer?
See how the symbolic meanings fit together to give messages on several levels.
Taking Dream Analysis Deeper
For all the depth you've uncovered so far, this is still just the surface level of dream analysis. You can mine your dream for more information, in each of these steps, by asking yourself deeper questions about these symbols. In the setting, for instance, we could ask:
-What else was around?
-Could I see a shoreline?
-What was the weather like?
-Was it day or night?
-Was I feeling cold, or warm, or what?
Then you can work with these symbols as well.
You can ask yourself questions about the symbols within the symbols. For example, one of the associations for car was "mobility." Perhaps when you wrote that, you felt a pull toward that word. So you could investigate more by calling forth the associations you have with the word "mobility." You can perhaps begin to imagine how even the most minute scrap of a dream fragment can yield an incredible amount of information through dream analysis.
This is what dream analysis is all about. You take the dream, break it down, and look at it piece by piece. Each bit of your dream has a message for you. The subconscious doesn't waste any bandwidth! It will layer meaning within meaning, for you to discover - whenever you choose to know yourself and the Divine this intimately.
So in dream analysis, every little symbol, every person, even the setting tells you something. Now let's look closely at what your dream is trying to tell you.
Dream Symbols are the meat of the dream analysis. Here's where you begin to uncover the vocabulary that the Divine or your Higher Self uses to connect with you.
Symbols are the "words" that the Divine uses to communicate with you. Very few people "receive" verbal linguistic communication from the Divine. Rarely does anyone actually hear "turn left at the next corner" from their guides, angels, or god/desses. But even when they do, this is using symbolism. Words are just symbols for things and ideas. In the same way, dream analysis looks at the symbols as words in a letter. Symbols are the vocabulary the Divine uses to communicate. When you understand this, you can begin to comprehend the real power of dream work. Over time, you can master this dialogue with Divinity. You been to notice how She communicates with you in the waking world, just as in your dreams. Opening this channel of communication is one of the greatest benefits of dream analysis. Especially for Wiccans, whose spiritual path is one of co-creating life with the Divine.
So in this dream work method, we'll break the symbols down into categories.
But first, a word about dream dictionaries.
Let me clarify right away that there's no such thing as a generic one-size-fits-all "dream dictionary." It's not possible. Dreams speak in symbols, as we've seen. The thing is, everyone's symbols are unique. Your dreams will speak with a vocabulary of symbolism that relates to your personal experiences in life. Generic dream dictionaries are based on the fact that many people in a culture share certain symbolisms. For most Westerners, a car - for instance - signifies the "vehicle" in which you travel through your life. That is, your body, your life, or your experiences.
For many people, many of these symbols will resonate. So I don't mean to suggest that a dream dictionary is a waste of paper. For many people, a good dream dictionary can help clarify confusing dream symbols.
Yet for some people, some of the common interpretations won't fit at all.
A young teenager may see a car as freedom, or adulthood, or fearful new challenges to master. Someone who has been seriously hurt in an auto accident would have their own meaning for a car! And there can be a world of difference between the meaning of a car when you are driving, and when it's coming at you on the street.
So the only way to proceed is to learn to understand the symbolism in your dreams. As you practice dream analysis, you'll find that you are creating your own, personalized dream dictionary.
As well as gaining real insight into your inner being.
Read back through your dream. Underline all the major words: the objects, the people, the surroundings, the actions. Write these down in a list, underneath your dream. We call these "keywords." Now, make note of any associations and meanings that arise when you think of each keyword.
The best place to start dream analysis is with the objects in your dreams. These are all the nouns you wrote down. For example, if we were doing dream analysis for the dream of the car, we could write:
-Car
-Dog
-Passenger
-Office
-Ice
Then we go back through the list and fill in what each of these objects means to us.
Car
Vehicle, mobility, freedom, getting where I want to go, capable of achieving my goals, personal power, etc. As this example shows, in dream analysis you use literal associations as well as "free associations," that is, ideas that pop into your head when you think about the object.
Repeat this with each of the words.
Now go back through your dream and underline all the action words. For example . . .
-Running,
-Looking,
-Hearing,
-Picking up,
-Sitting down, etc.
List them like you did the objects, and then make note of any associations.
In the above dream, one action was "getting out of the car." This action can be broken down into two actions, with somewhat different meanings -
Getting out: Leaving, abandoning, hightailing it, moving on
Getting out of the car: Standing up, taking action, leaving behind my support to go ahead on my own
Use the same process with the settings in your dreams. The settings are the landscapes in your mind. You may not have thought of the surroundings when you first wrote the dream down, so you can go back now and ask yourself, Where was this happening? In our sample dream, I was driving across ice, like a frozen lake or maybe ocean. The office was on the ice as well.
Now ask yourself, What does this location mean to me? In our sample dream, you might come up with associations like.
On the ice of a frozen ocean:
Standing on water, walking on water, walking on thin ice, frozen emotions, deep unknowns perhaps lurking underneath, cold, chilled, like death, quiet passive death (freezing and drowning are)
You can see in this example how one association sparked another - "standing on water" made me think of "walking on water."
Go with these insights! They can be invaluable to the dream analysis process.
When you look at the people in your dreams, you really begin to see some of the levels of meaning that your dreams offer you. Start with the most basic. If you dreamt of your brother Bob, write down what qualities you associate with Bob.
Bob: Pushy, obnoxious, selfish, self-absorbed, caring, tries to help people in a heavy-handed way, good with tools, mechanic, eldest, . . . .
This will help you identify the characteristics that are being pointed out in your dream.
Are You Dreaming Of Others, Or Yourself?
We commonly feel that when we dream of another person, the dream is actually about them. This may or may not be true. If you dreamt of Bob getting a divorce, maybe it's signaling a problem in his marriage. But even if this is so, the dream is saying more than just that. You may have heard it said that everyone in your dreams is you. And it's true. There is an aspect of you that is like Bob. If this weren't so, he wouldn't show up in your dreams!
We don't often enjoy seeing ourselves in a negative way. It's easier for our subconscious to say that we have some Bob-like characteristics, by showing us an image of Bob, than to say to ourselves that we're being selfish or whatever.
This also happens in a positive way.
If you dream of Mother Teresa, there is a part of you that demonstrates some of her positive characteristics too. We all have both sides of the coin, the pure and the distorted qualities within us. So when you dream of Bob, the message is that there's a Bob-like personality aspect that's coming up in you.
For more clues, you can look to your relationship with the person. If Bob is your brother, then explore what "brother" may mean to you. It may be quite different from the meaning of sister, father, friend, stranger, etc.
The "I"
This is a surprisingly illuminating part of the process. Start by circling every time the word "I" appears in your dream. We naturally assume that the "I" in the dream is a constant, just as we assume who we are in life is the same "I" from moment to moment and day to day. In dreams, though, it sometimes becomes obvious that there are multiple "I"s, levels of "I"s. Have you ever had a dream where at first you were watching somebody, and then later you were that person, experiencing the action from their viewpoint? Or have you ever dreamt that you were watching yourself as you participated in the dream, as if from an outside perspective?
There can be many "I"s in every dream. Explore each "I" as if it were a unique individual. Which "I" was in the car, traveling across the ice?
Which "I" got out? And so on.
These "I"s are also aspects of your personality, like the people in your dreams. You can explore them in the same way.
-What part of you is the Do-er, of each action?
-What part of you is the Observer?
-Is there an observer of the Observer?
See how the symbolic meanings fit together to give messages on several levels.
Taking Dream Analysis Deeper
For all the depth you've uncovered so far, this is still just the surface level of dream analysis. You can mine your dream for more information, in each of these steps, by asking yourself deeper questions about these symbols. In the setting, for instance, we could ask:
-What else was around?
-Could I see a shoreline?
-What was the weather like?
-Was it day or night?
-Was I feeling cold, or warm, or what?
Then you can work with these symbols as well.
You can ask yourself questions about the symbols within the symbols. For example, one of the associations for car was "mobility." Perhaps when you wrote that, you felt a pull toward that word. So you could investigate more by calling forth the associations you have with the word "mobility." You can perhaps begin to imagine how even the most minute scrap of a dream fragment can yield an incredible amount of information through dream analysis.
Dream Work
Dream work is such fun to do, it seems like it shouldn't be as valuable a practice as it is! When you play with dream analysis, you . . .
-learn about yourself,
-receive guidance from the Divine, and
-learn to understand the magickal language of symbols.
All important skills for a Wiccan, or any spiritual seeker. And because of the whimsical nature of dreams, it can be as interesting as it is gratifying.
So how do you do dream work? You begin by remembering your dreams...
Do you remember your dreams every night?
Some people think that since they don't remember dreaming, they haven't been dreaming. If you are a functional person, then you can bet you dream. The human brain does not function without dreams. After only a few days, we begin to lose the ability to distinguish fantasy from reality. So if you're not hallucinating, can still concentrate and make decisions, you've been dreaming.
