Natural wax candles needed N:earth Sword BARD W:water E:air LADY Cauldron brazier S:fire The BARD and his LADY should stand to the WEST, unless otherwise specified in the ritual. Set outer circle for guests after they have assembled in a circle. The Groom and Maiden shall walk to the center of the outer circle. Set inner circle for Groom/Maiden & Bard/Lady The Maiden and Groom shall stand in the center of the Circle. BARD: We are met to celebrate the Handfasting of (N) and (N). In the days of old, a Handfasting was like an Engagement, but yet a bit more. It is nearer to Marriage than the modern Engagement, and is not to be entered into lightly, nor frivolously, for it is a public agreement between two people to live, love and work together to a greater or lesser degree. All here are asked to witness the promises made, before the One (and the Bard shall gesture to the Sky and Earth) and before the Many (and the Bard shall gesture to the guests.) BARD: Thus I invoke the Lady White To come to us this sacred night. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, I show you a Mystery! The Maiden moves to the East. The Groom moves to the North. LADY: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Oh, I shall go into a hare with sorrow, sighing and mickle care And I shall go in the Lady's Name Aye, until I be fetched hame! GROOM: Hare, take heed of a swift greyhound Will harry thee all these fields around For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! The Maiden moves to the South. The Groom moves to the East. LADY: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a bee With mickle fear and dread of thee And flit to hive in the Lady's Name Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! GROOM: Bee, take heed of a red, red cock Will harry thee close thru door and lock For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! The Maiden moves to the West. The Groom moves to the South. LADY: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a trout. With sorrow and sighing and mickle doubt And show thee many a merry game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! GROOM: Trout, take heed of an otter lank Will harry thee close from bank to bank For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! The Maiden moves to the North. The Groom moves to the West. LADY: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a mouse And haste me unto the Miller's House There in his corn to have good game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! GROOM: Mouse, take heed of a white tom-cat That never was baulked of mouse nor rat For here come I in the Lady's Name And -thus- it is I fetch thee hame! Groom walks to Maiden and takes her hand. They both move to the center of the Circle, and then to the West, and face BARD/LADY. LADY: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his Love has fetched her back! Here the contract shall be read. It shall contain such provisions as are mutually acceptable to the couple, and shall state the duration of the handfasting, which shall be no longer than a year and a day, and may provide an option for renewal, or true marriage, and shall list the Handfasting gifts given to each other by the couple. Any gifts shall be exchanged at this time . The Groom and Maiden's hands shall be wrapped with a cord or ribbon, by the Bard and his Lady, and Groom and Maiden both move to, and jump, the fire. the Circle shall be drawn down to merge with the couple, and the BARD and LADY shall quietly give the couple their Blessings. Here ends the Handfasting Ritual. HANDFASTING RITUAL: ROWANHOLD BARDIC CIRCLE
More Handfasting Rituals The bride and groom shall carry their own rings, or they may have them carried by others, the groom with his ring, and the bride with hers. The Priest shall say: We have come together here in celebration of the joining together of (N) and (N). There are many things to say about marriage. Much wisdom concerning the joining together of two souls has come our way through all paths of belief, and from many cultures. With each union, more knowledge is gained and more wisdom gathered. Though we are unable to give all this knowledge to these two who stand before us, we can hope to leave with them the knowledge of love and its strengths and the anticipation of the wisdom that comes with time. The law of life is love unto all beings. Without love, life is nothing, without love, death has no redemtion. Love is anterior to Life, posterior to Death, initial of Creation and the exponent of Earth. If we learn no more in life, let it be this. Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and reflection. As with any aspect of life, it has its cycles, its ups and its downs, its trials and its triumphs. With full understanding of this, (N) and (N) have come here today to be joined as one in marriage. We must ask, however, that if any here present know of any reason why these two may not be lawfully joined in marriage, let them speak now, or forever after remain silent. Others would ask, at this time, who gives the bride in marriage, but Woman is not property to be bought and sold, given and taken. We ask simply if she comes of her own will and if she has her family's blessing. The Priest shall turn to the bride, and say: (N), is it true that you come of your own free will and accord? And the bride shall respond: Yes, it is true. The Priest shall then say: With whom do you come, and whose blessings accompany you. And the bride's escort shall say: She comes with me, and is accompanied by all of her family's blessings. And the Priest shall then say: Please join hands with your betrothed and listen to that which I am about to say. Above you are the stars, below you are the stones, as time passes, remember... Like a stone, your love should be firm; like a star, your love should be constant. Let the powers of the mind and of the intellect guide you in your marriage, let the strength of your wills bind you together, let the power of love and desire make you happy, and the strength of your dedication make you inseparable. Be close, but not too close. Possess one another, yet be understanding. Have patience with one another, for storms will come, but they will pass quickly. Be free in giving affection and warmth. Have no fear and let not the ways of the unenlightened give you unease, for God/dess is with you always. (remind the Bride to give her bouquet to her Maid of Honour) The Priest shall then say to the Groom: N, I have not the right to bind you to N; only you have this right. If it be your wish, say so at this time and place your ring in her hand. And the groom shall respond: It is my wish. The Priest shall then say to the Bride: (N), if it be your wish for (N) to be bound to you, place the ring on his finger. And the bride shall place the ring on the groom's left ring finger The Priest shall then say to the Bride: (N), I have not the right to bind you to (N); only you have this right. If it be your wish, say so at this time, and place your ring in his hand. And the bride shall answer: It is my wish. The Priest shall then say to the Groom: (N), if it be your wish for (N) to be bound to you, place the ring on her finger. And the groom shall place the ring on the bride's left ring finger) The Priest shall then say to the Groom: I, (grooms full name), in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood and the love that resides within my heart, take thee (bride's full name) to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire thee and be desired by thee, to support thee, and be supported by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself. The Priest shall then say to the Bride: I, (bride's full name), in the name of the spirit of Goddess that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood, and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, (Groom's full name) to my hand, my heart, and my spirit to be my chosen one. To desire and be desired by thee, to support thee, and be supported by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself. The Priest shall then hand the chalice to the groom, saying May you drink your fill from the cup of love, and never thirst. (The groom shall hold the chalice to bride while she sips, then the bride shall take the chalice and hold it to the groom while he sips. The chalice is then handed back to the Priest who sets it on the table. The Priest shall then hand the plate of bread to the bride, saying May your home ever be full of love, and may you never hunger. The bride shall hold the plate and feed the groom, and then the groom shall take the plate and feed the bride likewise, and return the plate to the Priest. And should the couple so wish, they may dip the bread in salt before eating. The Priest shall then say: By the power vested in me, and according to the laws of the State of (name), I now pronounce you husband and wife. May your love so endure that its flame remains a guiding light unto you. Go in Peace, and in Joy. Go together as partners in life, sealing your union with a kiss. and here they may light the Unity candle, if they so wish and the Priest shall here turn the couple to the guests, and say: Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. and Mrs (N). FOR THE BOND OF MARRIAGE:
Tha mise (ainm) a-nis 'gad ghabhail-sa (ainm) gu bhith 'nam chèile phòsda. Ann am fianais Dhè 's na tha seo de fhianaisean tha mise a' gealltainn a bhith 'nam fhear pòsda dìleas gràdhach agus tairis dhuitsa, cho fad's a bhios an dìthis againn beò.
