Samhain Sabbat 2000 CO1

I think this was one of the most complicated Rituals we've ever done. The first time we presented this was 2000 at Boyd Hill, the 2nd time 2005 in Tampa. Both times with an attendance of over 200 people with clergy from other faiths invited to attend. This was also one of the most memorable for a lot of people. Twenty years later we still had people approaching us to let us know it was their favorite.

Samhain 2000

(All members of the 'Crew' (5 Minions, 5 Quarters) are dressed in black including the HP & HPS. The Angel of Death (AOD) is dressed in white and hidden among the participants. The five quarters are also positioned among the participants around the circle.  A brilliant altar for the dead is set up just outside the West gate, the candles unlit. A 2nd small altar is just inside the West gate.)

I MISS YOU MOST  - Summerland Keeper

I miss you most upon each Samhain, when the boundary turns to sheer. I wait until the veil is parted, at the ending of the year. Sweet spirit, as you walk among us, at the tolling of this eve.

I see your face beyond the sunset, and hear your voice upon the breeze. In the glowing of the candle, from the shadow on the wall.

I watch for you in every movement, and hear your footsteps in the hall. Can you sit and spend the evening as the portals open wide? Ancestral dead, I bid you welcome, most recent dead, I pray, abide. When you come I sense your presence, I put my hand out in the air.

A moment, then, we stand united, palm-to-palm while waiting there. I miss you most upon each Samhain, when the boundary turns to sheer. We share these hours until the dawning, then bid farewell until next year.

(After the poem, leaves through the Western gate to prepare the Summerland's by lighting all the candles on the altar)

 

SUMMARY OF THE HOLIDAY - HP & HPS

HPS: Welcome to  our Full Moon Samhain Celebration.  This holiday normally takes place on the 31st of October and is also known as Halloween, Feast of the Dead and All Hallows Eve.  The Goddess is seen as the Wise Crone, the God is Lord of the Underworld.  The Goddess of agriculture relinquishes Her power over the earth to the Horned God of the Hunt.  Leaves are falling and nights are growing longer.  Samhain marks the beginning of the season of death.  We remember ancestors both recent and from the distant past.  This is the time when barriers between man and the supernatural are lowered.  Fires are lit to honor the descending Sun God.  On the eve of Samhain, the gates of the Abyss are unlocked and spirits from below fly free.  Human souls that have been trapped in the bodies of animals are released by the lord of the dead and sent to their new incarnations.  The veil between the spirit world and us is thin.  This is the time to communicate with the spirit realm, to pass messages or wishes on to loved ones who have crossed the veil.

 

HP: Tonight, some of us will take a journey through that veil as well.  And when you have pierced the veil, this is when you should connect with those loved ones.  Tell them you miss them and wish them well, give them blessings and thanks for the effect they had on your lives.  Or give them a message, something you might not have been able to tell them while they were here.  At this time, I would like everyone to join hands for a Group Ohm.  This will help to ground our bodies to the here and now, so that as our soul’s journey to visit loved ones in the Summerland, they have a home to come back to.

 

GROUNDING - HPS

Group OHM 

 

CASTING THE CIRCLE - HP & HPS

(HP will stand at the altar w/Athame overhead while HPS walks the circle w/Athame pointed outwards, marking the boundaries.)

 

We conjure thee, by spirits power, a circle now around us stand!

We trace the path between the worlds, a boundary line of Gods and man.

Once around We trace the path, twice it turns to flame.

Three times ‘round, a wall of fire that, within, we shall remain

This ground is sacred, consecrated by the power of earth and air.

We conjure fire to cleanse our hearts and waters deep to guard us here.

In the name of She who watches, in the name of He who stands.

This Circle bright is bound ‘round us while Spirit works its mighty plan.

As above, from crown of heaven, now below it is revealed.

Magic Circle of Nature’s Fortress by my words your power is sealed.

Blessed Be

 

CALLING THE QUARTERS - HP & HPS

 (HP and HPS stand facing each other at the altar as they call the quarters.  As each quarter is called, they will walk forward from the outer circle into their quarter position, which will be marked out with tape.)

 

HPS: Guardians of the Realm of Water, We ask for you to join in this rite.  Bring with you your deep mysteries and vitality.  Lend us your power to speak freely of ourselves.  We Bid You Welcome.