Remembering Your Dreams on the Other hand - that can be tricky. To do dream work, of course, you need to not only dream, but know what you dreamt. Luckily, the Divine, or your Higher Self, or your dream self - whoever's in charge of these things - has been waiting for you to start paying attention. They want to communicate with you! And they are more than happy to cooperate with you. So, all you have to do is - Ask.
Ask for a dream. Ask to remember it.
When you go to bed at night, as you're falling asleep, ask to remember a dream.
But then you have to be prepared to take the next step. So you ask, and you receive dreams to work with. If you don't work with them, you are disrespecting the gift.
Take a journal and pen to bed with you. If you have a bed-mate, make arrangements about a light. Do what you need to. But when you wake up with a dream, you'd do well to work with it. Pay attention. Act on it. And offer thanks for the gift.
Doing this is the best way to ensure that you will receive dreams in the future.
-You can also ask for dreams on specific issues.
-You can ask for dreams that will be clear and easy to interpret.
-And if you get too many dreams, you can ask for help with that too!
-learn about yourself,
-receive guidance from the Divine, and
-learn to understand the magickal language of symbols.
All important skills for a Wiccan, or any spiritual seeker. And because of the whimsical nature of dreams, it can be as interesting as it is gratifying.
So how do you do dream work? You begin by remembering your dreams...
Do you remember your dreams every night?
Some people think that since they don't remember dreaming, they haven't been dreaming. If you are a functional person, then you can bet you dream. The human brain does not function without dreams. After only a few days, we begin to lose the ability to distinguish fantasy from reality. So if you're not hallucinating, can still concentrate and make decisions, you've been dreaming.
Remembering Your Dreams on the Other hand - that can be tricky. To do dream work, of course, you need to not only dream, but know what you dreamt. Luckily, the Divine, or your Higher Self, or your dream self - whoever's in charge of these things - has been waiting for you to start paying attention. They want to communicate with you! And they are more than happy to cooperate with you. So, all you have to do is - Ask.
Ask for a dream. Ask to remember it.
When you go to bed at night, as you're falling asleep, ask to remember a dream.
But then you have to be prepared to take the next step. So you ask, and you receive dreams to work with. If you don't work with them, you are disrespecting the gift.
Take a journal and pen to bed with you. If you have a bed-mate, make arrangements about a light. Do what you need to. But when you wake up with a dream, you'd do well to work with it. Pay attention. Act on it. And offer thanks for the gift.
Doing this is the best way to ensure that you will receive dreams in the future.
-You can also ask for dreams on specific issues.
-You can ask for dreams that will be clear and easy to interpret.
-And if you get too many dreams, you can ask for help with that too!
Ritual - Kid Friendly
SUPPLIES: Three small votive candles: white, yellow and green; a bowl of snow, a collection of bells (one for each person at the table) and Brigid's cross, which you'll need to make beforehand. (Directions are posted separately.)
When everyone is ready to sit down for supper help your child go outside to collect a small bowl of snow. (You want it to melt during dinner so don't get too much and keep it loose, not packed down, so it will melt easier. If you live in a warm climate that doesn't have snow, just scrape some frost out of your freezer.) Put the bowl of snow and Brigid's cross on the table.
Begin your ritual by ringing the bell to establish Sacred Space. The child chosen to be Bell Ringer rings the bell three times and says:
Then an Adult casts the Circle by saying:
Tell the kids to imagine a silvery-blue light surrounding the table to create a Circle. Explain that this "Circle of Light" means we want to make this a sacred place to honor the Goddess and God. Explain that a Sacred Place doesn't have to be a church. It can be in your dining room, a special spot in the forest, or even at school, as long as you show the respect and honor the Goddess and God deserve by creating your Sacred Space first. Next we "Call the Quarters." Explain that this is asking the Ancient Ones to add their powers to ours to make our Circle stronger. The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the yellow candle and says:
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the red candle and says:
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the blue candle and says:
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the green candle and says:
Next the Adult says:
The adult picks up the white candle, explaining that it represents the Spirit of Winter which has descended over the Earth. Now say:
Have the kids ring their bells to represent the snow that has been falling for so many weeks. Again, if you live in a warmer climate, you can adapt this part by explaining how Winter effects other regions of the country. The adult lights the white candle and places it in the snow. If you have two adults at the ritual, let the second one take this part. Raise the bowl of snow and say:
They return the bowl to the table. Now the first adult picks up the yellow candle. Tell the children you chose yellow to represent The Sun, the radiant power of God. Place the yellow candle to the right of the bowl and light it. Now the second adult (if there is one) can say:
Have the kids ring their bells again. This time tell them they are the warm, fresh breezes of spring, coming to melt the snow. Let them have fun with it. Remember you want your children to look at ritual as the happy, fun celebration it was to our ancestors! The first adult picks up the green candle, explaining that green represents the Earth and all the growing things. S/he places the green candle to the left of the bowl and lights it. Now the second adult says:
One last time, have the kids give their bells a good shake. Tell them they are the voice of Mother Earth, nature's alarm clock, waking the frozen ground and sleeping plants from their winter Slumber. Now you can serve supper. While you eat, talk about the astronomical significance of this cross-quarter day. It's been 6 weeks since Yule and the Sun has been rising higher in the sky every day. We are now only 7 weeks away from the Vernal Equinox, Ostara, which is the first day of Spring. It also makes an interesting comparison if you can show the children that, on the Wheel of the Year, Imbolc lies exactly half a year away from Lughnasadh, August 1st. At Lughnasadh, Fall is still many weeks away and yet, with the First Harvest, we begin to prepare for it. Imbolc is the same. Although Spring might still be many weeks away, we can begin to anticipate it's return! You also want to talk about Brigid, the Lady of Fire and Goddess of the hearth. Explain how in our ancestors' time there wasn't any indoor heat or stoves to cook on, so most of the family's activity revolved around the hearth. Brigid was such a beloved Goddess that, to this day, they celebrate her on February 2nd in Ireland. When supper has ended have the adult take the white candle out of the snow bowl and ask a child to tell what has happened to the snow. The younger ones are especially impressed by the melting! Carefully pass the bowl around the table so everyone can see and touch the water that was once snow. When the bowl return to the adult s/he says:
Everyone should repeat
while they joyously ring their bells in celebration of approaching Spring. Now it's time to close the ritual. Explain to the children that the ritual is over. Now it is time to thank the Ancient ones for their help and their guidance.
The Candle Snuffer says:
( Extinguish the yellow candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
(Extinguish the red candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
(Extinguish the blue candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
(Extinguish the green candle.)
Then the Adult says farewell to the Goddess and the God:
Now the Bell Ringer rings the bell three times to release the Sacred Space and says:
Explain that this is the signal that Sacred Time is over. The Circle has been released and the Sacred Space is no more. That means the dining room goes back to being just a normal dining room. Now the Adult says:
Now it is time to take Brigid's cross and set it in its place of honor. In Ireland, Brigid's Cross was hung over the hearth as a sign of protection. We hang ours over the stove, which is the modern day equivalent of the hearth. It is a colorful reminder of the Goddess' place in our every day life! Sweet Brigid, Goddess of Fire Guardian of the Hearth, Bless those who live beneath this cross And keep our home safe throughout the coming year. Set the cross in place on the wall. If you have more than one child and ended up making more than one cross, consider letting the children hang their cross in their bedroom. Besides being a protection against fire, the cross is a way to remind them that the Goddess is watching over them, even when they sleep! If you wish to do a cleansing ritual as part of the purification aspect of Candlemas, you can do that now. I've enclosed our House Warding Ritual separately, for your convenience.
When everyone is ready to sit down for supper help your child go outside to collect a small bowl of snow. (You want it to melt during dinner so don't get too much and keep it loose, not packed down, so it will melt easier. If you live in a warm climate that doesn't have snow, just scrape some frost out of your freezer.) Put the bowl of snow and Brigid's cross on the table.
Begin your ritual by ringing the bell to establish Sacred Space. The child chosen to be Bell Ringer rings the bell three times and says:
I ring the bell
To cast the spell
Let sacred time begin
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be
Let sacred time begin.
Then an Adult casts the Circle by saying:
Great Mother,
Weave around us
A circle of radiant light
Where we can honor
Our Lord and Lady.
Protect us, guide us and love us.
Tell the kids to imagine a silvery-blue light surrounding the table to create a Circle. Explain that this "Circle of Light" means we want to make this a sacred place to honor the Goddess and God. Explain that a Sacred Place doesn't have to be a church. It can be in your dining room, a special spot in the forest, or even at school, as long as you show the respect and honor the Goddess and God deserve by creating your Sacred Space first. Next we "Call the Quarters." Explain that this is asking the Ancient Ones to add their powers to ours to make our Circle stronger. The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the yellow candle and says:
I call to you
Ancient Ones of the East
Guardian Spirits of Air
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the red candle and says:
I call to you
Ancient Ones of the South
Guardian Sprits of Fire
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle.