I, (name) now take you (name) to be my wife. In the presence of God and before these witnesses I promise to be a loving, faithful and loyal husband to you, for as long as we both shall live.
Tha mise (ainm) a-nis 'gad ghabhail-sa (ainm) gu bhith 'nam chèile pòsda. Ann am fianais Dhè 's na tha seo de fhianaisean tha mise a' gealltainn a bhith 'nam bhean phòsda dhìleas ghràdhach agus thairis dhuitsa, cho fad's a bhios an dìthis againn beò.
I, (name) now take you (name) to be my husband. In the presence of God and before these witnesses I promise to be a loving, faithful and loyal wife to you, for as long as we both shall live.
A Memorial Service has as the order of service: Opening Words Chalice/Candle Lighting Address Personal reflections/Eulogy Readings (Optional) Summation Benediction For a Checklist: Choose additional opening words, if any Choose additional readings, if any Candle or chalice in place Matches or lighter on hand Eulogy prepared Speakers prepared Plans noted for disposition of body (set Circle in your usual way. The casket may be open or closed, depending on the wishes of the family. It should be set in the center of the Circle, or to the West.) OPENING WORDS: (the following dialogue is intended for the minister/leader or HP/S to speak, though others may take individual parts, if it is wished.) To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under Heaven. _The Mystery of the Bards_ tells us: "He was old. He felt old. His body did not work right anymore, and he was always tired. His eyes were rheumy, and there were pains in his joints that woke him in the cold night time. One night, as he slept, a soft white light filled his hut. He looked up, and saw the most beautiful Lady he had ever seen standing in the room. "Who are you?" he whispered. "Death," She answered, quietly. "Death?" His reply was confused. "I never thought Death would be so beautiful! We have always pictured you as some kind of spectre of fear." The Lady smiled. "You only fear Death because you do not remember it. Just as you fear Life, because you do not remember it. Come. Walk with me, and be at peace." He got out of the straw bed, and walked to Her. She took his hand, and he looked back at the bed. He saw his body, lying there. Still and unmoving. Dead. "It's quite a shock, isn't it?" Her voice was calm. "Am I .... dead?" "Most assuredly so. Come." They walked out of the cottage, hand in hand, and he noticed that they were not walking thru the streets of the village where he had lived. "Where are we?" "You'll see in a moment. Wait." "Am I bound for Hell?" he asked. She stopped, and looked him in the eyes. "There is no Hell. You have lived as most humans do, loving, hating, being loved and being hated. You did the best you could with the Light you had to see by. You have learned much, and earned much." Her voice was low, but filled with a vibrancy that touched his very soul. They continued a little way down a hill, and then turned a corner, or something very much like it, and he saw, and heard the laughter. "Is it Heaven? What is it? It's beautiful!" "This is the Summerland. Here you will rest a while, and play, and perhaps meet old playmates again and discuss your Game, and ways to improve it. It is time for you to remember all your lives." She reached up, and softly touched him on the forehead. "Now remember." And he did." CHALICE/CANDLE LIGHTING: Though our spirit be but the feeble glow of a single flame, for the one who keeps it burning bravely to the end, death is not defeat. We light our candle (and fill this chalice) today to honor the life and the living name of N., for it is better to light a single candle, than to curse the darkness. (the chalice should be filled with pure water only.) ADDRESS: We have gathered here at/in (describe setting/this beautiful place) to acknowledge the death of N., someone whe have known and loved. When someone we have cared for dies, family and friends gather with sorrow in their hearts. At times when we must face death and loss, we need one another's company for understanding and support. Just to be together, to look into one another's faces, takes away some of our loneliness and draws our hearts together in the healing which we can offer one another. At such times, the various faiths that sustain us separately come together in a harmony that acts across all creeds and beliefs, and assures us of the permanence of human goodness and hope. So we have gathered here today in grief and sorrow, but we have also gathered to celebrate a life. We have come together to give thanks that we knew this (describe--e.g. gentle, caring, decent) person, to express our gratitude for the days and years we were able to share with (her/him). We are here to remember and memorialize a (give outstanding personal qualities of the deceased) life. By remembering the best of this person, by recalling some of (his/her) finest qualities, by honoring the principles, values, and dreams which guided his/her life, some of N.'s enduring nobility flows into us, that we ourselves might be more noble in the days ahead. We are here for all these things. But our first spiritual task is to face, full and unafraid, the reality of this death, and the grief and loss we feel. Death is the Great Unknown; it is a thing that all of us must face, sooner or later. Let us face it without fear, for it is but the shedding of a body, and the passing to another place, in the great Wheel of Life. PERSONAL REFLECTIONS/EULOGY: (At this point the leader or some other designated person (with or without the contributions of others) could speak personally and particularly of the person for whom the memorial service is being held.) (Following the Eulogy, the leader/minister,HP/S says:) These then, are a few of our thoughts and rememberances of N. Whether or not we have succeeded in accurately portraying his/her life, it is surely as Charles Gaines has written: "No person can sum up the life of another. Life is too precious to be passed over with mere words which ring empty. Rather it must remain as it is remembered by those who loved and watched and shared. For such memories are alive, unbound by events of birth and death. And as living memories, we posess the greatest gift one person can give another." And the _Mystery of the Bards_ tells us: "We come into the world unknowing, an empty vessel waiting to be filled. In this filling, we learn the lessons of life, some good, some bad. In this learning, we grow and change; we become more than we were. When we are young children, we go to school to learn how to live in this world; how to cope with our civilization and its many demands on us. Life is a school. It is a training ground for a purpose that is, perhaps, beyond our grasp as mere humans. We will not know why we were set to learn the lessons we are given until we pass beyond life. Thus, as we live, we learn. Beyond life we might put these lessons into practice, and, perhaps, learn yet more. We do not know. All we have is trust. We are here. All the religions of the world have taught one simple lesson, over and over again: "Love God, love your neighbor." All other teaching is simply commentary on that simple lesson. Perhaps that lesson is the lesson to be learned in this great Game of Living and Dying. If