New Year Fire Ritual 2023 Dragonfly

New Years Fire Ritual

Circle Dragonfly 2023

 
Gather Herbs in 4 bowls placed in the quarters

North – Frankincense, Protection
East – Thyme, Good Luck
South – Sunflower, Wishes
West – Skullcap, Harmony

Fire Pit, Fire Wood, Fire Starters, Lighters, Chairs, Pens, Paper
 
Thank you everyone for joining as we set last year free, and welcome the New Year with loving intentions. Please sit, get comfortable, and we’ll begin.
 

Grounding

 
With your eyes closed take a deep breath, in through the nose, out through the mouth… And relax… Deep breath, in through the nose, out through the mouth… Feel the warmth of the fires glow on your skin… Deep breath, in through the nose, out through the mouth… And relax… Deep breath, in through the nose, out through the mouth… Let the fire’s energy cleanse the stress of the day away… You are protected… You are safe… You are powerful… You are loved… You are connected… Take a moment to feel these affirmations… Reflect on this past year, both the highs and the lows, the challenges and the rewards… When you are ready, open your eyes and rejoin the group.
 

Spell Work

 
First, we’ll focus on the negative. In order to create new energy for the coming year, we should release what has held us back. Take a moment to reflect on what you would like to let go of. Ask the Universe to take the lead in removing it from your life. Take the time to forgive yourself. It doesn’t really matter for what, only that forgiving yourself will let it go, to help you break through and move forward. The fears that hold you back, the struggles and cycles you’re repeating, the limiting beliefs you may have, anything that burdens you. You’re in safe space so talking about it is ok. Let it go into the fire. Write these down on the small slip of paper and fold three times away from you. When everyone is ready, we will all throw our troubles in the flame together. So, Mote it Be.
 
Please take a moment and repeat after me…
I release these worries to the Universe to be lovingly changed into solutions and blessings for the New Year. Thank you, Universe for releasing me of any burdens that I carry.
 
Now we’re going to focus on the positive. Think of the blessings that brought you joy, the silly times that made you smile, the achievements that made you proud. All those happy times that you might want to carry forward with you into the future. Tell yourself Thank You for being there to enjoy those wonderful moments. Now write them down, just a few simple words to jog your memory. And fold the paper three times towards you because these are memories you want to keep and enjoy. Feel free to talk with the group, sharing whatever we feel comfortable sharing. When everyone is ready, we’ll all throw our blessing in the flame together. Blessed Be.
 
Please take a moment and repeat after me…
I will hold these happy memories close to my heart so that I may step into the New Year with a clear mind, body and spirit. And I will make space for all my new blessings to be welcomed into my life. So, mote it be.
 
As we watch the burdens we no longer carry, be transformed, we invite the balance of energies needed to create a loving and powerful year. As I pass these herb bowls around take a pinch to toss into the flames and then pass the bowl to the next person.
 
In the North, we add Frankincense for its protective qualities and self-control to keep us focused on our paths.
 
In the East, we add Thyme for good luck to be infused into whatever we choose this coming year.
 
In the South we add Sunflower to bring in our wishes and power to keep us going strong.
 
In the West we add Skullcap that brings harmony and peace among us and our families.
 
With Malice toward no-one, and Harm to none;
If the Universe so desires it, then let it be done!
 
We honor the elements that keep us grounded, breathing, warm, and hydrated throughout the year with these offerings to the Universe for the highest good. Blessed be.

Welcome to the CircleOfOne Archives

https://circleofone1.blogspot.com

Go Mbeannaigh    (Gaelic, Ireland - Blessed Be)

Beannaichte Be    (Gaelic, Scotland - Blessed Be)

Sonqongi Apukuna Wak'aychasunkiku

   (Quechua, Peru - May the Heart of the Mountain bless you)

Xut Kala Xetl     (Tlingit, Alaska - Blessed Be)

Seja Abençoado     (Portuguese, Portugal - Blessed Be) 

Croning Saging Ceremony 2007 CO1

Croning

Saturday, December 29, 2007

 

Purify the Circle

 

Cast the Circle

(Circle is cast with the Blade, the Cup and the Censor)

 

HP starts with the Blade in the north and draws the boundary of the circle.

HP;  I tread this Path for the Elements, that which comprises all that we see.

 

HPS takes to sprinkling the boundaries with the Cup filled with salted water.

HPS;    I tread this Path for Self, a reflection of the Divine.

 

HP then takes the censor and carries the smoke to the boundaries of the circle)

HP;  I tread this Path for Spirit, that which unites all things.

 

Charge of the Circle

 

HP/HPS;  Our Circle is a place where hearts and minds can meet and share in the wonder and empowerment of a living and loving Goddess.   We are a coven of friends, but above all things we are Family.  Our Love and our Magick binds us together and our Circle keeps us and nurtures us.  We are blessed.  So, Mote it Be!

