{"id":21689,"date":"2020-02-01T01:10:31","date_gmt":"2020-02-01T05:10:31","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/?p=21689"},"modified":"2020-02-09T14:05:10","modified_gmt":"2020-02-09T18:05:10","slug":"magickalarts-60","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/2020\/02\/01\/magickalarts-60\/","title":{"rendered":"MagickalArts"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">Creating Sacred Space<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><i><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">The Experience of Sacred Space makes possible the \u201cfounding of the world\u201d:<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><br \/>\n<i>where the sacred Manifests itself in space, the real unveils itself,<\/i><br \/>\n<i>and the world comes into existence<\/i><br \/>\n\u2026 Mircea Eliade \u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\">\n<p align=\"center\">\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">What is Sacred Space?<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><b><\/b><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><i>Read and re-read the quote above. Take it into your space of meditation. Analyze, dissect and observe it from all angles, perspectives and meaning. Try to feel the weight and breath of its meaning and allow the words to gently wash over you. Digest it and then simply sit with the feeling of satiety its inner essence provides. And, once you have done these things, redo them, one by one. Therein you will find the wholeness and gnosis of meaning that is contained within the sacred space you have so intensely and with such devotion created around those words.<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><i><b>This month we explore&#8230;.<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Methods of Creating Sacred Space and Pentagram Practice 101: Part One<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Methods of Creating Sacred Space<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Before we enter the space that is to hold our circle, the preparations leading up to the actual crossing of the <\/span><span style=\"color: #333333;\">threshold<\/span><span style=\"color: #333333;\"> into what will become sacred space serves to make ready for the shift in energy, dynamics and consciousness that we hope to achieve. The casting of the circle takes that prepared space and transforms it into the appropriate container to hold the energies that will be used. There are many ways in which to cast a circle; but the basic goal is to enclose a working space within a sphere of energy that will be sufficient to hold the energetic patterns of the work to be done.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">The actual scribing of the circle is symbol of the continuum of all natural cycles and the seamless construct that connects all time and matter. Toning \u201cOm\u201d while the circle is being scribed adds the component of sound to elevate the vibrations naturally occurring from the movement of tracing the circle by the caster. During the process of the designated person casting the circle energy is directed towards that individual to blend and intertwine as bolster to what the caster is already connecting with and generating. If you think of the circle as a sphere, each strand of energy being sent from those standing along the perimeter of that sphere are like spokes of a wheel which all meet centrally and feed into yet another and smaller circle within the very core.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"left\"><a name=\"_GoBack\"><\/a> <span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">Igniting the Blue Fire<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-21690\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/magickalarts.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"450\" height=\"338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/magickalarts.png 450w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/magickalarts-300x225.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><br \/>\nThe energy that is directed towards the individual casting the circle is often described as blue flame. Why a blue flame? Science provides one part of the answer\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">Question:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">\u00a0<i>Which flame is best for laboratory procedures blue flame or yellow flame?<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">Answer:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">\u00a0<i>In Organic Chemistry Flames have different areas of temperature. Even in an ordinary candle, the temperatures are separated into several different regions. The regions are also separated by color, the blue region (the innermost part of the flame) being the hottest. This shows there is not one precise temperature for a blue flame. A blue flame is typically much hotter than a yellow flame. Sometimes you want to heat something very hot, and sometimes you want to heat something gently\u2026 and so you can choose which part of the flame best suits the purpose! It depends what you want to do! <\/i><span style=\"color: #000000;\">From: The Physics Factbook\u2122.Edited by Glenn Elert<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">The work of the circle is to form a point in time and space where all may converge towards a place of transformation. It is alchemy in its form and the principles of alchemy are the stuff from which many of the protocols and principles of mundane science are derived. The hottest point of the flame is both the meeting inwards of what feeds that flame and the combustible outpouring of what generates or initiates the flame. So too, the casting of the circle is the initial thrust of energy which then feeds and fuels itself from the central place of Spirit.