that is the Lesson, then I, for one, am content." I ask you to remember N. as only you can. Let us enter this meditation reverently, and with love. (Here may be placed a 1-3 minute silence or a musical meditation to reflect upon memories of the deceased.) READINGS: We have selected several readings which seem particularly appropriate on this day when we acknowledge the death and celebrate the life of N. (insert readings here) SUMMATION: The Native American Ishi people of the Pacific Northwest taught that their dead spoke to them, saying: "When I am dead, cry for me a little, think of me sometimes, but not too much. It is not good for you or your wife or husband or children to allow your thoughts to dwell too long upon the dead. Think of me now and again as I was in life, at some moment which is pleasant to recall but not for too long. Leave me in peace, as I shall leave you in peace. While you live, let your thoughts be with the living. And from _The Mystery of the Bards_, we hear: "It is time for you to go now." The Lady spoke to him in a sweet voice. "So soon?" he answered, "It seems as if I just arrived." "It always does," she smiled, "But it's time to move on to another life and another body. You'll like this one." "I hope so. Buchenwald was not pleasant...." "No, it isn't. But, like you folks say, 'that's Life!'" He laughed, and stood up on the so-green grass. "Yeah, I guess it is. See you in a while, folks." The Circle of friends waved at him, wishing him luck and good fortune, and he and the Lady moved off into a misty area. "Pretty foggy here," he remarked. "It will clear up soon," she said, and she took his hand. They walked for a long time, until he saw they were on a quiet street in a small town. It looked like a nice place. Around the corner was a park, and in it, two people, a man and a woman, were sitting on a bench, holding hands. They were deeply in love, and that love shone around them to those with eyes to see. "These are your parents. They're nobody special, but they're nice people and you'll like them," She said. "They look like nice folks," he replied. "Anything I need to know before I do this?" "I'm afraid I can't tell you. Life is one of those things that you just have to experience on your own." "OK," he said, "I guess You're right, all things considered." The Lady laughed, and touched him on the forehead. "Now forget, for a time, until you return to Me." And there was a timeless time, and some of him went to the forming child, not separating from him, but to the child none the less, and he was the child, and himself also, and he returned to the Summerland, rejoining the Circle. "I'm back," he said. "Did you ever leave?" they asked. He just laughed." BENEDICTION: It is done. We have offered our loving farewells to N. (Describe disposition of the body, e.g. "Her/his body has been committed to the purifying flame/the keeping of mother earth.") Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. All flesh is but grass, yet our Spirit lives on. Farewell for now, for we shall meet again. We are profoundly glad that N. lived. We are glad that we saw her/his face and felt the glow of her friendship and love. We cherish the memory of his/her words and deeds and character. Carrying him/her thus in our hearts, let us now go from this place in comfort and peace, assured that even in this time of apparent loss and sorrow, life remains precious and good. May we also on this day rekindle in our hearts an appreciation for the gifts of life, friends and family. (the leader shall then say:) You are a Child of the Goddess, a daughter or a son of the God, and you are here in joy. Live your life to its fullest, taking the good with the bad and learning from each. Enjoy love, giving yourself to your lover as you will, but not so much that you lose your Self, and take that which is given by your lover, but not so much as to empty them of Selfhood. You are both individuals who are walking together, side by side, in equal partnership, and if your paths should separate, then so be it. Separate in joy, not hate. Love. Love life, love your fellow humans, and love our Brothers and Sisters in fur, feather and scale. Love your Mother Earth. We are caretakers of the planet; this is our Home. Work. Do not live from the bounty of others, but live of your own, as an independent member of the whole. If you must take charity, take it in good grace, and return what you have been loaned therefrom when you can, be it in kind, or by whatever means you have. Give. Give to those in need, and to those that hunger or thirst. Give not to inflate yourself, and to show others your magniminity, but give from a love for your fellow humans. Give of your substance, but more importantly, give a helping hand, that the person helped may support themselves, free from obligation. Teach. Teach your children and teach others, not by words, for words can twist and lie, but by your own example. Teach Kindness, and Understanding, and Joy, but most of all, teach Love. If you must discipline your children, discipline in love, not anger. Think. Think before you speak. Think before you act. Consider your words and actions, and the effect they will have on others. Learn. Learn from all, for even a fool may speak wisdom unknowingly. Most of all, learn thru the wide eyes of a Child, seeing for the first time. Ask. If you do not know, ask. If you are unsure, ask. If you are sure...ask again. Speak the Truth. Live the Truth. Love the Truth. Seek after the Truth. Harm none. Love all. For it is written, and it is undoubtedly so, that what you have done to the least and smallest, you have done to the Deity. When I was a child, I thought as a child, but now that I am grown I shall put away childish things ..... but yet ..... our brother/sister is now but a Child, new-born in a new Place, in a new Beginning, in this Circle that has no end. Perhaps that is part of what Jesus of Nazareth meant when He said, "Except as ye become as a little child ye shall not enter the Kingdom of Heaven." Let us mourn our loss, but let us also rejoice in this passing, for nothing is forgotten. Nothing is ever lost. The Circle is ever complete and without end. Let us honor the life of N. by living, ourselves, more nobly and lovingly in the days ahead. As you return to the routines of your lives, go in great peace, dear friends, and may (God/dess/an abiding peace) go with you. Children, it is finished. Go in Peace, for thus it was, and so it is, and thus it ever shall be. (Open your Circle in your usual way.) (if the body is buried in the earth, let the contents of the chalice be emptied on the ground beside the grave. Otherwise, let them be poured reverently on the ground in an appropriate place. The candle should be left burning until all have left.) MEMORIAL SERVICE
THE BARDIC YEAR
Ritual for Wiccan groups
by the White Bard 1991-92 CE
The following are suggested rituals within the four major calendar celebrations. They
are written from a Wiccan standpoint, using Celtic traditions, and take the form of
Mystery Plays that (sometimes) are -not- fully explained (!). Try not to explain them
to the participants, but rather allow them to act upon the participants in a subliminal,
emotional fashion. That is, after all, what they are designed to do.