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the blue candle and says:
I call to you
Ancient Ones of the West
Guardian Spirits of Water
To Witness this ritual and guard this Circle.
The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the green candle and says:
I call to you
Ancient Ones of the North
Guardian Spirits of Earth
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle.
Next the Adult says:
The Circle has been cast
The Ancient Ones have been called
Now it is time to welcome The Goddess and the God.
Great Mother,
Whose symbol is the bright night moon,
Heavenly father,
Whose symbol is the fiery sun,
We ask you to join our family
For this Imbolc Celebration.
The adult picks up the white candle, explaining that it represents the Spirit of Winter which has descended over the Earth. Now say:
Darkness! The Earth sleeps...
And yet the sleep is ending!
Have the kids ring their bells to represent the snow that has been falling for so many weeks. Again, if you live in a warmer climate, you can adapt this part by explaining how Winter effects other regions of the country. The adult lights the white candle and places it in the snow. If you have two adults at the ritual, let the second one take this part. Raise the bowl of snow and say:
The night is dark and cold
The snow is heavy and deep.
Under Winter's white blanket
The fields and forests are asleep!
They return the bowl to the table. Now the first adult picks up the yellow candle. Tell the children you chose yellow to represent The Sun, the radiant power of God. Place the yellow candle to the right of the bowl and light it. Now the second adult (if there is one) can say:
The Sun is growing stronger
The Sun is shining longer
The days are getting warmer
Spring is on its way!
Have the kids ring their bells again. This time tell them they are the warm, fresh breezes of spring, coming to melt the snow. Let them have fun with it. Remember you want your children to look at ritual as the happy, fun celebration it was to our ancestors! The first adult picks up the green candle, explaining that green represents the Earth and all the growing things. S/he places the green candle to the left of the bowl and lights it. Now the second adult says:
Mother Earth whispers,
"Awake!"
You can't see it
But beneath their blanket of snow
The plants and trees begin to stir!
All the creatures of her realm
Respond to her call
And begin to awake
From their long winter sleep.
One last time, have the kids give their bells a good shake. Tell them they are the voice of Mother Earth, nature's alarm clock, waking the frozen ground and sleeping plants from their winter Slumber. Now you can serve supper. While you eat, talk about the astronomical significance of this cross-quarter day. It's been 6 weeks since Yule and the Sun has been rising higher in the sky every day. We are now only 7 weeks away from the Vernal Equinox, Ostara, which is the first day of Spring. It also makes an interesting comparison if you can show the children that, on the Wheel of the Year, Imbolc lies exactly half a year away from Lughnasadh, August 1st. At Lughnasadh, Fall is still many weeks away and yet, with the First Harvest, we begin to prepare for it. Imbolc is the same. Although Spring might still be many weeks away, we can begin to anticipate it's return! You also want to talk about Brigid, the Lady of Fire and Goddess of the hearth. Explain how in our ancestors' time there wasn't any indoor heat or stoves to cook on, so most of the family's activity revolved around the hearth. Brigid was such a beloved Goddess that, to this day, they celebrate her on February 2nd in Ireland. When supper has ended have the adult take the white candle out of the snow bowl and ask a child to tell what has happened to the snow. The younger ones are especially impressed by the melting! Carefully pass the bowl around the table so everyone can see and touch the water that was once snow. When the bowl return to the adult s/he says:
Winter may freeze us
The cold winds may blow
But the Sun will soon please us
And melt all the snow!!
Everyone should repeat
Melt all the snow
while they joyously ring their bells in celebration of approaching Spring. Now it's time to close the ritual. Explain to the children that the ritual is over. Now it is time to thank the Ancient ones for their help and their guidance.
The Candle Snuffer says:
Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the East
Guardian Spirits of Air
Go in Peace.
( Extinguish the yellow candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the South
Guardian Spirits of Fire
Go in Peace.
(Extinguish the red candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the West
Guardian Spirits of Water
Go in Peace.
(Extinguish the blue candle.)
The Candle Snuffer says:
Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the North
Guardian Spirits of Earth
Go in Peace.
(Extinguish the green candle.)
Then the Adult says farewell to the Goddess and the God:
We thank you God and Goddess
For sharing this special time
With our family.
May we keep you in our hearts,
And follow your path of love
Every day.
Blessed be!
Now the Bell Ringer rings the bell three times to release the Sacred Space and says:
I ring the bell,
Release the spell
And Sacred Time will end.
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be,
Until we meet again.
Explain that this is the signal that Sacred Time is over. The Circle has been released and the Sacred Space is no more. That means the dining room goes back to being just a normal dining room. Now the Adult says:
The Circle is open
And yet it remains a Circle.
Around and through us
Always flow its magical powers.
This ritual is over.
Now it is time to take Brigid's cross and set it in its place of honor. In Ireland, Brigid's Cross was hung over the hearth as a sign of protection. We hang ours over the stove, which is the modern day equivalent of the hearth. It is a colorful reminder of the Goddess' place in our every day life! Sweet Brigid, Goddess of Fire Guardian of the Hearth, Bless those who live beneath this cross And keep our home safe throughout the coming year. Set the cross in place on the wall. If you have more than one child and ended up making more than one cross, consider letting the children hang their cross in their bedroom. Besides being a protection against fire, the cross is a way to remind them that the Goddess is watching over them, even when they sleep! If you wish to do a cleansing ritual as part of the purification aspect of Candlemas, you can do that now. I've enclosed our House Warding Ritual separately, for your convenience.
Ritual for a small group
Temple in darkness, apart from the Yule log in the centre. Brigid in her bed on
the small altar. Lots of unlit candles in sand pots around the room. All enter
as usual, and the Circle is cast in the normal manner. After the central
invocations, HP says:
Awake O Earth from your slumbers! Awake O Sun and restore the Earth! Mother - we
are in darkness.
HPS picks up a jug of water, and pours it into the cauldron saying:
The waters are broken. The ice melting towards Candletime. Blood has been along
the track, but now the ways are clear of death. Old and grey I was, but here in
the mystery of the waters I am renewed. For I am the one you sought, but could
not find. For I was singing to my child unseen, beneath the hills of birch and
rowan.
HPS takes the asperge, and all circle around her chanting the Witches Rune. She
asperges each person as they pass, and on the last round, hands each person a
white candle. When everyone has a candle, the circling stops, and HPS lights the
main candles and says:
The darkness of winter is passing: the Earth awakens once more from its
slumbers; the Virgin walks among us again, and brings Her blessings upon the
land and upon our lives.
Priest and Priestess step forward and remove the cover from Brigid's bed,
revealing the Virgin. Everyone shouts:
Brigid is Come! Brigid is Welcome!HPS takes a light from the Yule log and says:
Let the inner light bear fruit in our own lives, even as the Earth bears the
first flowers. I am Brigid: She of the Golden Hair; Queen of the White Hills,
and rider of the White Swan. I bring three gifts of fire. The first is the flame
of creation; of the poet and artist; of the lovers' passion for union with the
beloved. The second is the flame of purification and testing, the flame of
truth. With this flame all dross and weakness are made clear and cleansed from
thee, so thou become like a true and tested sword. The third is the greatest of
all, for it is the healing flame born out of the love that gives all, the maker
of peace and harmony. But I do not give these gifts one by one; I give them as a
whole in the form of the growing Sun.
Everyone then lights their candle from the Yule log, and starts to circle
deosil, lighting the candles around the room as they go, chanting:
Thus we banish winter, thus we welcome spring;
Say farewell to what is dead, and greet each living thing.
When all the candles are lit, everyone places their candle in a sand pot, and
the chanting ceases.
HPs and HP bless cakes and wine.
the small altar. Lots of unlit candles in sand pots around the room. All enter
as usual, and the Circle is cast in the normal manner. After the central
invocations, HP says:
Awake O Earth from your slumbers! Awake O Sun and restore the Earth! Mother - we
are in darkness.
HPS picks up a jug of water, and pours it into the cauldron saying:
The waters are broken. The ice melting towards Candletime. Blood has been along
the track, but now the ways are clear of death. Old and grey I was, but here in
the mystery of the waters I am renewed. For I am the one you sought, but could
not find. For I was singing to my child unseen, beneath the hills of birch and
rowan.
HPS takes the asperge, and all circle around her chanting the Witches Rune. She
asperges each person as they pass, and on the last round, hands each person a
white candle. When everyone has a candle, the circling stops, and HPS lights the
main candles and says:
The darkness of winter is passing: the Earth awakens once more from its
slumbers; the Virgin walks among us again, and brings Her blessings upon the
land and upon our lives.
