Samhuinn Rituals

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Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#21	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (09/28/06 01:29 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	A few Samhuinn chants courtesy of TurningTheWheel.org THIS SAMHAIN NIGHT Author Unknown We Gather Together On This Samhain Night Brothers and Sisters Our Spirits to Unite We'll Dance the Spiral Round In Our Sacred Rite This Samhain Night ****************************************** SAMHAIN CHANT By Burgundy Silver threads Spinning round Ancient spirit Newly found Spiral web Weaving life Blessing us On this night Fires burn Souls sing Shadows dance With things unseen Birth, death Love, life We celebrate Samhain tonight *************************************** SAMHAIN By John Montague Sing a song for the mistress of the bones. The player on the black keys the darker harmonies. Light jig of shoe buckles on a coffin lid. Pale glint of the wrecker's lantern on a jagged cliff. Across the ceaseless glitter of the spume a seagull's creak. The damp haired seaweed stained sorceress marsh light of defeat. Chill of winter a slowly failing fire faltering desire. Darkness of Darkness we meet on our way. *************************************** SAMHAIN FIRES By Lady Isadora Ye Witches hear these tidings: Now Samhain fires are burning Come tread the round on sacred ground: The Sabbat wheel is turning Set your spirits free, blessed be: By earth, air, water and fire Let none have fear who enters here: But fulfillment of desire ***************************************** SAMHAIN CHANT By Anonymous (from Old Path Coven) Now the old year\'s fruit comes to our hand It is the seed of the year that now begins There is no end to the Circle, no end! There is no end to life, there is no end! For we have danced the Spiral Dance The wheel of the year has turned again There is no end to the Circle, no end! There is no end to life, there is no end! Earth we thank you for our strength Air we thank you for your cleansing winds There is no end to the Circle, no end! There is no end to life, there is no end! Thank you Fire for your passion and bright will Thank you Water for the love that flows within There is no end to the Circle, no end! There is no end to life, there is no end! As now we ask your blessings to impart Strength and love come bright into our hearts There is no end to the Circle, no end! There is no end to life, there is no end! May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#22	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (09/29/06 12:02 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Samhain at Home By Dorothy Morrison I love the month of October. Perhaps it's because there's just so much to see and do. Squirrels store nuts for the winter. The fall foliage reaches its color peak. And if that weren't enough, Oktoberfests are in full swing everywhere you look. Add the dancing flame of a hearth fire, the smell of fresh apple cider, and the newfound crispness of the Autumn air, and you can have a party on your hands in nothing flat. Without a doubt, it's my favorite time of the year. For magical practitioners, though, this month has meaning beyond all that. Some of us celebrate Samhain, and help those who have gone before cross safely into the Summerland. Others celebrate the New Year and embrace a time of fresh starts and new beginnings. For all magical practitioners, though - regardless of religion, belief system, or sense of personal values - it marks the time of the year when the veil between the world thins to near non-existence. And that makes it an excellent time for magical workings. Since magical success rates tend to skyrocket now - and most children have very little patience - October is also a good month to introduce your children to spell-casting. When explaining the magical basics, though - the Law of Three, focus and concentration factors, and so forth - do yourself a favor. Keep it simple. Just remember that no one really needs to know the history of the clock in order to tell time. And the same is true of magic. With the basics out of the way, involve the whole family in some of the mini-rituals below. Performing them together will not only add to your child's success, but will actually go far in bringing your family together. And that sort of bond is a magic so strong, so potent, and so unyielding, that no other magic on the planet comes close! ACORN STRENGTH CIRCLE Early in October, pack a picnic lunch and take a family trip to the nearest oak tree. Tell your children about its magical properties, how it was revered by the Druids as sacred, and how humankind the world over considers it to be the strongest member of the tree family. Answer any questions your children might have. Then ask each person to select an acorn from the ground to use as a personal strength amulet. Allow some time for this. Children instinctively search for the largest seed they can find, and may change their minds several times. Once everyone is satisfied with their choice, ask each person to hold the acorn in their right hand, and then join hands to form a circle around the tree. (If you have a small family, ask each member to hug the tree instead.) Say: "We honor you, oh Mighty Oak, grant your strength unto these folks let it surge throughout these seeds and make us strong in thought and deed." Explain that the oak has blessed the acorns and they are now strength charms to be carried at all times. Eat your lunch under the tree. Save a bit of food and beverage, and bury it close to the tree roots. Thank the tree for its gifts and leave. ANIMAL THANKSGIVING MEAL Because October heralds the hunting season in most areas, it's a good time to thank the animals for providing us with food and honor them in a special way. Prepare a meal of vegetables only. Don't use any meat, fish, poultry, or animal products (milk, eggs, butter, cheese, etc.). Have everyone gather at the table and explain how heavily we depend on animals for our existence. Have each person share a way that animals help us and bring joy to our lives. Prompt younger children if necessary. When the discussion wanes, thank the animals by saying something like: "Animal friends, we thank you now for your gifts day in and out, for bringing us joy and good health. Thank you, friends - we wish you well eat the meal." APPLE CIDER HEALING SPELL Simmer apple cider on the stove. There's nothing like its aroma to bring children running to the kitchen. Once everyone's together, discuss the magical healing properties of apples. Fill a mug for each family member, and then give everyone a cinnamon stick to use as a healing wand. Explain that the "wand" is a tool that can be used to heal any sort of personal problem, whether it be an illness or an emotional hurt. Ask each person to decide what they'd like to be healed of, and then silently tell the wand. Have them stir the cider clockwise with the wand and say: "Apple and cinnamon use your power; heal me now - this very hour." Have them drink the cider. (On a mundane level, this also teaches children that medicine doesn't have to taste bad to work well!) May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#23	