Hitting the Do Over Button (but not really)

I don't know many (if any) people who aren't of the mindset that 2016 was the most horrible year to date in their lives. Now I don't mean that there weren't other years that were horrible, nor do I mean that this past year overshadows some truly horrific events, but it just seems like 2016 tried to take out as many good and happy things as it could.

You know - the news montage from 2016 has been like the start of some really mucked up movie about how the world ended:

• Oregon militia crazies took over but were begging people for snacks
• Donald Trump for President
• Record breaking snow storms in the northeast that stranded a fuck ton of people on the freaking roads/Record breaking cold snaps across the rest of the world 
• David Bowie dies 
• Alan Rickman too
• Black Lives Matter/Blue Lives Matter/All Lives Matter - but the shootings just don't stop
• Prince dies
• Zika
• Random shootings
• Clowns - WTF - Clowns!!!!!
• North Korea launching rockets
• Passenger trains colliding in Germany
• Ohio state slaughtered Harembee
• Lightworkers suck
• More random shootings
• Black Lives Matter/Blue Lives Matter/All Lives Matter - but the shootings never stop
• Donald Trump wins election
• The world looses its shit
• Gene Wilder & Leonard Cohen die

So what should we do?

Just give up, crawl into a hole and let the world continue to spin without us? While I admit there have been a multitude of times this year I have begged 

But that isn't really an option now is it? So as someone who loves to live in the happy bubble that I have created for myself, I've decided to take the week between Christmas and New Years to hit the restart button, so that I can go into 2017 with a bit more peace of mind.

• Monday - I am going to be acknowledging *ALL* of the past year, all of the things that have led me to the here & now. I will be writing them in my journal
• the lessons I've learned (never read the comments), 
• the blessings (a good nap), 
• the pain (all the hurt and anger), 
• the friends I've said goodbye to (both the real life friends and the entertainers)
• Tuesday - will be a day of release. And by release I mean I'm starting a huge ass bonfire and I am dumping each and every burden into it. This way I can acknowledge each item and feel that pain lift from me. To do this, I will be writing on individual strips of paper anything that has hurt me this year, then I will say it out loud and then discard it into the fire while saying "You have no power over me". As each slip burns away the written letters & paper that binds it, it burns away in me as well. Get rid of it, don't hold it for fuel for your fire, just burn it away now. Let IT GO!!!
• Comparison especially in my art
• Anger over the missed vacation
• Coughing
• Wednesday - will be a day of cleaning, it's time to lighten your load - physically, mentally and spiritually. When I say throw it out, you could always donate it or give it away, but what ever you do - get it out of your life TODAY!!!
• If it’s broken - throw it out
• If it doesn’t work - throw it out
• If it is missing parts - throw it out
• If you don’t use it - throw it out
• If it’s unfinished - throw it out 
• Thursday - will be my day of gratitude. A day to thank the Universe for all it has provided. A day to celebrate the good. I will leave offerings out today, and very likely dance to the noon day sun as a way of showing gratitude because we were given the David Bowies & Robin Williams & glitter & sparkles & coffee!
• Dance
• Sing
• Celebrate
• Leave offerings to the Universe
• Friday - today is the day to declare who I want to be in 2017 and what I will be manifesting in my life. Sit down with yourself & your journal and claim the pieces of who you want to be! 
• Meditate
• Envision the changes you want to make
• Announce it. 
• Write it down. 
• Own it. 
• Create a mental imprint of your future
• Saturday - It's time to take a step in the right direction! 
• Create a wall hanging using my word of the year for 2017!
• Make a list of positive actionable steps to achieve my goals
• Create a mantra for my daily life

Solitary Mabon Ritual

Supplies:

• Item to represent Water (seashell)
• Item to represent Air (feather)
• Item to represent Earth (rock)
• Item to represent Fire (candle)
• Basket of offerings 
• Black Stone
• White Stone
• Cup of Apple Juice
• Cake (I'm using bread this time)

Set Up:
You don’t have to have an altar; a small blanket is fine, or even directly on the ground if you like.

Set up your altar or blanket at the western edge of the circle (right behind the Water symbol). 

Place your Elemental representations at the quarters.
Lay your basket in the center of the altar or blanket. 

Place the black stone on the left and the white stone on the right. 

Place the cup of juice or wine and the plate with the muffin before it on the altar.

Before Ritual

Take a relaxing bath or shower and really clean yourself (both physically & spiritually).

Spend some time relaxing and really admire the day, think about how this day is perfectly balanced. Finally, consider how we are entering the dark half of the year and what that means to you.

Ritual Opening
When you’re ready, stand in the center of your ritual space and turn to each direction, saying:

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 as I celebrate Second Harvest.

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 as I celebrate Second Harvest.

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 as I celebrate Second Harvest.

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 as I celebrate Second Harvest.

Turn to face the altar, facing west and call;

Goddess of Water, tide puller; God of Water; cycle mover;
Goddess of Air, breath of life; God of Air, of wisdom rife;
Goddess of Earth, Grain Grower; God of Earth, Seed Sower
Goddess of Fire, hearth keeping One; God of Fire, of the blazing Sun
You who are All; Lady and Lord, Dark and Light, Deed and Word,
Day and Night, Sun and Moon, Blessings bright, Harvest boon;
May You be here, in this hour; As I honor You both and Your Power.