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">Blue of Healing<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Blue is also considered to be a color of healing, the waters that hold the energies of the tides and the beauty of the sky. All of these dynamics are present within the circle of casting. There can be great healing (at all levels of being) that occurs in connecting with Divinity. The ebb and flow of the waters within and comprising a large portion of our body intimately connect us to the ebb and flow of energy that presents itself within the circle and the limitless nature of the sky and what it holds above are the pinnacles towards which we strive as we do ritual, declare sacred space and work our magick.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">When you observe someone casting a circle it appears as though they are moving around the perimeter and tracing a single circular line of energy. In reality, the casting of a circle is more like a sphere. The energy of the working is contained on all sides in all directions at once and simultaneously at all ends and all points along the continuous curve. This also the relevance of \u201cas above, so below\u201d and the rising of the vibrations and threads of energy as the working progresses are mirrored back to one another. It is again a mirror like reflection of the microcosm within the macrocosm. A sphere that is moving through the planes of time and space that is \u201cnot a specific time, nor a specific place; but a breath that is between the worlds\u201d.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">How To- A Traditional Casting:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Generally one person is selected to do the casting of the circle and the calling of the quarter energies. Traditionally the circle is scribed with the Athame, but you may also use a wand, staff, crystal, sword (although a bit risky and unwieldy) or your index finger. Sending energy the individual casting. If it is a group working, the remaining participants take hands, sending a stream of energy from one to the other and forming an inner circle. Or if the intent is a solo working, you would be doing the casting and calling.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Moving Deosil (clockwise\/sunwise) around the circle and beginning in the East, the caster draws in breath and energy from his\/her central core (remember we did the grounding prior and formed an energetic balance of earth and sky. It is from this blending that the energy is drawn to cast or lend support to the casting of the circle) and begins the tracing of the circle with right arm outstretched holding the Athame. Visualize the blue flame of energy pouring out and through the tip of the blade and filling the space as you walk slowly around the perimeter of the circle. If group work, the person casting should be in the outermost area of the perimeter with those participants held within the center of the circle. Continue around the circle breathing gently into the energy as it streams forth until you arrive once again at the East.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Now you will be calling the quarter energies in to the sphere of art. Some traditions will fold the calling of the quarters and the casting of the circle into one singular pass around the circle. In this form; beginning in the East, you would invite the energies of the quarters into the circle; open the Gates of that quarter and then draw that energy around the circle as you stop at each quarter in turn. Again, you would end in the East. Personally, I prefer to establish the boundaries of the space and then invite the energies of the Elements or Deities into the prepared and readied space.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><b><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\">A Final Note For Consideration:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">As with all magickal work, casting a circle takes practice. Because there are multiple levels of understanding and expertise that formulate the final product- a Circle of Art, as it is sometimes called- the more information you have about first and foremost \u2013 YOURSELF \u2013 the more effective any magickal working will be.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><br \/>\nIf you are a novice, take each piece of casting the circle a part and spend some time reflecting on how each of those pieces relate to you and your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual natures. For example: What does the image of the blue flame mean to you. Are you able to easily visualize this color and also hold the sensation of what that specific energy may feel like? Change the color to yellow or red- does it feel the same, is there any sound that is emanating from this color and form?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\">As you walk what you have established as the perimeter of the circle, what thoughts move through you as you take each step? What other sensations are you experiencing. The first steps towards learning how to direct energy are taken in learning as much as you can about its natural generator, container and conduit- YOU!<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Next Month: <\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>Methods of Creating Sacred Space and Pentagram Practice 101: Part Two<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\">\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>***<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>About the Author:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-20762\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Robin-Fenelly.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"173\" height=\"162\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Robin Fennelly\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">is a Third Degree Initiate within\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sacredwheel.