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/03/06 01:37 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Ritual to Honor Loved Ones At Samhain By Sherry Gilles October 24, 2000 I use a lovely silver bowl shaped like a shell with wells for three candles built into it. You can use whatever vessels for candles you might have. I put small items in the bowl that remind me of or are from family members that have died. You need apple or apple blossom incense since this is associated with not only Love, but with Samhain in particular. You will need a pink candle signifying affection, a yellow candle signifying memories and a white candle, signifying peace. Place pictures of your family or friends who you want to honor or speak to spiritually on your altar. Purify your candles, releasing any negativity. You can anoint your candles with rose oil signifying love and peace if you choose. You might also choose to carve the symbol of a rune such as Uruz (strength) on them. Light the candles and say: "My love for you lives on inside, your love serves as my spirit's guide. I draw your memories close to me and remember you most lovingly. Sometimes I talk to you and find you did not leave me far behind. My friend, my love, my heart, my soul I bring you close and make us whole." Look closely at the pictures you have assembled. Close your eyes and picture the faces of your loved ones, saying aloud, or thinking inside about what is on your mind, what you want to share. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#24	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/03/06 01:52 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Messages of the Otherworld By Karen Follett The ancient wise ones believed in maintaining the harmony and balance between humankind, earth, and the otherworld. When there is a readiness to listen and a willingness to understand, wisdom is bestowed. On a charcoal block, light a white candle. Burn sage for wisdom, oak for connection to the ancients, and mugwort to open your psychic eye. Focus on the candle through the smoke of the incense. State these or similar words: "Voices of the otherworld speak to me. I long to hear your ageless messages from beyond, and your wisdom of harmony." Let your mind open to the messages. The unconscious brain will receive the messages initially. Your conscious brain may interpret the messages over a period of time. Thank the ancients and leave an offering in their honor. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	The Gift of Shadow	#25	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/04/06 03:07 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	By Christopher Penczak Samhain is a celebration of death bringing new life. On this day, the veils between the worlds of the living and dead are thinnest. Traditionally, it's the time of the meat harvest, when the herd is slaughtered for food in the winter months. What better time of year to give yourself the gift of shadow. We each have a shadow, a dark side to the light. Part of us is hidden below the surface when the rest of us face the world. We are all a synthesis of light and dark. Some deny it, and lock that part away completely. Others let it out sparingly, and have a difficult relationship with shadow. It may manifest as their repressed emotions. They don't understand the shadow's function and desire. Some embrace it and lose control, relinquishing their own judgment. The shadow may give voice to all the urges they've had but never dreamed of acting upon. The wise ones, in my opinion, make friends with the shadow self. Darkness has gotten a bad rap, being equated and confused with evil. At times darkness can be cruel, but darkness is the touch of the star filled sky, the womb of Mother Earth, the healing water of the underworld, filled with regeneration for the weary soul. It is a natural part of the universe. Many benevolent goddesses and gods exist in the dark worlds. Macha, Dagda, Rhiannon, Pywll, Persephone, Hecate, Vulcan and Osiris bring great teaching, but at times the lessons can be difficult. In your healing journey through the darkness, you release your fears of death and mortality, and of living life to the fullest. Life can often be the scarier alternative to death. The darkness forces you into the places where you hide from yourself. Walking through the gates of darkness opens all the unloved soul shards, filled with fear, anger and unhappiness. These unwanted emotions are sometimes necessary for the journey. Desiring not to experience them, many travelers equate these feelings with the darkness, and fail to see the potential for healing. Your shadow wants only to be loved and recognized as part of you. Part of the shamanic initiation is coming to terms with the darkness to travel freely between the middle world, Earth, the lower world and the sky realms. Shamans often have journeys in the darkness where they die and are resurrected with new abilities and insights. We all have dark nights of the soul, private, personal initiation often having nothing overtly mystical about them. We may fall into the pits of despair and finally realize we are the only ones with the power to get out. But these experiences transform us as people. These initiations, mystical and mundane cannot be forced. They all happen when the time is right. You can, however, start the process by working with your shadow spirit and your light spirit together. By acknowledging your shadow, you start building the friendship with it. Potential volatile situations become diffused because you are honoring your hidden side. You honor your anger and fear. They have a purpose. You have a right to feel it. But it does not have a right to control your life. If you acknowledge it, you honor it, and can let it pass, like other thoughts and feelings. If you ignore it or cram it away in the back of your mind, you hold on to it. The unwanted emotions held back fester and brood. They can manifest as unhappiness, the inability to change, spiritual sickness or actual physical illness. Find a quiet place to meditate. Choose someplace you will not be disturbed. Leave all other concerns behind. This is time for you and only you, but you may want to have a friend on hand to guide you through this exercise and be there for support. Close your eyes and relax you mind, body and spirit. Count from thirteen to one backward. You are now in a meditative state. Ask that all you do be for your highest good. Imagine a sphere of protection around you made from multicolored light. Ask for any guides or guardians in harmony with your intentions to join now. Imagine a big mirror before you, the size of a door. The reflective surface could even be a pool of liquid or a windowpane of glass. The surface is all cloudy. No reflection is cast. The longer you look into it, the clearer it becomes. There is an image behind the mist. It is becoming more and more visible. Soon the mirror becomes perfectly clear, and in it is your shadow self, your dark reflection, looking back at you. Look carefully at it. It may be just a shadow, or it may be a fully formed being, similar to you. Greet your shadow. Tell it you wish to make friends. Do