HP: Guardians of the Realm of Air, We ask for you to join in this rite.  Bring with you your inner peace and serenity.  Lend us your power to see what keeps us content.  We Bid You Welcome.

Together: Guardians of the Realm of Fire, We ask for you to join in this rite.  Bring with you your zest for life and vibrant nature.  Lend us your power to know the importance of fun.  We Bid You Welcome.

HPS: Guardians of the Spirit Realm, We ask for you to join in this rite.  Bring with you your knowledge of what has passed and what has yet to be.  We Bid You Welcome.

HP: Guardians of the Realm of Earth, We ask for you to join in this rite.  Bring with you your nurturing spirit and solidity.  Lend us your power to hear the sounds of the earth and be one.  We Bid You Welcome.

 

(HP and HPS are in Western Quarter - Here they will pick up the basket holding the white cord)

 

HPS:  Walking towards the East quarter...

Darksome night and shining moon, hearken to the Witches Rune

Spirit, east and south, west and north, hear us now we call thee forth.

East responds - I am the Guardian of the Eastern Realm.  I am here.

 

HP:  Walking towards the South quarter...

By all the powers of the land and sea, be obedient unto me

Wand and pentacle, cup and sword, hearken ye unto my word

  South responds - I am the Guardian of the Southern Realm.  I am here.

 

HPS:  Walking towards the Spirit quarter...

Cord and Censor, totem and knife, waken ye, all into life

By all the powers of the Witch’s blade, come ye now as the charge is made

Spirit responds - I am the Guardian of the Spirit Realm.  I am here.

 

HP:  Walking towards the North quarter...

Queen of Heaven, Queen of Hell, send your aid unto our spell.

Horned Hunter of the Night, work our will by Magick rite

North responds - I am the Guardian of the Northern Realm.  I am here.

 

HPS:  Walking towards the West quarter...

By all the powers of land and sea, as we will So Mote It Be

By all the might of moon and sun, as we say, it shall be done.

West responds - I am the Guardian of the Western Realm.  I am here.

(Once the quarters have been called, the HP and HPS will have a white rope, which they will use to draw a pentacle.  Handing the rope to each quarter so that the pentacle is suspended in the air. Once all points of the pentacle have been cast, they will be dropped to the ground, where the quarters will stand on each point to hold it in place.)

INVOCATION OF THE GOD AND GODDESS

 HPS: 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, we ask your presence to join with that of our High Priest.  So Mote It Be

 HP: 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, we ask your presence to join with that of our High Priestess.  So Mote It Be

 HPS: And now, we begin our Dance with Death...

(Minions come screaming and shrieking from the West quarter, through the gates of the Summerland, passing one time around the circle and then quietly collecting the Angel of Death.  The AOD will then begin randomly walking the circle, “choosing” those whom she wishes to pass through the veil by handing them a candle.  The minions will escort those chosen to the gates of the Summerland.)

 

DANCING WITH DEATH

 (Do this while the minions are escorting participants to the West quarter)

HP: You begin your walk toward Death the moment you are conceived.  Your Life is your walk toward Death.  And each day your Life brings you one day closer to Death.  Every day you have the opportunity to ask yourself: “How will I walk today on my way to Death?  How will I live?  By others’ fears?  Or by my own unique truth?  In beauty, in joy, with awareness?  From my heart?”

 

Consciously or unconsciously, with acceptance or denial, every day you move one day nearer to your Death.  Is today a good day to die?  Are you complete?  Have you lived fully?  Have you honored your dreams?  Can you look Death in the eye without regret?

 

Death is not honorable in today’s dominant Western culture.  Death is set apart from Life, portrayed as if it were to be feared, as if it were opposed to Life.

 

Death and Life are lovers.  They are dancing partners.  One does not exist without the other.  Giving birth gives Death, for Death comes to all who are born.  Death makes way for new Life, for is it not said that all who die will be reborn?  Death and Life in loving embrace: Death and Life dancing.  For there is only the Dance, only the walk, the path, your way from Birth to Death and back to Birth again.

 

Yes, your Death is certain, but not predictable.  Your Death is known, yet it honors chaos: It neither avoids you when you would hold it off, nor arrives docilely when you call.  There is no medical miracle, no right thinking, no correct eating, no Magick, no saintliness, no bargain with God - or Goddess - which can avert or avoid the truth of your Death.

