Boudicca Andarta June, 2009

Midsummer is considered a fire festival, but it is also a water festival as well. Rivers, lakes, wells and springs were considered holy and pilgrimages were made on this holy day to make offerings, solicit cures and work magick.

The magick people would work would either refer to nourishing the crops (Russia), granting fertility to childless women (Scotland) or ask for healing (England). In exchange for these, offerings of pins, flowers and coins were made to the Guardian Spirit or the Water Nymphs. This guardian was not always seen in human form; instead they would sometimes appear as a frog, mermaid, a winged serpent or a fly. In any form, the Guardian was honored and considered holy.

The reason that the aquatic site was held in such high regard is because it was thought that wells and springs issued form the womb of Mother Earth, the life-giving Goddess. Springs and wells like caves were through to be the entrance to Mother Earth’s womb; from which all life springs forth and all life must return to. Water from such sites were considered so holy that women would bathe in it (Sweden), it was drunk from a special vessel (England), sacrifices of treasure were made to it (Scotland) or flowers would adorn the site (England).

These practices lived on even after the church took ever the land. In Ireland, many wells that had been dedicated to the goddess Brighid were now under the domain of St. Brigit. In Britain, the goddess that was known by Anna, Annis or Anu had many wells as well, and these were “given” to St. Ann. Finally, Midsummer was also known as the festival of Sul Minerva, named after the goddess of healing springs that were located in modern-day Bath were Pagans would honor the spirit of the water.

The Spell

I am fortunate to live on land that has many natural springs, but not everyone is so lucky. That doesn’t’ mean that you cannot honor the Guardian Water Spirit where you live. Do you have a creek, river or lake in your area? Is there a campsite with one of those “old-fashioned” hand-pumps? Can you create a lovely water-fountain in your garden or buy a miniature one to place inside your house or apartment? Find whichever method works best for you and then prepare to make offering sin exchange for your special request.

Your request is up to you as this spell is not limited to fertility (children or crops) or healing, although you could work magick to “fertilize” your bank account or heal your debt in these uncertain economic times. Make yourself a list of what you will ask for from the Water Guardian Spirit and get your offerings ready.

Your offerings can be the traditional coins, flowers and pins, but feel free to use your imagination. You could buy some shell corn or bird seed as an offering to the animals and nature spirits. You could tie pretty ribbons to branches on a tree. You could even pant a tree, adding to the landscape. Think about what kind of offering is best suited for your environment and situation before making your decision.

Decorate your altar in the manner of your choosing. Adjust your decorations to fit working outdoors (think about the windy conditions) or working indoors. Midsummer is a fire festival, so let’s add that into the mix. After all, you can mix fire and water; fire-water or alcohol is considered a spirit isn’t it? Make sure to have a candle (indoor-working) or a Tiki Torch (outdoor-working and it can help to keep the bugs away!) lit during your magical working. But, all you really need is you, your wish-list and the water itself. If working indoors, place a bowl of water on your altar and if outdoors, being at the site of the water source is ideal.

Create Sacred Space or Cast Circle in a manner of your choosing. Then, make your statement of intent after you light your candle or torch:

“On this longest day of the year

Light and fire are king.

But on this day I also honor

The Goddess and the Spirit of the Spring.”

Place your offering upon the altar or at the aquatic site and say:

“From rain to creek to river to lake;

Water feeds humans and Mother Earth.

This I give to Guardian Spirit

For the Goddess giving life birth.”

Speak to the Mother Earth Goddess and the Water Guardian Spirit in your own words, respectfully requesting one-by-one the items on your wish-list. Explain form your heart why you need to remove or add these things in your life. Also, ask for guidance as to how you can make these things happen on the mundane level through physical means.

When finished, than the Goddess and the Water Guardian Spirit and say:

“Goddess and Guardian, my thanks to you

Pales aid me in the works I do;

For the good of all and With harm to none,

So say I, so shall it be done.”

Source: Midsummer: Magical Celebrations of the Summer Solstice by Anna Franklin

Tags: magic, magick, Spell

• Spells & Rituals

Aurora May, 2009

Home Cleansing Rite

A solitary ritual to spiritually cleanse your home.

Supplies

Athame

Sage bundle

Abalone shell

Bell

Holy water/oil

Broom (besom)

Tray

Matches

Jar candle (small, light yellow or blue)

Chalice with drink (your choice)

Plate of offering (your choice)

*Tea light candle and holder (one for each window)

Preparation

Place an unlit tea light in a holder on each window sill in your home. Place your athame, chalice and plate of offering on your altar. Set the tray on another table in your ritual room, and place the matches, jar candle, holy water, bell, sage bundle and shell on it. Lean the broom on the wall next to your home’s main entrance. Next, shower/bathe in only candlelight before dressing in your traditional ritual robes and jewelry.

Rite

Sit down on the floor of your ritual room, and place the palms of your hands together, in a prayer-like position, bringing them in close to your body.  Inhale deeply and hold for a few moments, then exhale. While you are doing this, imagine your personal energies beginning to swirl within you, centering around your solar plexus. Do this until you can feel the hum of energy moving and spinning in your body.

When you are ready, stand and pick up your athame. Go to the center of the room.

