Rites of Passage--Handfasting...Marriage & Wedding Rites

RSS
Email

Author	Comment
Cerredwen	Rites of Passage--Handfasting...Marriage & Wedding Rites	Lead	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:11 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Tags : pagan, paganism, witch, witchcraft, wicca, magick, ritual, spells, rite, druid, druidism, celtic, old ways, info, lore, wheel of life, meditations, turning of the wheel, handfasting ritual and tradition, wedding ritual and tradition, rites of passage Handfasting 1994 State College, PA Author Unknown The Circle is outlined around the edges with pine boughs. The four quarters are marked by flowers mounted at the top of poles held by the four gate keepers. The altar is bedecked with flowers as well. It is set at the East near the edge of the circle so people can make a circle around the couple. Keep one gate open in the South-East., with pine on hand to close it. The broomstick can be kept near the altar. The rings should be placed there as well. Everyone can enter followed by the couple. The Goddess and God are not yet invoked. The HP and HPS leads the couple in, and the circle is sealed. The quarters are not invoked, but summoned to observe by the four guardians. HP: All gather to this Circle cast. Come faeries, spirits, and creatures of the wood. May the Goddess and God shine their love within this circle. Fill your hearts with love as there are two in our midst who seek the bond of Handfasting. Let them be named and brought forward HPS: <NAME> is the man and <NAME>is the woman. May we all bid them hail and welcome. Everyone: Hail and welcome ! BRIDE stands before HP and GROOM stands before HPS HP" src="http://www.ezboard.com/images/emoticons/frown.gif"> to BRIDE) Are you <NAME>? BRIDE: I am. HP: What is your desire? BRIDE: To be joined with <NAME> in the presence of the Gods and our friends. HP puts head dress on BRIDE and kisses her lips. HP: I welcome you with joy. HPS: (to GROOM) Are you <NAME>? GROOM: I am. HPS: And what is your desire? GROOM: To be joined with <NAME> in the presence of the Gods and our friends. HPS puts head dress on GROOM and kisses his lips. HPS: I welcome you with joy. The four representations of the elements should be present on the altar. The HPS picks up the wand : HPS: The wand that I hold is the symbol of Air. Know and remember that this is the element of Life, of intelligence, of the inspiration which moves us onward. By this wand of Air, we bring to your Handfasting the power of mind. REPLACE wand on alter. HP picks up sword: HP: The sword that I hold is the symbol of fire. Know and remember that this is the element of Light, of energy, of the vitality that sustains us. By this sword of fire, we bring to your Handfasting the power of Will! HP lays down sword and HPS picks up chalice: HPS: The chalice I hold is the symbol of water. Know and remember that this is the element of love, of growth, of the womb of the Great Mother. By this chalice of water we bring to your Handfasting the power of Desire. HPS lays down chalice and HP pick up pentacle. HP: The pentacle I hold is the symbol of Earth. Know and remember that this is the element of Law, of endurance, of the understanding that can never be shaken. By this pentacle of Earth we bring to your Handfasting the power of the steadfast. HP sets pentacle down on altar. HPS: Listen to the words of the Great Goddess... I who am the beauty of the green earth, and the white Moon among the stars, and the mystery of the waters, and the desire of the heart of man, call unto thy soul. Arise, and come unto me. For I am the soul of nature, who gives life to the universe. From me all things proceed, and unto me all things much return; and before my face, beloved of Gods and of men, let thine innermost divine self be enfolded in the rapture of the infinite. Let my worship be within the heart that rejoices; for behold, all acts of love and pleasure are my rituals. And therefore let there be beauty and strength, power and compassion, honour and humility, mirth and reverence within you. And thou who think to seek for me, know thy seeking and yearning shall avail thee not unless thou knowest the mystery; that if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee, thou wilt never find it without thee. For behold, I have been with thee from the beginning; and I am that which is attained at the end of desire. HP: Listen to the words of the God... I am a wind of the sea. I am a wave of the sea. I am a sound of the sea. I am a stag of seven tines. I am a hawk upon a cliff I am a ray of the sun... I am the fairest among flowers. I am a savage boar in valor I am a salmon in a pool... I am a lake upon a plain. I am a hill of poetry I am a spearpoint in battle. I am a god who kindles fire in the head. Who but I can unfold the secrets of the unhewn dolmen? Who but I make known the ages of the moon? Who but I can show the secret resting place of the sun? HPS: Lord and Lady, here before you stand two who wish to be joined in Handfasting.. Witness now that which they have to declare. Bride and groom face each other HPS turns to GROOM and says: HPS: Repeat after me... By seed and root, by bud and stem GROOM: By seed and root, by bud and stem HPS: By leaf and flower and fruit GROOM: By leaf and flower and fruit HPS: By life and love and before the Gods. GROOM: By life and love and before the Gods. HPS: I, <NAME>, take you <NAME> GROOM: I, <NAME>, take you <NAME> HPS: To my hand, my heart, and my spirit GROOM: To my hand, my heart, and my spirit HPS: At the setting of the sun, and the rising of the stars. GROOM: At the setting of the sun, and the rising of the stars HPS: Nor shall death part us GROOM: Nor shall death part us HPS: For in the fullness of time, we shall be born again GROOM: For in the fullness of time, we shall be born again HPS: At the same time and the same place as each other. GROOM: At the same time and the same place as each other. HPS: And we shall meet, and know and remember and love again. GROOM: And we shall meet, and know and remember and love again. HP turns to BRIDE and says: HP: Repeat after me... By seed and root, by bud and stem BRIDE: By seed and root, by bud and stem HP: By leaf and flower and fruit BRIDE: By leaf and flower and fruit HP: By life and love in the name of the Goddess BRIDE: By life and love in the name of the Goddess HP: I, <NAME>, take you <NAME> BRIDE: I, <NAME>, take you <NAME> HP: To my hand, my heart, and my spirit BRIDE: To my hand, my heart, and my spirit HP: At the setting of the sun, and the rising of the stars. BRIDE: At the setting of the sun, and the rising of the stars HP: Nor shall death part us BRIDE: Nor shall death part us HP: For in the fullness of time, we shall be born again BRIDE: For in the fullness of time, we shall be born again HP: At the same time and the same place as each other. BRIDE: At the same time and the same place as each other. HP: And we shall meet, and know and remember and love again. BRIDE: And we shall meet, and know and remember and love again. HPS takes up [rings] and hands the BRIDES to the GROOM, and the GROOMS to the BRIDE. HPS: [speech] HP: [speech] HPS: Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter for each other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to each other. Now there will be no loneliness, for each of you will be companion to the other. Now you are two persons, but there is one life before you. Go now to your dwelling to enter into the days of your life together, and may your days be good and long on the Earth. In the name of the Goddess and God, the elements of Nature, and the power of love.... So mote it be! Everyone: So mote it be! BRIDE and GROOM exchange rings and kiss. Then kiss HP and HPS. Then move around circle and exchange kisses with everyone. Jumping of broomstick. Then wine and bread is consecrated, and toasts are made. PARTY TIME!!!!! Goddess and God are thanks before ending circle. Music and festivities to follow. 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 06/02/09 09:58 PM. Edited 2 times.