 

Your Death waits patiently at the end of your path, around a bend you haven’t noticed, hidden from sight.  Your Death.  Your Way.  In your own time.

 

HPS: So many modern healers, alternative, and orthodox alike, fear Death.  A diagnosis is made, and Death becomes the enemy.  Fear of Death - rather than love of Life - chooses the treatment.  When you remember that every path ends in Death, you can begin to Dance with your Death: your choices multiply and you find your way through the Fear.  You find ways to love your Life without clinging.  You find ways to honor your Death.

 

Yes, we know, Death still calls forth Fear in you.  It is hard to honor it.  Let us hold you.  Rest in our gentle strength.  Let us teach you to embrace your Fear, to embrace the truth of your Fear: For with Death your body ceases to be you.

 

How can you honor your Fear of Death?  Dance in the space between knowing and not knowing, between being and not being, between living and dying.  We are here to hold you in your confusion.  We who are steeped with the wisdom of the years, we who have seen the spiraling Dance of Life and Death we have something to show you.  We will hold you in the midst of chaos.  We will hold you safely; we will hold you close, now and whenever you call.

 

(As those chosen are directed into the Summerland, the Summerland Keeper will instruct them on what tasks to accomplish while they are there (observing the ancestor altar, sending messages to loved ones, a brief prayer) and what they need to do with their candles.  As each person exits the Summerland, they will light their candle from the candles the Gatekeepers are holding.  The Summerland Keeper will also make sure that they know to keep their candles lit, as they return to their places in the circle.  At that point, the HP will instruct them on what to do.)

 

(Once all the souls have been escorted to the Summerland's, the crew will quickly remove the pentacle and center altar to prepare for the "Celebration of Life")

 

HPS:  Those of you who have visited the Summerland and rejoin the circle, we ask that you pass your lit candle to someone who has not made the journey.  If your candle has extinguished itself, there will be minions to relight them.  We ask that those receiving the candles then concentrate on putting a message to a loved one who has passed on into the flame of that candle.  Once you feel that your message has been absorbed into the flame, blow it out, sending your message back to the flames at the Gates of the Summerland and on to those we love.

 

HP:  From the dawn of your birth, to the sunset of your death - We honor you.

From the missions you completed, to your duties left undone - We honor you.

   

HPS:  From the seasons of your being, through the cycle of your life - We honor you.  From your time beyond the veil, till your earthly entrance back again - We honor you

   

May the angels support you, may Spirit surround you. May our healing love reach you, from this moment until the end of time. So Mote It Be

 

CELEBRATION OF THE CYCLE OF LIFE

(The song Celebrate will be played over the loudspeakers.  All crew will come out dancing in funny/weird shoes, hats etc.)

CAKES AND ALE - SWEETS AND CIDER

(Cakes will be Trick or Treat candy bags, Ale will be Dark wine and Hawaiian Punch)

 

Together:  The golden rays of sun kissed the grain

Sweet drops of rain caressed the fruit

Streams of moonlight danced in the fields

Sending energy into the root

 

HPS:  Blessings of the Mother

HP:  Strength of the Father

Together:  Unity of love, So Mote It Be

(Sign of the pentacle passed over the offerings.  At this point, 3 people will begin passing drink while the rest gently "toss" the treat bags from the center of the circle)

 

HPS:  Birth, death and rebirth. The Wheel will turn ever more and the cycle will continue. As we must also continue on and return to our earthly realm. Please join us in thanking those spirits who have gathered here to witness this Rite.

 

RELEASING THE GOD AND GODDESS

HP:  Great Mother, we thank Thee for Thy presence and for bearing witness to this Rite. When we gaze into the midnight sky or feel the warm winds upon our faces, we shall remember Thee. As You return our High Priestess to us, we bid Thee Hail and Farewell.

 

HPS:  Great Father, we thank Thee for Thy presence and for bearing witness to this Rite. We shall remember Thee when we see Your Spirit shining in the midday sky and in the shadows of the dancing flames. As You return our High Priest to us, we bid Thee Hail and Farewell.

 

RELEASING THE QUARTERS

HPS:  Guardians of the Realm of Earth- you did come as we had asked. We thank thee for bringing your nurturing spirit and solidity, and for lending us your power to hear the sounds of the earth and be one. As you return to your fair and lovely realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell.