not feel fear, it cannot hurt you. If you are comfortable, invite the shadow out of the mirror and into your world. It will step through. Ask the shadow any questions you have. Ask it how it feels and how you can honor it better. I'm sure it will tell you something. Go with the first impressions you get from it. When you are finished with your shadow spirit, thank it. It will return to the mirror and the mirror will dissolve away. You may contact it in a similar manner anytime you like. Other rituals can help you integrate it. Count up from your meditation. When you have difficult emotions, feel them, honor them and let them go as they pass through you. You always have a right to feel the way you do. Your friend is there for support. Take it. And you can always ask the shadow how you may honor it. Take some time near the season of darkness to do this meditation. For the pagan new year, give yourself the gift of shadow. About The Author: Christopher Penczak teaches Tarot, meditation and non-traditional witchcraft classes privately in southern NH, combining lightwork, chaos magic and multiculturalism into his tradition. He is also a professional Tarot reader, editor of The Second Road and holds a Bachelor of Music degree. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#26	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/04/06 03:22 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Incense Recipes For Samhain Samhain Incense Recipe By Maria Kay Simms 2 parts myrrh 2 parts sandalwood 2 parts lavender 1 part frankincense 1 part bay leaf 1 part juniper 1 part cinnamon All of these ingredients have been chosen for their magical properties that aid with meditation, vision and contact with spirits. With mortar and pestle, crush each ingredient into powder and then combine in the proportions suggested. Continue to grind and blend them all together. As you do this, focus your intent and enchant the incense for your purpose. Burn on charcoal. .............................. SAMHAIN INCENSE 1 part rowan berries 1 part blackthorn wood part galangal part chervil part vervain part parsley 3 parts myrrh Method Blend together and burn on charcoal. ................................. Samhain Incense #1 "Try-it-Out" Recipe: teaspoon Powdered Allspice teaspoon Ground Black Pepper teaspoon Clove Powder rounded teaspoon Myrrh (small resin chunks) 2 Tablespoons lightly crushed Rose Petals Standard Recipe 1 Part Powdered Allspice 1 Part Ground Black Pepper 2 Parts Clove Powder 1 Part Myrrh (small resin chunks) 12 Parts lightly crushed Rose Petals ..................................... Samhain Recipe #2 "Try-it-Out" Recipe: teaspoon crushed Mugwort Leaves teaspoon Frankincense Tears (small resin chunks) teaspoon Myrrh Resin (small chunks) teaspoon crushed Rosemary Leaves Standard Recipe 2 Tablespoons crushed Mugwort Leaves 2 Tablespoons Frankincense Tears (small resin chunks) 2 Tablespoons Myrrh Resin (small chunks) Cup crushed Rosemary Leaves ...................................... Samhain Incense 3 Parts Frankincense 2 parts Myrrh 1 Part Rosemary 1 Part Cedar 1 Part Juniper ............................ Samhain Recipe 1 tbsp nettle 1 tbsp calendula 1 tbsp bay leaf a little bit of oak leaf 1 tbsp tarragon 2 drops frankincense 1 tbsp sage 2 drops myrrh UNDERWORLD TRAVEL INCENSE 4 parts myrrh 1 part bistort root part blackberry wood part valerian root 1 part cypress needles bluebell flowers part fern Method Blend together and burn on charcoal ................................. CLAIRVOYANCE INCENSE 3 parts frankincense A few drops bergamot oil part angelica part bay part mugwort part damiana Method Blend together and burn on charcoal ................................ DIVINATION INCENSE 2 parts white sandalwood 1 part acacia part calendula flowers 1 part hazel wood part bay part clary sage Pinch of nutmeg Method Blend together and burn on charcoal ................................ HECATE INCENSE 1 part musk crystals part dragon's blood 4 drops patchouli oil 4 drops civet oil Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. .................................. CLEANSING INCENSE 3 parts frankincense part dragon's blood 1 part myrrh 1 part red sandalwood 1 part wood betony part dill Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. .................................... VISION INCENSE part bay leaves 1 part damiana 3 parts frankincense Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. .............................. SCRYING INCENSE 1 part mugwort 1 part valerian root 1 part anise 1 part wormwood 1 part St John's wort 1 part dittany of crete Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. ............................... TO GET THE SIGHT part mastic 1 part calamus part cinnamon powder 1 part musk crystals 2 parts crushed juniper berries 2 parts red sandalwood Few drops patchouli oil Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. ................................ CERIDWEN part bay laurel part corn part ivy 2 parts oak bark part vervain part chervil part honeysuckle flowers part mistletoe part apple blossom 1 part blackthorn wood Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. ................................... HECATE part crushed garlic, part mandrake root 2 parts willow bark 1 part lavender, 4 parts myrrh, Few drops cypress oil Few drops myrrh oil part mugwort, Method Mix together and burn on charcoal. From Pagan Feasts by Anna Franklin & Sue Phillips and Magical Incenses and Oils by Anna Franklin May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#27	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/06/06 05:36 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Remembrance Cookies These cookies can be made on Hallows Eve. They can be shaped like people and the herb rosemary is added to the dough as a symbol of remembrance. Some of the cookies are eaten while telling stories or attributes of special ancestors, reminding us that we still have access to their strengths--or perhaps a predisposition to their weaknesses. The rest of the cookies are left outside by a bonfire as an offering. This can be a solemn ritual, but it need not be. Ingredients for the cookies: 1 1/2 c. Powdered sugar 1 c. Butter or margarine (softened) 1 egg 2 t. Vanilla 1 t. Almond extract 2 1/2 c. All purpose flour 1 t. Baking soda 1 t. Cream of tartar 1 1/2 T. Chopped rosemary Heat oven 375 degrees. In a large bowl, beat sugar, butter, egg, vanilla, almond extract, and rosemary until creamy. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Fold flour mixture into sugar mixture. Beat until dough forms and refrigerate for three hours. Divide dough into halves. Roll out one portion to 3/16 of an inch on a floured surface. Cut out with gingerbread women or men cutters and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Repeat rolling and cutting with second portion. Bake for 5-7 minutes. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#28	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/08/06 11:07 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Ancestor Ritual for Samhain By Tempest Owlsbard Purpose: to honor the ancestors and friends whom have gone before us. This ritual also gives honor the witches and pagans that died before us in the Burning Times. Materials: One large black candle in a high sitting holder Birthday candles (white) Sand Cauldron God and Goddess candle. Procedure: Gather all the supplies and place them on the alter table. Put the sand into the cauldron. Cast the circle. Call the quarters. Invoke the deities. Say: Crone, Goddess of the Cauldron of rebirth, on this night when the veil is thin we invoke you. Lady of the Summerland, matron of death and rebirth, in this rite we honor you and our ancestors. We invoke yea wise crone! So mote it be! Lord of winter and of shadowed sleep, co-ruler of the under world we invoke thee! So mote it be! Light the black candle. Say: We light this candle to all the witches and pagans that died in the Burning Times. We honor their sacrifice for our freedom. So mote it be! We call our ancestors and other positive spirits to this circle to share in our honoring rite. We stir only those who can and wish to come. This rite is in your honor. Anyone present may light candle(s) in memory of friends, family, pets, etc. and place them into the cauldron. Feel free to say a few words or remain silent. Thank the ancestors. Thank the deities. Thank and dismiss the corners. Un-cast the Circle. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#29	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/08/06 11:13 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Communing with Your Ancestors A Samhain Meditation By Boudica As we come to the End/Beginning of the next Turn of the Wheel of the Year, a personal, private meditation on those who have come and gone before us can give us perspective and direction as we start on yet another cycle. In a room where you feel most comfortable, on a couch, in a chair or on the floor, daytime or eventide, in front of a window, or beside a fire, make yourself comfortable. Patchouli incense, or maybe you have a favorite oil that you can warm in a pot, throw some herbs on the fire, wear a perfume that has meaning to you, or to someone who has passed through the veil, some candle light, or sunlight, whatever it is that makes you most comfortable and connected with those you wish to remember. Music can bring back memories, recent or old. While you may want to have this remembrance of someone special, you can use it to connect with all your ancestors, not just someone specific. You may want to have pictures of those who have crossed through the veil around, gaze at them a while, fix faces and/or names in your memory if you wish to include them. Once you are settled in and comfortable then close your eyes. The first thing you want to do is relax. My favorite relaxation technique is walking along a beach, breezes off the water, smell of salt air, sand beneath your feet. As you begin to relax, scoop up a handful of sand. Feel it in your hand, open your fingers and as the grains of sand fall between your fingers, allow them to represent the cares and worries of the day, and let them drop from you to the beach, freeing you of any burdens or concerns you may have. Allow the scene to shift to a place you love, or move to where you feel most comfortable. A grassy meadow, a wooded forest, pick a season that you associate with. Fall, with the leaves covering the ground, cool, this would be appropriate to most, as Samhain falls at this time. But you may have a season or place you hold special for someone who has crossed the veil. Place yourself where you feel the most attraction for what you are about to do. Seated in your comfortable place, call to mind the face(s) of the one(s) you want to remember. Think about what they looked like, what clothes they wore, how they did their hair, what scent they preferred. Give them special concentration, looking into the distance. Look around you. Do you see someone coming forward out of the distance? Can you make out someone coming towards you? Are they waving? You can run to meet them, or you can wait for them to come to you. Is there something you wanted to say, something special you wanted to share? How about just a hug, or a smile. This is your personal remembrance, there is no need to tell you what to say or do, you know what to do. If you look around, you will find many more people coming towards you. Aunts, uncles, moms and dads, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, grandmothers and grandfathers, husbands and wives. There will be faces you will recognize, there will be others you will not. Ask them who they are if you do not know, I am sure you will find out they are a distant relative who you may or may not have heard of or remembered. Smile, and remember that we are made up of the genes of many people who have gone before us who's names have been lost in time. It is good to thank them all for coming and sharing their special place in your family with you. I have found from time to time that if there is music playing in the background, Ancestors will dance, and you will be swept up in the dance. Some may even sing. Look at all the people who have come before you, who have laid out the chain of events that have lead to you being reborn this lifetime as you are. They may have different forms from their different lifetimes, but they will show all them to you as you dance and talk. You may even glimpse a past life of your own that you may have been part of. There will come all too soon in your meditation a time to return. Again, thank them all for coming, kiss the ones who are special to you, and ask that they come again sometime and share a special evening with you. Wave good-bye to them as they return to the other side of the Veil. It will darken as they go, and you will realize that it had been much lighter while they were there, it was the merriment and mirth that they had brought, it will go with them, but it will not be darkness you are left with. Some light left from the laughter and joy you felt having enjoyed their company. Allow the special place to fade, as you bring yourself slowly back to your sitting room. Walk back along the beach, feeling the sand under your feet, the warmth of the sun, then the warmth of the room, the softness of the chair or the carpet beneath your feet. Open your eyes slowly to the sunlight or the candlelight. Feel the joy left in your heart as you feel connected with a bit of your family, your ancestors, those who have gone before you and will be with you again. One of the things I feel I need to do after a meditation is to have something to drink, something warm and relaxing while I ground and come back to the mundane. I also want to take a portion out to the back of my house, and leave it with some sweets for those who wish to join me in a snack. If it is on Samhain, leaving food for those who have crossed the Veil is not unusual, and for the most part, it is usually gone by the following morning. While this is meant as a meditation to be had with relatives whom you can joyfully associate, there are those of us who have relatives with whom we have issues. Sometimes in a meditation you can work out those issues, other times it can be a serious issue that can not be worked out in meditation. This can lead to a problem with the meditation and I suggest that if such a