 

Call the Quarters

 

HPS;    We call to you now Ancient Ones from the times before the beginning.  From the place before time eternal.  We call to you by all Your names, spoken & unspoken.  Father of Time, Mother of Power, King of Magick, Queen of Life.  Mighty Gods, Goddesses and Crones bless us and bless the Crones of our Circle.  We thank you

 

Eastern Quarter – Celtic

Goddess; To the East, I call upon the spirit of Don.  Cosmic Mother over air and sea. I invite you into our circle, to witness this our celebration. Grant me your vast spirit to represent you in this Circle.  Croeso (Crow ee so)

 

God; To the East, I call upon the spirit of Taranis. God of Thunder Incarnate.  I invite you into our circle, to witness this, our celebration. Grant me your thundering power to represent you in this Circle.  Croeso (Crow ee so)  

 

Southern Quarter – Egyptian

God; To the South, I call to Netjer (Neet - Cher) Osiris (O - Si - Rus), Lord of The Underworld. I invite you into our circle, to witness this, our celebration. Grant me your mysteries so that I may represent you in this Circle. Em Hotep!  (Em hoe tep)

 

Goddess; To the South, I call to Netjert, Isis, Lady of wisdom and the words of power. I invite you into our circle, to witness this special rite. Grant me a bit of your great magic to represent you in this Circle.  Em Hotep!  (Em hoe tep)

 

Western Quarter – Native American

Goddess; To the West, I call White Buffalo Woman, Teacher, Warrior Woman, Prophet.  I, invite you into our circle, to witness this, our Celebration.   Grant me your wisdom and strength to represent you in this Circle.  N´'éstséhnêstse.  (N’est say)

 

God; To the West, I call Lord Coyote, the Trickster.  I, invite you into our circle, to witness this, our Celebration.   Grant me your inner playfulness to represent you in this Circle.  N´'éstséhnêstse.  (N’est say)

 

Northern Quarter – Greek

God; To the North, I call Hermes, God of Literature and Poets.  God of the boundaries and the travelers who cross them.  Orator of Wit.  I invite you into our circle, to witness this, our Celebration.   Grant me your eloquence and knowledge of the world traveled, that I may represent you in this Circle.  Kalos Irthate  (kah los Eer tha tay)

 

Goddess; To the North, I call Hecate, Guardian of the Household, Protector of everything newly born, Goddess of Witchcraft.  I invite you into our circle, to witness this, our Celebration.   Grant me your grace and vision, that I may represent you in this Circle.  Kalos Irthate.  (kah los Eer tha tay)

 

Statement of Intent

 

HPS;         In the ancient days, our ancestors knew that living was changing. They gazed upon the heavens and saw the moon rise in the sky first new, then full, then drawing down again into the dark. They marked with great stone circles the path of the sun, and crossed the untrammeled oceans guided by the circling stars. They honored the Lord and Lady in the changing seasons of the Earth.  They honored also with rites of passage those among the kin who passed through the mileposts of this life; rites to honor birthing, coming of age, marriage, and elderhood.

 

Honored were the elders, those who held the wisdom of the tribe. They were the teachers, the healers, the diplomats, the shamans, the chieftains, the priests and priestesses. It was they who cared for the dying and who helped the spirit find its way into the light of the Goddess. It was they who showed in their living and their dying that all life continued on.

 

We gather tonight to mark the passage of one of our own into their elder years.

 

Gates

 

1.  Youth, First Guardian: Who comes upon the first gate?

I do, (name), daughter of the Goddess

First Guardian: You shall not pass without a price. What do you lay down here?

Crone: Here I lay down my youth. (Responds with accomplishments of Youth)

Response You are still a form of the Goddess.  How can you be anything but beautiful?  Pass you freely and with my blessing.

 

2.  Fertility, Second Guardian: Who comes upon the second gate?

I do, (name), daughter of the Goddess

Second Guardian: You shall not pass without a price. What do you lay down here?

Crone: Here I lay down my fertility.  (Responds with accomplishments of Fertility)

Response There will be no more children of your body.  You will stand as Mother in Spirit to the young of this clan.  To teach and to guide them in the sacred ways.  Pass you freely and with my blessing.

 

3.  Innocence, Third Guardian: Who comes upon the third gate?

I do, (name), daughter of the Goddess

Third Guardian: You shall not pass without a price. What do you lay down here?

Crone: Here I lay down my Innocence.  (Responds with memories of innocence lost)

Response Now you know that right is seldom simple, and that the young pay the price for their elders’ mistakes.  You will remember the human price of war and conflict as you guide this clan in the future.  Pass you freely and with my blessing.

 

4.  Family, Fourth Guardian: Who comes upon the fourth gate?

I do, (name), daughter of the Goddess.

Fourth Guardian: You shall not pass without a price. What do you lay down here?

Crone: Here I lay down my family and friends gone on.  (Responds with memories of loved ones who have moved on to the gates of the Summerland)

Response You have watched loved ones and family members pass on to the Summerlands.  All things must continue on to learn yet more life lessons.  Pass you freely and with my blessing.