Priest and Priestess step forward and remove the cover from Brigid's bed,
revealing the Virgin. Everyone shouts:
Brigid is Come! Brigid is Welcome!HPS takes a light from the Yule log and says:
Let the inner light bear fruit in our own lives, even as the Earth bears the
first flowers. I am Brigid: She of the Golden Hair; Queen of the White Hills,
and rider of the White Swan. I bring three gifts of fire. The first is the flame
of creation; of the poet and artist; of the lovers' passion for union with the
beloved. The second is the flame of purification and testing, the flame of
truth. With this flame all dross and weakness are made clear and cleansed from
thee, so thou become like a true and tested sword. The third is the greatest of
all, for it is the healing flame born out of the love that gives all, the maker
of peace and harmony. But I do not give these gifts one by one; I give them as a
whole in the form of the growing Sun.
Everyone then lights their candle from the Yule log, and starts to circle
deosil, lighting the candles around the room as they go, chanting:
Thus we banish winter, thus we welcome spring;
Say farewell to what is dead, and greet each living thing.
When all the candles are lit, everyone places their candle in a sand pot, and
the chanting ceases.
HPs and HP bless cakes and wine.
Ritual for Women
The altar is at the Northeast and is covered with a white cloth.
Evergreens are used as decoration. A basket filled with tiny
bundles of straw or wheat rests on the altar [there should be one
bundle for every person participating in the ritual], as well as
two (2) white candles. A black ribbon at least twelve (12)
inches in length is placed in the basket. A single white flower
tied with a white ribbon (to symbolize Bride) and the wand rest
together in front of the altar. Four (4) white candles stand
between the quarter candles. The cauldron is placed at the
South, and a white candle is situated inside. A dark colored
scarf or shawl (for the Crone) and a bouquet of flowers (for the
Maiden) are on the altar, as well as a single white taper (for
the Mother).
Full Circle is cast.
The two women prepare "Bride's Bed." The MAIDEN and the CRONE
pick up the flower and the wand respectively, and take them to
the center of the Circle. They place the flower and the wand
side by side in the center of the Circle, with the heads toward
the altar. They place the altar candles on either side of the
"bed" and light the candles.
The two women and the Priestess stand around the bed and say
together three times:
The Maiden comes to bring us light!
The Winter dies, and all is bright!
The frozen ground shall disappear -
And all shall sprout, for Spring is near!
The Priestess now summons the two women, and the three of them
stand in front of the altar, assuming their Triple-Goddess roles.
The MAIDEN kisses the Priestess (MOTHER) on both cheeks and hands
her a white candle. The CRONE lights the MOTHER's taper. The
CRONE stands to her left. The MAIDEN drapes the shawl over the
CRONE'S head and shoulders. The MAID stands to the MOTHER'S
right and picks up the bouquet of flowers. The PRIESTESS says:
Behold the three-fold Goddess;
Maiden, Mother, and Crone;
She is one - yet She is three
Together and Alone
Summer comes not - without Spring
Without Summer, comes no Winter chill;
Without the Winter, Spring isn't born
The Three, life's cycles, fulfill!
The Charge of the Goddess is then recited. After the recitation
is finished the Priestess says:
Now let us celebrate Imbolc!
The MAIDEN picks up the besom and makes her way SLOWLY deosil
around the inside edges Circle, ritually sweeping it clear of all
that which is old, useless and unnecessary. MOTHER and CRONE
walk behind her in stately procession. While sweeping, the MAID
says:
With this besom filled with power
Sweep away the old and sour
Sweep away the chill of death
As Winter draws its last cold breath
Round, round, round about
Sweep the old and useless out!
The Maiden replaces the besom and the women resume their places
in front of the altar. The MAIDEN picks up the basket of straw
bundles and presents each member of the group with one. The
CRONE goes to the South, kneels before the cauldron and lights
the candle inside. She explains to the group that the bundles of
straw which they have been given are symbolic of Winter and
Death, but also that any negativity with which they are charged
will be burned along with it. A few moments of silence are
allowed so that each person may charge their bundle with their
own negative thoughts, habits and shortcomings. The CRONE then
collects the bundles, walking widdershins. She then ties the
bundles together with the black ribbon, lights the "community
straw man" and places him in the cauldron to burn, saying:
Thus we melt the Winter!
And warm the breath of Spring!
We bid adieu to what is dead,
And greet each living thing.
Thus we banish Winter!
Thus we welcome Spring!
The Rite of Cakes and Wine is appropriate at this time. All
members have libation, sit and relax and visit amongst
themselves.
When libation is finished, the MAIDEN collects candles from the
coveners to be blessed for use during the coming year, placing
them in a basket. The basket is placed on the altar. The
PRIESTESS says:
I bless thee creatures of wax and light
Casting out all negativity
Serve your purpose, flaming bright
Infused with magic, you shall be
Instruments of light and strength
Wick and wax though you may be
I give you life of needed length
To aid in creativity!
In the Names of the Lord and Lady, so mote it be!
The candles are then redistributed to the coven members. The
Priestess says:
As we close this celebration of Imbolg, let each of us find joy
in the power of the returning Sun! As each new day dawns and the
light of day becomes brighter and stronger, remember that your
inner light should burn as brightly. Feel the changes in the
earth around you, as the chill of Winter recedes and all sprouts
in the greeness of fresh, new life. Remember the wonder you felt
as you awakened from Maidenhood to Womanhood - from Boyhood to
Manhood. Relive the joy of that awakening and heal any emotional
scars you may have! Breathe deeply of the harmony of the Earth's
new life and and rejoice in your own!
Dearest Bride, Maiden of all that is fresh and new, we warmly
thank you for attending our Rite of Imbolc. As this Circle is
dissolved, we ask that you guide us in our new beginnings and
inspire us with the fresh creativity that you bring to all life.
Routine dissolution.
Outdoor libation to the Lord and Lady.
Evergreens are used as decoration. A basket filled with tiny
bundles of straw or wheat rests on the altar [there should be one
bundle for every person participating in the ritual], as well as
two (2) white candles. A black ribbon at least twelve (12)
inches in length is placed in the basket. A single white flower
tied with a white ribbon (to symbolize Bride) and the wand rest
together in front of the altar. Four (4) white candles stand
between the quarter candles. The cauldron is placed at the
South, and a white candle is situated inside. A dark colored
scarf or shawl (for the Crone) and a bouquet of flowers (for the
Maiden) are on the altar, as well as a single white taper (for
the Mother).
Full Circle is cast.
The two women prepare "Bride's Bed." The MAIDEN and the CRONE
pick up the flower and the wand respectively, and take them to
the center of the Circle. They place the flower and the wand
side by side in the center of the Circle, with the heads toward
the altar. They place the altar candles on either side of the
"bed" and light the candles.
The two women and the Priestess stand around the bed and say
together three times:
The Maiden comes to bring us light!
The Winter dies, and all is bright!
The frozen ground shall disappear -
And all shall sprout, for Spring is near!
The Priestess now summons the two women, and the three of them
stand in front of the altar, assuming their Triple-Goddess roles.
The MAIDEN kisses the Priestess (MOTHER) on both cheeks and hands
her a white candle. The CRONE lights the MOTHER's taper. The
CRONE stands to her left. The MAIDEN drapes the shawl over the
CRONE'S head and shoulders. The MAID stands to the MOTHER'S
right and picks up the bouquet of flowers. The PRIESTESS says:
Behold the three-fold Goddess;
Maiden, Mother, and Crone;
She is one - yet She is three
Together and Alone
Summer comes not - without Spring
Without Summer, comes no Winter chill;
Without the Winter, Spring isn't born
The Three, life's cycles, fulfill!
The Charge of the Goddess is then recited. After the recitation
is finished the Priestess says:
Now let us celebrate Imbolc!
The MAIDEN picks up the besom and makes her way SLOWLY deosil
around the inside edges Circle, ritually sweeping it clear of all
that which is old, useless and unnecessary. MOTHER and CRONE
walk behind her in stately procession. While sweeping, the MAID
says:
With this besom filled with power
Sweep away the old and sour
Sweep away the chill of death
As Winter draws its last cold breath
Round, round, round about
Sweep the old and useless out!
The Maiden replaces the besom and the women resume their places
in front of the altar. The MAIDEN picks up the basket of straw
bundles and presents each member of the group with one. The
CRONE goes to the South, kneels before the cauldron and lights
the candle inside. She explains to the group that the bundles of
straw which they have been given are symbolic of Winter and
Death, but also that any negativity with which they are charged
will be burned along with it. A few moments of silence are
allowed so that each person may charge their bundle with their
own negative thoughts, habits and shortcomings. The CRONE then
collects the bundles, walking widdershins. She then ties the
bundles together with the black ribbon, lights the "community
straw man" and places him in the cauldron to burn, saying:
Thus we melt the Winter!
And warm the breath of Spring!
We bid adieu to what is dead,
And greet each living thing.
Thus we banish Winter!
Thus we welcome Spring!