problem exists, maybe you may want to wait till another time to approach this relative, a time when you may have support from another on this side of the veil and you can work out this problem with help. Not all relatives are easy to deal with, and issues of this nature should be dealt with on a more professional level. But sometimes, when we do this meditation, a relative with whom you have had an issue may come over to work out the problem, it can be resolved easily enough and this meditation can be a useful tool. If you suspect you will be dealing with issues that are not easily resolved, look to a professional who can walk you through this meditation, guide you, talk to you as you work out your issues, and help you to resolve, or try to resolve the problems. If you find you are alone, and a relative tries to force an issue, back away and suggest that they wait for another time when you can deal with them on a one on one level. Many will agree, and wait till such a time. This is a time of renewal, when we will rest the winter, and gather our strength for the next season of growth. It is a time to celebrate the year, and look forward to another new one. We learn from our successes and from our mistakes, and we move forward to face what challenges we may have. Celebrating the season by remembering those who are our ancestors is our way of connecting with the earth, our roots and our heritage Source May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#30	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/09/06 10:00 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	The Stone of Samhain Obsidian By Christopher Penczak Samhain is the time of transformation. The doors between the worlds are open and magic is afoot. For many witches, Samhain is the New Year. On this day we release the old, no longer serving, and bring in the new. We project for what we want in the coming year as our spiritual ancestors prepared for the winter months. As we do magic and make resolutions to invite this change, we can call upon some helpers. Patron gods, goddesses and spirit guides are all aiding in our transformation. I find it helpful calling upon physical aids in my spells, particularly crystals and power stones. Obsidian is an excellent stone for Samhain. Astrologically, the Sun enters the sign of Scorpio before this holiday. Scorpio is powerful energy. In its highest form, Scorpio eliminates the unwanted to bring about transformation through rebirth. The scorpion is transformed in the spiritual phoenix, the undying bird of fire. Obsidian is a stone of Scorpio. As both Samhain and its sign are associated with death, change and the color black, Obsidian is a black volcanic glass. It cooled so fast, the minerals within it had no time to form any crystal structures. Depending on the minerals within, shades and reflections of Obsidian vary greatly. When the light reflects off the glass, it may have a black, gold, blue, green, red, purple, gray, brown or rainbow tint to it. Inclusions of the mineral Phenocryst create white patches, creating snowflake obsidian. Magically, Obsidian is used for change. The various colors influence the work of the stone. Green tones are more helpful with love and healing. Purple brings peace and blue works with prosperity. Rainbow is my favorite because it is so versatile. Wishes made when holding obsidian are extremely powerful. Be careful what you ask for when using this stone. The shiny black surface is great for scrying and crystal gazing, particularly when asking questions about your life and any changes. The answers and images tend to be strong and very blunt. Obsidian can show the darker shadows within you. On the gentler side, this is a very grounding stone, aligning you within the world tree, from the Sky Father down to the center of the Earth Mother. Obsidian is also for protection. It grounds and neutralizes harmful and unwanted energies. During healing sessions, it can draw out and neutralize the energies causing illness and imbalance, and help ground one in the physical to maintain the newfound health. The Aztecs made magic mirrors from obsidian, along with sharp edged weapons. Tezcatlipoca, the smoking mirror, is their deity linked to obsidian. He is the dark god, representing the destructive principal. Sometimes he would take the form of a headless man, with chest like cabinet doors. They would open to reveal his heart and then slam shut, making a noise like an axe striking a tree. If you could reach in and snatch his heart without getting caught, he would grant you a wish. Tezcatlipoca is the father of witches. Although not usually called upon by traditional witches in Samhain celebrations, I think Tezcatlipoca and his stone are excellent patrons for the festival of transformation. I suggest a ritual passing a piece of obsidian around the circle as each member makes their New Year's wishes and resolutions on it. The stone will only add to the power of the ritual. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#31	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/09/06 10:05 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Divination at Halloween Mara Freeman, 1999 Samhain was a significant time for divination, perhaps even more so than May or Midsummer's Eve, because this was the chief of the three Spirit Nights. Divination customs and games frequently featured apples and nuts from the recent harvest, and candles played an important part in adding atmosphere to the mysteries. In Scotland, a child born at Samhain was said to be gifted with an dhealladh, "The Two Sights" commonly known as "second sight," or clairvoyance. Apple Magic At the heart of the Celtic Otherworld grows an apple tree whose fruit has magical properties. Old sagas tell of heroes crossing the western sea to find this wondrous country, known in Ireland as Emhain Abhlach, (Evan Avlach) and in Britain, Avalon. At Samhain, the apple harvest is in, and old hearthside games, such as apple-bobbing, called apple-dookin' in Scotland, reflect the journey across water to obtain the magic apple. Dookin' for Apples Place a large tub, preferably wooden, on the floor, and half fill it with water. Tumble in plenty of apples, and have one person stir them around vigorously with a long wooden spoon or rod of hazel, ash or any other sacred tree. Each player takes their turn kneeling on the floor, trying to capture the apples with their teeth as they go bobbing around. Each gets three tries before the next person has a go. Best to wear old clothes for this one, and have a roaring fire nearby so you can dry off while eating your prize! If you do manage to capture an apple, you might want to keep it for a divination ritual, such as this one: The Apple and the Mirror Before the stroke of midnight, sit in front of a mirror in a room lit only by one candle or the moon. Go into the silence, and ask a question. Cut the apple into nine pieces. With your back to the mirror, eat eight of the pieces, then throw the ninth over your left shoulder. Turn your head to look over the same shoulder, and you will see and in image or symbol in the mirror that will tell you your answer. (When you look in the mirror, let your focus go "soft," and allow the patterns made by the moon or candlelight and shadows to suggest forms, symbols and other dreamlike images that speak to your intuition.) Dreaming Stones Go to a boundary stream and with closed eyes, take from the water three stones between middle finger and thumb, saying these words as each is gathered: I will lift the stone As Mary lifted it for her Son, For substance, virtue, and strength; May this stone be in my hand Till I reach my journey's end. (Scots Gaelic) Togaidh mise chlach, Mar a thog Moire da Mac, Air bhr, air bhuaidh, `s air neart; Gun robh a chlachsa am dh Gus an ruig mi mo cheann uidhe. Carry them home carefully and place them under your pillow. That night, ask for a dream that will give you guidance or a solution to a problem, and the stones will bring it for you. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Hearken Now, The Darkness Comes	#32	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/09/06 03:24 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Copyright by Lark 1997 Mists gather in the valleys and pour down the ancient riverbeds to the darkening sea. Gone the fires of autumn's glory, lost to the legions of cloud-swept days and chilling rains. Gone the wild geese flying southward, gone the last of summer's bounty. Mornings rimed with silver frost, evenings gathering gloom for sitting round the hearth fires glow. Hearken now, the darkness comes! In the vale under the moor, the village speeds it's frantic pace. Thatcher's finish repairs on thick round roofs to hold out the snows of winter. Children bring in the last of the nuts and withered fruits from the woods. The wheat is threshed and winnowed on the chilly breeze. Wood smoke rises from the hearth fires and axes ring in the clear air. Down from the moors come the cattle and sheep to the winter fields, come too the pigs from the forest glades. The smell of blood is thick in upon the air as those animals chosen for the slaughter are slain and cured against the winter's needs. The planting begun at Beltane is now the harvest. Hearken now, the darkness comes! In the great forests that lie across the land, the leaves form a thick carpet upon the ground upon which treads the King Stag, velvet gone from his crown of horn, challenging all with his trumpeting cries. The bear and the fat squirrels seek their dens. The wolves stir in the cold, and their voices rise in songs to the moon. Now is the time of the Hunter. His shadow flies across the midnight sky, His horn sounds in the wind like thunder, His red-eyed hounds fly on before. Hearken now, the darkness comes! She who stands guardian now is no longer the soft Maiden of spring, nor yet the fecund Mother full of the heat of summer. It is Cerridwen now, the Crone, and the Hag, who stands without. In dreams and trance you see her, holding the cauldron into which all that live must go. Holding the cauldron that is Death. Gone too the young Lord of Spring, the Summer King. Now is the time of Herne the Hunter, wild master of the Winter's night. Harsh he is and full of fire, Lord of Death made manifest. Hearken now, the darkness comes! And in the turning of the year, the walls of time and space become as air, until life and death are as one and departed souls walk again among the living. Here on this most sacred night, as the old year died and the new was born, around the fires the people gathered in celebration. There was wine and cider from the vines and groves, bread from the fields of winnowed wheat, and meat steaming from the slaughter. A great feast and celebration of life to take into the darkness. Hearken now, the darkness comes! And as the earth moved onward into the darkness, the veil between the worlds grew thin, and strange beings walked upon the land. See now the pooka shake his tangled mane, the sidhe come forth from out the hollow hills, listen as the bean sidhe sings forth her terrible cry. And against this army of eldritch power, men did wield a greater weapon as fires sprang forth upon the hilltops and lit the standing stones and village greens. Dancing, swirling, leaping past the fires, the people held back the powers of the night with light and music until the dawn came once more. Yet still the darkness comes! Turn and turn again the Earth did in its endless dance among the stars. Gone now the villages that lay beneath the downs and among the worlds. Gone the straight track and winding sheep path. Gone the King Stag and the shaggy bear. Yet still we hear an echo of that time and place as we sit to honor our blessed dead, as our children dress as monsters and play in the shadows. We hear the whisper of the Goddess in our hearts, and sometimes, late at night we hearken to the cry of the Hunt high in our crowded skies. Hearken, for the darkness comes! And we, the spirit children of that ancient age, we remember. Though we labor not in the fields of waving grain, yet do we too now bring in our harvest. We gather to ourselves the fruits of our projects begun in the spring of the year and ready ourselves for a time of rest and introspection. We unburden ourselves with that which is no longer needful for our survival through the winter of the year. We the children of this ancient age remember too our honored dead who speak to us again as the walls of this world grow thin. We pass the Cup of Remembrance as we think upon one who has gone before. We remember the good times and the bright things we treasure from their memories, and we allow them to fly free. We make our peace with She who waits for all. We remember the fears of the darkness, and in our masquerade and games, we come to terms with Death and with change. For such is the meaning at the heart of the feast. So prepare you now as the darkness comes. Ready the harvest of your hopes and dreams. Light the fires against ignorance and fear. For remember also, that the darkness is but one turn upon the Wheel, it is the darkness of the womb. And the Death we all must face is merely the doorway to the Life to come. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~ Last Edited By: Cerredwen 07/05/08 11:37 PM. Edited 1 times.
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#33	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/19/06 03:35 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Honoring Yourself By Artemisia Most of us know that Samhain is the time of year to honor Mother Earth with gratitude for the food she has provided us this harvest, and many of us remember that at Samhain the veil between the worlds is thin, and that we should honor our Ancestors and those who have passed over. Many of us honor our loved ones during the holiday season that follows Samhain, at Thanksgiving, Yule, and Christmas, by cooking, throwing parties, buying or making gifts, and by attending gatherings, but how many of us remember to honor ourselves this time of year? Just as the moon cycles through its phases thirteen times a year, from waxing to full to waning to dark again, so do the sun and earth cycle through their phases together in one year. Beginning at Fall Equinox, for us here in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun enters the waning phase in a noticeable way. The days begin to get shorter