Pointing your athame to the West, and say:

By the waters at the dock,

Point to the East and say:

and the fog of haze,

Point to the North and say:

By hardness of the rock

Point to the South and say:

and the heat of blaze,

Walk a complete circle deosil (clockwise) and say:

I cast this circle with the power of elements four,

Point the athame to the sky and say:

And the power of the fifth is at my core.

Point your athame to the floor and say:

This circle is cast. So mote it be.

Put your athame down on your altar. Go over to the table with your tray of ritual items.  Forcefully clap your hands together and then rub them together for a few moments. You should feel the energy growing within and between them.

Anoint the top of your left hand with the holy water/oil in the shape of a God symbol, while saying:

I anoint myself in the name of the God. May my hands yield the banishing power of the God.

Anoint the top of your right hand with the holy water/oil in the shape of a Goddess symbol, while saying:

I anoint myself in the name of the Goddess. May my hands yield the purifying power of the Goddess.

Place the anointment water/oil back on the tray. Light the jar candle on the tray and say:

May the universal energy move as I wish, as I cleanse this space.

Light the bundle of sage, but then blow out the flames, so the bundle is only gently smoking. Place inside the abalone shell (to catch the ashes).

Pick up the tray and walk to the main entrance of the home. Pick up the bundle of sage and draw a banishing pentagram in the air. Then, ring the bell three times. Anoint the door knob with the holy water/oil. Repeat:

Smoke in air and music sound

May my blessings carry ‘round

With sage and chime,

Now is the time,

To drive away all harm and fear

Only good may dwell in here.

Move widdershins (counterclockwise) through the house, repeating the actions and verse at each window and outside door.

Light the tea light candles at each window (watch out for the curtains!) and anoint their sills with the holy water/oil.

End by returning once more to the home’s main entrance. Open door and use broom to sweep outside all that is unwanted, saying:

Be gone with you, the toxic and the foul,

Reside no more and end your prowl.

You are welcome not in this abode,

I am captive no more of your heavy load.

Return the tray to your ritual room, and then move around the house deosil (clockwise) going to each window. Open the window, being careful not to knock over the candle! Repeat:

With this candles flame and smoke,

the power of negativity I revoke!

Blow out the candle, blowing the smoke out of the window, then close the window. Move on to each of the tea lights in the windows until they are all blown out, then return to the ritual room.

Pick up the chalice and plate of offerings and go to your home’s main entrance that leads outside.  Using your own words, offer the God and Goddess your libations and a taste of your offering. Pour some of the drink on the ground outside, and toss some of your offering on the ground too.

Return to the ritual room. Partake of the remaining drink and food, while thinking about all the positive energy now attracted to your home since you have banished all the negative forces.

Thank the God and Goddess in your own way.

When you are ready to end the rite and open the circle, stand up  hold your hands high about your head with your palms facing up. As you repeat this, slowly bring your hands down to your sides (palms down) and sink the circle’s energy into the floor and ground beneath:

By the waters at the dock and the fog of haze,

By hardness of the rock and by the heat of blaze,

I open this circle with heart pure this night,

May the power of the elements stay or take flight.

Within me, my spirit is at home and remains

Renewed and refreshed like the powerful rains.

So mote it be.

Blow out the jar candle after the circle’s energy has dissipated. Place it on the mantle above your fireplace or in the family room. Repeat this ritual whenever you feel the need.

Notes

*Please use caution and common sense when burning candles.

Tags: magic, magick, rite, ritual, Spell

• Spells & Rituals

Boudicca Andarta May, 2009

Floralia: Beltane Renewal Spell with the Goddess Flora

When thinking of Beltane, we usually think of the practices from northern Europe, but we can actually trace some of the roots to ancient Roman Paganism.

The Romans honored many gods and goddesses, but during the Spring months, from the end of April to early May, the goddess Flora was celebrated with the flower festival Floralia.  Flora, the goddess of flowers, was the consort of Zephyrus and her major festival, Floralia, was associated with the dead as well as having strong sexual overtones.

She was mainly worshiped by young girls who would giver her offerings of fruit and flowers and drape her statues with garlands which were carried in a procession of singers and dancers to a flower-covered tree, the predecessor of the Maypole.  These practices were among many to be spread to other cultures after they were conquered by the Romans.

The Spell

This is a simple spell to help you tap into the renewing energies of Spring.  This is the perfect time to do some “Spring cleaning”, be it physical, emotional, spiritual or all three.  Take an inventory of the things that should remain with the dead of winter and toss them out, either physically (like cleaning out your closet) or symbolically (clearing out the cobwebs of your life).  What you have left, the important things that you wish to cultivate and harvest this year, plant like seeds now.  Also, make sure to remain open to all opportunities that come your way to help make you dreams come to fruition.

Supplies:

·        offering to Flora (fruit, flowers or some other form of offering)

·        pen and paper

You may begin by creating sacred space or casting a circle, whichever works better for you is fine.  If you have a statue or a picture of Flora, it would be nice to drape it with a garland (a flower Lei would work for this).  If you would like, you and also burn a floral incense or light flower-shaped candles.  When you feel you are ready, call to Flora:

“Flora, goddess of flowers and Spring,

Whose worshippers would dance and sing;

I call to You this fist of May,

To renew my life on this Spring day.”