HP:  Guardians of the Spirit Realm - you did come as we had asked. We thank thee for bringing your knowledge of what has passed and what has yet to be. As you return to your fair and lovely realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell.

HPS:  Guardians of the Realm of Fire- you did come as we had asked. We thank thee for bringing your zest for life and vibrant nature and for lending us your power to know the importance of fun. As you return to your fair and lovely realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell.

HP:  Guardians of the Realm of Air- you did come as we had asked. We thank thee for bringing your inner peace and serenity and for lending us your power to see what keeps us content. As you return to your fair and lovely realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell.

HP:  Guardians of the Realm of Water- you did come as we had asked. We thank thee for bringing your deep mysteries and vitality and for lending us your power to speak freely of ourselves. As you return to your fair and lovely realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell.

 

OPENING THE CIRCLE

(The HP will stand at the altar with athame raised as the HPS walks the circle with athame lowered, opening the circle.)

 

HP:  Magick Circle of Nature’s Fortress, your power We now unseal,

And from crown of heaven to far below, our presence We reveal.

The Circle dims around us, Spirit weaves its mighty plan,

For it is us She watches and beside us where He stands.

Sacred flames die down to embers, waters become calm and fair,

As we leave this sacred ground to the power of earth and air.

As we once again trace the path, We part the wall of flame,

And send the sacred fires back to whence they all came.

Circle of Art, your power is released and no longer shall you stand,

As we return from between the worlds, back to the realm of man.

So Mote It Be.

 

HPS:  This circle is open, but unbroken.  Merry have we met, Merry may we part, to Merry Meet again

 

Loud cheering and clapping

 

FEASTING

Welcome to the CircleOfOne Archives

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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)

Hand Fasting, Samhain 2001 CO1

Hand Fasting, Samhain 2001

Altar Devotions

Purify the Area

Salute

HPS

The Lord and Lady have always been there for us, since before time was.                     

They were there in the scents of the Earth

in the whisper of the Wind

in the warmth of the Sun

in the refreshing coolness of a Mountain Stream.

They have always been there for us, even before we understood.

They are there in the magick of the Moonlight

in the wonder of a Sunrise

in the freedom of an Open Field

in the comfort of a Sheltering Forest.

Tonight, they will be here with us as we ask them to walk beside this couple who come before us to pledge their Love. 

  

Cast Circle

(Light the incense and place it into the bottle - hold in the center of the Circle)

HP: Protection: cast with fire and Air.

Mists of North, South, East, and West - Rise with haste per my bequest.   Thrice Circle round, in and out, from the bottle, out the spout.   We cast this circle in the name of the Golden Lord.  We set its boundaries with elements of his choosing.  May he protect us this night.  

HPS: Love: cast with Water and Earth.

We cast this circle in the name of the Silver Lady.  We seal its boundaries with elements of her choosing.  May she hold us in her embrace.  

HP:     Hope: cast with Acorns.   

We cast this circle in the name of Hope.   Let all who dwell within it’s boundaries find Hope in themselves and in their futures.   

HPS:    We bless this circle with these offerings.  Let them find fertile ground and take root.  As they grow may the love of this couple grow with them.   This Circle is now sealed. So Mote It Be.

Call Quarters

HP/HPS:

We call upon Earth.  Let your presence provide the foundation for this union.

We call upon Fire. Let your flames ignite the passion of life within this couple.

We call upon Air.  Let your wind enrich this joining with the knowledge of communication.  

We call upon Water.  Let your essence caress this commitment in it’s loving embrace.  

Anoint

May the presence of the Divine be ever in your heart.

Invocation

COUPLE:    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.

COUPLE: 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

Drawing Down the Moon

Hear now the thoughts of the God and Goddess.  You, who have been with us since before time was, share with us now your message  this night.

HP In an earlier age I was called Herne, Osiris, Zeus, Cernunos and by many other names.  I am the strength of the rock at thy back, the roots of the tree that anchor the Earth and deepest of tides in the black depths of the ocean.  I am the Hunter and the Sacred Prey, the warmth of the sun in the swelling grapes and the call of the road that leads over the hill.  