Body of the Ritual:
Take a moment to feel the presence of your deities. When you’re ready, pick up the black and white stones, with one in each hand. Say:

Day and night hang in the balance; Today, in equal measure, they meet.
Tomorrow, the dark takes over the year, and the hours of light retreat.
The darkness ushers in the chill, with leaves that whirl and winds that howl,
The snows may fall, the rains may cease, with empty fields and barren bough.
Dearest God, in Your waning strength, You move towards Your deathly sleep,
Yet memories of Summer shall warm my soul, and the promise of Spring I keep.
Lovely Goddess, in Your womb is the secret of what lies in store;
Rebirth of our God, rebirth of our Light, and rebirth of our land evermore.
For the mystery that you’ve taught me of the cycles of season are not in vain:
The darkness does pass, the light does return, and that which falls rises again.

Place the stones in the offering basket. 

Sit and meditate for a while.

Sit and enjoy the season.
Reflect on your life, on the fruits of your labor.
What have you reaped in your life?
Think about the things you need to let go of, the things that have held you back.
Know that this is the season in which you can put them to rest if you’re ready.

Simple Feast
Pick up the juice, hold to the sky; say:

Bless this juice, infused with your love that is poured onto and into the Earth;
As you’ve freely given, I freely give in return;
Accept my thanks and love at this Harvest season for Your bounty

Pour a libation (a small amount) into the basket of offerings.
Take a sip of the drink and place the cup down back on your altar.

Pick up the muffin or bread. Hold it up and say:

Bless this grain, infused with your love that springs forth from the Earth.
As you’ve freely given, I freely give in return;
Accept my thanks and love at this Harvest season for Your bounty

Break off a piece and put it into the offering basket.

Take a bite of the remaining bread.
Sit and enjoy your simple feast as you enjoy the scenery.

Ritual Closing
When you feel ready to close the ritual, stand in the center of your ritual space and turn to each direction, saying:

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.
I thank you Lady and Lord, Dark and Light, Deed and Word,
Day and Night, Sun and Moon, Blessings bright, Harvest boon;
I am a part of all around me.
I thank you, Lady and Lord, for joining me today.
Go if you must, stay if you will, Blessed Be.

Health & Vitality Ritual

Items Needed:

• Orange or white candle, 
• Jasmine or rose petals, 
• few drops of Essential oils of your choice mixed into carrier oil (depending on the strength you desire), 
• Bowl of Moon charged water, 
• a comfortable robe that you can slip out of easily for the skyclad elements of the ritual, 
• Sea salt, 
• favorite incense

Welcome the Goddess and thank her for being with you here tonight in this beautiful place. Cast and open a circle if you wish.

Light the candle, dim the lights and relax. Take several deep breaths. Run a bath. Add a teaspoon of the oil - add flower petals - Soak and relax for at least 15 minutes - Visualize how good each part of your body feels in that soft warmth.

Emerge from the bath, gently towel off - Then massage your body from the feet up

As you massage your body, say this to each part of your body as you massage and move up: My feet are healthy, my ankles are healthy, my calves are strong, my thighs are supple etc. Use your own words. The idea here is to infuse positive qualities to each part. If you feel a hesitation somewhere, notice it, but still say something positive.

Slip into your robe or dress comfortably and go somewhere right away to do your spell.

Bring your candle and the bottle with the remaining oil into another room or outside if it is warm enough . Light your candle. Face the moon if you can. Ask that you receive the Goddess. She, who embodies health and vitality, bless you this night/day. Look at the candle or close your eyes and go within. Look back at your life - the riches you have gathered, the journeys you have taken, look to your strengths, look to a time when you felt vital in a positive way. (If you cannot remember a time, that is OK. Just recall another scenario where you felt good about yourself.)

See this and FEEL this time clearly in your mind and body. Feel your personal vitality. Feel it warm you, pulse through you. Notice how you feel and what thoughts enter your mind. If your thoughts or feelings are negative, note this, but decide you will put this aside until a later time.

Now light your incense. Breathe in deeply. As you breathe, you are inhaling even more power from the earth, the trees, the moon, and the sky. The Goddess is still with you and sharing with you her attributes of focus, health, vitality. Accept these gifts in your own body. Allow these energies to begin to mingle - yours and the Goddess. Feel your own strength and that of the Goddess course through you. Now focus on the feeling of that power in your hands.

In a loud, firm voice chant:

"I allow my body to shine
Health & Vitality are mine
My body is a source of Beauty
Blessed Be the Goddess within Me!"

Repeat the chant faster and faster at least three times, feeling your strength, health, vitality, and energy grow.

Release Your Intention - hold your oil bottle and infuse into the oil, that powerful energy of strength and vitality. Never fear, you will not run out of power - you will be channeling it now - keep chanting - shorten the verse if it helps power building.

At the height of your energy hold your oil bottle in your hands and SHOUT:

"MY BODY WORKS FOR ME NOT AGAINST ME!
MY BODY WORKS FOR ME NOT AGAINST ME!
MY BODY WORKS FOR ME NOT AGAINST ME!"

Offer Your Gratitude - knowing that the Goddess has heard your intention. Thank her. Be grateful in the knowledge that all is as you have asked it to be, if it be Her will and for the greatest good of all.

Know your mind and body are already responding. Close your circle. Extinguish and bury any remaining charcoal or herbs/incense in the garden or yard. Ground yourself by eating or drinking something, exercising, dancing!

You now have highly energized oil. Just take a drop and anoint your heart or even take a quick inhalation, every morning until it runs out. Carry it when you feel the need. Let no one else touch it.

Keep your oil close at hand or even on your desk ready for use.

Handfasting

Preparation

Mark off circle with flowers. Set up altar in center of circle Mark the directions with appropriate corresponding object. Lay a broomstick at the foot of the altar.

Creating Sacred Space: Sweep the area with broom, sprinkle holy water (water and earth) and waft incense (fire and air) around area. The participants other than the couple, who remain in the middle, take a direction.