Make a list of the things that you wish to leave behind, the things that you wish to leave in the dead of winter to be recycled by Mother Earth and transformed into something new.  If you need to, take the time to make notes as to how to remove these bad habits form your life.  When done, say:

“I leave my past behind, it’s dead and buried,

Gone are the days all crazy and harried.

I open myself to life anew

And I do it with the aid of You.”

Now, make a list of the things that you wish to plant like seeds, the things that you wish to grow and harvest this year.  Take the time to “check off” each thought-seed on your list, see in your minds-eye it growing to fruition.  If you feel so inclined, Meditate and ask Flora for Her guidance and wisdom.  Place your offering upon the altar and say:

“Please guide my path, show me the way.

I open new doors each and every day.

In return I give these offerings to You,

My thanks for aiding me in what I do.”

In your own words, say thanks to Flora.  Leave the offerings until morning.  Keep checking in on your lists, taking the proper steps to grow your seeds!

Sources:

·        Beltane by Raven Grimassi

·        Encyclopedia of the Gods by Michael Jordan

Tags: magic, magick, Spell

• Spells & Rituals

Boudicca Andarta April, 2009

Parilia: the Ancient Roots of Earth Day

Parilia is a Roman holiday in honor of the god Pales (whose gender is uncertain).  As the guardian of the flocks and herds, April 21st was set aside as a day for shepherds to cleanse both himself and his flock.  Rural in nature and predating the founding of the city of Rome, in time it became more urban over time and instead of being officiated by a shepherd, the ceremony was led by a priest.    In more recent times, this holiday became Earth Day, where we set aside time to remember our responsibility to the environment.

When in the hands of the shepherd, acting as his own priest, the ceremony was very personal in nature.  He would decorate the pen with greenery and place a wreath on the gate.  At sunrise, the shepherd would kindle a purifying fire made of straw, olive tree braches, laurel and sulfur and the crackling of the fire would be interpreted by the shepherd as a good omen for the coming year.    Once burning, the shepherd would jump through the fire and drive his sheep through as well, purifying them one by one.  Then he would give an offering to Pales of millet cakes and milk before wetting his hands with dew and repeating prayers to the East.  These prayers would be to protect himself and his flock from what we would call “bad Karma” brought on by accidentally trespassing on sacred grounds or mistakenly removing water from a sacred well.  Finally, the shepherd would conclude his ritual by drinking burranica (a mixture of milk and boiled wine) before jumping through the fire three more times.  The urban version of this ritual was a combination of the above ritual with other Roman religious practices, but this time the shepherd was replaced by the temple priest.

This is an excellent excuse for you to add some Spring decorations to you home and you could place a flower wreath on your front door.  For this particular spell, the altar can face the East and you can add some greenery (real if you can obtain it or faux from a dollar store if there isn’t any Spring growth just yet) to it if you so desire.  If you have a Cauldron or a Thurible for a small and contained fire, then so be it, but if not, then use a candle instead.  For your offering, have a small bowl of milk and you can replace the millet cakes with cookies.  In the aspect of Earth Day, you may also wish to add to your offering, giving something to the furry or feathered creatures such as bird seed or corn or even donating pet food to your local shelter.  If performing this spell outdoors, take a few moments to “tidy up” the lawn, your personal environment.

At your altar, light the fire (or the candle) and say:

“I call to Pales, ancient guardian;

On this Earth Day for protection.

With Your sacred fire, I burn away the past.

Together we make magick with this spell I cast.”

Sit before your altar, close your eyes and firmly see in your mind what refuse from your life’s environment that you will dispose of.  Take mental note of what Spring Cleaning you need to do to make way for the positive changes coming your way.  The, because Nature abhors a vacuum, make a mental  “checklist” of new actions and habits you will employ form this day on to have a protected, prosperous life.  If you feel so inclined, take the time to meditate on this and ask your Totems or Guardian Angels for any wisdom they have to share with you.  When finished, open your eyes, place the offering of cookies and milk ion the altar and say:

“I start my life anew on this day of Spring.

In return I give to You these offerings.

For the good of all and with harm to none,

So say I, so shall this be done!”

Place the cookies and milk outside for the Faeries and animals of nature -overnight and dispose of the next morning.

Sources: Encyclopedia of the Gods by Michael Jordan

Pagan Book of Says by Nigel Pennick

Tags: magic, magick, rite, ritual, Spell

• Articles

Aurora April, 2009

Work to ‘Bee’ Done Rite

This purpose of this solitary ritual is to help you focus on projects that you need to get done.

Supplies

Athame

Wand

1 white pillar candle & holder (universal energy candle)

2 white taper candles & holder (God and Goddess candles)

6 beeswax tea light candles

1 bee figure (statue, pendant, etc.)

1 9×12 inch wooden plaque & painting supplies

Picture of your favorite flower

6 strips of yellow construction paper & a pen

Clover stick incense

Yellow and/or black altar cloth

Small bowl of honey & spoon

Small plate of buttermilk biscuits, sliced in half

Chalice of mead

Offering bowl

Ziplock baggie

Preparation

Paint a light yellow hexagon, surrounded by a deeper yellow background with a black border, on a 9×12 inch wooden plaque. Find a picture of your favorite flower or draw/paint one in the middle of the hexagon.  Allow the wooden plaque to dry fully before you perform this ritual.