Note: "%" marks "stage directions"
N:earth
W:water E:air
S:fire
The BARD should stand to the WEST, unless otherwise specified in the
ritual.
YULE RITUAL: 21 December -by the White Bard Materials: a very small, just sprouted potted plant. a candle for each covener present. a MOTHER. She should wear a blue garment, if possible. a MAIDEN, dressed in white. a Crown of Light, made from three, six, or nine candles. a BARD/GREEN MAN. % The ceremony for the Lesser Sabbats should be written by newer % members of the coven, as part of their learning. At an appropriate % place in the ceremony, the following should be inserted: % Here begins the Yule Mystery. ALL light shall be % extinguished, all fires put out, save that in the South. % The Bard/Green Man shall lie on his back in the East, as % if dead. % The HPS shall say: HPS: Darkness covers all. The Old King is dead, and there is no warmth for the Mother. The days are short, and the nights are long. COVEN: Give us Light! HPS: The Maiden wanders the Earth, Maiden no more, but soon to be Mother. The Earth is cold, and there is no place for her to give birth. COVEN: Give us Light! HP: Mother, give us the Child of Promise! The Lord Of Life strains to be born! COVEN: Give us Light! MOTHER: I seek a place to rest, and give birth. % The Mother should wander about the inside of the circle, as if % looking for something, and not finding it. She should act very % tired, and project a sense of urgency. % She then goes to the East, and assumes the Goddess pose, standing, % arms and legs spread in the form of a five-pointed star. % There shall be a pause, and the Bard/Green Man shall then quietly % rise up, and stand behind the Mother. If it seems appropriate, the % more primitive symbolism of him crawling out from between the legs % of the Mother may be used. He should be carrying a lit candle, or % some other source of light. BARD/GREEN MAN: Cunning and art I do not lack, But -always- Her Cauldron brings me back! % The Bard/Green Man shall take his lit candle, and proceed to re-light % the corner candles, moving deasil, and any other fires within the circle. % The just-sprouted potted plant is picked up by the Mother and held in % front of her during this candle-lighting. % The Bard/Green Man shall then take the plant from the hands of the Mother, % bring it to the center of the circle, and raise it above his head, saying: BARD/GREEN MAN: Here is the Promise, that is always fulfilled. % The plant is then passed around the circle, and given to the Mother, who % should take it home and water and nurture it thru the year, if possible. % The Maiden shall then take the place of the Mother, and the Mother shall % return to her place within the circle. % Here ends the Yule Mystery. CANDLEMAS (IMBOLC) RITUAL: 2 February -by the White Bard Materials: a candle for each covener present. a MAIDEN, dressed in white. a Crown of Light, made from three, six, or nine candles. a BARD/GREEN MAN. a DARK LORD, dressed in dark clothing, and holding a dark cloak. % The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered participants. % It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like % before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any % of the participants should miss out on! HPS: Go we now to the sacred place And stand within the sacred space Turn your minds to sacred things And dance with me unto the ring! % HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a % spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The % cauldron should be at the south. The Bard/Green Man % dances at the end of the line. A good song to sing here % is "Lord Of The Dance." HPS: Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance Within the Lady's radiance To celebrate the Sun's rebirth To renew life, to warm the Earth Earth and Water, Fire and Air I invoke the Goddess there! This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! HP: Earth and Water, Fire and Sky I invoke the God on high This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! % The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but % shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her % circumnabulation. EAST: O Guardians of the Eastern Tower, Airy ones of healing power I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! SOUTH: Oh fiery ones of Southern Power Thus I invite you to this tower I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! WEST: Western ones of water's flow Help to guard us here below I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! NORTH: Earthen ones of Northern fame Bless and guard our Power's fane I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! % The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each % corner's crying as she moves to the next: HPS: So I cast and consecrate This Circle of the small and great: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea, By Fire and Water, Earth and Air, By the Lord, and Lady Fair! By Love and Joy and Work and Play, All things harmful cast away! By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall, By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: (Cast the Circle: Blessed be!) % On her return to the first corner she shall change the last % line above, and say: The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be! % The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners. -------------------------------------------------- % Here begins the Candlemas (Imbolc) Mystery: % The Maiden shall step forth, and say: MAIDEN: This is the time of Brigid, the Patron of Poets and Fire, and of Healing. HPS: This is the time of new beginnings, when the Mother has become Maiden. HP: The days have turned, and grow longer, and the Sun-child is growing to His strength. BARD/GREEN MAN: I have been a wave upon the sea, And a spark in the firelight. I have been a fish in the ocean. I have been a Thought within a Word, And a Word within a Deed. I was cast away, and found again. I have been made of flowers And of cold steel and brass. Fire and ice are alike unto me. I have been the narrow blade of a sword That kills without cutting. And the Void is my homeland. I have been in Caer Sidi In the Spiral Castle of Glass. And the letters on the Standing Stones Are no secret from me. I have been in Annwyn And Tir na n'Og, I have danced the Spiral Dance, And drunk from the Hierlas at daybreak. I have ridden beneath two ravens And served in the kitchen, And all places are alike unto me. I have been a child And now I come into my strength! I invoke the Land, the dear Land, the Earth our Mother! MAIDEN: The cycles of the Moon have taken their course, and I am in my Maidenhood. The stars are kindled, and I dance in their light. DARK LORD: Thy home is with me thru the long months of Winter, and the Earth shall lie fallow and bare. % The HPS shall then light the candles of the Crown of Light, % and shall approach the Maiden, who is now standing in the East, and % place it upon her head. % She shall now, in company with the Bard/Green Man, circumnabulate the % circle, and the coveners shall light their candles from her crown. % The Bard/Green Man shall return to his normal place within the circle % and the Maiden shall place the Crown of Light on the altar. % The Maiden shall then approach the Dark Lord, and kneel before him, % and he shall say: DARK LORD: As it always is, always was, and always shall be. Come to my Kingdom. % Here he shall place the dark cloak around her, and they shall retire % to the West. % Here ends the Candlemas Mystery. -------------------------------------------------------------------- % A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing: HPS: In a ring we all shall stand Pass the Power, hand to hand. HP: As the Sun is given birth Build the Power; root to Earth HPS: Pass the Power, hand to hand Bless the Lady, bless the Land HP: Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies Bless the Power that never dies! % The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or % as many times as needed) and then the HPS should say: HPS: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree: Let the Power flow out and free! % All should release, at this point. ------------------------------------------------------ % Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. % This is a good time to bless candles for use during the coming year. % This is also a good time for initiations. ------------------------------------------------------ % The Circle is opened. HPS: Thus I release the East and West Thanks to them from Host to Guest Thus I release the South and North With "Blessed Be' I send them forth! The Circle's open, dance we so Out and homeward we shall go. Earth and Water, Air and Fire Celebrated our desire. The Sun's returned to banish dark The Earth awakes to sunlight's spark. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, Our circle's done; and Blessed Be! COVEN: Blessed Be! % All spiral dance out from the Circle. EOSTAR RITUAL: (Spring Equinox) -by the White Bard Materials: a MAIDEN, who shall be dressed in white, covered by a black (or other dark material) cloak, preferably with a hood drawn over her head. No white of her garment should show. a BARD/GREEN MAN, who shall either recite or sing his Song Of Calling, preferably accompanied by an approp- riate musical instrument (drum, flute, harp, guitar) % The ceremony for the Lesser Sabbats should be written by newer % members of the coven, as part of their learning. At an appropriate % place in the ceremony, the following should be inserted: % Here begins the Eostar Mystery: % Bard and Maiden shall stand together in the North, with the HP between them. MAIDEN: I have been in the Kingdom of the Dark Lord, Where no Sun shines. But now I shall return to the green of Earth, And all things shall rejoice with me. BARD/GREEN MAN: Follow me forth from the Dark Lord's Hall And show that Love will conquer all! % Bard moves to the East, and shall sing his Song of Calling: % Song of Calling may be whatever the Bard feels appropriate. % The below listed song is a suggestion only, and is used with % the author's permission: THE BARD'S SONG (c) copyright 1990 W. J. Bethancourt III (Tune: "Dublin City") BARD: As I walked out one quiet evening At the hour of twelve at night Who should I meet but a fair young maiden Combin' her hair by candle light; Lassie, I have come a-courtin' Your kind favours for to win And if you'd heed my petition I would be your Paladin... (CHORUS) Gather roses in the Springtime Gather roses while ye may, Time is passing; roses wither; Winter comes; we're here -today-. % Bard moves to the South, Maiden moves to the East. BARD: Have you seen the dew a-formin' On the grass at early morn? Have you seen the forest quiet, Or a stag that's barely born? Have you seen the dawn a-breakin' O'er the Western Ocean's tide? Have you felt my heart a-beatin' When it's held close to your side? (CHORUS) Gather roses in the Springtime Gather roses while ye may, Time is passing; roses wither; Winter comes; we're here -today-. % Bard moves to the West, Maiden moves to the South. BARD: I can give no gold or silver, I can give no fields of land, I can give no servants brisk To wait on you both foot and hand; I can give you wide roads callin' Wind and Rain, and Moon and Sun, Songs to sing, and love and laughter, Dresses made of plain home-spun. (CHORUS) Gather roses in the Springtime Gather roses while ye may, Time is passing; roses wither; Winter comes; we're here -today-. % Bard moves to the North, Maiden moves to the West. BARD: Come dance with me upon the greensward In the moonlight, in the Spring. Dance with me within the forest Dance with me within the ring! Earth below us, stars above us, Fire and water by our side, Dance with me within the moonlight, Dance with me, and be my Bride! (CHORUS) Gather roses in the Springtime Gather roses while ye may, Time is passing; roses wither; Winter comes; we're here -today-. % Bard moves to the Center, Maiden moves to the North. % The HP shall try to hold her back, by holding her dark cloak, % but she shall unclasp it, and move to the center, leaving the % HP holding the cloak, revealing herself dressed in white, and % shall stand beside the Bard. MAIDEN: I have been in the Kingdom of the Dark Lord, Where no Sun shines. But now I return to the green of Earth, And all things shall rejoice with me. % The HPS shall crown the Maiden with a wreath of flowers. % Here ends the Eostar Mystery. THE DAY OF THE FOOL: April 1 -by the White Bard % This day is not in the traditional cycle, but should not be % omitted by those of the Bardic Path. There is no "set" ritual, % but this is the time for satire and general foolery by all. % A good thing to do here is to have a simple gathering, perhaps % a pot-luck, choose a King and/or Queen of Fools, and have a % good party. See the German Fasching or Mardi Gras for hints. BELTANE RITUAL: May Day -by the White Bard Materials: One cauldron, filled with water a wreath of flowers for the MAIDEN the Maiden should wear white, if possible two wooden swords (optional) a fire, as close to the ground as possible A BARD/GREEN MAN (note: if you have no Bard, then a male to act as Green Man should be chosen either by lottery, or by the Maiden. The Maiden is, of course, free to request a specific person to act as Green Man even if there is a Bard available to the coven.) candles for all, if possible ***************************************** % The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered % participants. % It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like % before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any % of the participants should miss out on! HPS: Go we now to the sacred place And stand within the sacred space Turn your minds to sacred things And dance with me unto the ring! % HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a % spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The % cauldron should be at the south. The Bard/Green Man % dances at the end of the line. HPS: Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance Within the Lady's radiance To celebrate the Year renewed And praise the Powers, with gratitude. Earth and Water, Fire and Air I invoke the Goddess there! This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! HP: Earth and Water, Fire and Sky I invoke the God on high This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! % The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but % shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her % circumnabulation. EAST: O Guardians of the Eastern Tower, Airy ones of healing power I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! SOUTH: Oh fiery ones of Southern Power Thus I invite you to this tower I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! WEST: Western ones of water's flow Help to guard us here below I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! NORTH: Earthen ones of Northern fame Bless and guard our Power's fane I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! % The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each % corner's crying as she moves to the next: HPS: So I cast and consecrate This Circle of the small and great: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea, By Fire and Water, Earth and Air, By the Lord, and Lady Fair! By Love and Joy and Work and Play, All things harmful cast away! By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall, By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: (Cast the Circle: Blessed be!) % On her return to the first corner she shall change the last % line above, and say: The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be! % The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners. -------------------------------------------------- % Here begins the Beltane Mystery BARD or GREEN MAN: Thus I invoke the Lady White To come to us this sacred night. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, I show you a Mystery! % The Maiden shall stand beside the HP, who shall hold a % wooden sword. The Bard/Green Man shall approach them, also % carrying a wooden sword, and shall, in mime, challenge the % HP. They shall strike their swords together in three sets % of three blows, then Bard/Green Man shall strike the HP, with % the last blow of his sword, who shall fall as if dead. % (Note: This can be played as a Morris Dance, if so wished.) % If no Maiden and Bard/Green Man are used, then the above combat % may be eliminated, and the HP and HPS shall enact the Mystery. % The HPS' part shall then be spoken by the participants. % The Maiden moves to the East. The Bard/Green Man moves to the % North. HPS: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Oh, I shall go into a hare with sorrow, sighing and mickle care And I shall go in the Lady's Name Aye, until I be fetched hame! BARD/GREEN MAN: Hare, take heed of a swift greyhound Will harry thee all these fields around For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Maiden moves to the South. The Bard/Green Man moves to the % East. HPS: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a bee With mickle fear and dread of thee And flit to hive in the Lady's Name Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! BARD/GREEN MAN: Bee, take heed of a red, red cock Will harry thee close thru door and lock For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Maiden moves to the West. The Bard/Green Man moves to the % South. HPS: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a trout. With sorrow and sighing and mickle doubt And show thee many a merry game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! BARD/GREEN MAN: Trout, take heed of an otter lank Will harry thee close from bank to bank For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Maiden moves to the North. The Bard/Green Man moves to the % West. HPS: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his whistle would fetch her back! MAIDEN: Yet I shall go into a mouse And haste me unto the Miller's House There in his corn to have good game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! BARD/GREEN MAN: Mouse, take heed of a white tom-cat That never was baulked of mouse nor rat For here come I in the Lady's Name And -thus- it is I fetch thee hame! % Bard/Green Man walks to Maiden and takes her hand. They % both move to the Cauldron, and face HPS. HPS: Cunning and art she did not lack But aye his Song has fetched her back! Old Winter's dead, the Lady reigns And Summer has returned again! % Bard/Green Man and Maiden both wet their hands with water % from the Cauldron, and sprinkle it on the HP, who comes to % life again. HP: Cunning and art I do not lack But aye Her Cauldron will bring me back! % Bard/Green Man and Maiden both move to, and jump, the fire. % Here ends the Beltane Mystery. % Note: This Mystery is the more historically correct "Great Rite." ------------------------------------------------ % If there is a May Pole, it should be erected by the men -only- at % this point, and all dance around it, alternating male and female % to raise the cone of power as outlined below. % A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing: HPS: In a ring we all shall stand Pass the Power, hand to hand. HP: As the year is given birth Build the Power; root to Earth HPS: Pass the Power, hand to hand Bless the Lady, bless the Land HP: Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies Bless the Power that never dies! % The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or % as many as needed to fully wrap the pole) and then the HPS % should say: HPS: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree: Let the Power flow out and free! % All should release, at this point. ------------------------------------------------------ % Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. ------------------------------------------------------ % The Circle is opened. HPS: Thus I release the East and West Thanks to them from Host to Guest Thus I release the South and North With "Blessed Be' I send them forth! The Circle's open, dance we so Out and homeward we shall go. Earth and Water, Air and Fire Celebrated our desire. Winter's cold is gone away Now it is the Day of May. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, Our circle's done; and Blessed Be! COVEN: Blessed Be! % All spiral dance out from the Circle, jumping the fire as % they go. HP and HPS lead, with Bard/Green Man and Maiden % taking care of bringing the Bel Fire into camp. Allow the Bel % fire to burn out on its own, if possible, otherwise put it % out with the water from the Caldron. Disposal of the water % otherwise should be to pour it at the roots of a tree. % All participants may take fire from the Bel Fire to take home % with them, cook over, or whatever, before it is extinguished. MIDSUMMER RITUAL: (Summer Solstice) -by the White Bard Materials: a GREEN MAN, dressed in green, bearing a leafy branch. Small cakes, and a drink of some sort, preferably apple based. For covens that use alcohol, mead would be ok, too. % The ceremony for the Lesser Sabbats should be written by newer % members of the coven, as part of their learning. At an appropriate % place in the ceremony, the following should be inserted: HPS: This is the time of the Green Man; the Jack-of-the-Green; the Spirit of the Wood. Call him what you will, Robin Hood, Herne, or even Pan, this is His time! Rejoice in Summer! % The Green Man should rush into the circle, laughing and leaping. % It would be appropriate for him to carry a leafy branch, with % which to strike (lightly) the young women of the coven. % He shall then approach the cakes and drink, and pick one of each % up, hold them up to the coven, and say: GREEN MAN: Behold the fruits of the Mother! HP/HPS: Blessed be the food that nourishes us! % All should sit, and eat, and have a nice, quiet party of some sort! LAMMAS RITUAL: 1 August -by the White Bard Materials: one person should be chosen by the HP to play LUGH, who shall walk with an obvious limp. He may use a crutch, or a cane if he so chooses. ***************************************** % The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered participants. % It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like % before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any % of the participants should miss out on! HPS: Go we now to the sacred place And stand within the sacred space Turn your minds to sacred things And dance with me unto the ring! % HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a % spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. HPS: Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance Within the Lady's radiance To celebrate the Season's turn To Autumn, when the leaves will burn Earth and Water, Fire and Air I invoke the Goddess there! This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! HP: Earth and Water, Fire and Sky I invoke the God on high This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! % The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but % shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her % circumnabulation. EAST: O Guardians of the Eastern Tower, Airy ones of healing power I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! SOUTH: Oh fiery ones of Southern Power Thus I invite you to this tower I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! WEST: Western ones of water's flow Help to guard us here below I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! NORTH: Earthen ones of Northern fame Bless and guard our Power's fane I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! % The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each % corner's crying as she moves to the next: HPS: So I cast and consecrate This Circle of the small and great: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea, By Fire and Water, Earth and Air, By the Lord, and Lady Fair! By Love and Joy and Work and Play, All things harmful cast away! By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall, By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: (Cast the Circle: Blessed be!) % On her return to the first corner she shall change the last % line above, and say: The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be! % The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners. -------------------------------------------------- % Here begins the Lammas Mystery HPS: Thus I invoke the Lady White To come to us this sacred night. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, I show you a Mystery! % A small meal of bread and some form of beverage should be % laid out, and all should partake. As all are eating, Lugh % shall approach the circle, and say: LUGH: Merry meet to all! May I enter the circle? HPS: And what talent do you have, that we do not? LUGH: I am a Smith, to make tools and weapons. HPS: We have Govannon, to make our tools and weapons. Go away. LUGH: I am a Shaman, to offer the Sight Within. HPS: Any of us can do that. Go away. LUGH: I am a Farmer, to grow your food. HPS: We have the Young God and the Maiden, to set our food to grow. We have no need of you. Go away. LUGH: I am a Warrior, to defend you. HPS: We have those of the Warrior Path, and their valor is unquestioned. Go away. LUGH: I am a Bard, to sing you songs and make you merry. HPS: We have a Bard. Go away. LUGH: I have Wisdom to impart. HPS: We have the Old God and the Crone. Go away. LUGH: I am a Fisherman, to harvest the waters. HPS: Any of us can catch fish. Go away. LUGH: I am a Satirist and maker of jokes, to give laughter. HPS: The Fool gives us humor. Go away. LUGH: But do you have one who is ALL of these? For I am Lugh, the Ruler, the Singer, the Long-Sighted, the Craftsman, and all Talents are as ONE with me. HPS: This we do not have, indeed, and you are Lugh Samildanach. Enter and be welcome! % The HPS shall open the circle and Lugh shall enter and be seated % with the company. Lugh shall -limp- when he walks, and shall % walk, and sit, in obvious pain. % He should look around him, as if expecting something. % If none within the circle asks why he is limping, or otherwise % expresses concern, the Maiden shall say: MAIDEN: Sir, why do you limp? Are you injured? LUGH: You have asked The Question, and I thank you. Seek you the Cauldron of Healing, the Cauldron of Cerridwen, for my time grows short, but from it I shall be re-born. ---------------------------------------------------- % Here ends the Lammas Mystery % A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing: HPS: In a ring we all shall stand Pass the Power, hand to hand. HP: As the year is given birth Build the Power; root to Earth HPS: Pass the Power, hand to hand Bless the Lady, bless the Land HP: Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies Bless the Power that never dies! % The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or % as many as needed) and then the HPS should say: HPS: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree: Let the Power flow out and free! % All should release, at this point. ------------------------------------------------------ % Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. ------------------------------------------------------ % The Circle is opened. HPS: Thus I release the East and West Thanks to them from Host to Guest Thus I release the South and North With "Blessed Be' I send them forth! The Circle's open, dance we so Out and homeward we shall go. Earth and Water, Air and Fire Celebrated our desire. As Autumn leaves fall as the rain The seasons' turning, once again. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, Our circle's done; and Blessed Be! COVEN: Blessed Be! % All spiral dance out from the Circle. Lugh shall follow % at the end of the line. MABON RITUAL: (Fall Equinox) -by the White Bard Materials: An OLD KING % The ceremony for the Lesser Sabbats should be written by newer % members of the coven, as part of their learning. At an appropriate % place in the ceremony, the following should be inserted: % The Old King shall move in a feeble manner to the West, and say: OLD KING: I am aged, and I approach my Time. Help me, lest I die! CRONE: There is no help for you, for all must travel that road. % The Old King shall then turn to the assembled coven, and say: OLD KING: Seek ye the Cauldron! Seek ye the Grail! It shall heal me And bring me forth again. % Here a song may be sung, and "John Barleycorn" would be most % appropriate: JOHN BARLEYCORN -Traditional There were three men come out of the West Their fortunes for to try, And these three men made a solemn vow: John Barleycorn should die! John Barleycorn should die! (nb: 4th line of each verse is sung twice) They plowed, they sowed, they harrowed him in, Threw clods upon his head, And these three men made a solemn vow: John Barleycorn was dead! CHORUS: Fa la la la, it's a lovely day! Sing fa la la lay oh! Fa la la la, it's a lovely day! Sing fa la la lay oh! They let him lie for a very long time 'Til the rain from Heaven did fall, Then Little Sir John sprung up his head, And so amazed them all! They let him stand 'til Midsummer tide, 'Til he grew both pale and wan, Then Little Sir John he grew a long beard, And so became a man! They hired men with the sythes so sharp To cut him off at the knee They rolled him and tied him about the waist, And used him barbarously! They hired men with the sharp pitchforks To pierce him to the heart, And the loader he served him worse than that, For he tied him in a cart! They wheeled him around and around the field, 'Til they came to a barn, And there they made a solemn mow Of poor John Barleycorn, They hired men with the crab-tree sticks To strip him skin from bone And the Miller he served him worse than that: For he ground him between two stones! They have wheeled him here and wheeled him there And wheeled him to a barn, And they have served him worse than that They have bunged him in a vat! They have worked their will on John Barleycorn But he lived to tell the tale; For they pour him out of an old brown jug, And they call him home-brewed ale! Here's Little Sir John in a nut-brown bowl, And brandy in a glass! And Little Sir John in the nut-brown bowl Proved the stronger man at last! For the huntsman he can't hunt the fox Nor loudly blow his horn, And the tinker can't mend kettles nor pots Without John Barleycorn! SAMHAIN RITUAL: 31 October -by the White Bard Materials: one cauldron, filled with water CRONE: This should be an older female. OLD KING: This should be a person chosen by lottery, or by whoever is acting as Crone. It can be enacted by the HP if needed. BARD/GREEN MAN: If the coven has no Bard available, then a Green Man should be chosen by lottery, or by whoever is acting as Maiden. It can be enacted by the HP, if needed. ------------------------------------------------ % The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered % participants. This is not something that people should miss, % so make sure that potty break is taken care of before the % circle is cast. HPS: Go we now to the sacred place And stand within the sacred space Turn your minds to sacred things And dance with me unto the ring! % HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a % spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The % cauldron should be at the south. The Old King dances at % the end of the line. HPS: Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance Within the Lady's radiance To mark the turning of the year The door to Winter now is here. Earth and Water, Fire and Air I invoke the Goddess there! This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! HP: Earth and Water, Fire and Sky I invoke the God on high This night we are Between the Worlds To celebrate the year unfurled! % The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but % shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her % circumnabulation. EAST: O Guardians of the Eastern Tower, Airy ones of healing power I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! SOUTH: Oh fiery ones of Southern Power Thus I invite you to this tower I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! WEST: Western ones of water's flow Help to guard us here below I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! NORTH: Earthen ones of Northern fame Bless and guard our Power's fane I do summon, stir and call you See these rites and guard this circle! Come to us and heed our call! By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: Come to us; and Blessed Be! % The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each % corner's crying as she moves to the next: HPS: So I cast and consecrate This Circle of the small and great: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea, By Fire and Water, Earth and Air, By the Lord, and Lady Fair! By Love and Joy and Work and Play, All things harmful cast away! By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall, By the Power that made us all; By the Power that blesses Thee: (Cast the Circle: Blessed be!) % On her return to the first corner she shall change the last % line above, and say: The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be! % The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners. -------------------------------------------------- % Here begins the Samhain Mystery: OLD KING: Thus I invoke the Lady White To come to us this sacred night. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, I shall show you a Mystery! % Bard/Green Man and Maiden join hands, facing each other. % The Maiden speaks to the Bard/Green Man: MAIDEN: Lord of Life, hail Land-Master! God of grain that grows and dies Rising reborn, full of richness; Fallow fields shall yet be fertile -- Spring sap runs as stirs your manhood Bless barren earth, bear fruit again! % The Bard/Green Man speaks to Maiden: BARD/GREEN MAN: Snow-shoes striding, hail swift Huntress! Wild one, free and willful Goddess Bow and blade you bear beside you, Finding food to fend off hunger -- Winter will not leave us wanting; Give good hunting, grant us skill. % The Old King moves to the West. The Crone moves to the % North. HP: Cunning and art he did not lack But aye her whistle would fetch him back! OLD KING: Yet I shall go into a trout. With sorrow and sighing and mickle doubt And show thee many a merry game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! CRONE: Trout, take heed of an otter lank Will harry thee close from bank to bank For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Old King moves to the South. The Crone moves to the West. HP: Cunning and art he did not lack But aye her whistle would fetch him back! OLD KING: Yet I shall go into a bee With mickle fear and dread of thee And flit to hive in the Lady's Name Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! CRONE: Bee, take heed of a red, red cock Will harry thee close thru door and lock For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Old King moves to the East. The Crone moves to the South. HP: Cunning and art he did not lack But aye her whistle would fetch him back! OLD KING: Oh, I shall go into a hare with sorrow, sighing and mickle care And I shall go in the Lady's Name Aye, until I be fetch-ed hame! CRONE: Hare, take heed of a swift greyhound Will harry thee all these fields around For here come I in the Lady's Name All but for to fetch thee hame! % The Old King moves to the North. The Crone moves to the East. HP: Cunning and art he did not lack But aye her whistle would fetch him back! OLD KING: Yet I shall go into a mouse And haste me unto the Miller's House There in his corn to have good game Ere that I be fetch-ed hame! CRONE: Mouse, take heed of a white she-cat That never was baulked of mouse nor rat For here come I in the Lady's Name And -thus- it is I fetch thee hame! % Crone walks to Old King and takes his hand. He falls as if % dead. HPS: Cunning and art he did not lack But aye Her Song has fetched Him back! Summer's gone, the Lady reigns And Winter has returned again! % Maiden wets her hands with water from the Cauldron, and % sprinkles it on the Old King, who comes to life again. OK: Cunning and art I do not lack But aye Her Cauldron will bring me back! % The Crone and Old King shall join hands, facing each other, % and say: CRONE: One-eye, Wanderer, God of wisdom, Hunt-lord, hail, who leads the hosting! Nine nights hanging, knowledge gaining, Cloaked at crossroads, council hidden. Now the night, your time, is near us -- Right roads send us on, Rune-winner. OLD KING: Every age your eyes have witnessed; Cauldron-Keeper, hail wise Crone! Rede in riddles is your ration -- Wyrd-weaver at the World-tree's root. Eldest ancient, all-knowing one, Speak unto us, send us vision! % Here the HPS should say: HPS: We remember our dead; our loved ones gone to the Summerland before us. Give them peace and joy. ALL: Blessed be! % If there is time enough, the HPS and/or a selected member(s) of the % coven should read aloud the "Roll of Martyrs." Note: This listing % is copyrighted, and used by the author's permission. % The reader shall say: READER: Never again the Burning Times! Let us remember our dead, good and bad, innocent and guilty: % Follows is the Roll of Martyrs. This may be read aloud, or may be % placed in written form upon the altar as the above words are said. HPS: Let them have peace. ALL: Blessed be! % Here ends the Samhain Mystery. ---------------------------------------------------- % A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing: HPS: In a ring we all shall stand Pass the Power, hand to hand. HP: As the season turns again Power flows from friend to friend HPS: Pass the Power, hand to hand Bless the Lady, bless the Land HP: Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies Bless the Power that never dies! % The above four verses should be repeated three times, or as % many times as needed, and the HPS shall then say: HPS: By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree: Let the Power flow out and free! % All should release, at this point. ------------------------------------------------------ % Any needed coven business may be transacted here. ------------------------------------------------------ % The Circle is opened: HPS: Thus I release the East and West Thanks to them from Host to Guest Thus I release the South and North With "Blessed Be' I send them forth! The Circle's open, dance we so Out and homeward we shall go. Earth and Water, Air and Fire Celebrated our desire. We think of those in Summerland Who dance together, hand in hand. By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree, Our circle's done; and Blessed Be! COVEN: Blessed Be! % All spiral dance out from the Circle, led by HP and HPS. The Roll of Martyrs
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