Calling of the Quarters:

Guardians of the airy East,
Spirits of Spring and Dawn,
of Sylphs and Myrrh,
of Knowledge and Learning,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Waxes.


Guardians of the fiery South
Spirits of Summer and Noon,
of Salamanders and Hibiscus,
of Healing and Destruction,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Brightens.


Guardians of the watery West
Spirits of Autumn and Twilight,
of Udines and Lotus,
of Love and Sorrow,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Wanes


Guardians of the earthy North,
Spirits of Winter and Midnight,
of Gnomes and Comfrey,
of Birth and Death,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Darkens.

Invocation of the Lord and Lady:

Bride (lights Goddess candle and says):

Great Mother of all creation
You who are the rich Green Earth
The soul that lightens the midnight sky
The warm breath that is the wind
We ask your presence within our circle
Bless and keep this union in heart and spirit

Groom (lights God candle and says):

Great Father of all creation
You who are the endless gray sea
The spirit that shines in the midday sky
The dancing shadow of the flame
We ask your presence within our circle
Bless and keep this union in heart and spirit

Casting the Circle:

High Priest/ess (draws circle with athame/wand, walking around couple):

A space is made
And the Circle cast
The gate is open
Through it we pass
Between the worlds.


The Ritual

Couple stands before altar and High Priest/ess.

They turn to the Element of Air, who picks up the representative object and says:

These are the blessings of the Element of Air:

May you always share Ideas,

tell each other your Dreams,

appreciate each other’s Intelligence.

The gift of Air is Communication.


The couple replies: Blessed Be.


They turn to the Element of Fire, who picks up the representative object and says:



These are the blessings of the Element of Fire:

May you always find Inspiration in each other,

Find the Energy you need to support each other,

And have Faith in your relationship.

The gift of Fire is Passion.


The couple replies: Blessed Be.


They turn to the Element of Water, who picks up the representative object and says:



These are the blessings of the Element of Water:

May you offer each other Compassion,

May you wash away hurts and share in each other’s Joy.

The gift of Water is Love.


The couple replies: Blessed Be.


They turn to the Element of Earth, who picks up the representative object and says:



These are the blessings of the Element of Earth:

May you never want for Food and Shelter,

May you thrive in Health and enjoy the good things of the Earth.

The gift of Earth is the Material World.


The couple replies: Blessed Be.


The couple again faces the altar and High Priest/ess and lights the Spirit Candle. The couple face each other.



Groom:



I am willing to declare my love for you

and my commitment to our relationship.

I promise to be a good partner as long as love lasts.

Are you willing to do the same?


Bride: I am.


Bride:



I am willing to declare my love for you

and my commitment to our relationship.

I promise to be a good partner as long as love lasts.

Are you willing to do the same?


Groom: I am.



The Element of Water presents the ale to the Bride, then the Groom, saying:



May you never thirst.



The Element of Earth presents the cakes to the Bride, then the Groom, saying:



May you never hunger.


The High Priest/ess presents the cakes and ale to each Element. Everyone may be seated to eat and drink and be merry. After everyone is done, everyone returns to their place.



High Priest/ess (as he/she binds the left hand of the Bride and the right hand of the Groom with ribbon):



Lord and Lady,

Bless this woman and this man

As they agree to share

Love, joy, laughter and life’s mystery.

Be ever present in their

Hearts, minds and spirits.

Fill their home with magic and the ever-present wonder of Your love.


All: Blessed be.


The couple then move the broom from the front of them to the back, and turn to face the broom.



Bride and Groom:



Let us be married,

let us be wed,

By the crossing of the broom and

The joys of the bed!


The couple jumps over the broom and everyone says: Blessed Be!

The couple kisses.

The couple turns to face the High Priest/ess.

Farewell to Goddess and God:


High Priest/ess:


Lady and Lord, we appreciate your presence in our Circle.
For earth and sky, moon and sun,
we thank you.

we ask your blessing through the year.
For happiness and joy,
love and good fortune,
hail and farewell.


High Priest/ess extinguishes Goddess and God candles.

Closing of the Quarters:

Guardians of the airy East,
Spirits of Spring and Dawn,
of Sylphs and Myrrh
of Knowledge and Learning,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Waxes.


Guardians of the fiery South
Spirits of Summer and Noon,
of Salamanders and Hibiscus,
of Healing and Destruction,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Brightens.


Guardians of the watery West
Spirits of Autumn and Twilight,
of Udines and Lotus,
of Love and Sorrow,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Wanes


Guardians of the earthy North,
Spirits of Winter and Midnight,
of Gnomes and Comfrey,
of Birth and Death,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Darkens.

High Priest/ess (takes up circle with athame/wand, walking around couple):


May the circle be open yet unbroken.

Everyone:

Merry meet, merry part, merry meet again!

First Degree Initiation

People: Hierophant (H) (Initiator)
Candidiate (C)
Hierophant's Working Partner (P)
Summoner (S) (Hierophant does his part if S unavailable)
High Priestess (HPS) (actually, H or P, depending on gender)

Needs: blindfold
nine foot red cord
short white cord
oil
scourge
all ordinary esbat requirements

Preparation:
Candidate stands outside Circle to NE, blindfolded and bound
by members of the opposite gender.
Wrists are bound together in back by middle of a 9 foot red cord,
knotted in front at throat with ends hanging down front as cable-tow.
A short white cord is fastened to the right ankle with ends tucked in
so as not to trip C up, saying:

"Feet neither bound nor free."

HPS casts Circle. Opening ritual is followed to the end of the Drawing Down
of the Moon, but the Charge is not yet declaimed.