Bake six buttermilk biscuits on the same day that you will perform this ritual.

Altar Set-up

Place the hexagonal wooden plaque in the center of the altar. Place the 6 (unlit) beeswax tea lights around the outside of it, one at each side.

Rite

Sit down in a comfortable position and ground yourself in your traditional way.

When you are ready, stand up and cast a sacred circle using your athame.

Call forth the Elemental guardian winds at each of their quarters by drawing a hexagonal-shaped portal in the air deosil using your wand.

When you are ready, invoke the God and Goddess and welcome them to your circle.  Light the God and Goddess candles on your altar.

Light the center candle on your altar to represent the universal energy of magick, and say:

This rite has begun.

Holding the flower picture in front of you (or touching it, if you painted it on the plaque), repeat:

I am the flower, flourishing and full of promise.

The honeycomb is my life, my world.

I have a greater purpose, so I have work to be done.

Whether mundane or magickal, these are my tasks.

Take out the six strips of yellow paper and a pen. Write down the six most important tasks that you need to complete as soon as possible, one task on each piece of paper.

Sort the tasks in order of their importance with the most urgent on the top and then read them out loud, one by one.  After you read each task, fold the paper and slip it under one of the unlit tea light candles, starting at the top of the plaque and moving in a clockwise motion.

Hold both your hands, palms down, over the plaque, and say:

Great Goddess in the form of bee,

Your presence I carry within me.

Constant hum of work to be done,

My tasks, I have finally begun.

Pick up the figure of the bee and hold it forth, and repeat:

Honey Bee take flight,

Let me have the sight,

The strength and the will,

To make the buzzing still.

Place the figure of the bee in the middle of the plaque, on top of the flower picture/painting. Turn the bee figure, so it is facing the top side of the plaque, the location of which you placed your most urgent and important task.

Light the stick of clover incense and wave it over each of the unlit tea light candles, repeating:

Honey Bee to green clover,

Let this task soon be over.

Dip your finger into the small bowl of honey and rub a small amount of the honey onto your lips, then say:

Honey brings the truth to light,

My honeyed speech is true and right.

I vow to finish my tasks at hand,

As I will it, so is it planned.

Take one of the biscuits and use the spoon to drop some honey between the two pieces and then combine the pieces together again. Hold it in front of you and dedicate the offering to the God and Goddess. Break the whole biscuit in half and drop both halves into the offering bowl.

Hold the chalice of mead aloft and dedicate the libations to the God and Goddess. Pour a generous amount into the offering bowl.

Partake of a piece or two of biscuit (adding honey, if you like) and drink from the chalice of mead.

Take the remaining biscuits and break them apart, placing the pieces into the zip lock baggie.

Thank the God and Goddess and bid them farewell. Thank the Elemental guardian winds, and close their portals behind them by drawing the hexagon in the air widdershins with your wand. Open the magick circle. This rite is complete.

After the Rite Instructions

Toss the offering bowl contents outdoors for nature’s creatures to enjoy.

The bee figure should be facing (pointing) to the task that you are currently working on. Light the tea light candle each evening for a few minutes to remind you that you have work to be done.

When you complete the first task (the most urgent one), turn the bee figure clockwise to the next task to be done. Each time you complete one of the tasks, take a handful of the crushed biscuits and toss it outside for the birds to enjoy.

Continue the pattern until all tasks are complete. Consider holding another rite when all tasks are complete to thank the Goddess (in her bee form) for her aid.

Note: Picture seems to show the hexagon as white, but it is, in fact, a light shade of yellow.

Tags: magic, magick, rite, ritual, Spell

• Articles

Boudicca Andarta March, 2009

Idhunna’s Day: March 20

March 20th in the Norse Tradition is the day of the goddess Idhunna who is the personification of the light half of the year.  Also known as Idhunn, Iduna or Idun (Germanic), She is a Nordic-Icelandic goddess.  The consort of Bragi (the Poet God), she was widely worshiped during the Viking period (700 AD) and earlier until the Christianization around 1100 AD.  Some historians say that She is strongly connected to the Norse Tree of Life, the Axis Mundi, Yggdrasil.  On this day, She brings joy to humankind by appearing in the form of a sparrow.  Her name means “the Renewer” because she is a goddess of healing.    Associated with the Viking Runes Eihwaz and Gyfu (the gift), She bestows the gift of rejuvenation and holistic balance.

As the Keeper of the Golden Apples of Immortality, Idhunna is the bearer and guardian of the magickal fruit of Aesir (the principle group of gods of the Norse pantheon).  This is the fruit of life and eternal youth for the gods of Asgard, supplying them with immortality.  Because of this role, she is known as the “Goddess of Eternal Renewal” and the “Goddess of Youth”.  As you can imagine, Idhunna and her apples were in high demand.