 

5.  Promise of Life, Fifth Guardian: Who comes upon the fifth gate?

I do, (name), daughter of the Goddess

Fifth Guardian: You shall not pass without a price. What do you lay down here?

Crone: Here I lay down my Promise of life.  (Responds with uncertainties of life and health) 

Response We cannot know what waits for us beyond the final gate.  Yet we know that all things must die so that they may be reborn.  Live each day as if it is your last.  And breath each moment as if there is none other like it.  As the Goddess waits for you in perfect love, Stay with Her in perfect trust.

 

Crowning of the Crone

 

HP;    The winds of time have carried you to this place.

You have been tested in the fire and not found wanting

You have been purified in the waters of the Lady's tears

You return at last to the Earth, the first and final Mother. And from the womb of Earth are you reborn.

 

HPS;    The paths you have walked have presented you with many options. Your life has been rich with experience, and filled with both sorrow and joy. Your teachers have gone on, and now you must assume their role. There are many who look to you now, eyes filled with wonder, hearts open, ready to learn. Now you must decide whether or not to honor your own teachers by following their steps. You possess more than just the answers. You have learned the questions.

 

Maiden no more. Mother no more. Crone do I name you. Crown of the trinity, completion of the cycle of life. Wear the crown of your years with grace and wisdom. Wear this circlet as the symbol of your new estate. Let us all honor the Crone. So, Mote it Be.

 

Cakes and Ale

 

The cakes and the ale are outward symbols, sacraments, of our inward relationship with the Goddess and the God. With these small offerings, we honor both Goddess and God.

 

We of the Craft believe that our words and our actions shape reality. Tonight, we have called upon the power of Goddess and God to witness in the Croning of a much-loved coven mate, Wyndstarr. As we have willed it, So Mote it Be. Let us honor the Gods and remember our tie to them.

 

Release the Quarters

 

North – Greek

Together; To the North.  Great Hermes, Wise Hecate, we thank you for honoring us with your observance of our rite, and for allowing us to serve as your liaisons this night.  We bid you farewell for now. You will always be welcomed here.  Yia Sou Adio (Yee a Soo Adee o)

 

West – Celtic

Together; Old one, White Buffalo Woman, Lord Coyote, We thank you for honoring us with your observance of our rite, and for allowing us to serve as your liaisons this night.  We bid you farewell for now.  You will always be welcomed here.  Né'évâhósêho'êhneo'o (Hoe eh nay o o)

         

South – Egypt

Together; To the South.  Netjer Osiris, Netjert Isis, we thank you for honoring us with your observance of our rite, and for allowing us to serve as your liaisons this night.  We bid you farewell for now.  You will always be welcomed here.  Senebti  (Sa neb tee)

 

East – Celtic

Together; To the East.  Gracious Taranis, Mighty Don, we thank you for honoring us with your observance of our rite, and for allowing us to serve as your as your liasons this night.  We bid you farewell for now.  You will always be welcomed here.  Da Bo Chi  (Da Boe Chee)

 

Open the Circle

 

HPS;         Tonight, has been a celebration to mark a Rite of Passage for Wyndstarr.  She has been and will continue to be a great source of knowledge, love and support for all of us.  We are a coven of friends, but again, we are more than that…  we are family.  May Love and Magick continue to grace our lives, and our hearts and minds keep us together. 

 

HP;  This Circle is open, but unbroken.  Merry have we met.  Merry May we part.  To Merry Meet again.

 

Feasting

 

In order to prepare for your Croning, you will need to familiarize and prepare yourself with the following...

You will be led to gates, at which point you will be asked "who goes here".  Your first response at each of the gate will be as follows;    I do, (name), Daughter of the Goddess.

At each gate you'll be asked... 'what are you willing to sacrifice?'

These were my personal responses. Yours will be different. 

Gate 1:  Here I lay down the burdens of youth.  I can leave behind the responsibilities that others have placed on me.  I no longer need to live up to someone else’s expectations of me.  I remember my grandmother once telling me that she hadn’t lived to be 83 years old just to have someone else push her around.  I think I’m beginning to understand how she felt.  I am what I am, and that’s all that I am.  The people who enjoy my company are positively the light of my life.  Those who don’t, well…I’m certain there is someone else they can irritate.

Gate 2:  Here I lay down my fertility...Thank Goddess!!  I’ve raised two of the most beautiful women it’s been my pleasure to know.  They make me proud to have been a parent…but now I look forward to enjoying the children of the world without the responsibility of being a parent.  Having children around is a great way to feel young…but it’s so nice when they go home again.  Visit with your children as often as you wish, but when it’s time to go home…leave no child behind!!

Gate 3:  Here I lay down my Innocence…with no guarantee that I won’t pick it up again on occasion.  I hope to continue to grow old with grace and dignity, but I don’t even pretend that I know it all and that I won’t on occasion be caught off guard.  I’m not done yet exploring the world and experiencing things new and exciting.  I hope the child within never ceases to look at life with wondrous eyes.  I have too many places to go, and too many things to see.