Summoner fetches Sword (or athame) from the altar, and opens a gate in NE.
S, H, and P face C and S issues the Challenge:

S: "O thou who standest on the threshold between the pleasant world of men
and the dread domains of the Lords of the Outer Spaces, hast thou the
courage to make the assay ?"

Placing point of blade against C's heart, S continues:

S: "For I say verily, it were better to rush on my blade and perish,
than make the attempt with fear in thy heart."

C: "I have two passwords. Perfect love and perfect trust."

S: "All who have such are doubly welcome."

H: "I give thee a third to pass thee through this dread door."

H grasps C above waist with H's left arm, kisses C on the lips,
and swings C into the Circle with H's body, from behind.

S (or P if no S) closes the gate.

H leads C to each Quarter in turn, saying:

H: "Take heed, ye lords of the East (South/West/North) that
N... is properly prepared to be initiated a priest[ess] and witch."

H leads C back to centre of Circle (via East)
while coven dances around, singing:

"Eko, eko Azrak, (etc.)...."

... over and over, meanwhile pushing C back and forth among them, until
H calls a halt.

Partner then rings bell three times as H turns C to stand before the altar,
with C's back to the altar (i.e. facing South if altar is in North).
H stands in centre of Circle, facing C (and altar). H says:

H: "In other religions, the postulant kneels, while the
priest towers above. But in the Art Magical we are
taught to be humble, and we kneel to welcome
her [/him] and we say: [kneels]

'Blessed be thy feet, which have brought thee in these ways;'
[kiss r. foot, then l. foot]
'Blessed be thy knees, that shall kneel at the sacred altar;'
[kiss r. knee, then l. knee]
'Blessed be thy womb[/phallus], without which we would not be;'
[kiss above pubes]
'Blessed be thy breasts [/breast], erected in beauty [/formed in
strength] ;' [kiss r. breast, then l. breast]
'Blessed be thy lips, that shall utter the sacred names.'"
[kiss on lips] [rises]

H: "Now we are going to take your measure."

H, aided by another witch of the same gender, stretches a button thread from
the ground by C's foot to crown of C's head and cuts it there with
athame or bolline.
Measure C once about the forehead with the cut thread and knot at the point of
overlap, again about the heart starting from the same end [knot], and lastly
about the hips across the genitals [knot]. The measure is wound and placed upon
the altar. H asks:

H: "Before thou art sworn, art thou ready to pass the ordeal and be
purified ?"

C: "I am."

H, aided by another witch of the same gender, helps C to kneel, head and
shoulders bowed forward. The loose ends of the short cord are unwound and C's
ankles bound securely. The cable tow is fastened to the altar. H fetches
scourge from altar as Partner rings bell three times, saying:

P: "Three."

H scourges C firmly, but tenderly, thrice.

P says (but doesn't ring bell):

P: "Seven ... Nine ... Twenty-one."

And each time H scourges C with the number of strokes P has named, and
all should be light, yet firm, save only the very last which may sting somewhat
as a reminder that H. has been deliberately restrained. Hierophant then says:

H: "Bravely thou hast passed the test. Art thou ready to swear that thou
wilt always be true to the Art ?"

C: "I am."

H: "Art thou ever ready to help, protect and defend thy brothers and
sisters of the Art, even though it should cost thee thy life. ?

C: "I am."

H: "Then say after me: I, N..., in the presence of the Mighty Ones, do of
my own free will and accord, most solemnly swear, without any
reservation in me whatever, that I will ever keep secret, and never
reveal, the secrets of the Art, except it be to a proper person,
properly prepared within a Circle such as I am now in. This I swear
by my hopes of a future life, mindful that my measure has been taken;
and may my weapons turn against me if I break this my solemn oath."

H and other witch of the same gender help C to feet. P fetches anointing oil
and chalice of wine. H moistens fingertip with oil saying:

H: "I hereby sign thee with the Triple Sign.
I consecrate thee with oil ..."

H touches moistened finger to just above pubes, right breast, left breast, and
above pubes again. H moistens fingertip with wine and anoints the same three
places, saying:

H: "I consecrate thee with wine ..."
H: "I consecrate thee with my lips ... [kiss as above]
Priest[ess] and witch."

C is now unbound and the blindfold removed by H and assistant of same gender.
New Initiate is welcomed by coven, then presented with the Working Tools.
As each tool is named, H takes it from the altar and passes it to the Initiate
with a kiss. As each tool is finished with, the assistant takes it from the
Initiate [kiss] and replaces it upon the altar. H says:

H: "Now I present to thee the Working Tools.

First, the Magic Sword.
With this, as with the athame, thou canst form all Magic Circles,
dominate, subdue and punish all renellious spirits and daemons,
and even pursuade angels and good spirits.
With this in thy hand, thou art ruler of the Circle.

Next I present the Athame. This is the true witch's weapon and has all
the powers of the Magic Sword.

Next I present the White-hilted knife. Its use is to form all
instruments used in the Art. It can only be used in a Magic Circle.

Next I present the Wand. Its use is to call up and control certain
angels and genii to whom it would not be meet to use the Magic Sword.

Next I present the Cup. This is the vessel of the Goddess, the Cauldron
of Cerridwen, the Holy Grail of Immortality. From this we drink in
comradeship, and in honour of the Goddess.

Next I present the Pantacle. This is for the purpose of calling up
appropriate spirits.

Next I present the Scourge. This is the sign of power and domination.
It is also used to cause purification and enlightenment. For it is
written: 'To learn you must suffer and be purified.' Art thou willing
to suffer to learn ?"

C: "I am."

H: "Next and lastly I present the Cords. They are of use to bind the
sigils of the Art; also the material basis; also they are necessary in
the Oath.