Cerredwen	Re: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#1	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:15 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	A SAMPLING OF RING VOWS With this ring, I wed you and pledge you my love now and forever. GROOM / BRIDE: I offer you this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. It will always be a symbol of the vows which have made us husband and wife this day. BRIDE / GROOM: I accept this ring as a symbol of our love and wear it proudly as your wife / husband. I bring this ring as a symbol of my love and fidelity as your husband / wife, and as I slide it onto your finger, I commit my very heart and soul to you, my dear husband / wife, and I ask you to wear it as a reminder of the vows we have taken today. On this ring, my oath I swear, love and honor to my husband / wife. As this ring encircles your finger from this day forward, year in and year out, so will my love forever encircle you. ___________, with this ring I wed you; with my body I worship you, and with all my worldly goods I endow you. OFFICIANT: I hold in my hand two beautiful rings, symbolic of a binding contract, to be given and received as bonds of never-ending love and devoted friendship, circles of life and circles love. (The OFFICIANT hands one of the rings to the GROOM who places it on the BRIDE's finger) GROOM: With this ring I wed thee and offer it as a symbol of our everlasting love. (The OFFICIANT hands the other ring to the BRIDE who places it on her GROOM's finger) BRIDE: With this ring I wed thee and offer it as a symbol of our everlasting love. You are my beloved bride / bridegroom and I marry you today with this ring as I give you my heart, my body and the very breath of my soul. __________, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love for you. Let it remind you always, as it circles your finger, of my eternal love, surrounding you and enfolding you day and night. Just as this ring wraps endlessly around your finger, so shall my love always wrap around the very breath of your soul; may it be a reminder of the sacred vows I have spoken this day. A circle is the symbol of the sun and the earth, and of the universe. It is a symbol of wholeness, and perfection, and of peace. The rings we give and receive this day, then, are symbols of the circle of shared love into which we enter together as husband and wife. May these rings which we give and receive this day be a symbol of true faith in each other, and always remind each of us of the love you share on this day. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#2	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:22 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	A TRADITIONAL HANDFASTING (From A Book of Pagan Rituals) Time: Best performed at the time of the new moon. Setting: Bedeck the ritual area in flowers of many types, particularly the favorites of the couple, and roses. The altar should be arranged as usual, plus 2 white candles, incense of a flower scent, and a willow wand. Dress is up to the couple. Celtic tradition is that the bride where's some kind of veil or netting and an article of scarlet. The couple should bring wedding rings and small symbolic gifts for each other if desired. The PRIEST/ESS fits the rings over the willow wand, then lays them on the altar.. After lighting the candles and incense, the PRIEST and PRIESTESS face the gathering, backs toward the altar. PRIEST: May the place of this rite be consecrated for the Gods. For we gather here in a ritual of love With two who would be wedded. _______ and _______ please come forward and stand here before us, and before the gods of nature. PRIESTESS: Be with us here, O beings of the Air, with your clever fingers tie closely the bonds between these two. Be with us here, O beings of Fire, give their love and passion your own all-consuming ardor Be with us here, O beings of Water, give them the deepest of love and the richness of the body, of the soul and of the spirit. Be with us here, O beings of Earth, let your strength and constancy be theirs for so long as they desire to remain together Blessed Goddess and Laughing God, give to these before you, we do ask your love and protection. Blessed Be. ALL: Blessed Be. PRIESTESS and PRIEST hold up the wand between them with the rings upon it. PRIESTESS: Place your right hands over this wand and your rings, his hand over hers. Above you are the stars below you are the stones as time does pass remember Like a star should our love be constant, like a stone should your love be firm. Be close, but not too close, posses one another, but be understanding. Have patience each with the other, for storms will come, but they will go quickly. Be free in the giving of affection and warmth. Make love often, and be sensuous with one another. Have no fear and let not the ways or words of the unenlightened give you unease, for the Goddess and the God are with you, now and always. (Pause for five heartbeats) PRIESTESS: Is it your wish, BRIDE, to become one with this man? (BRIDE gives her answer) Is it your wish, GROOM, to become one with this woman? (GROOM gives his answer) Do any say nay? Then, as the Goddess and the God and the Old Ones are witness to this rite, I now proclaim you husband and wife. A kiss is appropriate at this time, and the tokens may be exchanged. The ceremony is then over and the cakes and wine on the altar should be served at the revel that follows. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#3	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:25 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	APACHE WEDDING PRAYER Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter to the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no loneliness for you; now there is no more loneliness. Now you are two bodies, but there is only one life before you. Go now to your dwelling place, to enter into your days together. And may your days be good and long on the earth. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#4	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:27 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	BLESSING OF THE HANDS PRIESTESS: (BRIDE), please face (GROOM), and hold his hands, palms up, so you may see the gift that they are to you. (BRIDE and GROOM should be facing each other, his upturned hands resting in hers.) These are the hands, young and strong and vibrant with love, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life. These are the hands you will place with expectant joy against your stomach, until he too, feels his child stir within your womb. These are the hands that look so large and clumsy, yet will be so gentle as he holds your baby for the first time. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness. These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy. These are the hands that will comfort you in illness, and hold you when fear or grief rack your mind. These are the hands that will tenderly lift your chin and brush your cheek as they raise your face to look into his eyes: eyes that are filled completely with his love and desire for you. PRIEST: (GROOM), please hold (BRIDE)'s hands, palms up, where you may see the gift that they are to you. (Bride should now place her upturned hands in the Groom's hands.) These are the hands that are smooth, young, and carefree, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as she pledges her love and commitment to you all the days of her life. These are the hands that will hold each child in tender love, soothing them through illness and hurts, supporting and encouraging them along the way, and knowing when it's time to let go. These are the hands that will massage tension from your neck and back in the evenings, after you've both had a long hard day. These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times. They are the hands that will comfort you when you are sick or console you when you are grieving. These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness. These are the hands that will hold you in joy and excitement and hope. These are the hands that will give you support as she encourages you to chase down your dreams. Together, everything you wish for can be realized. PRIEST and/or PRIESTESS: Lovely Goddess, bless the hands that you see before you this day. May they always be held by one another. Give them the strength to hold on during the storms of stress and the dark of disillusionment. Keep them tender and gentle as they nurture each other in their love. Help these hands to continue building a relationship founded in your grace, rich in caring, and devoted to reaching for your perfection. May (BRIDE) and (GROOM) see their four hands as healer, protector, shelter, and guide. (If desired, you may now continue on the hand-binding) 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#5	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:28 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	CELTIC HANDFASTING VOWS (from Finn Mac Cool) BRIDE and GROOM repeat the following together: You cannot possess me for I belong to myself. But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give. You cannot command me for I am a free person. But I shall serve you in those ways you require and the honeycomb will taste sweeter coming from my hand. I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night, and the eyes into which I smile in the morning. I pledge to you the first bite from my meat and the first drink from my cup. I