Gate 4:  Here I lay down those family and friends who have moved on without me.  Absolutely the most difficult part of getting older is watching those you have known and loved nearly all of your lifetime begin to cross over without you.  I suppose like everything in life, experiencing death has its purpose in preparing us for our own.  But I’m sorry folks…it’s going to have to chase me down.

Gate 5:  Here I pick up the promise of a new and different life.  I have no intention of waiting by the gate to die, and I’m not someone who can easily be shoved aside.  I’m still a very capable, gifted person filled with life.  I still have many things I wish to teach, new countries I’d like to explore, relationships that are worth building and an active community that I want to participate in.  I still have many promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.

                                Welcome to the CircleOfOne Archives

https://circleofone1.blogspot.com

Go Mbeannaigh    (Gaelic, Ireland - Blessed Be)

Beannaichte Be    (Gaelic, Scotland - Blessed Be)

Sonqongi Apukuna Wak'aychasunkiku

   (Quechua, Peru - May the Heart of the Mountain bless you)

Xut Kala Xetl     (Tlingit, Alaska - Blessed Be)

Seja Abençoado     (Portuguese, Portugal - Blessed Be)

Winter Solstice 2001 CO1

Yule 12/29/01

Altar Devotions

(light all the candles on the Altar except the God and Goddess Candles)

By the powers of the Ancient Ones, in the names of all who have gone before.  We remember thee, we honor thee.

 

Purify the Area

(Your choice-use what you need from the altar.  Walk counter-clockwise around the outside of the circle)

 

Cast Circle

Three times round, this Circle’s bound, With wings of light, beauty and sight Brilliant Seraphim, Mighty Cherubim, the Stable Thrones of the first sphere.

 

Three times round, this Circle’s bound, With wings of authority, life and spirit Dominions of Leadership, Powers of Protection, the Miraculous Virtues of the second sphere

 

Three times round, this Circle’s bound, With wings of justice, delight and friendship

Righteous Principalities, Glorious Archangels, the Guardian Angels of the third sphere

 

Created on the wings of the Angels.  This Circle is now cast. We are between the worlds, beyond the bounds of time. Where night and day, birth and death ,Joy and sorrow, all meet as one.

 

Call Quarters

NORTH:    We look forward to the winter season. The season of rest and rejuvenation. We call upon your presence here tonight to remind us to take a moment and find the inner sanctuary where the seeds of life and inspiration await the spring.

EAST:    We know that spring will come. The season of new life and the unfolding of mysteries. We call upon your presence here tonight to remind us that everyday brings a new thought or idea into our lives.

SOUTH:    Summer shall arrive. The season of warmth and prosperity. We call upon your presence here tonight to remind us that prosperity lies within all our lives through our friends, family and foes.

WEST:    Autumn has now passed. The season of harvest and family. We call upon your presence here tonight to remind us of our family and friends. To bask in the love and companionship of those around us.

 

Anoint

(Use oil to anoint the group - walk the inside of the circle to anoint and welcome each person in whatever fashion feels comfortable)

 

Unite energies

(Start the Round Robin, introduce yourself, give a little information and encourage the others to do the same - starting with the person to your left.)

 

Invocation

Male:  Father Sky, Lord of the beasts, and Protector of the Light, be with us now 

HP:   I am already here…in your shadow on the ground, and the whisper on the wind. I am here in the sunlight on your hair, and the soft sounds of a gentle rain.

I have always been here for you.

Female:  Mother Earth, Lady of the Grain, and Source of the Light, be with us now

HPS: I am already here…in the beating of your heart, and the innocence of a child’s smile, I am here in the light of your Lover’s eyes, and the understanding of a true friend.

I have always been here for you

 

Perform the Work

 

Raise Power

(Raise Power any way you wish, use something that will include the whole group.  Try something new or different if you like.)

 

Rite Of Thanks

Golden Lord, Silver Lady

What no human ear could hear, you heard.

What no human eye could see, you saw.

What no human heart could bear, you transformed.

What no human hand could do, you did.

What no human power could change, you’ve changed.

Goddess of love, God of protection. You through whom all power flows;

Source of all; Accept these humble tokens of thanks

From a these Solitary Witches, Who have spoken, And who have been heard

Cakes and Ale

Nuts and Berries, Roots and Leaves, Bounty born of all that lives,

Fruit in trees and grain in sheaves, Praise for all the good Earth gives.

Release Quarters

WEST:    Autumn has passed.  The season of harvest and family.  We thank you for your presence here tonight, reminding us of family and friends.  We shall continue to bask in their love and companionship though-out the upcoming year. Fare thee well and safe return, know that you are always welcome here.

SOUTH:    Summer shall arrive.  The season of warmth and prosperity.  We thank you for your presence here tonight, reminding us of the prosperity within our friends, family and foes.  Fare thee well and safe return, know that you are always welcome here.