I now salute thee in the name of Aradia, newly made priest[ess]
and witch." [kiss]

H and P now face the new Initiate and deliver the Charge.

The Initiate may consecrate his athame here; he must consecrate it before
using it.

Cakes and Wine.

The Initiate is now presented to each Quarter in turn by the Hierophant,
saying:

H: "Hear ye Mighty Ones of the East [S./W./N.]; N... has been consecrated
priest[ess], witch and hidden child of the Goddess."
[to north declaim: "Hear ye Mighty Ones of the North; Boreas, thou
guardian of the Northern portals; thou powerful God, thou gentle
Goddess; N... .... (etc.)]

Close Circle.

A "graduation" party should follow.

Handfasting

Handfasting Ritual

Preparation
Long ribbon or soft rope (~ 3 feet)
Vows to exchange (written by the couple)
Small gifts (or rings) to be exchanged by the couple.
5 rose candles (Quarter and god candle (god candle can be red))
1 white candle (Goddess candle)
Gifts from the coveners/guests for the couple.

Ritual
Cast the circle normally.

Invoke the Goddess and God normally, or as below.

HPriest: We call upon you in the guise of Eros,
Kindler of desire,
Bringer of love,
to join us here and witness the bonding
of and .

HPriestess: We call upon you in the guise of Aphrodite,
Always desirous one,
Sensual lover,
to join us here and witness the joining
of and .

Grounding meditation.

The HPriest and HPriestess motion the two people to be handfasted
to join them before the altar.

Couple faces the altar.

HPriest: (to one of the couple, the female if the couple are of
opposite gender) Do you join us here of your
own free will, to acknowledge before the Lord and
Lady the bond that is shared between yourself and
.
Person1: (responds (hopefully this will be a yes :) if not,
go to closing).

HPriestess asks the other the same thing and gets response.

Couple turn to face each other and join their left hands.

Each now recites the vows they have prepared.

HPriest: (taking the joined left hands, and the rope)
Here before witnesses, and have
sworn vows to each other. With this cord, I bind
them to the vows that they each have made. (wrap
the cord loosely around both arms) However this
binding is not tied, so that neither is restricted by
the other, and the binding is only enforced by both
their wills.

Couple: (turning to face each other, in unison)
Heart to thee,
Soul to thee,
Body to thee,
Forever and always,
So mote it be.
Coven: So mote it be.

Couple unbind thier left arms.

Couple exchange the gifts they have brought for each other.
Coven members and guests give couple good wishes and/or gifts.

Great rite and Cakes and Ale.

Bid farewell to God and Goddess as usual, or as below.
HPriestess: We thank you Aphrodite, for your presence among us,
And as you take your leave, we ask that you leave
among us, in each of us, the ability to each be
Sensual lover, and desirous one.
Hail and farewell.

HPriest: We thank you Eros, for your presence here this day,
And ask, as you take your leave, that you leave in
each of us, the ability to be
a Bringer of desire, and kindler of love.
Hail and farewell.

Dismiss the Quarters, and open the circle.
Relax, talk, and party :)

Hand Parting

A formal handparting, for which the original handfasting cords are untied, cut, and burned. Since the couple has to both agree to be in this ritual, it could be difficult to coordinate during periods of confrontation.

This is a ceremony not to be taken lightly.
For love is forever bond,
Whether as one or not.

Handparting Ritual
A.The Altar should be draped in blue, the color of healing. Set it up using whatever tools you are most comfortable with, including the cords from the handfasting. If these cords are not available, substitute a red cord to symbolize the original ones.
B. Cleanse the area and cast the circle in whatever tradition you are most comfortable in. When you invoke quarters, call the East as the wisdom which blows through us and changes our reality; the South as the passions from which decisions come; the West as clarity of emotion; and the North as the centeredness that brings us to wholeness.
C. Invoke the Goddess and God in whatever tradition you are comfortable with, focusing on the aspect of Goddess as she who teaches both easy and hard lessons through love; and the aspect of the God as the Lord of the Underworld, in whose embrace we recover, and from whose embrace we are reborn.
D. Give the couple their handfasting cords. If these are unavailable, re-tie them together in red cord, saying something about "These were the cords of your handfasting that join you spiritually as one."

"You had been joined for as long as love should last. Has the time come that love is ended?"

Both of them should reply "yes."

"The Goddess teaches us through pain as well as through pleasure. What were the lessons She taught you with this relationship?"
Let them stumble through their answers as best they can.

"In this life, no one is your friend and no one is your enemy; all alike are your teachers. Turn to your teacher and give thanks for what they have taught you."
Let them stumble through their thanks as best they can.

The priest or priestess should say something along the lines of, "Lady, the time has come for these two to be sundered. Assist me in cutting them free of each other.", while s/he unties the cords and cuts them. The cords are then handed to the couple.

Say to them, "To part your spirits, you must burn these cords which tied you to each other."

The couple places the cords in a cauldron and lights them from the working candle. When they have completely burned, cleanse them with incense and anoint them with oil.

"Be cleaned of anger, hatred, and desire."
"Be reborn to the sweetness of life."

Let them say their good-byes and have them walk to opposite quarters of the circle.

Be at Peace with one another.

Pagan Funeral

Before anyone comes into the room, the priest and priestess may cast a circle, summon the quarters and invoke the Lady and Lord.

As the mourners enter, they will be greeted at the door (and portal to the circle) by the Priest and Priestess. When all are seated, the priestess begins.

PRIESTESS: (adapted from the "Decent of the Goddess," in the Farrars' Witches Bible Complete )
There are three great events in the life of a person: love, death and resurrection to a new life. Of these love is the most important. For by love and in fulfillment of it, we may again be joined with our families and friends, remembering and loving them again. Death cannot take away love or our loved ones.
Without love there is no birth, without birth no death, without death no rebirth. This is the miracle of love.