pledge to you my living and my dying, each equally in your care. I shall be a shield for your back, and you for mine. I shall not slander you, nor you me. I shall honor you above all others, and when we quarrel, we shall do so in private and tell no strangers our grievances. This is my wedding vow to you. This is the marriage of equals. The PRIEST or PREISTESS says: These promises you make by the sun and the moon, by fire and water, by day and night, by land and sea. With these vows you swear, by the God and Goddess, to be full partners, each to the other. If one drops the load, the other will pick it up. If one is a discredit to the other, his own honor will be forfeit, generation upon generation, until he repairs that which was damaged and finds that which was lost. Should you fail to keep the oath you pledge today, the elements themselves will reach out and destroy 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	Re: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#6	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:34 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	DRUID WEDDING CEREMONY In this ceremony, the participants form both a circle and a horseshoe. A larger outer circle containing a smaller horseshoe-shaped group of participants, or a small circle enclosed in a large horse-shoe may be formed by participants. Once both circle and horseshoe are formed, the DRUID and DRUIDESS who will supervise the rite enter. The Circle is cast by the DRUID and blessed and consecrated by the DRUIDESS. They then say 'Welcome!' and all reply 'Welcome!' The DRUID and DRUIDESS then say, 'Oh Great Spirit/Goddess we ask for your Blessing on this our ceremony.' The Gates are then opened by those at the Quarters: DRUID: Let the four directions be honoured that power and radiance might enter our circle for the good of all beings. CALLER OF THE NORTH: With the blessing of the great bear of the starry heavens and the deep and fruitful earth, we call upon the powers of the North. CALLER OF THE SOUTH: With the blessing of the great stag in the heat of the chase and the inner fire of the sun, we call upon the powers of the South. CALLER OF THE WEST: With the blessing of the salmon of wisdom who dwells within the sacred waters of the pool, we call upon the powers of the West. CALLER OF THE EAST: With the blessing of the hawk of dawn soaring in the clear pure air, we call upon the powers of the East. DRUIDESS: May the harmony of our circle be complete. DRUID: We stand upon this Holy Earth and in the Face of Heaven to witness the Sacred Rite of Marriage between (GROOM) and (BRIDE). Just as we come together as family and friends so we ask for the Greater Powers to be present here within our Circle. May this Sacred Union be filled with their Holy Presence. (pause) By the power vested in me I invoke the God of Love whose name is Aengus mac Og to be present in this Sacred Place. In his name is Love declared. DRUIDESS: By the power vested in me I invoke the Goddess of the Bright Flame whose name is Brigid to be present in this Sacred Place. In Her name is Peace declared. DRUID: In the name of the Ancestors whose Traditions we honour, DRUIDESS: In the name of those who gave us Life, BOTH: May we all unite in Love. DRUIDESS: The joining together of Man and Woman in the Sacred Rite of Marriage brings together great forces from which may flow the seeds of future generations to be nurtured within the womb of Time. Within every Masculine nature lies the Feminine, within every Feminine nature lies the Masculine. The interplay of Masculine and Feminine forces when flowing freely in a union based upon true Love finds many ex-pressions. This union is truly Holy. DRUID: Goddess to God, FEMALE PARTICIPANT 1: God to Goddess, MALE PARTICIPANT 1: Priestess to Priest, FEMALE PARTICIPANT 2: Priest to Priestess, MALE PPARTICIPANT 2: Woman to Man, FEMALE PARTICIPANT 3: Man to Woman, MALE PARTICIPANT 3: Mother to Son, FEMALE PARTICIPANT 4: Son to Mother, MALE PARTICIPANT 4: Daughter to Father, FEMALE PARTICIPANT 5: Father to Daughter, MALE PARTICPANT 5: Sister to Brother. DRUIDESS: Brother to Sister. DRUID: Who walks the Path of the Moon to stand before Heaven and declare her Sacred Vows? (BRIDE steps forward) Do you (BRIDE) come to this place of your own free will? BRIDE: I do. DRUIDESS: Who walks the Path of the Sun to stand upon this Holy Earth and declare his Sacred Vows? (GROOM steps forward) Do you (GROOM) come to this place of your own free will? GROOM: I do. (Both BRIDE and GROOM walk the paths of the sun and moon [clockwise and anti-clockwise] around the circle, returning to the East) DRUID: (GROOM) and (BRIDE) you have walked the Circles of the Sun and Moon, will you now walk together the Circle of Time, travelling through the Elements and the Seasons? BRIDE and GROOM: We will. (They Walk hand in hand to South) CALLER OF THE SOUTH: Will your love survive the harsh fires of change? BRIDE and GROOM: It will. CALLER OF THE SOUTH: Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Fire in this the place of Summer. May your home be filled with warmth. (Walk together to West) CALLER OF THE WEST: Will your love survive the ebb and flow of feeling? BRIDE and GROOM: It will. CALLER OF THE WEST: Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Water in this the place of Autumn. May your life together be filled with love. (Walk together to North) CALLER OF THE NORTH: Will your love survive the times of stillness and restriction? BRIDE and GROOM: It will. CALLER OF THE NORTH: Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Earth in this the place of Winter. May your union be strong and fruitful. (Walk together to East) CALLER OF THE EAST: Will your love survive the clear light of Day? BRIDE and GROOM: It will. CALLER OF THE EAST: Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Air in this the Place of Spring. May your marriage be blessed by the Light of every new Dawn. DRUIDESS: All things in Nature are circular - night becomes day, day becomes night and night becomes day again. The moon waxes and wanes and waxes again. There is Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter and then the Spring returns. These things are part of the Great Mysteries. (GROOM) and (BRIDE), do you bring your symbols of these Great Mysteries of Life? BRIDE and GROOM: We do. DRUID: Then before all present repeat these words. BRIDE (facing GROOM and handing him the ring): Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and for ever. I vow upon this Holy Earth that through you I will honour all men. GROOM (facing BRIDE and handing her the ring): Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and for ever. I vow in the face of Heaven that through you I will honour all women. BRIDE: In the name of Brighid I bring you the warmth of my heart. (BRIDE is handed a lighted taper by her MOTHER or FEMALE PARTICIPANT) GROOM: In the name of Aengus mac Og I bring you the light of my love (GROOM is handed a lighted taper by his FATHER or MALE PARTICIPANT) BRIDE and GROOM both light a single candle together. (This candle could be kept and relit at each anniversary) ALL: May the warmth and the light of your union be blessed. DRUID: Do you swear upon the Sword of Justice to keep sacred your vows? BRIDE and GROOM: We swear. DRUIDESS: Then seal your promise with a kiss. DRUID: Beneficent Spirits and Souls of our Ancestors, accept the union of your children. Help them, guide them, protect and bless their home and the children born of their union. May their life together reflect the harmony of all life in its perfect union. May they work together in times of ease and times of hardship, knowing that they are truly blessed. From this time forth you walk together along Life's Path; may your way be Blessed. (BRIDE and GROOM walk together sunwise around the circle to be greeted by each of the PARTICIPANTS, then stand together west of centre) DRUID: It is the hour of recall. As the fire dies down let it be re-lit in your hearts. May your memories hold what the eye and ear have gained. DRUIDESS: We thank the Powers of Love and Peace for their presence within this Sacred Place. Let us offer the words that unite all Druids: Grant, O God/dess, thy Protection And in Protection, Strength And in Strength, Understanding And in Understanding, Knowledge And in Knowledge, The Knowledge of Justice And in the Knowledge of Justice, the Love of it And in the Love of it, The Love of all Existences And in the Love of all Existences, the Love of the God/ess and all Goodness. DRUID: Let the spirits of the Four Directions be thanked for their blessings. CALLER OF THE EAST: In the name of the hawk of dawn and of the element air, we thank the powers of the East. CALLER OF THE WEST: In the name of the salmon of wisdom and the element of water we thank the powers of the West. CALLER OF THE SOUTH: In the name of the great stag and of the element of fire, we thank the powers of the South. CALLER OF THE NORTH: In the name of the great bear of the starry heavens and of the element of earth, we thank the powers of the North. DRUID: May the blessing of the Uncreated One, of her Daughter/his Son The Created Word and of the Spirit that is the Inspirer be always with us. May the world be filled with Harmony and Light. DRUIDESS: Let us now form the Three Circles of Existence. (The married COUPLE hold hands, forming the central circle. The PARTICIPANTS in the OUTER CIRCLE and the HORSESHOE hold hands to form two further circles.) ALL: We swear by peace and love to stand Heart to heart and hand in hand Mark O Spirit and hear us now Confirming this our Sacred Vow. DRUID: This Sacred Rite of Marriage ends in peace, as in peace it began. Let us withdraw, holding peace and love in our hearts until we meet again. The DRUID unwinds the circle and exits with DRUIDESS sunwise. GROOM and BRIDE follow. Then the rest of the INNER CIRCLE. Then the OUTER CIRCLE walk across the centre in pairs and out through the western gate. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#7	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:36 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	ELEMENTAL VOWS As the sea is eternal, so is our love; As the wind is all-encompassing, so is our love; As the earth is solid beneath our feet, so is our love. And yet, our love is so great That it even soars beyond the sea and the wind and the earth. It is so perfect to be standing beside you here, among these elements Which reflect the love we have for each other, As we commit ourselves to each other today. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#8	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:38 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Handfast Rite All parties say this to each other I ask you, (say the name of your intended) to join with me, as my life partner. I give you my pledge of truthfulness, commitment, and the freedom to soar as high as your soul may take you. May we learn to love each other as we do our Mother the Earth. With this ring I offer you a reminder of our strength together, and the vision, we share, for a life that begins and ends with love and understanding. I open my loving heart to you without reservation, and I give freely the sense of joy and wonder, that I feel as we join together as one. May our love shine as it grows, and may all that we do bring honor to our families, friends, and the circle of faith that we walk in. Blessed Be my beloved. When all of the celebrants have made this statement hand them a chalice so that they can share a drink of wine in honor of the Mother, and a piece of small cake in honor of the Father. If there are guests now is the time for a presenter to say, to the assembly, that these people have made clear their intention to become one, and may the union be blessed from this moment forward by all the Gods and Goddesses, that have joined us this happy day. So mote it be! 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#9	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:51 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	HANDFASTING IN FULL CEREMONIAL FORM Before the ceremony can begin, the area chosen is traditionally swept free of debris and negativity by the Maiden of the Broom, once done the ceremony commences. HIGH PRIESTESS [With sword, starting at North, circling deosil, the parameter of the circle three times]: Three times round, Once for the Daughter, Twice for the Crone, Thrice for the Mother, who sits on the throne. HIGH PRIEST: I humbly ask the attendance of the Elementals of life! CALLER OF THE EAST [said whilst pouring water into a bowl]: Welcome, O'powers of Water! Bless this couple with a love as deep as any ocean! May richness of body, of soul and of spirit be theirs ever more! [Places bowl at eastern point of the circle, bows & retires] CALLER OF SOUTH [said whilst lighting a red candle]: Welcome, O'powers of Fire! Ignite the Passion and the Love for this blessed pair. Ever burning, yet never consuming one or the other! [Places candle at southern point of circle, bows & retires.] CALLER OF WEST [said whilst igniting incense in censer]: Welcome, O'powers of Air! With clever fingers weave tightly the bonds of Heart, Spirit and Love between these two! Let none undo the fabric of their love! [Places censer at western point of circle, bows & retires.] CALLER OF NORTH [said whilst filling bowl with soil]: Welcome, O'powers of Earth! Bless this man, this woman with thy strength and wisdom. To be theirs as long as love lasts! [Places bowl at northern point of circle, bows & retires.] CALLERS OF EAST, SOUTH, WEST, and NORTH [in unison]: Gracious Goddess, Gentle God, Grant this blessed pair thy love and protection. Blessed Be! HIGH PRIEST: Who comes forth at this time to petition the Lord and Lady's attention? CALLER OF EAST [Said as caller draws bride into the circle]: This Lady. CALLER OF WEST [Said as caller draws groom into circle]: And this Man. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#10	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:53 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	HANDFASTING RITUAL BY CRYSTAL WIND Three forms of Handfasting: Spiritual Handfasting - ceremony preformed for this lifetime and beyond. Ceremonial - A ceremony performed for a year and a day. Legal - A legal ceremony performed for life under the rules and regulations of state law. All gifts to the bride and groom will be placed under the altar prior to ceremony and the Priestess blesses them before the ceremony begins. Altar table placed in center of circle, draped with red, white, and/or black cloths. On this are placed - 2 chalices (brides and grooms) filled with wine/water. These placed between black or silver / gold or white and a red candle. The rings placed by chalices - also there is in back a special chalice of Holy Water. Cord (black, white and red), Anointing Oil. Other supplies include - Water, Salt, Incense or sage smoke, (Or other symbols of the 4 elements may be substituted); Decorated broom, wand, cauldron, bell, flower centerpiece. Incense (Frankincense & Myrrh - or other handfasting herbs) is burning on altar. Also, two pillows for kneeling in front of altar. The ceremony area is checked and measured for circle space 13 ft. circumference or diameter, depending on area used. This circle is marked out prior to ceremony and the quarter candle holders are placed at the determined directions ready for the candles and casting of the official circle. To cast the circle, the quarter candles are placed in holders at the E, S, W, N quarters are lit then, and the circumference will be marked with wand and/or (perhaps) rose petals or other flowers. Circle area is blessed/consecrated by priestess prior to ceremony (using salt, water, incense, and bell. The Guests may gather after once the circle is blessed & marked. (In some cases, guests may be asked to perform duties of the quarters and remain standing in the circle during the ceremony - this ceremony has not allowed for that at this writing.) Due to size of group that will be present, I request ONLY wedding party be invited to stand within the actual circle and others gather outside. A helper for the priestess can announce the circle ready and invite the guests to gather outside the circle entrance. Each guest that is to enter the circle is then anointed and greeted by the Priestess as they enter. (This may have to be altered to be a general welcome and a formal invitation to those who were invited into the circle) Then, the Priestess blesses the alter, chalices, and rings and lights the wedding candles. Priestess: The altar and ritual site has been properly devoted and prepared for the rite of handfasting. So mote it be. The guests repeat: So mote it be. This is the signal for the bride and groom to be brought to the circle by either the priestess or helper. Priestess then cuts a doorway for Bride and Groom to enter circle from the Southeastern opening. The Groom enters and moves to the West, the Bride follows and takes her place in the East. The Priestess and/or helper then Cast the Circle (Druid Quarter Call) - Element tokens are placed at each quarter and quarter candles lit. Goddess/God/Spirit invited into center, and then the priestess says: The circle between the worlds has been cast in preparation for the rite of handfasting. So mote it be. The guests repeat: So mote it be. Priestess sweeps the are in front of the alter where the bride and groom will stand with the magic broom and says: Magic Broom sweep away, all incorrect events that have previously transpired in the lives of this couple; That today they begin anew and with magical ink may they write on this newly cleansed slate now as they become one and yet still two. So mote it be. The guests repeat: So mote it be. Priestess: Welcome sisters and brothers to the handfasting of Paul and Raven. To our guests, we welcome you and thank you for making this gathering possible. Tonight, you will experience what it is like to join in a Wiccan Circle. We ask respect from all guests to not enter nor leave this circle during the ceremony. This is a solemn and holy ceremony to honor this couples vows and we ask that you do not speak during the proceedings. Thank you and once again, welcome. All who enter here come in perfect peace and perfect trustLet the handfasting begin. Ring bell Opening Ceremony: Priestess: Paul and Raven will you please walk to the center of the circle, join hands and step before me. Bride and groom do this. Priestess: We are gathered here today at this very special place to celebrate the handfasting vows between Raven and Paul, both of whom wish to unite their bodies and spirits in perfect love and perfect trust. As we stand between the worlds, they wish to acknowledge their undying love and share in the extension of the great mystery. - Holy Mother Goddess and Father God, descend upon your people in this sacred ritual of handfasting. So mote it beAll - So mote it be. Ring Bell THE VOWS: Priestess: Who stands before me? The Bride and Groom answer by