HPS In the mists of time I was called Brigid, Demeter, Hera, Cerridwen, and by many other names.   I am the quickening of the seed in Springtime, the glory of ripe fields in Summer, and the peace of the quiet woods as the snow calms the Earth in Winter.  I am the lilt of the maidens' melody in the morning, the patient hand of the Mother and the deep river of the mysteries taught by moonlight.  

HP I give you, my children, the fire of love, the power of the wind on your face, shelter from the darkest storm.  You are dear to me, and I instill in you my power...the power of peace hard earned, the power of vision and magical sight, and the spark of elemental fire, which is the primal light in the darkness.

HPS I give you, my children, the gifts of song rising from the heart, the joy of autumn sunset, the cool touch of the renewing waters, and the compelling call of the drum in the dance.  To you I give the joy of creation and the companion of beauty to light your days.  

HP By the powers of  the running stag and the glorious sun, I charge thee; by the darkest depths of night and the lingering tendrils of dreams, I charge thee; and by the beauty of your own creation, I charge thee; Follow your heart and your instinct, wherever they lead you.  The wealth of the heart will guide you where the cold edge of logic cannot take you.    Take joy in the powers of your bodies.  The form your body takes is unique in the universe and is chief among your tools.  

HPS By the powers of the steadfast Earth and the wheeling stars I charge thee; by the darkness of death and the white light of birth I charge thee; and by the terrible strength of your human spirits, I charge thee:  Strive always for the growth of your eternal soul, never intentionally diminish your strength, your compassion, your ties to the earth or your knowledge.   Challenge your mind, never accept complacently that which has been the standard merely for the reason that it is the standard by which the majority judges.   Act always for the betterment of your brothers and sisters.  To strengthen them is to forge the true chain of humanity, and a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.  

HP Lastly, always remember the path you have left behind you.  Learn to take your power from the foolish things you have wrought as well as the good you have done for others and for your self.  You can never usurp another's power, and yours is the well upon which you must rely.

HPS You are my children, my brothers and sisters and my companions.  You are known in great part by the company you keep, and you are strong and wise and full of the powers of life.  It is yours to use them in my service, and I also, am known by the company I keep.  

HP I am with you always, just over your shoulder, running with you through the tall grasses and forests that surround you.  I possess you and I am your Sacred Prey.  I am the Lord of Death, and when you have come to the end of your life on this world, I will be there; to take you between the worlds, to offer you peace and rest.  Look upon my face; know me.  I am the spirit of the wild things, but you too, are wild in your souls and we are forever intertwined." 

HPS Go forth in joy and the light of my love, turning to me without fear when the darkness threatens to overcome you, and turning also to me to share your triumphs and your achievements, and know in your heart of hearts that we are together in blood and spirit ‘til the last star darkens in the sky and winter comes to the universe.

Name the Working

(bring the couple to the center of the Circle)

Tonight, ... and ... renew their vows of devotion to each other. They come as two people, separate, different. They accept and love each other as they are, both the dark and the light, the good and the bad. Two halves of a perfect whole. Complete.

HP: Trials will come, and tests, for there is much in this world that would long to pull you apart.   Come with us now on a journey which will bring strength and vision to your relationship, courage and understanding.

North:    Oftentimes family and friends can create a wedge between those who are bonded.  Are you prepared to look to each other for comfort?

South:    Do your understand that you will not always agree and that there will be times of  heated disagreement?

East:    Do you realize that there will be times when communicating your thoughts and desires to your partner will be difficult?

West:    Do you acknowledge the fact that your bonding will bring  both tears of joy and tears of pain?

HPS:    Joys will come, graces and blessings will warm your souls and give you wonder.  The path you have chosen will bring thanksgiving and rejoicing to this relationship, laughter and abandon.

HPS:    Do you, ..., take ... to be your beloved partner, to love, honor and cherish?

Response: I do.

HPS:    Do you, ..., take ... to be your beloved partner, to love, honor and cherish?

Response: I do.

Blessing of the Rings

(Take the rings from the HP/HPS and recite the Blessing together)

These rings represents a journey with out beginning or end, they are a symbol of the Circle of Life.   In the presence of the Lord and Lady, we ask that they bless these rings so that your Journey of Love never ends.  

(Hand the rings to ... and ... and ask them to repeat the vow as they place their rings on each others fingers)

North, South, East, West

To the Lord and Lady we do attest

West, East, South, North

To love each other from this day forth.