PRIEST:
----(name of Chief mourner, here a son), loving son, all here feel your sorrow and with you honor ----(name of deceased).
Nearest relative or chief mourner tells about the persons life and accomplishments. Others may speak also. When this is finished, the priest continues.

PRIEST:(adapted from memorial service of "Magical rites from the Crystal Well")
For a while we have lost one who is dear to us, but it is only for a time and we should not be sorrowful. There is a reason to be here and a reason to go when we have fulfilled the tasks of a life's work. Dying is only a way of forgetting, of resting, of returning to the eternal source to be renewed and made strong.

PRIESTESS:(adapted from the rite of the Three-Fold-Goddess in the Witches Bible)
Behold a woman who has been three women. First a girl full of dreams and hope. Then a mother who brought forth life and gave love. Finally an elder, rich in knowledge and experience. Her journey is ended and a new one begun. Let us bid her farewell and entreat all her loved ones who have gone before her to greet and guide her on her way.
The priest may then instruct the mourners to bid a personal farewell if they desire, then proceed to the foyer or otherwise outside the room. This is the traditional time to play the departed loved one's favorite song or hymn. Again, some attendant should be at the portal to see all out of the circle. The priest, priestess and perhaps the chief mourner may then thank the Gods, release the quarters and open the circle.

Some refreshment in the outer area might be available to help the people ground a bit. The pall bearers may then return and carry the casket to the conveyance.

At the grave side, salt or ashes, water and wine, and aromatic oil may have been poured to bless the site.

"We wish you all love and happiness. Do not forget us. We will not forget you. We find our peace and hope in the sure and certain knowledge that we shall meet again and at that time we will celebrate in perfect love."

After the casket is lowered, the chief mourner throws earth upon the grave.

This is again a traditional time for all to eat together. This helps in grounding.

Hand Fasting

Before the ritual started, everyone was grounded and centered by the officiates and then the ritual began.

Items Needed
Bells Broom
Salt Water
bowl(for saltwater) cup(for wine)
Bread Wine or juice
2 candles for the goddess and god (optional)
A candle of the couples preference or making
A cord long enough to tie two of the couple’s hands together - (preferably of your own making from ribbon or cording)

PROCESSION
Banishing
Two people walk around the circle to perform the banishing ringing a bell and sweeping the circle as they went. Behind them, the couple and officiates walk into the circle, standing in the center at the alter.

Cleansing
A person sprinkled salt water on people as they followed the two banishers into the circle. (This could be exchanged with incense or smudging)

FORMATION OF THE CIRCLE
After everyone is within the circle, the quarters are called and the goddess and god are invoked. Because not everyone who was at the ceremony was pagan, the officiates made a purpose statement after the invocations to help them focus their energies within the ritual.

Calling of the Directions:
East

Guardians of the airy East,
Spirits of Spring and Dawn,
of Sylphs and Myrrh,
of Knowledge and Learning,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Waxes.
South

Guardians of the fiery South
Spirits of Summer and Noon,
of Salamanders and Hibiscus,
of Healing and Destruction,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Brightens.
West

Guardians of the watery West
Spirits of Autumn and Twilight,
of Udines and Lotus,
of Love and Sorrow,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Wanes
North

Guardians of the earthy North,
Spirits of Winter and Midnight,
of Gnomes and Comfrey,
of Birth and Death,
Witness and Bless this Union,
Protect and Watch over our Circle
So the Moon Darkens.
Invocations
Female Officiate (lights candle as says this)

Great Mother of all creation
You who are the rich Green Earth
The soul that lightens the midnight sky
The warm breath that is the wind
We ask your presence within our circle
Bless and keep this union in heart and spirit
Male Officiate (lights candle as says this)

Great Father of all creation
You who are the endless gray sea
The spirit that shines in the midday sky
The dancing shadow of the flame
We ask your presence within our circle
Bless and keep this union in heart and spirit
Purpose:
Female Officiate

A space is made
And the Circle cast
The gate is open
Through it we pass
Between the worlds.
Male Officiate

All bear witness
To this earthly affair
In the union of two for
A day and a year
in heart, spirit, and mind.
CAKES & ALE This can be done now, or after the binding and promise, however it seemed more appropriate to do it before, as though it was courting prior to commitment.
Female Officiate As a symbol of the Goddess's blessing, I offer this cake.
May you never hunger. (gives cake/bread to first) takes a bite and passes to second then to Circle)
Male Officiate As a symbol of the God's blessing, I offer this wine.
May you never thirst. (gives to second) (takes a drink and passes to first then to Circle)

BINDING AND PROMISE Each promise should be individual and personal. I chose not to publish my promise here because it was to private to be shared.

Female Officiate
Now, join hands and look into each other's eyes.
What do you promise to ________?
The first gives their promise
(cord is draped over wrists as the first’s promise is given)

Male Officiate
What do you promise to ___________?
The second gives their promise.
(the cord wrapped twice as second’s promise is given)(after both promises are finished, the cord wrapped twice and tied and the couple kisses)

CANDLEMAGICK
This could be coupled with dancing or chanting around the couple by the circle. The couple light their candle in unison using the goddess and god candles or holding a long match together.
First - We light this candle as a symbol of our union.
Second - For a year and a day the spell shall last.

GIFTS FROM THE CIRCLE The people go around the circle gifting the couple with words as hopes or wishes for them.

CLOSING OF CIRCLE F
arewell to Goddess and God:
Female Officiate

Lady and Lord, we appreciate your presence in our Circle.
For earth and sky, moon and sun,
we thank you.