EAST:    We know that spring will come.  the season of new life and the unfolding of mysteries.  We thank you for your presence here tonight, reminding us that everyday provides a new thought or idea with our lives.  Fare thee well and safe return, know that you are always welcome here.

NORTH:    We look forward to the winter season.  The season of rest and rejuvenation.  We thank you for your presence here tonight, reminding us to take a moment to find the inner sanctuary where the seeds of life and inspiration await spring.  Fare thee well and safe return, know that you are always welcome here.

 

Open Circle

We open now this Sacred Space, and send all energies back to place

This Circle is open, but never broken.

Merry Meet, Merry Part and Merry shall we Meet again!!

The Yule Fairies - A Winter Solstice Story

A group of little Fairies huddled in their home deep under the roots of a giant oak tree.  They were safe and snug in their tiny underground cave lined with dandelion fluff, bird feathers, and dried moss.  Outside, the wind blew cold and the snow fell softly down to cover the ground.  "I saw the Sun King today," the fairy named Rose said as she pulled her mossy cloak tighter about her.  "He looked so old and tired as he walked off through the forest.  What is wrong with him?”  “The great oak said he's dying" answered Daffodil.  “Dying? Oh, what will we do now?" Little Meadow Grass started to cry.  "If the sun King dies, our little plant friends will not grow.  The Birds will not come and sing again.  Everything will be winter for ever!"  Lilac, Dandelion and Elder Blossom tried to comfort their friend, but they were all very sad.  As they huddled together, there was a knock on the tiny door.  "Open up, Fairies," called out a loud voice.  "Why are you hiding instead of joining us in our Solstice celebration?" Rose opened the door and the little gnome Brown Knobby pushed inside, shaking the glistening snowflakes off his brown coat and hat.  "We are too sad to celebrate," Daffodil said wiping her eyes.  "The Sun King is dying, haven't you heard?" "He is dead you silly Fairies." Brown Knobby's round dark eyes sparkled with laughter.  "Now hurry, or we'll be late for the celebration!"  "How can you be happy and laughing?!" Elder Blossom stamped her little foot and frowned at the gnome.  "If the Sun King IS dead, it will be winter always.  We will never see the Sun again!" "Silly little child-Fairies." Brown Knobby grabbed Dandelion by the hand and pulled her to her feet.  "There is a secret to the Winter Solstice.  Don't you want to know what it is?" The Fairies looked at him in surprise.  "Secret?" they all said.  "What secret? We are only new little Fairies, you silly gnome.  We've never been to a Solstice celebration before." "Come and see.  Come and see.  Get your capes and come with me." Brown Knobby danced and jigged around the room.  "Hurry, Hurry, don't be slow! To the sacred oak grove through the snow!"  He danced out of the door and disappeared.  "What did that gnome mean?" Rose asked as she gathered up her cloak of dried rose petals held together with cobwebs and lined with goose down.  "I don't know, but the Lady lives in the Sacred Grove." Meadow Grass pulled on her hat.  "Perhaps if we go to see the Goddess, She can explain what Brown Knobby was talking about.”  The Fairies left their snug little home and trudged off through the snow toward the sacred oak grove.  The forest was dark with only the light of the Moon shining down through the thick fir branches and bare limbs of maple and hawthorn.  It was very difficult for them to get through the snow because they were very, very small.  As they waded through the wet snow and shivered in the cold wind, they met a fox.  "Where are you going, Fairies?" the fox asked.  "To the Sacred Grove," they answered, they were cold and shivering.  "Climb on my back and I will take you there swiftly." The fox knelt down so the Fairies could climb up.  Then he raced off through the dark.  "Listen!" Lilac said as they neared the grove of sacred trees.  "Someone is singing happy songs.  A LOT of someone’s." The beautiful music carried over the cold, still, moonlit air.  It was the most beautiful music the Fairies had ever heard.  The fox carried the Fairies right to the edge of the stone altar in the center of the grove, then knelt down.  "Look!" said Elder Blossom as they slid to the snow covered ground.  "There is the Maiden and the Mother and the OLD Wise One, And many other Little People." "They are all smiling and happy," said Lilac as she looked around at all the creatures.  "All the animals are here too," whispered Dandelion.  "Why are they all looking at the Mother?" The Fairies moved closer to the three Ladies seated on the altar stone.  The Mother held a bundle close in Her arms, smiling down at it.  The Maiden reached down and took the Fairies gently in her hands.  She held them close to the Mother so they could see what She held.  "A Baby!" the Fairies cried.  " A new little Baby! Look how he glows!" "He is the newborn Sun King," said the Maiden smiling.  “But Brown Knobby and the old oak tree said the Sun King was dead," the Fairies answered her.  "How can this little baby be the Sun King?" "That is the secret of the Winter Solstice." The Old Wise One touched the baby's cheek with her wrinkled hand.  "Every year the Sun King must come to the Sacred Grove during the darkest days of winter where he dies.  I take his spirit to the Mother who gives him new life again.  This is the way for all creatures, not just the Sun King." " You mean everything lives and dies and lives again?”  The Fairies looked down in wonder at the baby Sun King, nestled in the arms of the Mother.  "Yes Little Ones," answered the Old Wise One.  "There is never an end to life.  This is the great mystical secret of the Winter Solstice." The Fairies laughed because they were so happy.  "I think the little Sun King should have gifts," said Rose.  "I will show him where the wild roses bloom in the early summer." "And, I will teach him to call the birds and listen to the songs of the wind," exclaimed Dandelion.  "When he is older and stronger, " said the Mother, "then the flowers will bloom at his touch, the birds will return to sing their songs, and the air will be warm from his breath, and winter will be gone for a time.  Then the Sun King will run and play with you in the forest." The little Fairies sang to the Baby Sun King, songs of the coming spring, the sweet smelling flowers, the bumbling bees, and all the secrets of the forest.  And all the creatures within the Sacred Grove sang with them.  Then the fox took them back to their snug home under the roots of the giant oak tree where they dreamed wonderful dreams, waiting for the warmth of spring and the fun they would have with the little Sun King.