Because these powers were coveted by the giants, Loki was blackmailed into abducting Idhunna, giving Her to the giant Thiassi (father of the goddess Skadi) as a form of payment for the construction of Odhinn’s Valhalla (the Hall of the Slain).  It tuned out that the Golden Apples were useless to the Giants because the power did not lie in the apples themselves, but in Idhunna; unless they were given directly from Her healing hands, they had no regenerating power.   Because it was Idhunna who helped sustain the life-force of divinity, after some time without the Golden Apples, the gods began to age.  Ironically, Loki was the one who rescued her and her apples and they were returned to the Aesir.

A sweet fruit of the soil, the apple is a long-time symbol of the wisdom of the Universe.  Representing our Earth, when cut sideways, the apple reveals the five-pointed star, symbolizing humankind and it’s ages, vitality, health, wisdom and more.  This life-sustaining fruit of heaven is guarded by Idhunna who maintains the vitality and health all of the Norse gods.  This is Her gift to them, and if you ask, this can be Her gift to you as well.

Ideally, perform this mini-ritual on March 20th, but you an always perform this on a Monday, which is Her day, if your schedule doesn’t work out.  This is designed to leave your old life behind, to renew with the Spring, and bring healing to your life.

Decorate your altar with the colors of silver and green (Her colors) and if you are in an area where there are apple blossoms on the trees, sprinkle a few of those on your altar as well.  In lieu of apples made form gold, purchase some Golden Delicious Apples from the grocery store.  You will also want to give her an offering of seeds; any will do, as these are a symbol of initiation as seeds contain the concentrated power of potential that is ready to burst into form.  Other supplies you will need will be a knife to cut the apple, a candle (silver or green would be perfect), a plate to cut the apple on and a bowl for the seeds.
To call to Idhunna, light the candle and say:

“Goddess Idhunna, Lady of Light,

At this time of growing bright;

Lady, visit me as the Sparrow,

May I start a new life on the morrow.”

With the knife, cut in the side of the apple the rune Gyfu, which you can easily make with an “X”.  Meditate upon what gifts you wish to receive form Idhunna, be they health, vitality, renewal, regeneration, or anything else that you desire.  Literally see these gifts coming to you and hold these thoughts firmly in your mind.

Cut the apple cross-ways exposing the Star of Wisdom inside and say:

“Ancient fruit of Universal wisdom,

Keeper of the Pentagram,

Growing on the Tree of Life

Renew me now and free me from strife.”

Take a bite or two of the apple and as you state the sweetness, take in the sweetness of your new life.  Literally “taste” the success and happiness that is coming your way.

Finally, place the seeds in the bowl and say:

“Idhunna, I Thank You for Your gift,

On the morrow, my life I uplift.

I put the past behind, I am healed and whole,

I have potential like the seeds in this bowl.

My life is mine, but with Your aid,

My garden is tilled by hoe and spade.

Thank You for Your vitality,

My thanks to You and Blessed Be.”

These are you offerings to Idhunna, and do take the time to care for them on a regular basis.  If you can, plant the seeds outdoors and care for them daily.  If your region has not yet thawed, then plant the seeds in a pot of earth and when able to, transplant the sprouts outside.

Make sure to place some of the apples outside for the animals and the nature spirits!

Sources:

Exploring the Northern Tradition by Galina Krasskova

Norse Magick by DJ Conway

Northern Magick by Edred Thorsen

Pagan Book of days by Nigel Pennick

Rites of Odin by Ed Fitch

Rune Mysteries by Silver Ravenwolf and Nigel Jackson

Tags: goddess, idhunna, norse, rite, ritual, Spell

• Articles

Onagh Hopke March, 2009

The over arching Theme of The Everyday Witch column, is “Foundations for Successful Witchcraft”. 

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

make up that foundation and at its core are considered  “The rudimentary knowledge one should have before committing oneself to the Craft”.   

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

provide The Everyday Witch with the tools to notice the” magic in the mundane” and to use that knowledge to conduct effective Spelling.   In order for us to make communicating with the Gods & Goddesses in our daily lives a natural occurrence, we must first experience the magic of

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

first hand.

We begin with Belief.  When a Witch possesses the Belief that s/he CAN practice effective Magic, then s/he WILL practice effective Magic.  Correspondence Witchcraft provides validation for the Witch with visual images.  The March Column continues our project from February, the tool to assist in visualizing

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

essential to the practice of Witchcraft and Magic.  As I stated in last month’s column, our project is timed to the moon and is designedso that is5 to be completed in time for Ostara 2009.

All the panels should be applied to the box/pages/etc by the first weekend of March

The full moon falls on March 10th, a Tuesday. March is the Wishing Moon, the best time for the dedication ritual, of your new magic tool.  Dedicating the box on the Wishing Moon will intensify your focus as you use the box. Remember, this ritual is not for a specific wish, but to channel the energy of the Wishing Moon, into the box and charge it with Full Moon energy.

The Spring Equinox or Ostara is a time for planting and seeding to prepare for the new growth in the coming year.  It is a time that is culturally rich with fables, myths, scripture and lore.  The Spring Equinox has been the bridge of Correspondence and the bedrock of the Eclectic Witchcraft movement in the modern age.  Because I practice Witchcraft as a Religion and Science, my beliefs center on worship of Deity.  Correspondence Witchcraft is classified as a Religion only when it incorporates God & Goddess worship during the execution of Ritual and Spell work.  Therefore, the practice of Correspondence Witchcraft is quite hands-on with focused engagement.  Like other American Religions, this path requires a commitment.