giving their full names. Priestess: And why do you come here? The Bride and Groom must give appropriate answer. Priestess: And what sacred words do you offer each other? The Bride and Groom must answer: Perfect Love and Perfect Trust. Priestess: All who bring such are doubly welcome! Ring bell. Priestess: Remember, above all, you are spirit. Equal in all things. Neither better than the other. Each the support of the other. So mote it be! All repeat: So mote it be Ring Bell: Priestess to Bride and Groom: Please Kneel Priestess anoints Bride with oil and says: You are out Lady with many faces. Our love, our nurturing, out growth. Priestess anoints Groom with oil and says You are our Lord through the ages. Our strength, our protection, our passion. Will the couples please rise and prepare to take their vows. The Priestess starts with the groom; What words for your bride do you offer of promise and respect? (Insert here grooms own words) To the bride; What words for your groom do you offer of promise and respect? (Insert here brides own words) Next priestess picks up the rings (already blessed) and drops into the special chalice of Holy Water, and holds the chalice to the sky and says: These rings are love tokens of the Bride and Groom, now immersed in the blood of the Goddess symbolizing the depth of her love for us all -- the water represents the ebb and the flow of life; both the good and the bad blended in harmony. She pours the rest of the contents into a bowl, retrieves the rings and gives to them respectively to place on the others finger. She hands ring to groom first, says,: Repeat after meWith this token freely given as a reminder of our love and our vision for the future, a symbol of our union together; I do declare this to be so; thus will you join with me? Bride answers: I will Groom then places ring on her finger (The rings may be another token in place of rings; appropriate wording would be required.) Priestess to the Bride - repeats if double rings, and groom answers: I will. The Priestess holds the cords toward the sky in blessing, These cords are a symbol of your union within this magick circle today. It is our custom that the elements bless your union. At each quarter, a knot will be tied to signify this blessing. When the ceremony is complete, you may wish to request special guests to tie a knot of blessing in this cord. This will seal their respect and support of this new union and only if they untie their knot, will it be retracted from you. Priestess then, loosely binds their hands with 3 knots, saying: I tie these knots -- By the power of three times three, this union of Raven and Paul bound round shall be. Blessed for-ever-more with abundance of love and prosperity from Spirit to thee. Now, by Fire and Air and Water and Earth, and energy freely given of moon and sun and harm to none; This I so declare, So mote it be. Come with me now Paul and Raven on this first of your many journeys together. They go to each quarter beginning with North or East, and at each one, the Priestess speaks something short to introduce the couple and ask for the blessings of the quarter element and/or goddess and ties a knot in their binding cord. They return to the center. Priestess says, The vows have been taken and the Quarters have blessed this handfasting. So mote it be! (All - so mote it be). THE COMMUNION: The priestess unwraps the cords and ties one to the Brides wrist and one end to the Grooms wrist. She holds the Brides chalice toward her and says: Please bless the contents of this chalice. (Note: the wine/water is already poured in the chalices ready). Bride takes the chalice and then hands to the groom, who kneels while Bride, while Bride places her hands over cup forming a triangle with her thumb and 2 first fingers. She says, Bride: As the moon kisses the rain, which waters the soil, which grows the vine, which yields the berry into this cup, I ask for the blessings of Our Lord and Lady in our handfasting ritual. Bride takes the chalice and hands to the groom ( he may choose to kneel here) as she takes the athame (or wand) and lowers it slowly into the chalice. Priestess: As the rod is to the God, so the Chalice is to the Goddess and Together they are ONE! The Bride offers the cup to the groom, saying: May you never thirst. The Groom offers the cup to the Bride saying: May you never thirst. The Groom hands the cup back to the priestess, who then gives the groom the bread. Please bless the bread. Groom holds his hands over the bread. Groom: As the sun warms the ground, which nurtures the soil, which grows the wheat, which yields the flour to make this bread, so I ask for the blessings of the Holy Lord and Lady on this day of our handfasting. The Groom offers the bread to the Bride, saying: May you never hunger. The Bride offers the bread to the Groom, saying: May you never hunger The Bride gives the bread back to the priestess, who says: The holy communion is ended. So mote it be! (All - so mote it be). RAISING ENERGY: The Priestess moves to the center of the circle with the broom (or may use Sword if you prefer), placing it behind the bride and groom. She holds the hands of the Bride and Groom, and turns them to face the members of the circle. She holds her hands high, palms to the sky, and says: In the name of the God and the Goddess, Raven and Paul are bonded as one; bound in infinity. By the power invested by the Goddess Isis, through me, I now declare you wife and husband. You may now kiss your bride. So mote it be! (All - so mote it be) Once the kiss has ended, the priestess says: You may now jump the broom! (sword) Bride and groom make a running jump over the broom (not leaving the circle) and members clap. Priestess: May the blessings of the Old Ones, the Shining Ones, be with you now and always, Blessed Be!! She then cuts a doorway for Bride and Groom and any other party to exit, where they can form a receiving line away from the circle. Priestess and helper, Then thank the Lord and Lady for their presence, dismiss the quarters and collect the quarters tokens/gifts but may leave the candles burning until they go out on their own. The energy is released into the gifts and declares the circle open. The gifts can then be placed on a table for the bride and groom. Draft - 5/12/05 Handfasting Ceremony Materials needed: Long ribbon or soft rope (3 foot). Vows to exchange (written by the couple). Small gifts (or rings) to be exchanged by the couple. 5 rose candles (Quarter and God candle, God candle can be red). 1 black candle (Goddess candle). Gifts from the coveners/guests for the couple. Ritual: Cast the circle as normal. Invoke the Goddess and God normally, or as below. High Priest: We call upon you in the guise of Eros, kindler of desire, bringer of love, to join us here and witness the bonding of _____ and _____ . High Priestess: We call upon you in the guise of Aphrodite, always desirous one, sensual lover, to join us here and witness the joining of _____ and _____ . Grounding meditation. The High Priest and High Priestess motion the two people to be handfasted to join them before the altar. Couple faces the altar. High Priest: (To one of the couple, the female if the couple are of opposite gender.) Do you _____ join us here of your own free will, to acknowledge before the Lord and Lady the bond that is shared between yourself and _____ . Person 1: (Responds, hopefully with a yes, if not, go to closing.) High Priestess asks the other the same thing and gets response. Couple turn to face each other and join their left hands. Each now recites the vows they have prepared. High Priest: (Taking the joined left hands, and the rope.) Here before witnesses, _____ and _____ have sworn vows to each other. With this cord, I bind them to the vows that they each have made. (Wrap the cord loosely around both wrists.) However this binding is not tied, so that neither is restricted by the other, and the binding is only enforced by both their wills. Couple: (Turning to face each other, in unison.) Heart to thee, Soul to thee, Body to thee, Forever and always, So mote it be. Coven: So mote it be! Couple unbind their left arms. Couple exchange the gifts they have brought for each other. Coven members and guests give couple good wishes and/or gifts. Great Rite and Cakes and Ale. Bid farewell to God and Goddess as usual, or as below. High Priestess: We thank you Aphrodite, for your presence among us, and as you take your leave, we ask that you leave among us, in each of us, the ability to each be sensual lover, and desirous one. Hail and farewell. High Priest: We thank you Eros, for your presence here this day, and ask, as you take your leave, that you leave in each of us, the ability to be a bringer of desire, and kindler of love. Hail and farewell. Dismiss the Quarters, and open the circle. Relax, talk, and party! 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#11	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:54 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	NAVAJO WEDDING BLESSING Now you have lit a fire and that fire should not go out. The two of you now have a fire that represents love, understanding and a philosophy of life. It will give you heat, food, warmth and happiness. The new fire represents a new beginning - a new life and a new family. The fire should keep burning; you should stay together. You have lit the fire for life, until old age separates 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~ Last Edited By: Cerredwen 05/12/08 09:37 PM. Edited 1 times.