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\u00a0and serves as High Priestess of\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b><a href=\"http:\/\/www.oakandwillow.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">C<\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">oven of the Mystic Path<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">, the 12th Coven\u00a0within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition. She teaches\u00a0and facilitates\u00a0classes for the Pagan Experience Study Group that\u00a0serves as foundation for membership within\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Coven of the Mystic Path<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Her spiritual journey is strongly rooted in both Eastern philosophy and the Western Magickal systems from which she has formed a core foundation that is diverse in knowledge and rich in spiritual practice.\u00a0 A life-long learner, her practice has evolved from the classical and philosophical teachings of books, practical experience and enrichment of this knowledge\u00a0base by attending workshops of various spiritual traditions presented by master teachers.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Robin formally came to the Wiccan path in 1994. Following practice as a solitary for 2 years, she dedicated to\u00a0Oak and Willow Coven of The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition in November of 1996. She received her\u00a01st, 2nd and finally 3rd degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of Oak and Willow since Samhain of 2001.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">As a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she has used Energetic Anatomy, Tarot, Astrology, Hermetic Qabala, Eastern Philosophy, and Numerology as the foundations of her diverse selection of workshops and writings for more than 25\u00a0years. Exploration of varied energetic protocol has been the focus of her work for some time now and the information gained through direct experience informs all of her magickal and spiritual work.<\/p>\n<p>Robin\u2019s writings have been featured online, and in print Internationally.\u00a0 She has authored several books incorporating her unique style of writing making use of poetry, prose and pathworking to enhance the concepts presented.\u00a0 She has taught extensively throughout the Pagan community, including Sacred Space Conference, Spring Magick, Between the Worlds Interfaith Conference and Free Spirit Gathering Festival this Summer. Her most recent project is hosting an online blogging community entitled The Pagan Experience.<\/p>\n<p>Robin is the owner of\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><i>Holistic Embrace<\/i><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><i>\u00a0<\/i><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">providing services for mind, body and spirit such as Tarot readings, Astrology reports, Spiritual Guidance\u00a0and other related offerings.\u00a0 She lives in Eastern Pennsylvania and her life is blessed by a 40+- year marriage, five children and the opportunity to work in the field of public education. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Robin\u2019s Books<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 1 It\u2019s Written in the Stars-Astrology<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 2 Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 3 Awakening the Paths-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Light of SELF: Consciousness, Spiritual Practice and Learning to Breathe<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Magickal Verse: A Collection of Poetry and Prose<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A Year of Gaia: The Eternal Cord<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elements of SELF<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Temple of the Sun and Moon: Luminous Devotions<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Sleeping with the Goddess: Nights of Devotion<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A Weekly Reflection: Musings for the Year<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Magickal Pen: A Collection of Esoteric Writings<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">For more info: <\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Robin\u2019s Website:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span> <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">www.robinfennelly.com<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW: <\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.org\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>www.covenofthemysticpath.org<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Creating Sacred Space \u00a0 The Experience of Sacred Space makes possible the \u201cfounding of the world\u201d: where the sacred Manifests itself in space, the real unveils itself, and the world comes into existence \u2026 Mircea Eliade \u2026 What is Sacred Space? Read and re-read the quote above. Take it into your space of meditation. Analyze, dissect and observe it from all angles, perspectives and meaning. Try to feel the weight and breath of its meaning and allow the words to gently wash over you. Digest it and then simply sit with the feeling of satiety its inner essence provides. And, once you have done these things, redo them, one by one. Therein you will find the wholeness and gnosis of meaning that is contained within the sacred space you have so intensely and with such devotion created around those words. This month we explore&#8230;.Methods of Creating Sacred Space and Pentagram Practice 101: Part One Methods of Creating Sacred Space Before we enter the space that is to hold our circle, the preparations leading up to the actual crossing of the threshold into what will become sacred space serves to make ready for the shift in energy, dynamics and consciousness that we hope to achieve. The casting of the circle takes