Welcome to the CircleOfOne Archives

https://circleofone1.blogspot.com

Go Mbeannaigh    (Gaelic, Ireland - Blessed Be)

Beannaichte Be    (Gaelic, Scotland - Blessed Be)

Sonqongi Apukuna Wak'aychasunkiku

   (Quechua, Peru - May the Heart of the Mountain bless you)

Xut Kala Xetl     (Tlingit, Alaska - Blessed Be)

Seja Abençoado     (Portuguese, Portugal - Blessed Be)

Winter Solstice 2000 CO1

Yule 12/23/00

 

Altar Devotions

 

Purifying the Area

Statement of Intent

HPS:    Thank you everyone for joining us for our Yule Celebration.  Tonight is a night for new beginnings, a fresh start.  It’s a time of releasing those things that hold us back so that we may look toward the New Year with light hearts and open minds.  But most of all, we’re here this evening to celebrate, to have a good time.  A great time.  A time to remember as the New Year draws around us. 

 

HP:    For those of you who are new tonight we’d like to take a few minutes to introduce ourselves.  My name is ... and I will be your High Priest for the night.  Beside me is ..., who will be your High Priestess.  Starting in the East, I’d like everyone to just say hello and give us your name and a little bit of information about yourself.

 

(Allow time for each person to introduce themselves)

 

HPS:    As most of you know, when we cast circle it includes the entire house and out to the boundaries of the property.  Feel free to visit the bathroom or get a drink if need be...although we do suggest you do that NOW and not LATER so that you don’t miss out on any of the good stuff.

 

Casting the Circle

(HP/HPS light the luminaries clockwise, chanting)

May this circle be cast in light and love

(Cast the circle a second time, everyone holding hands and chanting)

 I cast this circle hand to hand

 

Calling Quarters

EAST:    I call upon the Angels of the East.  We ask that you bring with you the powers of the East.  With your springtime breezes, clear the way for new beginnings and fresh starts.  Make room for the new with your winds of change.  Charge us tonight and center us in your glorious light. So Mote it Be.

 

SOUTH:    I call forth the Angels of the South.  We ask that you carry with you the powers of the South.  With your summer sunshine, burn away the endings that hold us back.  As we take back our power, shine your brilliant rays upon our goals.  Empower us tonight with the means to enrich our self worth.  So Mote it Be.

 

WEST:    I call upon the Angels of the West.  We ask that you bring with you the powers of the West.  With your fall rains, wash away the fears we have that prevent us from giving of ourselves.  Encourage us to hold out our hands to others.  Teach us tonight to have mercy on those who shed tears.  So Mote it Be.

 

NORTH:    I call forth the Angels of the North.  We ask that you carry with you the powers of the North, with your winter cold, bring a gentle death to unnecessary and harmful habits that inhibit our growth, open our lives to new paths.  Show us tonight how to keep our feet planted firmly in the earth as we continue to reach for the stars.  So Mote it Be.

 

Anointing & Smudging

(With the smelly of choice, with the incense of choice)

    

Unite energies

Group OM

 

All stand and join hands.  Start with three deep breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth.  Relax, release the tensions of the day.  (Group Om x3)

HPS:    Tonight, although she is not yet visible, the moon is still there.  Her silver light still fills the night sky.  Reach upward, into the sky and touch that gentle light.  Invite our Silver Lady to join us tonight.   Draw a slender ribbon of that positive energy down into yourselves, letting it settle in your heart chakra.  All around us the earth is moving into slumber.  If you listen quietly you can hear his gentle breathing.  Reach down into the earth and touch his beating heart.  Invite our Golden Lord to join us tonight.  Once more draw a slender ribbon of that positive energy up into yourselves, letting it join with the silver light now resting in your heart chakras.  Watch the two lights as they intertwine with each other.  Feel them expanding and filling your chest cavities.  Allow them to spill down into your left arms and into the right hand of the person next to you.  As they move watch your light move up that persons arm and join with their light before moving on around the circle.  Watch your light as it continues on twisting with the others until it become a strong cord moving freely around the circle.  Now push that circle of light out towards the edges of the property, to strengthen the circle already in place.  From edge to edge, above and below, this circle is now sealed.  Silver Lady, Golden Lord  join us this night.  Walk beside us, guide our hearts, celebrate your seasons with us.  With malice toward no-one, and harm to none, if our Lord and Lady so desire it, then let it be done. So Mote it Be.