and the nights get longer. There is a lot more darkness (and cold depending on where you live). Samhain marks the point where the darkness really takes hold and Yule, the winter solstice, is the dark moon of the solar year. What does this waning into dark phase mean to us and how can we use this time to honor ourselves? Well let's think about the waning moon for a moment. This time of the month energetically corresponds to a woman's cycle just before her bleeding time begins. During this period, we can become extra sensitive or angry because we are no longer able to put up with things in our lives that make us unhappy. We no longer hide our emotions. In fact, we can't keep them from coming out. This time of the month is about letting go of old, negative thought forms or self-talk which hold us back and don't do us any good. It's about speaking up for yourself and communicating what you need from others around you and how they should treat you. It's also a time of letting go of emotional attachments to extraneous material possessions, projects and people that drain our energy, and of clearing space in our lives for the transformation and healing that comes when we finish bleeding and/or the moon breaks from the dark into the new. In the bigger, solar picture, during the waning and dark parts of the year, we can honor ourselves by taking time out of our hectic schedules just for us. Make time and space to be alone and reflect upon the past year. What is no longer of use to you? What needs to change? Get in touch with your heart and find out how you truly feel and what is really important to you. Once you are clear about what is holding you back and what needs to be cleaned out, make the time to release it. You can do this through physical acts like a thorough housecleaning or a new haircut or symbolically through ritual or meditation. Whatever it is you need to release, honor yourself by taking the steps necessary to clear away the excess baggage. After you have let it all go, take time to enjoy, celebrate, accept and love the new, lighter you. I'd also like to encourage you to honor yourself during this busy season by tending to your body in addition to your spirit. The fresh, seasonal foods this time of year are very tempting: bright orange pumpkins, multi-colored squashes, red and yellow apples, purple and green grapes, yellow and golden pears, pink pomegranates, dark leafy greens, brown nuts of all shapes and sizes, red juicy cranberries. Nourish yourself by taking part of Mother Earth's harvest and celebrating the mystery and magic of the growth cycle. As it gets colder and darker, keep yourself warm with bright, cheerful, herbs and spices in your drinks and cooking such as ginger, cayenne, curry, garlic, cinnamon and pepper. This time of year, especially when we are so busy, it is easy to neglect our bodies. Take time for yourself to stretch and move around joyfully to keep your inner healing fire burning. Perhaps even consider learning tai chi, yoga, Pilates or meditation to access the healing power of your breath and bring yourself peace and calm in the midst of the most hectic season of the year. Whatever you do, make sure that it feels good to you. The easiest way to honor yourself is to live a joyful life. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#34	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/20/06 03:48 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Cauldron Banishing for Samhain Author Unknown Into your cauldron, place a large black votive candle. On small pieces of paper write what you wish banished from your life, one banishment per paper; fold each paper once away from you. When you are ready, light the candle inside the cauldron. Now light one piece of paper in the flame of the candle and drop into the cauldron. Keep going until all papers are gone. There will be a lot of flame, so please use caution and make sure no flammables are nearby (i.e. curtains etc.). In fact, it would be wise to keep a box of baking soda or salt near your work area (just in case). Let the cauldron burn itself out; then clean when cool. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#35	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/22/06 11:26 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Eve of Samhain Spell to Connect with the Spirit World By Susan Sheppard Get a white candle, matches and mirror for this spell. At dusk, go to a haunted area or a place you feel the spirits are especially powerful. Make contact by walking about and allowing your mind to roam. Light your white candle and star into it saying: Clear as midnight, the spirits are bright. Ghostly curiosity brings you to me. As a form takes shape, I am not asleep. Spirit awake, take your shape. Let the candle flicker. Glance into the mirror and look past your shoulder. Do you see mists or lighted balls in the reflection? This is how ghosts typically appear. Return to the area on the next three nights. Take some pictures. At home, place your mirror face down. Mirrors trap spirits. Some spirits will track you as you search for their reflections. If you want your ghost to leave, just say so. Follow this up by putting a broom over your transom and burning sage. Source May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#36	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/26/06 03:17 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Samhain Shrines By Fiona Blackwolf As the nights grow colder and the leaves on the trees begin to turn, the veil between this world and the next grows thinner and we all become more aware of the passing of time. The Pagan holiday of Samhain honors this time and offers us an opportunity to celebrate the lives of the people we loved who passed on before us. Every year at this time I honor one of the most amazing men I have ever known, my grandfather. This year I decided to make a cigar box shrine to celebrate his life and the things I remember most about him. I would like to share the process so that anyone who would like to honor their ancestors or loved ones who have passed can create one of their own. What You Need An empty cigar box 2-3 colors of paint Gesso (or other primer as needed) Photos (you may want to make reprints of photos rather than using the originals) Ephemera (miscellaneous things) that remind you of the person you wish to honor. Scissors Gel medium (or your adhesive of choice) Seems simple enough, right! Choosing your box Most smoke shops will sell you a cigar box for $1-$5. The shrine can be made in any type of cigar box. I chose to use a wooden box that was given to me by my father and has our family name on it, but you could use a cardboard one as well. Because the family name was on the box I decided that I would not decorate the outside of the box, though that may change over the next few years. If you cannot find a cigar box, most craft stores carry similarly styled boxes made of balsawood. Prepping and Painting Wipe off the inside and outside of the box with a damp cloth to remove any dust or cigar particles. Most cardboard boxes and some of the wooden ones have a covering of shiny sticker paper. Lightly sand the paper and prime it with a coat of Gesso. Paint