that prepared space and transforms it into the appropriate container to hold the energies that will be used. There are many ways in which to cast a circle; but the basic goal is to enclose a working space within a sphere of energy that will be sufficient to hold the energetic patterns of the work to be done. The actual scribing of the circle is symbol of the continuum of all natural cycles and the seamless construct that connects all time and matter. Toning \u201cOm\u201d while the circle is being scribed adds the component of sound to elevate the vibrations naturally occurring from the movement of tracing the circle by the caster. During the process of the designated person casting the circle energy is directed towards that individual to blend and intertwine as bolster to what the caster is already connecting with and generating. If you think of the circle as a sphere, each strand of energy being sent from those standing along the perimeter of that sphere are like spokes of a wheel which all meet centrally and feed into yet another and smaller circle within the very core. Igniting the Blue Fire The energy that is directed towards the individual casting the circle is often described as blue flame. Why a blue flame? Science provides one part of the answer\u2026 Question:\u00a0Which flame is best for laboratory procedures blue flame or yellow flame? Answer:\u00a0In Organic Chemistry Flames have different areas of temperature. Even in an ordinary candle, the temperatures are separated into several different regions. The regions are also separated by color, the blue region (the innermost part of the flame) being the hottest. This shows there is not one precise temperature for a blue flame. A blue flame is typically much hotter than a yellow flame. Sometimes you want to heat something very hot, and sometimes you want to heat something gently\u2026 and so you can choose which part of the flame best suits the purpose! It depends what you want to do! From: The Physics Factbook\u2122.Edited by Glenn Elert The work of the circle is to form a point in time and space where all may converge towards a place of transformation. It is alchemy in its form and the principles of alchemy are the stuff from which many of the protocols and principles of mundane science are derived. The hottest point of the flame is both the meeting inwards of what feeds that flame and the combustible outpouring of what generates or initiates the flame. So too, the casting of the circle is the initial thrust of energy which then feeds and fuels itself from the central place of Spirit. Blue of Healing Blue is also considered to be a color of healing, the waters that hold the energies of the tides and the beauty of the sky. All of these dynamics are present within the circle of casting. There can be great healing (at all levels of being) that occurs in connecting with Divinity. The ebb and flow of the waters within and comprising a large portion of our body intimately connect us to the ebb and flow of energy that presents itself within the circle and the limitless nature of the sky and what it holds above are the pinnacles towards which we strive as we do ritual, declare sacred space and work our magick. When you observe someone casting a circle it appears as though they are moving around the perimeter and tracing a single circular line of energy. In reality, the casting of a circle is more like a sphere. The energy of the working is contained on all sides in all directions at once and simultaneously at all ends and all points along the continuous curve. This also the relevance of \u201cas above, so below\u201d and the rising of the vibrations and threads of energy as the working progresses are mirrored back to one another. It is again a mirror like reflection of the microcosm within the macrocosm. A sphere that is moving through the planes of time and space that is \u201cnot a specific time, nor a specific place; but a breath that is between the worlds\u201d. How To- A Traditional Casting:Generally one person is selected to do the casting of the circle and the calling of the quarter energies. Traditionally the circle is scribed with the Athame, but you may also use a wand, staff, crystal, sword (although a bit risky and unwieldy) or your index finger. Sending energy the individual casting. If it is a group working, the remaining participants take hands, sending a stream of energy from one to the other and forming an inner circle. Or if the intent is a solo working, you would be doing the casting and calling. Moving Deosil (clockwise\/sunwise) around the circle and beginning in the East, the caster draws in breath and energy from his\/her central core (remember we did the grounding prior and formed an energetic balance of earth and sky. It is from this blending that the energy is drawn to cast or lend support to the casting of the circle) and begins the tracing of the circle with right arm outstretched holding the Athame. Visualize the blue flame of energy pouring out and through the tip of the blade and filling the space as you walk slowly around the perimeter of the circle. If group work, the person casting should be in the outermost area of the perimeter with those participants held within the center of the circle. Continue around the circle breathing gently into the energy as it streams forth until you arrive once again at the East. Now you will be calling the quarter energies in to the sphere of art. Some traditions will fold the calling of the quarters and the casting of the circle into one singular pass around the circle. In this form; beginning in the East, you would invite the energies of the quarters into the circle; open the Gates of that quarter and then draw that energy around the circle as you stop at each quarter in turn. Again, you would end in the East. Personally, I prefer to establish the boundaries of the space and then invite the energies of the Elements or Deities into the prepared and readied space. A Final Note For