The Rite of Cakes and Wine is appropriate at this time. All
members have libation, sit and relax and visit amongst
themselves.
When libation is finished, the MAIDEN collects candles from the
coveners to be blessed for use during the coming year, placing
them in a basket. The basket is placed on the altar. The
PRIESTESS says:
I bless thee creatures of wax and light
Casting out all negativity
Serve your purpose, flaming bright
Infused with magic, you shall be
Instruments of light and strength
Wick and wax though you may be
I give you life of needed length
To aid in creativity!
In the Names of the Lord and Lady, so mote it be!
The candles are then redistributed to the coven members. The
Priestess says:
As we close this celebration of Imbolg, let each of us find joy
in the power of the returning Sun! As each new day dawns and the
light of day becomes brighter and stronger, remember that your
inner light should burn as brightly. Feel the changes in the
earth around you, as the chill of Winter recedes and all sprouts
in the greeness of fresh, new life. Remember the wonder you felt
as you awakened from Maidenhood to Womanhood - from Boyhood to
Manhood. Relive the joy of that awakening and heal any emotional
scars you may have! Breathe deeply of the harmony of the Earth's
new life and and rejoice in your own!
Dearest Bride, Maiden of all that is fresh and new, we warmly
thank you for attending our Rite of Imbolc. As this Circle is
dissolved, we ask that you guide us in our new beginnings and
inspire us with the fresh creativity that you bring to all life.
Routine dissolution.
Outdoor libation to the Lord and Lady.
Ritual for a Large Group
Materials
a candle for each covener present.
a MAIDEN, dressed in white.
a Crown of Light, made from three, six, or nine candles.
a BARD/GREEN MAN.
a DARK LORD, dressed in dark clothing, and holding a dark cloak.
The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered participants. It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any of the participants should miss out on!
The BARD should stand to the WEST, unless otherwise specified in the ritual.
HPS
Go we now to the sacred place
And stand within the sacred space
Turn your minds to sacred things
And dance with me unto the ring!
HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The cauldron should be at the south. The Bard/Green Man dances at the end of the line. A good song to sing here is "Lord Of The Dance."
HPS
Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance
Within the Lady's radiance
To celebrate the Sun's rebirth
To renew life, to warm the Earth
Earth and Water, Fire and Air
I invoke the Goddess there!
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!
HP
Earth and Water, Fire and Sky
I invoke the God on high
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!
The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her circumnabulation.
EAST
O Guardians of the Eastern Tower,
Airy ones of healing power
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
SOUTH
Oh fiery ones of Southern Power
Thus I invite you to this tower
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
WEST
Western ones of water's flow
Help to guard us here below
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
NORTH
Earthen ones of Northern fame
Bless and guard our Power's fane
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each corner's crying as she moves to the next:
HPS
So I cast and consecrate
This Circle of the small and great:
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea,
By Fire and Water, Earth and Air,
By the Lord, and Lady Fair!
By Love and Joy and Work and Play,
All things harmful cast away!
By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall,
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
(Cast the Circle: Blessed be!)
On her return to the first corner she shall change the last line above, and say:
The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be!
The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners.
Here begins the Candlemas (Imbolc) Mystery: The Maiden shall step forth, and say:
MAIDEN
This is the time of Brigid, the Patron of Poets and Fire, and of Healing.
HPS
This is the time of new beginnings, when the Mother has become Maiden.
HP
The days have turned, and grow longer, and the Sun-child is growing to His strength.
BARD/GREEN MAN
I have been a wave upon the sea,
And a spark in the firelight.
I have been a fish in the ocean.
I have been a Thought within a Word,
And a Word within a Deed.
I was cast away, and found again.
I have been made of flowers
And of cold steel and brass.
Fire and ice are alike unto me.
I have been the narrow blade of a sword
That kills without cutting.
And the Void is my homeland.
I have been in Caer Sidi
In the Spiral Castle of Glass.
And the letters on the Standing Stones
Are no secret from me.
I have been in Annwyn
And Tir na n'Og,
I have danced the Spiral Dance,
And drunk from the Hierlas at daybreak.
I have ridden beneath two ravens
And served in the kitchen,
And all places are alike unto me.
I have been a child
And now I come into my strength!
I invoke the Land, the dear Land,
the Earth our Mother!
MAIDEN
The cycles of the Moon have taken their course, and I am in my Maidenhood. The stars are kindled, and I dance in their light.
DARK LORD
Thy home is with me thru the long months of Winter, and the Earth shall lie fallow and bare.
The HPS shall then light the candles of the Crown of Light, and shall approach the Maiden, who is now standing in the East, and place it upon her head.
She shall now, in company with the Bard/Green Man, circumnabulate the circle, and the coveners shall light their candles from her crown. The Bard/Green Man shall return to his normal place within the circle and the Maiden shall place the Crown of Light on the altar. The Maiden shall then approach the Dark Lord, and kneel before him, and he shall say:
DARK LORD
As it always is, always was, and always shall be. Come to my Kingdom.
Here he shall place the dark cloak around her, and they shall retire to the West. Here ends the Candlemas Mystery.
A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing:
HPS
In a ring we all shall stand
Pass the Power, hand to hand.
HP
As the Sun is given birth
Build the Power; root to Earth
HPS
Pass the Power, hand to hand
Bless the Lady, bless the Land
HP
Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies
Bless the Power that never dies!
The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or as many times as needed) and then the HPS should say:
HPS
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree:
Let the Power flow out and free!
All should release, at this point.
Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. This is a good time to bless candles for use during the coming year. This is also a good time for initiations.
The Circle is opened.
HPS
Thus I release the East and West
Thanks to them from Host to Guest
Thus I release the South and North
With "Blessed Be' I send them forth!
The Circle's open, dance we so
Out and homeward we shall go.
Earth and Water, Air and Fire
Celebrated our desire.
The Sun's returned to banish dark
The Earth awakes to sunlight's spark.
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
Our circle's done; and Blessed Be!
COVEN
Blessed Be!
All spiral dance out from the Circle.
a candle for each covener present.
a MAIDEN, dressed in white.
a Crown of Light, made from three, six, or nine candles.
a BARD/GREEN MAN.
a DARK LORD, dressed in dark clothing, and holding a dark cloak.
The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered participants. It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any of the participants should miss out on!
The BARD should stand to the WEST, unless otherwise specified in the ritual.
HPS
Go we now to the sacred place
And stand within the sacred space
Turn your minds to sacred things
And dance with me unto the ring!
HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The cauldron should be at the south. The Bard/Green Man dances at the end of the line. A good song to sing here is "Lord Of The Dance."
HPS
Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance
Within the Lady's radiance
To celebrate the Sun's rebirth
To renew life, to warm the Earth
Earth and Water, Fire and Air
I invoke the Goddess there!
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!
HP
Earth and Water, Fire and Sky
I invoke the God on high
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!
The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her circumnabulation.
EAST
O Guardians of the Eastern Tower,
Airy ones of healing power
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
SOUTH
Oh fiery ones of Southern Power
Thus I invite you to this tower
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
WEST
Western ones of water's flow
Help to guard us here below
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
NORTH
Earthen ones of Northern fame
Bless and guard our Power's fane
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!
Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!
The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each corner's crying as she moves to the next:
HPS
So I cast and consecrate
This Circle of the small and great:
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea,
By Fire and Water, Earth and Air,
By the Lord, and Lady Fair!
By Love and Joy and Work and Play,
All things harmful cast away!
By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall,
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
(Cast the Circle: Blessed be!)
On her return to the first corner she shall change the last line above, and say:
The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be!
The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners.
Here begins the Candlemas (Imbolc) Mystery: The Maiden shall step forth, and say:
MAIDEN
This is the time of Brigid, the Patron of Poets and Fire, and of Healing.
HPS
This is the time of new beginnings, when the Mother has become Maiden.
HP
The days have turned, and grow longer, and the Sun-child is growing to His strength.
BARD/GREEN MAN
I have been a wave upon the sea,
And a spark in the firelight.
I have been a fish in the ocean.
I have been a Thought within a Word,
And a Word within a Deed.
I was cast away, and found again.
I have been made of flowers
And of cold steel and brass.
Fire and ice are alike unto me.
I have been the narrow blade of a sword
That kills without cutting.
And the Void is my homeland.
I have been in Caer Sidi
In the Spiral Castle of Glass.
And the letters on the Standing Stones
Are no secret from me.
I have been in Annwyn
And Tir na n'Og,
I have danced the Spiral Dance,
And drunk from the Hierlas at daybreak.
I have ridden beneath two ravens
And served in the kitchen,
And all places are alike unto me.
I have been a child
And now I come into my strength!
I invoke the Land, the dear Land,
the Earth our Mother!
MAIDEN
The cycles of the Moon have taken their course, and I am in my Maidenhood. The stars are kindled, and I dance in their light.