HPS: Does the couple have any words they wish to say to each other?

Perform the Work

Handfasting:

HPS: With this ribbon I now join ... hand with ..., as a symbol of the joining of their lives.   This is the actual act of Handfasting.   By the powers of Earth and Fire, Air and Water, may your lives ever be joined together in love.

Jumping the Broom:

HP: Jumping the broom is a very ancient custom.   The broom, or besom as it was once called, symbolizes the creation of a hearth and home together.   As you step over the broom, realize that you step into your futures together as well.   Two people, bound together as one.

Pronouncement:

HPS: ... and ..., in the presence of this company and of the Goddess and God, you have spoken your vows and performed the rites which unite your lives.   Therefore do we now pronounce you joined together as partners in life, love and spirit.

HP: ... and ..., may your lives together be as sweet as this honey, a gift of the Goddess.   You may now kiss to seal your vows to each other.

Great Rite

HP: The Mother protects the seed and nurtures it so that it may bloom.  She lends her essence to the wonder of the universe.  May the two of you nurture your love so that it too may bloom and share its wonder.

HPS:    The Father bolsters the seed providing the energy so that it may blossom.  He lends his strength to protect all that it is.  May the two of you always support your union and guard it from without.

... & ...    Let it be known that nothing masculine is greater than the Feminine,

And that nothing feminine is greater than the masculine. Each is part of the other and only the balance of the two can lead to enlightenment. As the Athame represents the masculine,    And the Chalice represents the feminine, Only when they are joined can perfect balance be found. For only through balance can the Magick of unconditional love be realized.

Cakes and Ale

HPS: Gentle Mother, Would you bless this wine so that all may join in the celebration of this union?

HP: So Mote it Be

Loving Father, Would you bless these cakes so that all may feast in the love of this Couple?

HP: (Cakes and Wine are now offered to couple in the traditional manner)

    So Mote it Be

Release Quarters

... and ... give their thanks to the elements and the Lord and Lady.

Open Circle

HPS:    Mists of West, South, East, and North - return with ease as we called you forth.   Once circle round, down and in, let your energies dwell within.   Back into the bottle, as you once began, to release your presence when opened again.   Blessed Be.

Feast

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)

Angel Moon 2024 Dragonfly

Angel Moon

Circle Dragonfly 10/20/24
Community Workings, Thanks, Earth Focus
 
Altar Set-up/Devotions – Helpers
(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.

 
Cleanse the Area – Helpers
 
Smudge/Anoint Participants – Helpers
(Use oil to anoint the group – clockwise, walk the inside of the circle to anoint and welcome each person in whatever fashion feels comfortable)
 
Unite energies – HP/HPS
(Start with a Round Robin. Introduce yourself, speak a little bit about yourself and encourage the others to do the same - starting with the person to your left.)
 
Meditation/Chant – Helpers
 

The Hunter’s Moon gets its name from the role it plays in our ancient connection to the seasons of nature. With its appearance in the sky, it marks a time when the wilderness wakes up, and the hunt for food becomes essential. Nestled in the heart of autumn, the Hunter Moon casts its light upon the world, helping hunters at night and guiding their way through the darkened forests. In the embrace of this moon, we’re invited to consider the delicate balance of life and death. And to honor the beautiful dance of nature’s cycles. October’s full moon serves as a gentle reminder to pause and pay attention to the changes happening around us. Its beautiful glow, akin to the warm glow of a campfire, offers an opportunity for connection. Whether it’s through quiet moonlit strolls or gatherings that celebrate the season, this moon invites us to enjoy ourselves in its silvery light.

 

The October full moon is known as the Hunter’s Moon, or Blood Moon. It’s believed to be a time of great power, when the veil between the spiritual world and the mundane world is very thin. This moon is associated with courage and strength, as it is believed to aid hunters in the successful hunt. October is also a time to honor the ancestors and those who have passed on, as it is believed to be a time of spiritual connection. For us it’s also a good time to do spiritual and physical house cleaning, getting rid of what doesn’t serve you in the coming year, be that bad habits or clutter in your home.

 
Cast Circle – HP/HPS

 

First time round, this Circle’s bound.  With wings of light, beauty and sight.

Brilliant Seraphim, Mighty Cherubim, the Stable Thrones of the first sphere.