Cerredwen	Re: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#12	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:56 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	PRIVATE CEREMONY FOR BRIDE AND GROOM [The altar and entire Circle area should be wildly decorated with an abundance of flowers everywhere. Normally the couple would have obtained small gifts for each other, but charged with symbolism and meaning. The priestess and priest would each light white candles. Those present would enter the area and the Circle is cast as usual. The priest would begin.] GROOM: May the place of this rite Be consecrated before the gods. For we gather here in a ritual of love With us two who would be wed. For a year and one day, till the next Lammas arrives. (NAME) and (NAME) stand before the Eternal Gods and Goddesses of Nature. BRIDE: Be with us here, O beings of the Air And with your Clever Fingers Tie closely the bonds between us two who would be bound. [Light incense of such as rose or Jasmine] GROOM: Be with us here, O beings of the Fire Give our love and passion Your all consuming ardor [Light a red candle] BRIDE: Be with us here O beings of the Water Give to us two who desire it the deepest of love And depth of body, soul and spirit [Drink water, wine, or juice from a goblet.] BRIDE: Be with us here O beings of the Earth Lend your strength and constancy To us for as long as we desire to be together [Scatter salt, or actual earth] BOTH: Blessed Goddess and Laughing God We invoke Thee! Give to us Your Unconditional Love And Your Ever Vigilant Protection! (The GROOM would place their rings upon a wand of willow. He holds it in his right hand with his hands over the rings. The BRIDE places her left hand over his.) GROOM: Above us the stars Below us the stones As Time doth pass remember... Like a star above should our love be constant Like a stone below should our love be strong Remember to weather the threatening storms They pass ever quickly and wash away wrong Make love ever often as we both so desire The world may grow cold but can freeze not our Fire Be us close although separate Tho ever together Each possessing the other thru Will not thru Law Strengthen each other the length of our union The God and the Goddess are with us Always. [The BRIDE waits 5 hearbeats] BRIDE: It is my wish to become one with (GROOM's NAME) . GROOM: it is my wish to become one with (BRIDE's NAME) . GROOM and BRIDE together: Then As Above So Below As the God and Goddess are One And the Old Ones witness this rite We now proclaimed Husband and Wife! [BRIDE and GROOM kiss and exchange their gifts.] The Circle is opened as usual. Much feasting and merriment follow! 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#13	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:57 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	ROSE CEREMONY GROOM (As he hands his bride a long-stemmed white rose): "_______, take this rose as a symbol of my love. It began as a tiny bud and blossomed, just as my love has grown and blossomed for you" BRIDE (As she places the rose into a bud vase filled with water): "I take this rose, a symbol of your love, and I place it into water, a symbol of life. For, just as this rose cannot survive without water, I cannot survive without you." GROOM: In remembrance of this day, I will give you a white rose each year on our anniversary, as a reaffirmation of my love and the vows spoken here today" BRIDE: "And I will refill this vase with water each year, ready to receive your gift, in reaffirmation of the new life you have given me and the vows spoken here today." GROOM (As he and his bride join hands around the rose-filled vase) "And so, this rose with be a symbolic memory of my commitment to you this hour; I vow to be a faithful husband to you, to comfort you, honor you, and respect you and cherish you all the days of my life. " BRIDE (As they continue to hold the vase together): "And I commit myself to you, to be a faithful wife, to comfort you, honor you, respect you, and cherish you all the days of my 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#14	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/05/06 11:58 AM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	TRADITIONAL SHOSHONE LOVE POEM Fair is the white star of twilight, and the sky clearer at the day's end; but she is fairer, and she is dearer, She, my heart's friend. Fair is the white star of twilight, and the moon roving to the sky's end; but she is fairer, better worth loving, She, my heart's friend. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#15	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (02/28/06 05:08 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	A Handfasting Ritual By Amber K Greetings, Handfasting is the Wiccan/Pagan equivalent of marriage, with two important differences. One, in most Wiccan/Pagan traditions, same-sex couples may be spiritually handfasted (although not legally yet). And second, by tradition handfasting may be for a year and a day, or for life. The couple who choose the year and a day may, at the end of that time, either make a commitment for life or go their separate ways in peace. (If they were handfasted in a legally binding ceremony, they will need a legal divorce should they part. Note that Pagan/Wiccan priest/esses may officiate over a legal marriage ceremony just as well as the clergy of other faiths,but some local or state jurisdictions may require them to register as clergy prior to the event. Check with your county clerk for the requirements in your area. Here is a ceremony that I have used before: A HANDFASTING RITUAL Preparation: The altar is set up, the circle decorated, and the guests seated. The couple wait at a distance with their escorts, on opposite sides of the circle, but within sight of each other. WELCOME (Ring chimes). HP: Dear Friends--welcome! Out of affection for ___________and______ we have gathered together to witness and bless their vows which will unite them in marriage. To this moment they bring their loving hearts, the dreams which inspire their lives, and two loving hearts, the dreams which inspire their lives, and two unique personalities and spirits. We have been asked as a community of loving friends to share their joy with them, and to pledge ourselves to support and honor their love. No matter how strong their love for each other, they will need our support. I ask each of you present today to do all in your power to sustain and encourage _________and________in their commitment to each other. We rejoice with them for this union of hearts, a union created by friendship, respect, and love. HPS:___________and ________have chosen each other as partners and lovers, and the choice seems obvious and right to those who know them both. It is clear that they share so much: love and laughter, passion and curiosity, a sense of adventure and play, and their deep commitment to the same spiritual path. Their love, like any love between committed and responsible adults, is a reflection of that infinite, divine love which embraces us all. They have chosen to name their love and to honor it. Your support and sharing of their love, and their life together, will make their journey together fuller and richer. For this, they and we thank you. GET ACQUAINTED HP: We are their community who share the bond of loving _____and ________ But they have an advantage on us. They know all of us, but since we have been drawn from different parts of their lives, we don't all know one another. We want you to have a better chance to get to know one another a little better. So I will ask you to mingle for a couple of minutes, and introduce yourselves to someone you don't know, by saying how you know ____________and________. (Pause for a few minutes, then ring chimes). We hope that was a good start and that your conversations can continue at the reception. ATTUNEMENT HPS or bard: Let us join in song: Weave, weave, weave me the sunshine, out of the falling rain; Weave me the hope of a new tomorrow and fill my cup again. ASPERGING CASTING THE CIRCLE CALING THE QUARTERS INVITING THE GOD The High Priest invokes the god-aspect most special to the couple. INVITING THE GODDESS The High Priestess invokes the goddess-aspect most special to the couple. PROCESSIONAL (Continuous chimes) The couple are escorted by two chosen friends, from opposite directions. They meet before the altar. READING Written or selected by the couple, to express their feeling about loving relationships and what they mean. SONGS Dedicated to each other by the couple. They may be taped or sung live if you have talented voices. LIGHTING OF THE CANDLES During the songs, lighting of three candles: each lights their own candle, and from these they light a central candle representing their relationship. STORIES AND BLESSINGS BY CONGREGANTS The High Priest invites the congregants to step forward one at a time to share stories about __________and_______, wishes for their future together, or blessings. It is wise to prepare a few volunteers beforehand, so they can get the ball rolling. THE CHARGE OF THE GODDESS (chimes) HP: Now we would like to share with all of you some words which are very important to our faith. This is called "The Charge of the Goddess." (Pause, lift arms to congregation). "Listen to the Words of the Great Mother....." (Make sure you include the name of the goddess invoked at the beginning of the ritual). And so on, with the High Priestess speaking as the Great Mother and the Star Goddess. THE CHARGE TO THE WITNESSES HP: To all of you who are here to witness this ceremony: You have shown your love and support for __________and________ as individuals. I charge you now to love them also as a couple, to honor and support their marriage, to rejoice with them in their successes and to help them through times of hardship. Know they will do the same for you, and together we create a loving community. THE CHARGES TO THE COUPLE These should be personalized