Invocation

 

HPS:    Silver Lady, we ask that you join us this night in everlasting love and friendship.  Bring with you the cool breezes and bright light of the season.  The warm thoughts of family and home.  Play with us on this festive night.  Be with us now.

 

HP:    Golden Lord, we ask that you join us this night in everlasting laughter and harmony.  Bring with you the heartwarming smells and pleasing sounds of the season.  Let the taste of Yuletide cheer linger on our tongues.  Play with us on this festive night.  Be with us now.

 

Name the Working

HPS:   For the workings tonight, we are going to take a journey through the Wheel of the year.  Just a small one.  As we each enter the quarters, we will be told what to do.  But for now, please just follow along...(HP/HPS lead the group to the East)

 

Perform the Work

(All participants are invited to stand and move to the East)

EAST:    On the Wheel of the Year, Springtime is in the East.  It is the time of the Maiden, of fresh birth and new beginnings.  What went before, will be forgotten, replaced  with new experiences, new challenges, uncharted paths.  Tonight, when you come into the East, stop a moment to light an incense, to clean away anything that you wish to leave behind and to clear the way for all that is yet to come. (Quarter follows the last of the group)

 

(As people enter the South)

SOUTH:    And the Wheel of the Year turns to Summer.  Now in the South it is the time of the Mother, the Warrior.  It is a time of strength and power, when all things are possible.  Tonight when you come into the South we will spend a moment in the warmth of the fire.  Using the herbs and spices, make an affirmation that you are willing to take back your power, that you are willing to stand strong in the days to come.  Say the words to yourself or out loud as you toss the herbs and spices into the fire.  (Quarter follows the last of the group)

 (As people enter the West)

WEST:    Once more the Wheel of the Year turns.  Fall, or Autumn, is in the West and it is the time of the Crone.  The thread of life has been measured and is now waiting to be cut.  Now is a time of confidence and understanding, there is still much life to be lived,  but time can now be spent on giving and teaching.   Tonight, when you come into the West, choose a flower and make a wish that will benefit someone else in your life.  Set the flower to float in the water. (Quarter follows the last of the group)

(As people enter the North)

 

NORTH:    

The Wheel of the Year turns from Winter.  In the North, it is a time that has no time.  This is the place between Death and Life yet to come.  It is a time when all that went before is reviewed and remembered.  All is quiet, waiting, there is an air of expectation.  Tonight when you come into the North, take a moment to remember this past year, perhaps whisper a word of thanks.  Then take a stone from the basket as a reminder of things past and the promises of the future. (Quarter follows the last of the group)

 

Raise Power

(Singing, Drumming, and Dancing)

 

Cakes and Ale

HPS:    Silver Lady, Bless this wine and infuse it with Your love.

              May you never thirst.

HP:    Golden Lord, Bless these cakes and infuse them with Your love.

            May you never hunger

 

Releasing the Quarters

NORTH:    We thank you, Angels of the North, for joining us this night.  We thank you for your winter cold, bringing a gentle death to all that is unnecessary and the harmful habits that inhibit our growth.  Thank you for  opening our lives to new paths for showing us tonight how to keep our feet planted firmly in the earth as we continue to reach for the stars.  Go if you must, stay if you will.  Hail and Farewell.

 

WEST:    We thank you, Angels of the West, for joining us this night.  We thank you for your fall rains, washing away the fears we have that prevent us from giving of  ourselves.  Thank you for encouraging us to hold out our hands to others.  For teaching us tonight to have mercy on those who shed tears.  Go if you must, stay if you will.  Hail and Farewell.

 

SOUTH:    We thank you, Angels of the South, for joining us this night.  We thank you for your summer sunshine, burning away the endings that hold us back.  Thank you for shining your brilliant rays upon our goals.  For empowering us tonight with the means to enrich our self worth.  Go if you must, stay if you will.  Hail and Farewell.

 

EAST:    We thank you, Angels of the East, for joining us this night.  We thank you for your springtime breezes, clearing the way for new beginnings and fresh starts.  Thank you for making room for the new with your winds of change.   For charging us tonight and centering us in your glorious light. Go if you must, stay if you will.  Hail and Farewell.

 

Thanks 

HPS:    Silver Lady, we thank you for joining us this night in everlasting love and friendship.  We thank you for the cool breezes and bright light of the season. The warm thoughts of family and home.  Thank you for playing with us on this festive night. 