 

Second time 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

 

Third time round, this Circle’s bound.  With wings of justice, delight and friendship. Righteous Principalities, Glorious Archangels, the Guardian Angels of the third sphere

 

Three times round, this Circle’s bound. Fashioned by the wings of the Angels. We create this Sacred Space, with wings of justice, delight and friendship. Where night and day, birth and death, Joy and sorrow, all meet as one. As above, so it is below.  As without, so it is within. This Circle is now sealed. So, Mote it be.

 
Call Quarters, E/S/W/N – Helpers
 

East:    I call forth the Governor of the East, the Archangel Raphael. Powers of air, blow out the old, Bring in the new on your winds of change. Charge us tonight and center us in your glorious light.

 

South:    I call forth the Governor of the South, the Archangel Michael. Powers of the South, burn away the endings that hold us back.  Shine your gentle rays upon new goals. Guide us tonight to enrich our self-worth

 

West:    I call forth the Governor of the West, the Archangel Gabriel. Powers of the west, cleanse our lives of unnecessary and harmful habits. Drop your renewing rains upon us for growth.  Guide us tonight to have mercy on those who shed tears.

 

North:    I call forth the Governor of the North, the Archangel Uriel. Powers of the North, let your renewing Magick bury old ways, and open new paths before us. Guide us tonight to plant our feet firmly in your riches.

 

Light God/Goddess Candles, Sprinkle Herbs – Helpers
 
Invocation God/Goddess – HP/HPS
 

HPS:  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.

 

HP:  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

 
Spell Work instructions – HP/HPS
 
Perform the Work – HP/HPS
 
Raise Power – HP/HPS 
(Clap hands, begin slow/soft and gradually increase speed/volume)
 
Cakes & Ale – Helpers
 
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.
 
All that we do is in service and in honor to the God and Goddess.  May we never hunger - May we never thirst.  So, mote it be!
 
Thank God/Goddess – HP/HPS

 

Father Sky, Mother Earth

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 our humble tokens of thanks. 

From these Solitary Witches; Who have spoken

And who have been heard. Blessed Be

 
Extinguish Candles – Helpers
(Extinguish all the candles on the Altar)
 
Release Quarters, N/W/S/E – Helpers 
 

North:      Thank you, Archangel Uriel, Governor of the North, Powers of Earth. We welcome the new paths before us. Stay if you will and feast with us, or go if you must. Hail and farewell. So, mote it be.

 

West:        Thank you, Archangel Gabriel, Governor of the west, powers of Water. We welcome our new growth. Stay if you will and feast with us, or go if you must. Hail and farewell. So, mote it be.

 

South:       Thank you, Archangel Michiel, Governor of the West, Powers of Fire. We welcome our new goals. Stay if you will and feast with us, or go if you must. Hail and farewell. So, mote it be.

 

East:          Thank you, Archangel Raphiel, Governor of the East, Powers of Air. We welcome your winds of change. Stay if you will and feast with us, or go if you must. Hail and farewell. So, mote it be.

 
Open Circle – HP/HPS 
May those who guide us with their light, protect us in the dark and walk beside us on the roads traveled - this Circle is open but unbroken, merry meet, merry part and may we merry meet again!
 
Feast – Helpers
 

Hunter's Moon in Aries

Working:   Angels & Elements

Colors:       Orange, Red, Gold

Scents:       Patchouli, Orange, Cinnamon,

Flower:       Poinsettia

Animal:      Deer, Fox

Power:       Release, Letting Go, Renewal, Transformation

Personal:   Reach out to friends, family, the lonely & needy

 

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)

I am Esbat 2008 CO1

 
Full Moon Esbat, October 13, 2008
CircleOfOne Coven & Rowan Tree Grove
 

I am!!

 

Anoint/Welcome

(Quarters; gauntlet inside the door with four elements to greet & welcome)

(Once the last person has entered, collapse the gauntlet with chant and walk

one full circle before returning to their quarters.)