statements of wisdom and from both the High Priestess and High Priest. THE VOWS HP: Trials will come, and tests, for there is much in this world that would long to pull you apart. Do you bring strength and vision to your relationship, courage, and understanding? Response: I do (in unison). HPS: Joys will come, graces and blessings will warm your souls and give you wonder. Do you bring thanksgiving and rejoicing to this relationship, laughter, and abandon? Response: I do (in unison). HP: Do you, __________, take _______to be your beloved partner, to love, honor, and cherish? Response: I do. HP: Do you, _________, take ________to be your beloved partner, to love, honor, and cherish? Response: I do. HP: You may now speak your vows. Each of the couple now speaks the vows they have written, together or individually. PROMISE TO CHILDREN (if any) Here the new stepparent makes appropriate promises to the children their partner brings to the marriage, then adds: "Please accept this as a token of my love and respect for you." (The stepparent then hands the child or children appropriate tokens--perhaps pendants). EXCHANGE OF RINGS A child or friend brings forth the rings on a wand and gives them to the High Priest. He blesses the rings and gives them to the couple, who place them on each other's fingers. "______________, then________: In the name of the Goddess, Maiden, Mother, and Crone; and in the name of the God, with this ring, I thee wed." THE HANDFASTING A friend brings the ribbon. The couple clasp hands. HPS: With this ribbon I will join ___________'s hand with ________'s, as a symbol of the joining of their lives. This is the actual act of handfasting. (She entwines the ribbon around the couple's joined hands). By the powers of Earth and Air, Fire and Water, may your lives ever be joined in love. (Traditionally the couple stays bound by the ribbon until the handfasting has been consummated). JUMPING THE BROOM A Friend brings the broom. HPS: 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. (She places the broom on the earth and invites the couple to jump over it, then leads applause). PRONOUNCEMENT (Chimes). HPS: ______________and________, in the presence of this company and of the Goddess and the God, you have spoken the vows and performed the rites which unite your lives. Therefore we do pronounce you joined as partners in life, love, and the spirit. (Pause). May your lives together be as sweet as this honey, a gift of the Goddess. (Place a little honey on the couple's lips. They kiss, then offer each other the chalice). AFFIRMATIOAN BY THE COMMUNITY HP: ___________and___________, you have proclaimed your commitment in this sacred circle before your community of family and friends. I now invite everyone to join me in the confirmation of this marriage. HP: (To congregation): Please repeat after me: In the presence of this good company (pause) By the power of your love (pause) You have exchanged vows of commitment (pause) And we recognize, honor, and celebrate your marriage. (pause) BLESSING HP: To (God's name), we thank You for Your presence, and invite You to stay for the celebration. To ________and________, May your lives together be joyful and content, And may your love be bright as the stars, Warm as the sun, accepting as the ocean, And enduring as the mountains. BENEDICTION HPS: To (Goddess' Name), we thank You for Your presence, and invite You to feast with us. We come now to the close of this event, and for __________and________, the beginning of a new life together. We offer to them and to each of you, this blessing: By the earth that is Her body, By the air that is Her breath, By the fire that is Her bright spirit, By the waters of Her womb, The circle is open, but unbroken. The peace of the Goddess and the God go in our hearts. Merry Meet, merry part, and merry meet again. Blessed Be! RECESSIONAL Rose petals are tossed on the couple as they leave the altar, and music plays. RECEPTION Music, toasts, cutting the wedding cake, and so on. SIGNING OF THE LICENSE At this point, the High Priest and High Priestess may sign the necessary legal documents and have them witnessed, to make the marriage legal. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#16	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (04/06/06 03:19 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Wiccan Handfasting Cake By Gerina Dunwich 1 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup honey 5 eggs 2 cups flour 2 tablespoons grated lemon rind 2-1/2 teaspoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon rose water pinch of basil 6 fresh rose geranium leaves In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy and light. Add the honey and mix well. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the flour and blend thoroughly with a large wooden spoon after each addition. Stir in the lemon rind, lemon juice, rose water and a pinch of basil --- the herb of love. Line the bottom of a greased nine-by-five-by-three-inch loaf pan with the rose geranium leaves and then pour in the batter. Bake the cake in a preheated 350 degree oven for one hour and fifteen minutes. Remove from oven when done and let stand on a rack for twenty minutes before unmolding. Spread icing or sprinkle sugar on top of the Handfasting Cake just before serving. {The above recipe for "Wiccan Handfasting Cake" is quoted directly from Gerina Dunwich's book "Wicca Craft: The Modern Witch's Book of Herbs, Magick, and Dreams", page 147, A Citadel Press Book, Carol Publishing Group, 1991/1995) 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#17	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (04/13/06 04:57 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Handfasting Customs Author Unknown Many of the customs found in handfasting rituals are drawn from a combination of historical ceremonies, traditional rites, familial customs and actions that the wedding couple feel are significant and important for their special day. Essentially, you can craft a handfasting to meet your needs, whether you are Neo-Pagan or not! Altars Most wedding and commitment ceremonies have an altar of some sort. Sometimes it is adjacent the officiant and couple-to-be-wed, but sometimes very elaborate displays are staged off to the side from where the actual ceremony takes place to not be distracting. Most Pagan handfasting have a representation of the Goddess and God on the altar, but you can adjust this to fit your own traditions. You can also include items that are important to the wedding couple, such as favorite childhood items or pictures of beloved dead. Basically, the altar should represent the intentions and emotions that the couple wishes to bring to their union, as well as honor whichever deities the couple would like to bless their union. Binding Often in handfasting there is a part of the ceremony where the couple symbolize their bonds by having a ceremonial cord wrapped around their joined hands. It was this action from which handfasting got its name. The fibers of the cord are often chosen by the couple, with colors that are significant to them, the gods that are being invoked or which match the wedding scheme. The length should be of an appropriate length to wrap around the couple's hands a few times. The number of strands can be whatever is wished: a single stranded cord, a regular three-strand braid, or a complex braided cording. Patterns or knots may be woven into the cord as desired. Broom Jumping Jumping a broom has had a long history in handfasting. Frequently a symbol of the home, many feel the significance of this gesture is that the couple jump from their regular separate lives into their new life together. The broom can be a regular household broom, or one that has been specially crafted for the ceremony. Often the broom is decorated with ribbons or cording that matches the handfasting cord. It should be long enough that two persons can hold the two ends, suspending the broom a few inches from the ground, so that the couple can jump over it at the same time. Brides should make sure that their dress will allow this action if they wish this to be part of the ceremony! Some couples also choose to jump a cauldron, another symbol of the home and fertility. Commitment Wording The wording of the vows in handfasting can vary, depending on what is wished by the couple. For a betrothal, the vow was often for a year and a day, with a full wedding coming at the end of that period. Other couples renew the vows at the end of the stated time period. When a handfasting is used as the permanent commitment, the vows are often worded so that the binding stands for as long as love exists between the two partners. Whether used as a betrothal or the marriage ceremony itself, the traditions and customs of handfasting can bring focus and significance to this most special of decisions and commitments. Blessed Be! 