 

HP:    Golden Lord, we thank you for joining us this night in everlasting laughter and harmony.  We thank you for bringing with you the heartwarming smells and pleasing sounds of the season.  For letting the taste of Yuletide cheer linger on our tongues.  Thank you for playing with us on this festive night.

 

Opening the  Circle

HPS:    Earth will crumble our circle. Water will cause it to fall.  Fire will burn what’s left in the urn and the Winds will scatter it all!!  

 

HP:    May this circle be open, but unbroken.  Merry we meet, Merry we part and Merry may we meet again.

 

Feast and Gift Trade

FREE GIFT SWAP: Bring a gift, to get a gift. Bring a Pre-wrapped gift to add to the Gift Table. Re-Cycled, Re-Used, Re-Gifted or Re-Purposed Gifts have to be pre-wrapped and cost nothing to buy everything has to be FREE.

Yuletide Carols

Lady Moon

(To Little Town of Bethlehem)

 

Lady Moon shines softly down

To light the earth below

As we her children gather here

Around the Yule fire’s glow

We wait for mornings dawning

First light of holy birth

Our Lady turns the wheel of life

Her sun returns to Earth

With joy we’ll greet his dawning

A new year has begun

With increased light is bright new hope

Reborn is everyone.

Wiccan Wonderland

(To Winter Wonderland)

 

Pagans sing, are you listenin’

Altar’s set, candles glisten

It’s a magickal night, we’re having tonight

Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

 

Blades held high, censer smoking

God and Goddess, we’re invoking

Through Elements Five, we celebrate life

Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

 

(Chorus)

In a circle we can light a Yule fire

And await the rising of the Sun

It’s the Great Wheel turning for the new year

Loaded with abundance and great fun

 

Queen of Heaven, is in her place

Triple goddess, now the Crone face

Above and below, She’s the Goddess we know

Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

 

Now the God, is the provider

Supplying game for our fire

Above and below, He’s the Horned One we know

Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

 

(Chorus)

Later on, by the fire

Cone of power, gettin’ higher

It’s a magickal night, we’re having tonight

Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

Joy To The World

(To...guess what?)

 

Joy to the world! the Lord has come

Let earth receive her King.

Let every heart prepare him room

And Heav’n and Nature sing

And Heav’n and Nature sing

And Heav’n, and Heav’n and Nature sing.

 

Joy to the world!  The Sun returns

Our Lady gives Him birth

The living light will warm our hearts

And wake the sleeping Earth

And wake the sleeping Earth

And wake, and wake the sleeping Earth.

 

Light we the fires to greet our Lord

Our light, our life, our Lord

Let every voice sing praise

And Heav’n and Nature sing

And Heav’n and Nature sing

And Heav’n, and Heav’n and Nature sing.

Silent Night

(To...you guessed it!)

 

Silent Night, Solstice Night

Quiet rest, dim the light

Turning ever the rolling wheel

Bring the winter to comfort and heal

Rest your spirit in peace,

Rest your spirit in peace.

 

Silent Night, Solstice Night

All is calm, all is right

Nature slumbers in forest and glen

Filling streams she wakens again

Sleeping spirits grow strong,

Sleeping spirits grow strong.

 

Silent Night, Solstice Night

Silver Moon, shining bright

Snowfall blankets the slumbering Earth

Yule fires welcome the Sun’s return

Hark the light is reborn,

Hark the light is reborn.

 

Gods Rest Ye, Merry Pagan Folk

(you know this one too!!)

 

Gods rest ye, merry Pagan folk, let nothing you dismay.

Remember that the Sun returns upon this Solstice day!

The growing dark is ended now and Spring is on its way -

O, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.

O, tidings of comfort and joy.

 

The Winter's worst still lies ahead, fierce tempest, snow and rain.

Beneath the blanket on the ground, the spark of Life remains!

The Sun's warm rays caress the seeds to raise life's songs again -

O, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.

O, tidings of comfort and joy.

 

Within the blessed apple lies the Promise of the Queen,

For from the pentacle shall rise the orchards fresh and green!

The Earth shall blossom once again, the air is sweet and clean -

O, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.

O, tidings of comfort and joy.

 

Gods rest ye, merry Pagan folk, let nothing you dismay.

Remember that the Sun returns upon this Solstice day!

The growing dark is ended now, and Spring is on its way -

O, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.

O, tidings of comfort and joy.

Welcome to the CircleOfOne Archives

https://circleofone1.blogspot.com

Go Mbeannaigh    (Gaelic, Ireland - Blessed Be)

Beannaichte Be    (Gaelic, Scotland - Blessed Be)

Sonqongi Apukuna Wak'aychasunkiku

   (Quechua, Peru - May the Heart of the Mountain bless you)

Xut Kala Xetl     (Tlingit, Alaska - Blessed Be)

Seja Abençoado     (Portuguese, Portugal - Blessed Be)