 

CHANT: x3  

She changes everything she touches – And – Everything she touches changes

We are the flow, and we are the Ebb, we are the weavers, and we are the Web

 

Purify/Besom

(Walk counter clockwise (widdershins) to cleanse the Circle with Besom)

 

Unite energies/Grounding

(Everyone stands, arms outstretched, left hand down, right hand up)

 

TOGETHER: x3  

I am one with the Universal Life Energy

It is flowing through my body now, I can feel it

 

Salt & Water

(HP/HPS purify and prepare salt & water)

 

Cast Circle

(HP/HPS walk circle clockwise (Deosil) once with swords)

(Quarters join and walk circle 2nd time with chant.  Everyone splits off 

and move to their quarters when done)

 

CHANT: x3  

We are a Circle, within a Circle - with no beginning, and never ending

 

Call Elements

(ESWN)

I call thee forth that our ritual be witnessed,

Our work be aided and our circle be protected.

 

Water & Incense Circle

(Walk clockwise (Deosil), inside Circle to bless with Water & Incense)

 

Call Quarters

(Everyone moves to the Center to surround Altar, arms raised)

 

TOGETHER:

Hear me, and heed me o ancient and mighty ones,

Look now upon us and guide us in our rite.

 

Invocation/Drawing Down

(HP/HPS stand together, surrounded by other members. 

Place Goddess Circlet on HPS, place God Horns on HP)

 

GODDESS CHANT:

We all come from the Goddess, and to her we shall return

Like a drop of rain, Flowing to the ocean

Isis, Astarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali - Inanna!

Isis, Astarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali - Inanna! (slow)

 

GOD CHANT:

We all come from the Sun God, and to him we shall return

Like a spark of flame, Rising to the Summerlands

Pan, Poseidon, Dionysus, Cernunnos, Mithras, Loki, Apollo

Pan, Poseidon, Dionysus, Cernunnos, Mithras, Loki, Apollo (slow)

 

HPS:    In the mists of time, I was called Brigid, Demeter, Hera, Ceridwin, and by many other names.  I am the quickening of the seed in springtime and the peace of the quiet wood in winter.  By the powers of the steadfast Earth, the darkness of death and the white light of birth, I charge thee; strive always for the growth of your eternal soul.  Challenge your mind, act always for the betterment of your brothers and sisters.  For you are my children.  You are strong and wise and full of the powers of life.  It is yours to use them in my service.  Go forth in the light of my love, turning to me without fear when darkness threatens to overcome you.  Know in your heart of hearts that we are together in blood and spirit ‘til the last star darkens in the sky and winter comes to the universe.

 

HP:  In an earlier age I was called Herne, Osiris, Zeus, Cernunos and by many other names.  I am the strength of the rock at your back; I am the Hunter and the Sacred Prey.  By the powers of the running stag, by the darkest depth of night and the lingering tendrils of dreams, I charge thee; follow your heart and your instinct, wherever they take you.  Take joy in the powers of your bodies.  Learn to take your strength from the foolish things you have wrought as well as the good you have done. For you are dear to me my children and I am with you always.  I am the Lord of Death, and when you have come to the end of your life on this world, I will be there to offer you peace and rest.  I am the Spirit of the wild things, and you too are wild in your souls and we are forever intertwined.

 

Name the Working

(Aries Moon, taking back power, re-affirming things that were lost, I am!!)

Perform the Work

 

Raise Power

 

CHANT: x3  

Hoof and horn, hoof and horn - all that dies shall be reborn

Corn and grain, corn and grain - all that falls shall rise again.

 

Sage and Crone, Sage and Crone - wisdom’s gift shall be our own,

Crone and Sage, Crone and Sage - wisdom is the gift of age.

 

Great Rite/Cakes & Ale

(Vanilla Wafers, Apple Juice & Apple Wine)

(After everyone has shared Cakes & Ale, gather around altar for their own cakes and ale.  When done, turn outward to face participants and begin chant)

 

CHANT: x3

Air I am! Fire I am!      Water, Earth and spirit I am!

 

Thank Spirit & Release Elements & Quarters

 

TOGETHER:

Mighty Ones, we honor and love you

Thank you for attending our Rite and aiding our work

Teach us to live with love and understanding between us

 

Open/Close Circle

 

CLOSING CHANT:

May the circle be open but unbroken

May the Love of the Goddess be ever in your heart

Merry meet, and merry part,

And merry meet again

 

May the circle be open but unbroken

May the Love of the Spirit be ever in your heart

Merry meet, and merry part,

And merry meet again

 

May the circle be open but unbroken

May the Love of the SunGod be ever in your heart

Merry meet, and merry part,

And merry meet again

Feast

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)