DARK LORD
Thy home is with me thru the long months of Winter, and the Earth shall lie fallow and bare.
The HPS shall then light the candles of the Crown of Light, and shall approach the Maiden, who is now standing in the East, and place it upon her head.
She shall now, in company with the Bard/Green Man, circumnabulate the circle, and the coveners shall light their candles from her crown. The Bard/Green Man shall return to his normal place within the circle and the Maiden shall place the Crown of Light on the altar. The Maiden shall then approach the Dark Lord, and kneel before him, and he shall say:
DARK LORD
As it always is, always was, and always shall be. Come to my Kingdom.
Here he shall place the dark cloak around her, and they shall retire to the West. Here ends the Candlemas Mystery.
A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing:
HPS
In a ring we all shall stand
Pass the Power, hand to hand.
HP
As the Sun is given birth
Build the Power; root to Earth
HPS
Pass the Power, hand to hand
Bless the Lady, bless the Land
HP
Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies
Bless the Power that never dies!
The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or as many times as needed) and then the HPS should say:
HPS
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree:
Let the Power flow out and free!
All should release, at this point.
Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. This is a good time to bless candles for use during the coming year. This is also a good time for initiations.
The Circle is opened.
HPS
Thus I release the East and West
Thanks to them from Host to Guest
Thus I release the South and North
With "Blessed Be' I send them forth!
The Circle's open, dance we so
Out and homeward we shall go.
Earth and Water, Air and Fire
Celebrated our desire.
The Sun's returned to banish dark
The Earth awakes to sunlight's spark.
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
Our circle's done; and Blessed Be!
COVEN
Blessed Be!
All spiral dance out from the Circle.
Ritual
Imbolc ritual
Tools: Candles for the quarters, Goddess and God. Tapers, one each for all attending, any color associated with the God, but preferably all the same.
Imbolc marks the first whisper of spring. The snow (hopefully) is receding, the seeds begin to stir, and we feel the presence of the Goddess and God in our bodies, as we begin to open up to the light, and stir from our own hibernation. It is a good time to be reminded that we all have a share in the Divine. Goddess and God move within us, as surely as they begin to transform the world outside.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Casting the Circle
Covener:
Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East
Wind of enlightenment, and inspiration
Lend your powers to our circle this night,
That our minds may open to new ideas
Covener:
Guardians of the South
Fire of passion and transformation
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our love may sustain the land
Covener:
Guardians of the West
Water of life and purification
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our hearts may be strong and whole
Covener:
Guardians of the North
Earth from the beginning of time
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That we may take our place in the endless chain of life
Covener:
Goddess of rebirth
You again bring forth the God and the promise of spring
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the young God
and the growing light
Covener:
God of love, and protection
You again lead the ever-changing dance of life
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the rising of the Mother
And the fertility of the Earth
Covener:
We stand between worlds
Where Earth and Sky
Night and day
Life and death are one
The circle is cast
The ritual begun
The Goddess and God stand together once more
May we feel their presence in our hearts and minds
As easily as we see them in the wider world
Covener: Lights taper from God candle on the altar, and proceeds around the circle deosil, lighting each member's candle and directing the following blessing to each in turn.
You are Goddess
You are God
You are the blanket of winter
and the first breath of spring
Be with us, within us
Bless, and be blessed
When finished, returns to her or his place in the circle, now a circle of light.
The light grows strong once more in the land
Under the snow, the pulse of life quickens
Feel the Earth beneath you, the heartbeat of the waking Mother
May we share in the great cycle of rebirth
And blossom with new life and creativity
All:
So mote it be!
Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. (Communication is always good, and besides, this will give the ritual a timely quality, and keep it from being the same each time it is performed.) Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you. When you're done, the next bit can be used to close. The form is a simple call and response. Assign lines according to your own preference.
Covener:
Night gives way before the growing God
All:
We feel the power alive in the world
Covener:
The Goddess walks the Earth again
All:
And sings us awake with wind and rain
Covener:
The promise of life is newly made
All:
Our winter's debt to darkness paid
Blessed be!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Simple Feast
The food and drink are raised in turn, then blessed using the following, and passed around the circle, either beginning or ending with the acting priest/ess, according to group tradition.
Covener:
Goddess of abundance
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share
Covener:
God of the harvest
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share
Feast, sing, dance, play music, whatever feels appropriate. Sometimes simple conversation is enough, since you are already with a special group of people. Remember, though, that you are in sacred space.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opening the Circle
Covener:
Goddess of the brightening day
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all
Covener:
God of the growing and wild things
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all
Whoever likes can begin in the east. The other directions can then be passed about the circle.
Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East, South, West, and North
Thank you for your presence and strength
Both here, tonight, and in our daily lives
May we live in peace, with you and each other, always
All:
Blessed be!
It's nice to begin this anywhere, then pass it, line by line, around the circle.
The circle is open,
but yet unbroken
May the love of the Goddess
be ever in your heart
Merry meet, and merry part
and merry meet again.
All:
Blessed be!
Tools: Candles for the quarters, Goddess and God. Tapers, one each for all attending, any color associated with the God, but preferably all the same.
Imbolc marks the first whisper of spring. The snow (hopefully) is receding, the seeds begin to stir, and we feel the presence of the Goddess and God in our bodies, as we begin to open up to the light, and stir from our own hibernation. It is a good time to be reminded that we all have a share in the Divine. Goddess and God move within us, as surely as they begin to transform the world outside.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Casting the Circle
Covener:
Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East
Wind of enlightenment, and inspiration
Lend your powers to our circle this night,
That our minds may open to new ideas
Covener:
Guardians of the South
Fire of passion and transformation
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our love may sustain the land
Covener:
Guardians of the West
Water of life and purification
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our hearts may be strong and whole
Covener:
Guardians of the North
Earth from the beginning of time
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That we may take our place in the endless chain of life
Covener:
Goddess of rebirth
You again bring forth the God and the promise of spring
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the young God
and the growing light
Covener:
God of love, and protection
You again lead the ever-changing dance of life
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the rising of the Mother
And the fertility of the Earth
Covener:
We stand between worlds
Where Earth and Sky
Night and day
Life and death are one
The circle is cast
The ritual begun
The Goddess and God stand together once more
May we feel their presence in our hearts and minds
As easily as we see them in the wider world
Covener: Lights taper from God candle on the altar, and proceeds around the circle deosil, lighting each member's candle and directing the following blessing to each in turn.
You are Goddess
You are God
You are the blanket of winter
and the first breath of spring
Be with us, within us
Bless, and be blessed
When finished, returns to her or his place in the circle, now a circle of light.
The light grows strong once more in the land
Under the snow, the pulse of life quickens
Feel the Earth beneath you, the heartbeat of the waking Mother
May we share in the great cycle of rebirth
And blossom with new life and creativity
All:
So mote it be!
Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. (Communication is always good, and besides, this will give the ritual a timely quality, and keep it from being the same each time it is performed.) Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you. When you're done, the next bit can be used to close. The form is a simple call and response. Assign lines according to your own preference.
Covener:
Night gives way before the growing God
All:
We feel the power alive in the world
Covener:
The Goddess walks the Earth again
All:
And sings us awake with wind and rain
Covener:
The promise of life is newly made
All:
Our winter's debt to darkness paid
Blessed be!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Simple Feast
The food and drink are raised in turn, then blessed using the following, and passed around the circle, either beginning or ending with the acting priest/ess, according to group tradition.
Covener:
Goddess of abundance
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share
Covener:
God of the harvest
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share
Feast, sing, dance, play music, whatever feels appropriate. Sometimes simple conversation is enough, since you are already with a special group of people. Remember, though, that you are in sacred space.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opening the Circle
Covener:
Goddess of the brightening day
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all
Covener:
God of the growing and wild things
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all
Whoever likes can begin in the east. The other directions can then be passed about the circle.
Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East, South, West, and North
Thank you for your presence and strength
Both here, tonight, and in our daily lives
May we live in peace, with you and each other, always
All:
Blessed be!
It's nice to begin this anywhere, then pass it, line by line, around the circle.
The circle is open,
but yet unbroken
May the love of the Goddess
be ever in your heart
Merry meet, and merry part
and merry meet again.
All:
Blessed be!
A Paganing
The Altar is to be placed in the northern sphere of the circle.
Needed Items:
A large white candle.
2 smaller taper candles
Candle holders, matches and a candle sniffer to extinguish the ritual candle.
A chalice filled with blessed water and a small ceremonial dish.
A small decorative towel.
Oil for anointing the child. (For a new born, the oil should be diluted 1 to 3 parts with baby oil so as not to create any skin irritations.)
A masculine tool, such as a wand, or athame.
A ceremonial broom
A rope made of natural fibers to define the ritual circle. The rope should be able to encompass an areas 5-6 feet in diameter. Or larger if guests will be joining you inside the circle.
The Circle:
The parents or guardians should cast the circle.
