{"id":25458,"date":"2022-02-01T01:10:27","date_gmt":"2022-02-01T05:10:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/?p=25458"},"modified":"2022-01-31T16:34:28","modified_gmt":"2022-01-31T20:34:28","slug":"peeking-in-the-shadows-crafting-a-book-of-shadows-and-light-16","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/2022\/02\/01\/peeking-in-the-shadows-crafting-a-book-of-shadows-and-light-16\/","title":{"rendered":"Peeking in the Shadows: Crafting a Book  of Shadows and Light"},"content":{"rendered":"<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-20769\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/peeking-in-the-shadows.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"470\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/peeking-in-the-shadows.png 504w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/peeking-in-the-shadows-300x213.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px\" \/><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><i><b>We begin a journey through the Witch\u2019s Wheel of the Year for 2022!<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>The Witch\u2019s Wheel of the Year<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-25459\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"424\" height=\"390\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-1.png 470w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-1-300x276.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 424px) 100vw, 424px\" \/><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>What is the Wheel of the Year?<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Wheel of the Year marks the Sun\u2019s journey across the sky, the solstices, equinoxes and the Earth\u2019s changing seasons. Each spoke of the wheel marks an important moment of progression and change in the Earth and in accord with that progression a celebratory festival is aligned. These celebrations are called Sabbats.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Wheel of the Year is also a reflection of the recurring cycles of the Natural world. Traditionally, these celebrations were very closely tied to the cycles of the agrarian culture of Western Europe and were marked by those specific seasonal rites of celebration. There are eight festivals or celebrations that mark the turning of the Wheel, the never-ending movement of time and the changing of the seasons and tides of nature.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>The Cycles of the Wheel<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The cycles represent birth, death and eventual rebirth and are symbolized through the continuum of life held within the mythos of the God and Goddess. The cycle of the God is one of sacrifice, moving from his birth at the Winter Solstice in the form of the return of the light (Sun) to his claiming of manhood and fecundity at Beltane to the sacrificial God of the Harvests at Lammas. The Goddess moves through her forms of triplicity- Maiden \u2013 Mother and Crone and remains as the undying one.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>The Sabbats<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Four of the Sabbats are known as the \u201ccross-quarter\u201d or Greater Sabbat celebrations, and include Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas and Samhain. The remaining four, or Lesser Sabbats mark specific astronomical positions of the sun. These are the Winter and Summer Solstices and the Vernal and Autumnal Equinoxes.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>Origins of the Festivals<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The four Greater Sabbats are Imbolc, Beltaine, Lughnasadh and Samhain. These cross-quarter festivals were more relevant to herding people and were all marked by Fire festivals; usually very large and held of sacred importance to encourage and renew the continuance of the Sun, and, therefore, their survival. The equinoxes and solstices or the Lesser Sabbats are more closely attuned to the growing of crops and the cycle of planting and harvesting.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The dying and rebirthing aspect of the crops became associated with the persona of the God (and thus, Solar energies) as the sun was very much needed to perpetuate this cycle. The Goddess became the representation of that which was necessary to contain, grow within, harvest and replant the very essence of survival and life\u2026 namely food. Just as food nourishes, heals, sustains and aids in giving life, so did the Goddess move through the wheel in the form of Maiden (the promise of new life), Mother (the sustainer and nurturer of life) and Crone (keeper of the wisdom and death, with the promise of rebirth).<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>A Turn of the Wheel<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The symbology of a wheel is one that is used to represent the belief that all of life moves in accord with a natural cycle of change. Additionally, if we think of the function of a wheel, its purpose is that of movement; of stirring up momentum to propel or carry whatever it is attached to from a place of being stationary and stagnant. If all of life were simply to pause and cease to move, there would be no growth. If there was not the revolution of the sun\u2019s light in the course of a day, there would be perpetual darkness where it\u2019s rays did not reach and blinding light and unbearable heat where its energy was focused. At a deeper level of understanding, the Wheel of the Year and the celebrations and cycles that each \u201cturn\u201d, or movement towards the next Sabbat brings, offers the potential for greater understanding of our place within this planet we call home and the tides and changes that occur within its natural domain.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>The Act of Celebration<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Each of the Sabbats has multiple correspondences, Deities, cultural preferences and intent that are associated with its celebration. Additionally, because there is the astronomical component to this cycle there will be differing celebrations dependent on whether you live in the Northern or the Southern Hemisphere. The dates that we will work with correspond to the Northern Hemisphere (since this is where I live), but I will give reminder of the celebration honored in the Southern Hemisphere.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The ecstatic nature of the Wiccan Path is held in its celebrations. We weave our magick of spell working and sit in practice of devotion to our Gods and Goddesses. But, the raising of energy specific towards celebration, the invocation of the carefully selected Deity (ies), cakes, ale and community are what enliven us as we chant, dance and revel in being alive and surrounded by the Divine. Even in the quiet space of solitary celebration, the unseen join as witness to the act of designating time and energy to mark the passing of the seasons. This is the ultimate goal of the Witch- attunement with all of life and knowledge of Nature, the Earth and the Cosmos in all of its glory.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>We Begin Our Journey during Imbolc-February 1-2.2022<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-25460\" src=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-2.