I turn now to the practice of our Craft, with the examination of our Ostara/Spring Equinox ritual, including magical spell working.  The ritual I have chosen to publish here with PaganPages.org is the culmination of over 9 years of practice.  The original baseline structure for the ritual is the result of Lady Sankofa’s work with Sankofa Pride 2000 through 2003.

If you are looking for inspiration for your project, here are some links, and videos:

Oberon Zell Magical Correspondence – youtube link

While Hekate & Hermes are play a significant role in the springtime lore of Persephone’s return to the Earth, these Gods of the Underworld are rarely celebrated as new Spring Love.

We are all familiar with the role of Hekate as Persephone’s guide in the Underworld.  Hekate uses her torch light to show Persephone the way out of the Underworld.  It is also Hekate, with the assistance of Hermes, negotiates the ransom of Persephone.  One can imagine the quick-witted and resourceful Hekate working out the deal between Demeter & Hades and Persephone & Hades.  We might even imagine Hekate, the Queen of the Witches, solving this dilemma on her own.

The celebration of Love & Courtship between Hekate & Hermes reminds us that through the Sacred Marriage are we able to accomplish anything we set our goals on.  Please check The Everyday Witch myspace and website for the completed Ostara Ritual.

Correspondence is the foundation, Spelling is the structure.

As promised, the Full Moon Ritual Structure and Spelling/Meditation Outline.

Most of you know that there are hundreds of books available on this subject.  My intention is not to reprint age old information, but to give you another perspective.  The idea is to focus on the intentions, thoughts, states of being, rather than the physical execution of the ritual and spell.

Your magic box/panels become the central focus of the stream of consciousness.  Pay attention to things happening in your life, images you see daily.  You want to take just a moment to think about which God & Goddess you want to work with for this Sabbat Ritual.  Obviously, this article will be using Hekate & Hermes.

The overarching structure of the ritual is as follows:

Set up altar, declare sacred space/altar devotion, and declare intentions

Cast circle try to use sage, holy (salt&rose) water and a bell – it’s formality.

Call Quarters

Invite God & Goddess

Meditation & Spell Work

Cakes & Ale (Communion, Bread & Wine)

Release God & Goddess

Release Quarters

Open Circle

The Altar and Sacred Space/Temple, should be set up to reflect Spring, and Romantic Love.  While both Hekate and Hermes have a dark and erotic side to their relationship, this celebration is about Love.  The colors of these two Gods is Gold, Yellow, Orange, Brown and Green and of course White.

Correspondence – Hermes:

Greek God of communication, Magic, Medicine, Merchants, Thieves and Liars.

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

: opal, fire-opal, agate, vervane, hermaphrodite, jackal, swallow, ibis, ape
Roman God Mercury.
Egyptian/Kemetic God Toth

Related to Dionysis, Zeus, and Hekate, but is connected to all of the Gods as the Divine Messenger.

Correspondence - Hekate:

Greek Goddess of the Crossroads, Queen of the Witches, Magic, Herbs, and Women.

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

: honey, dogs, black ewes

A Key, A Rope and A Dagger. With the Key to the underworld, Hecate unlocks the secrets of the occult mysteries and knowledge of afterlife. The Rope symbolizes the umbilical cord of rebirth and renewal and the Dagger or Athame is a symbol of ritual power.

Related to Persephone, Demeter as the Triple aspect, but is connected to all of the Gods.

It is important to consider how you will call your quarters.  I have chosen to invoke The Royal Stars of Persia for the Elemental Watchtowers.

Endowed with almost archangelic power, these legendary stars of antiquity are Aldebaron, Regulus, Antares and Fomalhaut, and in the epoch of 5,000 years ago they were considered to be guardians of the four corners of heaven and watchers of the directions, forming a heavenly cross near the ecliptic.

http://www.queenofcups.com/AR27article.htm

Aldebaran, King of the Vernal Equinox, the Eye of Taurus, Ruler of the Eastern Sky, Guardian of the Elements of Air.

Regulus, King of the Summer Solstice, the Heart of Leo, Ruler of the Southern Sky, Guardian of the Elements of Fire

Antares, Queen of the Autumn Equinox, the Scorpion’s Tail, Ruler of the Western Sky, Guardian of the Elements of Water.

Foralhaut, Queen of the Winter Solstice, the Heart of Pisces, Ruler of the Northern Sky, Guardian of the Elements of Earth.

Meditation & Spell Work

This is where the magic box comes in handy.  For the Magic, you need an egg, some marking pens and the magic box.

During the meditation portion of the ritual, you should play some light background music.  Take the egg and handle it gently.  Write on the egg all of the things you want to purge or cast out of your life.

Once you have written on the egg, sing your favorite chant, or recite the Witches Rune, to charge the egg.  Place it in your magic box.  It may stay in the box for up to one Mon Cycle.