the inside of the box with 2-3 colors to create a background. I chose two colors, burnt sienna which reminds me of my grandfathers favorite chile sauce and a deep yellow which complements the sienna and reminds me of the colorful Mexican folk costumes we played with in the attic of my grandparents home. Feel free to experiment with background textures and shading. Creating the Shrine Now for the fun part! Spend some time with the pictures and ephemera that you have gathered. It is not necessary to use every piece in the shrine. Play with the arrangement of the items until you have a good idea of what you would like the inside of the shrine to look like. In my case, I have one photo of myself and my grandfather, so that became the centerpiece of the shrine. Dont forget that there are two surfaces inside of the box to work with. The lid is an excellent place to display a photo montage or paper ephemera, while the box itself holds many three-dimensional items. Because I only have one photo, I chose to leave the top empty so that I can add more pictures after I have had an opportunity to gather them. Its important to make sure that your arrangement is right before you begin gluing them into them box. Once something is glued down it can cause a bit of damage to things under it if moved and then you will have to think of an ingenious way to cover it (Yes, this is a lesson I learned in the process). Voila! And youre finished! This is a relatively simple project and a beautiful way to honor your loved ones during this Samhain season. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#37	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/30/06 12:58 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Druid Reading for Samhain By Robert Place The celebrations on the eve of All Souls Day, called Halloween, stem from the Celtic New Year celebration called Samhain. When the Sun goes down on this eve, there is a time between the old year and the creation of the new. Specifically, this occurs at sunrise. In this twilight of the years, the veil between this world and the world of the spirit is thin. It is a time when ghosts and spirits can interact with the living, and a time when divination is most effective. This is a sacred time when all warriors were to keep their swords sheathed. Samhain literally means "end of the summer." This day marked the last harvest of the summer, and so it is a harvest celebration. But, because there were only three months in the ancient Celtic calendar, and no autumn, it is also the beginning of the winter death that will lead to next year's regeneration. On this night, the lord of death reigns, and the Celts protect themselves from this threat with bonfires and animal sacrifice. Animal sacrifice is closely associated with divination. In most ancient cultures, the remains of the sacrificed animal were examined to discover the will of the gods and to predict the future. The Druid priests would take advantage of this auspicious time to look into the events of the upcoming yearat least up until Beltane, which marked the year's midpoint. Although predicting the future is not necessarily the best use of the tarot, this is a good time to try reading the future. You can do this by laying out three cards for each of the six months from Samhain to Beltane (you should have eighteen total cards). Read each set of three cards as a story that will pertain to that month. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Spiritual Path Reaffirmation	#38	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (10/31/06 12:16 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	By Olivia O'Meir During the Witches' New Year, or Samhain, take time to stop and evaluate your faith and beliefs. Make a sacred ritual or retreat out of this evaluation. Light white candles and burn sandalwood, myrrh, or frankincense. Brew a cup of herbal tea. Sit down and ask the God and Goddess to guide you on your path. Write down your beliefs in a journal or your Book of Shadows. Some questions you can meditate on are: What is life? How do I view the universe? Why am I here? What affirms my spirituality and what lessens it? How can I bring spirituality into my everyday life? After writing, you can create a statement of faith based on your answers to the questions. Recite what you write by candlelight for the universe to hear. Rediscover and rededicate yourself to your spirituality. May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#39	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (09/21/07 08:29 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Samhain Charm Bag for Money Author Unknown 7 Pumpkin seeds 1/4 teaspoon dried, ground pumpkin rind 1/4 teaspoon dried mint 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1 Silver coin 1 small orange flannel bag with 17-inch red ribbon Black felt pen On the new moon before Halloween, mix herbal ingredients together. Hum: "East and west, south and north, prosperity I bring thee forth." Draw a dollar sign on both sides of each pumpkin seed with the black felt pen. Add the pumpkin seeds to the mixture. Pour into orange bag. Hold the coin in your hands until it gets warm, humming the same chant. Put the coin in the bag and tie it up. On the following Thursday, hold the bag in your hands and repeat the chant until the bag becomes warm in your hands. Add seven knots to the ribbon around the bag: one for beginnings, two for money, three for abundance, four for stability, five for protection from blocks, six for luck, and the seventh know to seal the spell. Put in a special place until Samhain. On Samhain, hold the bag in your hands over the need-fire and repeat the chant until the bag warms in your hands and your feel good inside. Keep on your person or in your purse or wallet. Good for one full year. You can rework the spell on a new moon to keep the bag at its peak. Replace the following Samhain. This makes a very nice gift for that special friend in your life. "May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart" ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~
Cerredwen	Re: Samhuinn Rituals	#40	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11474 (09/24/07 08:26 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Apple Peel Spell By Magenta Griffith This is a very old spell that is best used close to Halloween, or at the dark of the harvest Moon. First, peel an apple in one continuous piece. If you make a mistake and break the peel, finish peeling that apple, and try another one. (This is a good spell to try when you are baking pies.) Once you have accomplished your task, throw the apple peel over your left shoulder onto the kitchen floor. The peel will form the initial of the name of your future wedding mate. "May the fruit of our lives be bound and sealed to Thee, O Mother, O Woman Eternal who holdest the inmost life of each of Thy daughters between the hands upon Her Heart" ~~~~~~~~~~~ We swear by Peace and Love to stand, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand. Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now, confirming this, our Sacred Vow. ~Druidic Prayer of Unity~

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