Male Officiate
Lady and Lord, we ask your blessing through the year.
For happiness and joy,
love and good fortune,
hail and farewell.
Closing of the Directions:
East

Guardians of the airy East,
Spirits of Spring and Dawn,
of Sylphs and Myrrh
of Knowledge and Learning,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Waxes.

South
Guardians of the fiery South
Spirits of Summer and Noon,
of Salamanders and Hibiscus,
of Healing and Destruction,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Brightens.

West
Guardians of the watery West
Spirits of Autumn and Twilight,
of Udines and Lotus,
of Love and Sorrow,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Wanes

North
Guardians of the earthy North,
Spirits of Winter and Midnight,
of Gnomes and Comfrey,
of Birth and Death,
Thank you for witnessing
and blessing this union
Hail and Farewell.
So the Moon Darkens.
Female Officiate
May the circle be open yet unbroken.

Male Officiate
Merry meet, merry part, merry meet again.

Baby Blessing

The timing of this ritual is up to the parents, but waiting for a waxing to Full Moon is probably best for positive growth energies. If done at home, the crib can be decorated with daisy, lavender, and parsley for protection and bounty. If performed elsewhere, the parents may wish to carry sprigs of fresh herbs which have significant symbolism and keep these with the child during the ritual. Afterwards, dry them as a keepsake. This ritual, sometimes called Wiccanning, often marks the naming of the child and welcomes a new soul to this world.


Invocation
"A canopy of eventide spreads dark from out the glen,
With ravens wings, a rising moon, and blessings that we send.
To you, our friends, we build a bridge to span the air and sea,
With beams of light and lavender that magic might move free.
To touch the hearts of those we love,
This child whom now, we bless
With songs of hope and harmony, sealed with a holy kiss
We call upon the Goddess Minne, to hold _________ in Her arms
With hands of warmth and comforting,
And keep you ever safe from harm."

Wiccaning

Sometimes called a Wiccaning, naming rituals for babies are wonderfully like fairytales. Pick a full moon for it (and mild weather--outdoors and a clear night is best for a naming!).

The HP/HPS stand as God-Father and/or Goddess-Mother here, and their job is not only to help in the naming and blessing of the child, but to provide it with magic tools it can use once it reaches adulthood. Family and friends should be invited (unless they'll cause trouble). Mom and dad, with baby in arms, should be seated comfortably in the center.

On the altar should be the tools that will be given to the child (One from the HP, one from the HPS--or just one if there's only an HP/HPS), and a vase of daisies (the traditional flower).

*After casting the circle and calling quarters, the baby should be anointed with a mild oil and named. The name can be, depending on the tradition, a Wiccan name for the child (a name by which it will be known within the coven until it chooses another for itself) and/or their given name.
The HPS touches the child's third eye with a dab of oil and says: "I name you _______, and dedicate you to a life of peace and love!"--and then she places a hand on the kid's head and blesses the child, "Bless this child who is the God/Goddess himself/herself, bless him/her, protect him/her, and give him/her a joyful life."

*After naming, if within a social circle or coven, the baby can be passed round (or each person can come forward) bless the child and give it a magical "gift" as in Fairytales--each witch touching the child upon the head and gifting it with something special (like: "May you be wise" "May you be gentle" "May you be filled with love").
The baby should then be presented to the Gods--a good job for the father or HP. This can be done by taking the baby to each quarter, or by lifting the child up toward the stars, and saying: "This is _________, watch over him/her, may he/she always have your love."

*The tools (a wand, atheme, crystal) should then be properly blessed and empowered by the HP/HPS and the named child presented with the them; these tools should *not* be baby toys--it's up to the parents to put it safely away till the child is old enough to use them. The Goddess-Mother and God-Father then vow to protect and guide the child till it is old enough to find its own path.

*Don't forget to raise energy and send it off a cone of power to the child's bright future.

A potluck lunch/dinner should be served afterwards.

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.

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.

Naming Ceremony

The following is an example of a simple naming ceremony. To keep these notes simple I have given the child the name Erick Alfred (could be worse!) Refer to the notes below for further considerations:

Preparation:

Set aside an area of the room as an altar to the Norns. Use a blessing bowl filled with spring water to represent the well and branches of ash or yew for the world tree. If available a spindle, a skein of yarn and wooden rune staves, suitable artwork and other Norn symbols would be appropriate. The ceremony requires use of a blessing twig, this can be a leafy tree branch or a bunch of fresh herbs. Birch, ash, hyssop or lady's mantle would be appropriate for namings (avoid yew, it is toxic).

Ritual

Family and friends gather in a circle with the mother and father standing beside the altar.

Male friend or relative: Carries incense or a candle around the gathering, requesting the blessing of the gods and elves. A hammer hallowing can be used if desired.

Father: 'I call the Norns to attend on this special day. Urd, Vervandi, and Skuld be welcome at our hearth and share our feast. We give you a gift of mead.'

Female friend or relative: Fills a cup with mead and places it on the altar.

Father: Explains reason for gathering, praises wife for enduring the nine moons of bearing the child.

Mother: Thanks father for caring for her through the nine moons.

Male Friend or relative: 'What name have you chosen?'

Mother: 'Erik Alfred'

Male Friend or relative: 'Bear witness Urd Vervandi and Skuld. The child is named, spin his destiny as a long strong thread and fix the strand high among the stars.'

Female friend or relative: Dips blessing twig into bowl and blesses child. 'Urd, Vervandi, and Skuld give your blessing to Erik. Frigg protect Erick through his tender years. Holda give Erik your protection. Let him grow strong and comely. Let him know good health and joy. Let him thrive in wisdom that he may know his own mind.'