At the next Full or Dark Moon (your choice), take the egg and find a crossroads far from your home.  Ideally you want a location that you do not frequent and in fact have no plan to ever visit again.  Walk to the center of the crossroads and smash the egg.  Walk away, do not look back and go on with your life as usual.  Within 30 days or one Moon Cycle you will begin to see change.

Remember to use keywords in your research for correspondences.  You can start with a Goddess, a color or a season and branch out from there.  The inter-relationships you choose for your ritual and spell work will provide the foundation for your magic.  Solitary practice can take longer, simply because you must conduct all the research yourself.  Group practice is easiest, as you have many hands to help in the crafting of the circle.
Resources:

The Everyday Witch – http://www.geocities.com/girleegeek/

The Everyday Witch at Myspace – http://www.myspace.com/theeverydaywitch

Correspondence table –

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

.htm">http://www.geocities.com/girleegeek/TheEveryDayWitch/Witchcraft_

Correspondences

• Beltane Correspondences

.htm

To Ride a Silver Broomstick

To Stir a Magic Cauldron – Silver Ravenwolf

Moon Magik – DJ Conway

Tags: correspondence, meditation, rite, ritual, Spell

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Aurora March, 2009

Spring Growth Rite

This rite is dedicated to the emergence of the spring season and new personal growth.

Supplies

Chalice of milk
Small bowl of fresh maple syrup
Plate of cornbread
Extra plate
Offering bowl

Kitchen knife

Potted tulip
Bowl of fresh snow/rain
Bird’s nest and eggs (artificial)
God and Goddess candles
Universal energy candle
Elemental candles
Feather
Matches

Rite

Sit down in a comfortable position and ground yourself in your traditional way.

When you are ready, stand up and cast a sacred circle.

Call forth the Elemental guardian winds at each of their quarters using a feather. Light a candle for each Element.

When you are ready, invoke the God and Goddess and welcome them to your circle.  Light the God and Goddess candles on your altar.

Light the center candle on your altar to represent the universal energy of magick, and say:

This rite has begun.

Hold up the bowl of snow/rain, and say:

We are beyond winter’s edge,
And the heavy snow’s ledge.

Hold up the plate of cornbread, and repeat:

Having survived by the harvest’s past,

The bounty has come to its last.

Hold up a bird’s nest, and say:

Spring has now returned once more,

As the red robin nests at our door.

Hold up the potted tulip, and repeat:

Green shoots emerge from the rich earth,
Gaia’s first gift, the miracle of birth.

Sprinkle some of the snow/rain onto the potted tulip’s soil.

Hold up the bowl of maple syrup, and say:

The sap of the maple runs brown and thick,

Flowing sweetly into the pail so quick.

Pause for a moment and think about the different signs in your area that announce the arrival of spring.  What plants, animals, and natural signals do you see that herald spring? Write and add any of your own symbolic verses here to honor spring in your own geographical area. Then, continue:

With this new cycle and season so bright,
I honor this change: morning, noon, and night.

As my devotion to you, my Gods, will not fade,

With this rite, I ask for your aid.

I seek the birth of a new trait,

As the Gods will it, so is my fate.

Place the plate with the square piece of cornbread in front of you. Turn the plate so that the square cornbread looks like a diamond. Cut the square piece of cornbread diagonally like an “X”, so that the cut cornbread becomes four smaller diamond shapes. Each of these smaller pieces represents the four cardinal directions: North, South, East, and West, like the points on a compass.

Think about what trait you would like to grow within you as spring begins to flourish. Choose the piece of cornbread that represents the corresponding direction/sacred element. For example, if you wanted to grow more love within yourself, you might choose the direction South, which would then be the piece of cornbread that aligns with the southern point on a compass. Take that piece of cornbread and place it on a separate plate. Drizzle the maple syrup on it:
I wish to be __[add your trait here]__….

Describe in detail what personal trait you would like to develop over the next few months and why.
My Gods, help me become the person I want to be!

I send this request on spring’s __[add the cardinal direction]__ wind to carry,
Along with my wish is this offering:  bread of corn and milk of dairy.

Hold forth the plate with the three pieces of cornbread that represent the remaining cardinal directions (that you didn’t choose) and offer them to the Gods. Place them respectfully into the offering bowl. Offer the chalice of milk to the Gods, and pour some into the offering bowl.

Partake of the remaining piece of cornbread (the one that put aside) and drink from the chalice of milk. Imagine the trait beginning to grow within you with each new spring day.

My thanks to the Gods, Ancient and True,

And Spring’s blesséd promise, long overdue.

Thank the Elemental guardian winds, and let them take their leave.  Thank the God and Goddess, and bid them farewell. Open the magick circle. This rite is complete.

Toss the offering bowl contents outdoors for nature’s creatures to enjoy. Place the potted tulip in a sunny spot inside your home until you can safely plant it outdoors.

Tags: magic, magick, rite, ritual, Spell

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Boudicca Andarta February, 2009

Rebirth Through Oya Spell: Yoruba/Santeria Feast Day of Oya-2/2

Oya is the Orisha of death and rebirth and spring is the season of moving from the death of winter to rebirth.  She is the Keeper of the Cemetery, her home is the graveyard and the spirits of the dead are her subjects.  Oya has a relationship with Iku; the Spirit of Death whom she precedes, accompanies and carries with her on occasion.  When death strikes, Oya is the last breath taken along with the spirit Iku.