Fold the cotton rope in equal halves to find the center.
The parents stand outside the position of the circle, laying the center section on the ground and on the outside of the altar.
Moving in opposite directions, the parents lay the remainder of the rope on the ground, until the circle is defined and the ends are aligned together in the south.
A small opening should be left to allow the parents and the child a means of entry into the circle.
If you want to make a circle big enough to also encompass any guests, family members or witnesses, you can. Just make sure you have a large enough continuous rope.
Otherwise, your guests can stand along the outside of the circle.
Enter The Circle:
Once the circle has been laid, the mother should take the child in her arms, or by the hand. The father stands before the entry way and states the intent of the gathering.
The father stands to one side and allows the mother and child to enter the circle first. If any guests are to enter, now is the time for them to do so.
When everyone is inside, the father enters the circle, placing a ceremonial broom across the opening, closing the circle to set and protect the divine ritual space.
Evoke the God/Goddess:
You can use the generic Maiden, Mother, Crone and God, or you can evoke a specific deity of your choosing. But the Gods must be present to bless the child.
Both parents can stand or kneel before the altar.
Together, hold the baby and verbally present the child to the deities.
State the child's given legal name, then magikal or craft name.
It is customary for the child to use this magikal name in ceremonies and ritual until their Coming of Age ritual. At that time, the child can choose to retain the name given here, or create their own.
It is important to give some serious thought to the magikal name you are bestowing on the child. Names are very important to the Celts, and carry with them a great deal of energy. The name should reflect the child's characteristics, or your hopes for the child's future.
The presentation might go something like this:
Anoint the Child:
Replace the athame upon the altar. The parents should switch roles at this point. The father takes the child and mother takes the oil from the altar. The mother pours a small amount of oil from it's container into the ceremonial dish. Then add a small amount of the blessed water from the chalice. As you mix the ingredients, state your intent:
The Mother, lights the second small candle to represent the light of the divine spirit which shines through the innocence of the child. Set the ceremonial dish within reach, but still on the altar. Take your right hand and dip your finger tips into the mixture. Place the oil on the soles of the child's feet, then on top from the ankles to the toes. Give the blessing:
Dip your fingers again and place the water on the womb or genital area of the child.
Give the blessing:
Dip your fingers a third time and place the mixture upon the child's forehead.
Give the blessing:
Set the chalice, dish and oil to one side of the altar and dry your hands with the small towel.
Later, as your cleaning up, you might pour the remainder of the mixture from the dish on the towel. Set it in a clean area where it can dry, then use it as a fragrance enhancer in the child's dresser or closet or even a hope chest if you have prepared one.
Spiritual Dedication:
Holding the child together again, each parent places their free hand upon the base of the candle they lit during the ceremony. Give the blessing:
Each parent lifts their candle and together lit the larger white candle in the center. Set the individuals candles back on the altar and state
Family Presentation and Closing:
Together the parents turn from the altar and present the child to the guests and family who might be present. If you are home alone, don't forget the family pets (if there are any) should also be presented out of respect. If you are alone, you can exit the circle. The father lifts the ceremonial broom and escorts mother and child out of the ritual space.
Turn back to the circle and state:
Step back from the circle.
The ceremony is now concluded, but you still have some clean up to do. Mom should care for the child and Dad should snuff out the 2 small candles. The larger candle should be placed on a mantle or as a center piece on the dining room table for a small celebration meal. The candle should be allowed to burn for a minimum of 1 full hour. But do not leave the candle un-attended. When it's time to extinguish the flame, snuff it out with the candle snifter.
Clean up your ritual space and altar. Then join in a celebration of life and spirit.
Needed Items:
A large white candle.
2 smaller taper candles
Candle holders, matches and a candle sniffer to extinguish the ritual candle.
A chalice filled with blessed water and a small ceremonial dish.
A small decorative towel.
Oil for anointing the child. (For a new born, the oil should be diluted 1 to 3 parts with baby oil so as not to create any skin irritations.)
A masculine tool, such as a wand, or athame.
A ceremonial broom
A rope made of natural fibers to define the ritual circle. The rope should be able to encompass an areas 5-6 feet in diameter. Or larger if guests will be joining you inside the circle.
The Circle:
The parents or guardians should cast the circle.
Fold the cotton rope in equal halves to find the center.
The parents stand outside the position of the circle, laying the center section on the ground and on the outside of the altar.
Moving in opposite directions, the parents lay the remainder of the rope on the ground, until the circle is defined and the ends are aligned together in the south.
A small opening should be left to allow the parents and the child a means of entry into the circle.
If you want to make a circle big enough to also encompass any guests, family members or witnesses, you can. Just make sure you have a large enough continuous rope.
Otherwise, your guests can stand along the outside of the circle.
Enter The Circle:
Once the circle has been laid, the mother should take the child in her arms, or by the hand. The father stands before the entry way and states the intent of the gathering.
In the name of the God/Goddess, I (your name), and my partner (his/her name), enter this sacred circle for the purpose of honoring a new life and welcoming (child's name) into our spiritual family.
The father stands to one side and allows the mother and child to enter the circle first. If any guests are to enter, now is the time for them to do so.
When everyone is inside, the father enters the circle, placing a ceremonial broom across the opening, closing the circle to set and protect the divine ritual space.
Evoke the God/Goddess:
You can use the generic Maiden, Mother, Crone and God, or you can evoke a specific deity of your choosing. But the Gods must be present to bless the child.
Both parents can stand or kneel before the altar.
Together, hold the baby and verbally present the child to the deities.
State the child's given legal name, then magikal or craft name.
It is customary for the child to use this magikal name in ceremonies and ritual until their Coming of Age ritual. At that time, the child can choose to retain the name given here, or create their own.
It is important to give some serious thought to the magikal name you are bestowing on the child. Names are very important to the Celts, and carry with them a great deal of energy. The name should reflect the child's characteristics, or your hopes for the child's future.
The presentation might go something like this:
Great Spirits, In this sacred space, we present to you (child's legal name), who we welcome into our magikal family as (child's magical name). We ask for your blessings, as we dedicate him/her to you as a child of the Old Ways. This blessing we ask, will not bind him/her to this spiritual path, nor do we invoke our will upon him/her. Rather it is an act of love, for (child's name), to be blessed, protected and guided until he/she is wise enough to choose a spiritual path and place for him/herself.The father should light one of the small candles to represent the flame of life that has been lit within the child. Hold the child up for the blessing from the God. The father should take the athame, or which ever masculine tool you choose. Hold it up to the God until you feel his presence and energy merge with the athame. Lightly place the tool upon the crown of the child's head. Give the blessing to the God.
Through the Lord, (Dieties' name), we give you the blessings of strength, perseverance and truthfulness. We bestow upon (child's name), the qualities of kindness, mercy and unconditional love. We present you with a loving family, cherished friends and kinship with nature. We bless you with knowledge, loyalty and the gifts of communication and expression. Blessings be to Thee.
Anoint the Child:
Replace the athame upon the altar. The parents should switch roles at this point. The father takes the child and mother takes the oil from the altar. The mother pours a small amount of oil from it's container into the ceremonial dish. Then add a small amount of the blessed water from the chalice. As you mix the ingredients, state your intent:
To the Lady (Diety Name), I ask for your blessing of this water of life, and oil of spirit. Please allow the two mix in balance and ease, in divine purpose and filled with the light and love of your hands.
The Mother, lights the second small candle to represent the light of the divine spirit which shines through the innocence of the child. Set the ceremonial dish within reach, but still on the altar. Take your right hand and dip your finger tips into the mixture. Place the oil on the soles of the child's feet, then on top from the ankles to the toes. Give the blessing:
In the name of the Maiden, I bless (child's magic name) your feet that they might always walk along the straight and blessed path. Blessings be to Thee.
Dip your fingers again and place the water on the womb or genital area of the child.
Give the blessing:
In the name of the Mother, I bless your center of creation and creativity, that you might be fruitful and abundant in all your endeavors within this life. Blessings be to Thee.
Dip your fingers a third time and place the mixture upon the child's forehead.
Give the blessing:
In the name of the Crone, I bless your mind that it might always seek knowledge, truth and wisdom so might grow to spiritual enlightenment. Blessings be to Thee.
Set the chalice, dish and oil to one side of the altar and dry your hands with the small towel.
Later, as your cleaning up, you might pour the remainder of the mixture from the dish on the towel. Set it in a clean area where it can dry, then use it as a fragrance enhancer in the child's dresser or closet or even a hope chest if you have prepared one.
Spiritual Dedication:
Holding the child together again, each parent places their free hand upon the base of the candle they lit during the ceremony. Give the blessing:
Little (child's magic name), you are now one of the magical folk. May you forever be surrounded by their love and support, and always know you may turn to your God or Goddess in time of need or thanksgiving. With our love and devotion we stand watch over your path as the tools and guides of the Great Spirits, this is our vow of love and responsibility.