Consideration:\u00a0 As with all magickal work, casting a circle takes practice. Because there are multiple levels of understanding and expertise that formulate the final product- a Circle of Art, as it is sometimes called- the more information you have about first and foremost \u2013 YOURSELF \u2013 the more effective any magickal working will be. If you are a novice, take each piece of casting the circle a part and spend some time reflecting on how each of those pieces relate to you and your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual natures. For example: What does the image of the blue flame mean to you. Are you able to easily visualize this color and also hold the sensation of what that specific energy may feel like? Change the color to yellow or red- does it feel the same, is there any sound that is emanating from this color and form? As you walk what you have established as the perimeter of the circle, what thoughts move through you as you take each step? What other sensations are you experiencing. The first steps towards learning how to direct energy are taken in learning as much as you can about its natural generator, container and conduit- YOU! Next Month: Methods of Creating Sacred Space and Pentagram Practice 101: Part Two *** About the Author: Robin Fennelly\u00a0is a Third Degree Initiate within\u00a0The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition\u00a0and serves as High Priestess of\u00a0Coven of the Mystic Path, the 12th Coven\u00a0within the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition. She teaches\u00a0and facilitates\u00a0classes for the Pagan Experience Study Group that\u00a0serves as foundation for membership within\u00a0Coven of the Mystic Path.\u00a0\u00a0 Her spiritual journey is strongly rooted in both Eastern philosophy and the Western Magickal systems from which she has formed a core foundation that is diverse in knowledge and rich in spiritual practice.\u00a0 A life-long learner, her practice has evolved from the classical and philosophical teachings of books, practical experience and enrichment of this knowledge\u00a0base by attending workshops of various spiritual traditions presented by master teachers. Robin formally came to the Wiccan path in 1994. Following practice as a solitary for 2 years, she dedicated to\u00a0Oak and Willow Coven of The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition in November of 1996. She received her\u00a01st, 2nd and finally 3rd degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of Oak and Willow since Samhain of 2001. As a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she has used Energetic Anatomy, Tarot, Astrology, Hermetic Qabala, Eastern Philosophy, and Numerology as the foundations of her diverse selection of workshops and writings for more than 25\u00a0years. Exploration of varied energetic protocol has been the focus of her work for some time now and the information gained through direct experience informs all of her magickal and spiritual work. Robin\u2019s writings have been featured online, and in print Internationally.\u00a0 She has authored several books incorporating her unique style of writing making use of poetry, prose and pathworking to enhance the concepts presented.\u00a0 She has taught extensively throughout the Pagan community, including Sacred Space Conference, Spring Magick, Between the Worlds Interfaith Conference and Free Spirit Gathering Festival this Summer. Her most recent project is hosting an online blogging community entitled The Pagan Experience. Robin is the owner of\u00a0Holistic Embrace\u00a0providing services for mind, body and spirit such as Tarot readings, Astrology reports, Spiritual Guidance\u00a0and other related offerings.\u00a0 She lives in Eastern Pennsylvania and her life is blessed by a 40+- year marriage, five children and the opportunity to work in the field of public education. Robin\u2019s Books The Inner Chamber, Vol. 1 It\u2019s Written in the Stars-Astrology The Inner Chamber, Vol. 2 Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah The Inner Chamber, Vol. 3 Awakening the Paths-Qabalah The Light of SELF: Consciousness, Spiritual Practice and Learning to Breathe Magickal Verse: A Collection of Poetry and Prose A Year of Gaia: The Eternal Cord The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elements of SELF Temple of the Sun and Moon: Luminous Devotions Sleeping with the Goddess: Nights of Devotion A Weekly Reflection: Musings for the Year The Magickal Pen: A Collection of Esoteric Writings The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World For more info: http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html Robin\u2019s Website: www.robinfennelly.com Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW: www.covenofthemysticpath.org<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":208,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10004],"tags":[11052,11057,11054,11055,10525,10654,10115,11056,10665,10052,11050,11051,10580,10457,10531,11053,10987,10918],"class_list":["post-21689","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-monthly-columns","tag-11052","tag-blue","tag-casting","tag-circle","tag-creating","tag-fire","tag-healing","tag-igniting","tag-learning","tag-lesson","tag-methods","tag-pentagram","tag-practice","tag-sacred","tag-space","tag-teaching","tag-traditional","tag-what-is"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21689","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/208"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21689"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21689\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21693,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21689\/revisions\/21693"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21689"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21689"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21689"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}