On a much lighter note, Oya is also the river goddess of Yoruba as well as the deity in charge of wind, lightening, storms and thunder.  As Guardian of the River Niger, her river symbolism is polished stones.  Lightening came from her consort Shango.

Shango took Oya from Ogun. She was originally Ogun’s wife and she stole his tools which were weapons of war from him.  The tools became part of her altar and when Ogun confronted her, she replaced the tools with farm implements.  Shango had a gourd of medicine which enabled him to split lightening and one day Oya dipped her finger in it and after tasting the medicine she shot fire out of her mouth when she spoke.  From then on she used her forked lightening to help Shango fight his battles.

Oya is seen as a strong woman who because of the war became fearless and courageous in the face of danger.  She is a proud, self-willed woman whose wrath is so terrible that it must be avoided at all costs.  Oya is represented by two swords that reflect her fighting ability.

Another symbol of Oya is horns.  Her sacred animal is the wild buffalo which she turns herself into.  Her color in the New World is purple but reddish-brown in Yoruba.  She is also known as the “Mother of Nine” as she had nine children.

The Spell

SUPPLIES: Purple candle, offering of shell corn, sword (or Athame)

Light the purple candle and call to Oya:

“I call to Oya

Of death, rivers and storm;

And on Your Feast Day

I ask to be reborn.”

Place the offering upon the altar and calls to the Buffalo totem:

“Sacred Buffalo Woman

Chief of the animals upon Earth

I give to you this offering

And ask for my rebirth.

Grant to me survival skills,

Prosperity and courage,

Fertility and abundance

And fill me now with knowledge.”

Holds the sword up high and say:

“Oya, I ask for the death

Of my old life.

Please cut away what holds me back

And free me now from strife.

I wish today to be reborn

And ride upon Your wind.

Oya, grant to me the change

Let my new life begin.”

Take a moment to visualize the negatives being cut away and the void being filled by the positives that you yearn for.  When the visualization is complete, say:

“So mote it be!”

Make sure to place the offering outside for the animals and nature spirits!

Tags: magic, magick, oya, Spell

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Michele Burke February, 2009

Faery Spells and Verse

Tatiana Queen of the Faeries ist: Howard David Johnson Copyright 1993-2008

Tatiana

In Forest pines, and Oak tree hollows

Amidst the acorns and the leaves

Blossoms adorn her crown

Gossamer threads form her regal attire

Illuminating the air with a majestic glow

Tatiana our Queen fill our hearts with ethereal delight

~ Michele Burke (2009)

Faerie Magick

Fairies and Pixies, elves and gnomes.

Spinning some magic, spells for our homes.

Their wishes are happy, of joys to share.

Join in their revelry, if only you dare.

Carefree of spirit, their happiness impart

Sending you Magick, to store in your heart.

~ Unknown

Faery Spells

Fairy Summoning Spell

The best times to do this is on the Sabbats of Beltane, Midsummer, or Halloween, but you can use it anytime you would like. (best done outside in the yard at night)

~You will need powdered ginger and a small spoon. Set out candles at the compass directions: yellow in the east, red in the south, blue in the west, green in the north. Place a crystal or other stone beside each candle. Stand in the center of the room and send out thoughts of welcome to the little ones.

~Chant: “O spirits of plants and earth and trees, o little ones of every form, show yourselves to me, I ask. From me shall come no harm. Join me in friendship and in love.”

“Rejoice with me in this magick old, for together with the ancient gods we can re-create all things in gold. Guardian spirits, watchers fair, our lives are joined. All things we share.”

~ Go to the east. Light the candle. Sprinkle a little ginger by the candle, and say: “All you Nature spirits and faeries, Hear my call. Enter this magick circle. Welcome All.”

~ Go to the south. Light the candle. Sprinkle ginger, and say: ” All you little ones of the sunbeams, Hear my call. Enter this magick circle. Welcome All.”

~ Go to the west. Light the candle. Sprinkle ginger, and say: “All you nymphs and water sprites, Hear my call. Enter this magick circle. Welcome All.”

~ Finish by going to the north. Light the candle. Sprinkle ginger and say: ” All you little ones of the moonbeams, Hear my call. Enter this magick circle. Welcome All.”

*Sit quietly for a time, thinking about the little ones, be aware of their feather light touches your body. Listen for their musical voices in your mind. Talk to them if you wish. When communication is finished, stand in the center of the circle. Raise your arms high, saying: ” All thanks and blessings be, To those of air, earth, sky, and sea.”

*Blow out the candles starting in the south and go counter clock-wise.

~ Anon

In Closing

May the Fae be with you and their blessings always be upon you. And remember that if you keep your mind and your eyes open and your heart pure and one day you too may see the Fae. After all they are all around us.

Bibliography and Works Cited:

Faery Spells,(2007), Faery Summoning Spell. Retrieved January 2, 2009, from http://www.freespellsonline.com/spell-423/fairy-summoning-spell.html

Tags: faery, fairy, magic, magick, Spell

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