Each parent lifts their candle and together lit the larger white candle in the center. Set the individuals candles back on the altar and state
Blessings be to The.
Family Presentation and Closing:
Together the parents turn from the altar and present the child to the guests and family who might be present. If you are home alone, don't forget the family pets (if there are any) should also be presented out of respect. If you are alone, you can exit the circle. The father lifts the ceremonial broom and escorts mother and child out of the ritual space.
Turn back to the circle and state:
Our thanks and gratitude to the forces that be present, to the Lord and Ladies, the guides and guardians. We close this sacred circle and return this space back to it's original state. Blessings be to all.
Step back from the circle.
The ceremony is now concluded, but you still have some clean up to do. Mom should care for the child and Dad should snuff out the 2 small candles. The larger candle should be placed on a mantle or as a center piece on the dining room table for a small celebration meal. The candle should be allowed to burn for a minimum of 1 full hour. But do not leave the candle un-attended. When it's time to extinguish the flame, snuff it out with the candle snifter.
Clean up your ritual space and altar. Then join in a celebration of life and spirit.
Candle Magic
Your Altar:
You may use anything that has a flat top.. I use an old trunk with a piece of plywood on it. Be creative.. As for a cover I use white because of it’s kind of a multipurpose color. Although some magic specifies a color then what ever color is specified should be used. Again, be creative... Keep in mind that candle magic is usually done in condensed areas so keep things as simplistic as you can, especially your candlesticks and censors.
Incense:
There are some who believe that incense is unimportant in candle magic. I cannot imagine performing candle magick without the incense. The type that you use may be specified in a specific spell, if that is the case by all means use that. Generally, I use three kings incense as well as vervain. Vervain gives the spell working a little umph. But then again nothing is set in stone.. Be creative.
Incense symbolizes Air... as the smoke rises our thoughts are carried up into the universe.
Preparing of the Practitioner:
Prior to your spell working prepare yourself a nice relaxing bath. Add a hand full of sea salt to get your charges set where they need to be. Light a few candles, turn off the light and relax. Clear your mind of the junk you have picked up through out the day. Visualize the water washing all the negativity away from you. It is very important that your mind be at ease and clear prior to any spell working.
Types of candles:
Any type of candle can be used for candle magic as long as it has been cleansed and consecrated prior to use. Although beeswax candles are higher in price than store bought candles, they are more powerful because they are produced from nature. As with any other tool, the candle made by the practitioner for a specific purpose captures the energy of the practitioner. Many experienced Witches will use only candles they have crafted themselves because of this.
Cleansing & Consecrating:
This is a very important step and should not be omitted. Cleansing removes all the negative energies that the candle has picked up along the way. As with all supplies you want your candles to to be as free of psychic debris as possible. Submerge the candle in sea salt and the ask The Lord and lady to bless it. I could give you the phrasing but I think it is better when it comes from your own heart.
Dressing Candles:
Dressing the candle with oil is as important as any other step. Use whatever oil you prefer or what a specific spell asks you to use. Personally, I use lotus a lot... but again that is my preference. what is important is the direction you dress the candle. To bring something to you, rub oil on the candle in a downward motion from the top to the middle and then from the bottom to the middle.
To send something away from you...you rub the oil from the middle of the candle out to the ends. Never make a back and forth motion as this defeats the purpose. Dab the remaining oil from your fingers onto your third eye and on your breast bone. Then say the following:
“I cleanse and consecrate this candle in the name of the Lord and the Lady. May it burn with strength in the service of the light.”
Then state your intent or the purpose of the candle.
Inscribing:
If you inscribe a candle you should use your Athame. The same principle as dressing the candle is used...
To draw something to you, write from the top to the middle, and then from the bottom to the middle.
To repel things, write from the middle to the ends.
You may use anything that has a flat top.. I use an old trunk with a piece of plywood on it. Be creative.. As for a cover I use white because of it’s kind of a multipurpose color. Although some magic specifies a color then what ever color is specified should be used. Again, be creative... Keep in mind that candle magic is usually done in condensed areas so keep things as simplistic as you can, especially your candlesticks and censors.
Incense:
There are some who believe that incense is unimportant in candle magic. I cannot imagine performing candle magick without the incense. The type that you use may be specified in a specific spell, if that is the case by all means use that. Generally, I use three kings incense as well as vervain. Vervain gives the spell working a little umph. But then again nothing is set in stone.. Be creative.
Incense symbolizes Air... as the smoke rises our thoughts are carried up into the universe.
Preparing of the Practitioner:
Prior to your spell working prepare yourself a nice relaxing bath. Add a hand full of sea salt to get your charges set where they need to be. Light a few candles, turn off the light and relax. Clear your mind of the junk you have picked up through out the day. Visualize the water washing all the negativity away from you. It is very important that your mind be at ease and clear prior to any spell working.
Types of candles:
Any type of candle can be used for candle magic as long as it has been cleansed and consecrated prior to use. Although beeswax candles are higher in price than store bought candles, they are more powerful because they are produced from nature. As with any other tool, the candle made by the practitioner for a specific purpose captures the energy of the practitioner. Many experienced Witches will use only candles they have crafted themselves because of this.
Cleansing & Consecrating:
This is a very important step and should not be omitted. Cleansing removes all the negative energies that the candle has picked up along the way. As with all supplies you want your candles to to be as free of psychic debris as possible. Submerge the candle in sea salt and the ask The Lord and lady to bless it. I could give you the phrasing but I think it is better when it comes from your own heart.
Dressing Candles:
Dressing the candle with oil is as important as any other step. Use whatever oil you prefer or what a specific spell asks you to use. Personally, I use lotus a lot... but again that is my preference. what is important is the direction you dress the candle. To bring something to you, rub oil on the candle in a downward motion from the top to the middle and then from the bottom to the middle.
To send something away from you...you rub the oil from the middle of the candle out to the ends. Never make a back and forth motion as this defeats the purpose. Dab the remaining oil from your fingers onto your third eye and on your breast bone. Then say the following:
“I cleanse and consecrate this candle in the name of the Lord and the Lady. May it burn with strength in the service of the light.”
Then state your intent or the purpose of the candle.
Inscribing:
If you inscribe a candle you should use your Athame. The same principle as dressing the candle is used...
To draw something to you, write from the top to the middle, and then from the bottom to the middle.
To repel things, write from the middle to the ends.
Candles in all Colors
White
The Goddess
Higher Self
Purity
Peace
Virginity
Black
Binding
Shapeshifting
Protection
Repels Negativity
Brown
Special Favors
To Influence Friendships
Silver
The Goddess
Astral energy
Female energy
Telepathy
Clairvoyance
Intuition
Dreams
Purple
Third Eye
Psychic Ability
Hidden Knowledge
To Influence People in High Places
Spiritual Power
Blue
Element of Water
Wisdom
Protection
Calm
Good Fortune
Opening Blocked Communication
Spiritual Inspiration
Green
The Element of Earth
Physical Healing
Monetary success
Mother Earth
Tree and Plant Magic
Growth
Personal Goals
Pink
Affection
Romance
Affection
Caring
Nurturing
Planetary Good Will
Red
Element of Fire
Passion
Strength
Fast action
Career Goals
Lust
Driving Force
Survival
Blood of the Moon
Orange
General Success
Property Deals
Legal matters
Justice
Selling
Copper
Professional Growth
Business Fertility
Career Maneuvers
Passion
Money Goals
Gold
The God
Promote Winning
Power of the Male
Happiness
Yellow
The Element of Air
Intelligence
The Sun
Memory
Logical Imagination
To Accelerate Learning
To Break Mental Blocks
The Goddess
Higher Self
Purity
Peace
Virginity
Black
Binding
Shapeshifting
Protection
Repels Negativity
Brown
Special Favors
To Influence Friendships
Silver
The Goddess
Astral energy
Female energy
Telepathy
Clairvoyance
Intuition
Dreams
Purple
Third Eye
Psychic Ability
Hidden Knowledge
To Influence People in High Places
Spiritual Power
Blue
Element of Water
Wisdom
Protection
Calm
Good Fortune
Opening Blocked Communication
Spiritual Inspiration
Green
The Element of Earth
Physical Healing
Monetary success
Mother Earth
Tree and Plant Magic
Growth
Personal Goals
Pink
Affection
Romance
Affection
Caring
Nurturing
Planetary Good Will
Red
Element of Fire
Passion
Strength
Fast action
Career Goals
Lust
Driving Force
Survival
Blood of the Moon
Orange
General Success
Property Deals
Legal matters
Justice
Selling
Copper
Professional Growth
Business Fertility
Career Maneuvers
Passion
Money Goals
Gold
The God
Promote Winning
Power of the Male
Happiness
Yellow
The Element of Air
Intelligence
The Sun
Memory
Logical Imagination
To Accelerate Learning
To Break Mental Blocks
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