Parent's Oath

Father: 'Holy Norns, gods and goddesses and elf folk bear witness. I promise to protect and provide for Erik through his years of childhood as best as I am able.'

Mother: 'Holy Norns, gods and goddesses and elf folk bear witness. I promise to feed and comfort Erik through his years of childhood as best as I am able.'

Male friend or relative: Takes blessing twig and blesses parents. 'Give your blessing on (Mother's name) and (Father's name). Let them know contentment and joy despite the testing times ahead.'

Mother: Explain why the child's name was chosen and its significance. 'I ask everyone gathered to greet Erik Alfred.' Carries child around gathering, all friends and relatives greet the child by name and touch him gently.

Spirit Parents (optional)

Mother: 'I declare that should I suffer death or serious illness before Erik comes of age, I would trust Linda to look to his welfare. Linda do you accept this burden?'

Linda: 'I am willing to stand as Erik's mother in spirit. I give a gift of silver as a token of my pledge.' Mother: Blesses spirit mother with blessing twig..

Father: 'I declare that should I suffer death or serious illness before Erik comes of age, I would trust Henry to look to his welfare. Henry do you accept this burden?'

Henry: 'I am willing to stand as Erik's father in spirit. I give a gift of silver as a token of my pledge.'

Father: Blesses spirit father with blessing twig.

Giving of Amulets:

Mother: 'Do any others have a silver gift for Erik?'

Female Friend or Relative: Collects silver tokens and wraps them in cloth and ties the bundle with cord.

Male Friend or Relative: Blesses bundle with blessing twig. 'May this bundle represent our love and blessings on Erik Alfred.'

Horn Passing

Female Friend or Relative: Fills horn and hands to father. She holds the bundle before him so he can lay his hand on it while giving his blessing. .

Father: 'I would ask all kin and friends to join us in giving Erik our personal blessings.'

Female friend or relative: Fills horn or cup and presents to the father.

Father: Adds his own blessing on child and mother, horn passing follows, relatives and friends can give blessings in the name of their own patrons. The horn should end with the Mother:

Mother: 'On behalf of Erik I thank you for your blessings and gifts. This bundle will be kept near his crib so that your good wishes will be near him in his early years. When he is nine years old I will entrust them to his keeping.'

Father: 'Remember the Norns are with us, so give them an offering that they my join us in our celebration. And now let the feast commence.'

After the feast and before the Norns and deities are thanked for their attendance, a bag of runes can be passed for the folk to enquire of the future. If desired the mother can draw a rune for the child.

Naming Ritual Notes
Choosing a name

If poorly chosen a child's name can cause no end of problems during its childhood, so think carefully before you burden a child with an outlandish Norse or Anglo-Saxon name. A list of possible names drawn from Germanic, Celtic and Classical sources is listed later in this issue.

Timing of Ceremony

The mother will need time to recover from the birthing. But if the naming ceremony is to have any relevance it should mark the introduction of the child into the larger family and kindred of the parents. Therefore a date between 9 days after birthing and before a full month has passed is desirable.

Gifts

We have suggested using silver amulets and pendants as they represent both wealth and protection, and most heathens we know rattle with them anyway! If the child follows one of the pagan paths in maturity they will have a head start, and if not they will have a unique reminder of their welcome into the world.

Anyone unable to provide silver can give fragrant dried herbs such as lavender or rose petals to be placed in the bundle. Slips of paper with blessings written on them could also be added. Traditional English naming gifts (Yorkshire) are coins (for wealth) salt (for protection) and an egg (for fertility).

Gifts for immediate use for the parents and child can be presented after the ceremony. And on a less nostalgic note, up to date parents may wish to announce the child's personalised e-mail address!

Blessing Water & Twig

This should be as natural as possible. Water collected that day from a local natural spring is ideal, failing that use bottled spring water or fresh rain water. Ask the Norns/Goddesses blessing on the water either when you collect it or when you pour it into the blessing bowl. Spring water applied by sprinkling with a leafy twig or bunch of herbs (Hyssop, birch leaves and lady's-mantle are very appropriate. An evergreen herb such as rosemary can be used for a winter naming ceremony)

Single Parents / Lesbian Families

The ceremony given above can be very easily adapted to either of these situations.

Religious Dedication of Infants

Every heathen and pagan we have spoken to on this subject is adamantly against the enforced initiation of infants in the parent's faith before the child knows its own mind. Thus the emphasis of the ceremony is on protection rather than dedication. And no promise is made by the parents to seek to influence the child in this respect.

In Memory Of...

This is a ritual to honour the life of someone who has moved on into the next realm. It also helps those left behind to cope with their loss.

Have everyone write on a black piece of paper with silver pen a favourite memory of the person.

Have them place three pinches of crushed almond (to honour Hecate Goddess of the Underworld) in the center of the paper, fold and tie with a red ribbon.

Everyone then gather by the ocean or a lake - basically a large body of water to help everyone work through their emotions. Light a good size bonfire and have everyone stand around it in a circle.

The person who is leading the ritual throws handfuls of patchouli and myrrh on the fire and dedicates the ritual by saying: "(Name) tonight we gather to share in love the sweet memory of your life and the eternity of your spirit".

Each person then recites what is written on their pieces of paper before throwing them in the fire.

All join hands and repeat as one: "Farewell dear friend, until we share, in another realm, our time again. Merry Meet, Merry Part, Merry Meet Again."

Then pass a loving cup filled with your loved departed one's favourite drink. When everyone has sipped from the same cup pour a little on the fire and then toast them.

Put the fire out and perhaps all go out together and share happy memories of your friend or family member.