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#18	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (04/13/06 05:02 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Handfasting and Pagan Weddings Author Unknown The ancient custom of handfasting has had many forms over the years and can serve either as an engagement ceremony or as a marriage ceremony proper in contemporary Neo-Pagan wedding rituals. The custom of handfasting has also gained popularity with non-Pagans in the places like the gay and lesbian community, with many of the rites and rituals serving well for commitment ceremonies and civil unions. In one of the original forms, handfastings were betrothal periods for a couple, often lasting a year and a day. This practice is derived in part from ceremonies of the ancient Celts. This time period allowed a couple to better get to know one another and see if the match was a good one, and, in instances were it was part of the marriage exchange, it allowed the man time to earn or gather the dowry price or gifts given to the bride's family. If the trial period did not work out, the couple could rejoin and dissolve the union. Some traditions made note of the couple returning to the place where they were first betrothed. From this location, they would turn to stand back-to-back and then part, walking away in different directions. If the trial period was considered a success, the couple would then hold a formal wedding ceremony with further rituals and feasting. There are conflicting claims that handfastings either are or aren't traditionally done in the month of May, or around Beltane. In modern Paganism, they tend to happen at a time that is significant to the couple. People who are involved in SCA recreations or Renaissance fairs often chose handfastings as part of their betrothals and marriages, and will hold the handfasting ceremonies during group events or fairs to take advantage of having their shared community and the period atmosphere all in one. A modern handfasting can also be a full legal marriage. The ritual itself is not the issue, just the satisfactory completion of the requirements of the state or location of the wedding. If the person conducting the handfasting has the appropriate credentials and the proper marriage licensing is handled, the handfasting will be a legally recognized wedding ceremony. What elements form the handfasting ritual might vary widely from couple to couple. As with most weddings, the ceremony and altar could be short and to the point, or a long, elaborate ritual. If the couple practice different facets of Paganism, it's a good idea to spend some time working out what pieces of both practices you want to combine in the ceremony. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#19	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (06/06/06 02:00 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	Celtic Marriage Herbs Spells, and Traditions By Ellen Evert Hopman - Adapted from A Druid's Herbal, (Inner Traditions, 1995). Learn how to do a traditional divination to see if you will marry your lover, find out which herbs Wise Ones used to increase passion and ensure fidelity, read some good-luck Celtic wedding customs, and more. It's all here: To See if You Will Marry Your Lover: Drop two acorns in a pan of water. If the nuts come together, a match is certain. Celtic Marriage Traditions Weddings are often held under the marriage oak, or inside stone circles within which the participants dance. Newly married couples might circumambulate a stone while asking for fertility, or pass naked through a large hole carved out of a stone (symbolic of rebirth into their new life). A bride was thought to be the earthly representative of spiritual treasure, which must be fought for with determination and courage. She symbolized the Otherworld and a previously unexplored region of the groom's psyche. The groom embodies the assertive male energy that must accomplish worldly deeds. Spiritually and physically, the couple must overcome the obstacles to their union in order for each to become whole. For these reasons, displays of mock hostility, the blocking of entrances and gates, and the creation of rope barriers to test the couple's determination are often part of the rite. Hostile spirits are dispelled by loud noises. A relative of the bride might carry her off, with the groom and his party in hot pursuit. When everyone tires of the game, the groom is "allowed" to claim the bride, and the celebrations and feasting begin. An alternative to the horseplay might be to challenge the groom to solve a riddle. Or the bride's people and the groom's people can challenge each other to a contest in verse. And old Welsh custom is for the bride to disguise herself; one of the groom's men is supposed to pick her out of the gathered crowd. After the ceremony, an old woman meets the bride and presents her with a bag of hazelnuts--symbolic of the wisdom and the creativity she will enjoy in her new life's passage. Traditional Marriage Herbs Because they are an herb of protection, said to avert evil, the Ancient Romans baked ANISE SEEDS into wedding cakes. APPLES AND APPLE BLOSSOMS are symbolic of love, healing, and immortality. Burn the blossoms as incense, wear the perfume, and make them into herb candles. BROOM FLOWERS bound with colored ribbons are carried at weddings. Couples may choose to "jump the broom" as they make their transition to a new station in life. CARAWAY SEEDS are often added to love potions to keep lovers faithful. They are said to inspire passion when baked into cakes or breads, so put some in the wedding cake, or throw it at the bride and groom instead of rice (it's much better for the birds!) ELDERFLOWERS are used to bring blessings and luck to married couples. LAVENDER is a classic ingredient of love charms. If worn, it helps protect against spousal abuse. LEMON VERBENA is worn to increase one's attractiveness to the opposite sex. LICORICE brings fidelity and passion to a sexual union. MARJORAM brings joy and is a common ingredient in love spells. ROSES are ancient symbols of love. Strew them before the bridal pair, use them on the altar, wear them, and place them on the marriage bed. ROSEMARY, an herb of consecration and remembrance, is often added to incense, placed in the chalice, and distributed to guests. 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: Rites of Passage--Handfasting or Wedding Rites	#20	[-]
Walks an Earthbased Path Posts: 11527 (06/29/06 02:57 PM) ~~Priestess of the Goddess~~ Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts Report Post	A Handfasting Ceremony Written by PaganRose, February 14th, 2002 ~~Processional~~ ~~Convocation~~ There is joy in seeing the trees dance in the wind and in watching the sunlight filter through branches on a spring day. There is happiness in greeting an old friend whom you haven't seen in years and in reminiscing with that friend about childhood dreams and lifelong ambitions. There is wonder in the laughter of children and in the innocence that wraps itself so closely around them. We live and breath everyday, but often miss out on the simple joys of living ~ too caught up in bills and in getting places to notice the miracles of what we experience everyday of our lives. So, instead, we create our rituals and celebrations to chase away mundane life so that we may find the magick that exists when we take a step back and really look around. At some point in our lives we each will probably fall in love and decide to marry. It is the celebration of this rite of passage that brings us here today. Two people have found each other and have chosen to view the joy, the happiness, and the wonder of life together by joining themselves as one in the ceremony of a handfasting. ~~Reading~~ ~~ex-pression of Intent~~ ___________________, you have come here today to join yourselves in spirit, to give to each other love and devotion that is reserved for those you would spend an eternity with. I now ask your intentions. Do you, ( name), come to this circle willingly and without fear, to join yourself to ( name)in love and spirit for as long as your paths allow? Do you, ( name), come to this circle willingly and without fear, to join yourself to (name)in love and spirit for as long as your paths allow? ~~Cakes and ale~~ The cakes offered this day are representative of the Goddess, the ale offered today is representative of the God. As you partake of them, allow the love and wisdom of the God and Goddess to enter your hearts, your minds and your lives to guide you in all that you do, both separately and together. Couple exchange cakes and ale ~~Reading~~ ~~True Lover's Knot~~ Officiant ties the true lover's knot around the couple's wrists. ~~Vows~~ _________________, I offer my heart for you to hold in your hands, so that you may always know the love that's been fashioned by your gentle touch. I offer you my devotion, freely given, because I trust in you and in all that we are together. I offer you my friendship, because I find in you a shoulder to cry on and a spirit I can laugh with. I offer you my honesty, so that you may always trust in me, and understand that I value you as a person. I offer you a life with many roads, both winding and straight, but I promise that we shall walk all of these roads together, hand in hand. I offer you all that I am, because I love you and want always to share our lives as one. ~~Ring Exchange~~ The wedding rings that one sees when two people wed, are symbolic of love that does not end. The circle continues just as life continues, and in that circle can be found the love that binds us together as one spirit. We exchange rings as a token of that love; visual proof of the promises that we make to each other when we decide that we have reached the point of spiritual awareness needed for the commitment of marriage. Let the circle of the rings you have chosen be a reminder to each of you of the love you have brought with you to this sacred circle today. Couple exchange rings and say to each other: _____________, I have chosen this ring as a symbol of my love for you! within it's circle can be found my heart and within that heart can be seen the happiness of our commitment to each other as we begin this journey together. Please know that this ring enfolds your finger as my love enfolds you as the joy of my life. ~~Reading~~ ~~The Kiss~~ "To kiss is to touch, both physically and spiritually. Kiss now and become one in life and love." The couple kisses. "I now pronounce you handfasted in love and spirit, and blessed by the God and Goddess" Couple turns to family and friends and says: "Ladies and Gentleman, may I present to you our newly joined couple, _______________ The couple walks to the circle entrance, jump the broom and begin their new life together with a festive reception. 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~

<< Previous Topic Next Topic >>

Yuku free message boards

Rites of Passage--Handfasting...Marriage & Wedding Rites

Rites of Passage--Handfasting...Marriage & Wedding Rites

Quick Reply