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"342\" height=\"479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-2.png 342w, https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/peeking-in-shadows-2-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 342px) 100vw, 342px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">This turn of the Greater Wheel moves us towards a place of newness and the quickening of what was brought to light at Yule, the Winter Solstice. We stand at the mid-mark between the act of revealing (Winter Solstice) the fertility that lay dormant from the triple harvest and the action of sowing and planting (Spring Equinox) what we hope will prove viable and grow to its fullest potential. This is the time of quickening and enlivening the hidden seeds of transition and preparation of what will wither and die and what will germinate a become viable product.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">A traditional focus of Imbolc is often infused with the gifts of the Celtic Goddess, Brighid. Many will craft candles, infusing them with HER healing properties. In coven workings, some will make oath and re-dedicate to the quickening of our minds and hearts, laying the space of ground to awaken what can blossom in the months ahead. Many will call upon her creativity to inspire us as we move forward towards the next turn of the Wheel. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">For most, the first encounter with this fiery Goddess is one associated with her triune nature. She is Maiden, Mother and Crone holding the keys to creativity, inspiration and deep healing. She is also the Triple Flame, acting as central catalyst of the purpose intended and initiator of those who willingly cross the threshold of transformation. As the patroness of poets, divination and prophecy she is the Fire of Inspiration. In her role of patroness of healers and Goddess of fertility, she is the Fire of the Hearth and childbirth. And, as patroness of smiths, craftsmen and the forge, she is the Fire of the Forge, burning brightly and transforming and transmuting all that enter the heat of the flame.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">This is just a very small sampling of how we can honor the turning of the wheel and Imbolc\u2019s gifts. Using this as a starter for your own practice, think on how you will celebrate this Sabbat. Use the template below to guide your celebration, knowing that there is no right or wrong way to celebrate if intention, heart and mind are holding the highest service to Deity, yourself and community. Blessings of the Sabbat&#8230;<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><b>***<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>THE WITCH\u2019S WHEEL OF THE YEAR<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>Date: February 1 \u2013 2.2022<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>Imbolc<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">What have I learned about Imbolc?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">How did I celebrate Imbolc?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">How did I feel after my celebration?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #464646;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">What would I change-What would I add to make Imbolc more meaningful to me?<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>So Mote It Be!<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span style=\"font-size: x-large;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>Sign Your Magickal Name Here<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>**<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>About the author:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><img loading=\"lazy\" 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 align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><i><b>Robin Fennelly\u00a0<\/b><\/i><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">is an Elder within\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sacredwheel.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">\u00a0and serves as High Priestess of\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.oakandwillow.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">C<\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oven of the Mystic Path<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><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 style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">Coven of the Mystic Path<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, 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 align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Robin formally came to the Wiccan path in 1994. Following a 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, 3rd and 4th (Elder) degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of two ASW covens since Samhain of 2001 and the Winter Solstice of 2015.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><br \/>\nAs a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she uses 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.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">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. Her most recent projects include a channel on youtube: <\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCI08DQcpZUH4d26Ht4Afzog\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>A Journey to the Inner Chamber<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>. <\/b><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">She also shares audio pathworkings and ritual on her bandcamp site: <\/span><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/teachingsonthepathwithrobin.bandcamp.com\/\"><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Teachings on the Path with Robin.<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/span><u> <\/u><\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"justify\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Robin is the owner of\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><i>Holistic Embrace\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=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Robin\u2019s Website<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">www.robinfennelly.com<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.covenofthemysticpath.org\/\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">www.covenofthemysticpath.org<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><b>Her books can be found on Amazon or purchased directly through her website:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><b>For more info<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0563c1;\"><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: large;\">http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/u><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 1 It\u2019s Written in the Stars-Astrology<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 2 Poetry of the Spheres-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Inner Chamber, Vol. 3 Awakening the Paths-Qabalah<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Light of SELF: Consciousness, Spiritual Practice and Learning to Breathe<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Magickal Verse: A Collection of Poetry and Prose<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">A Year of Gaia: The Eternal Cord<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elements of SELF<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Temple of the Sun and Moon: Luminous Devotions<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Sleeping with the Goddess: Nights of Devotion<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">A Weekly Reflection: Musings for the Year<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Magickal Pen: A Collection of Esoteric Writings<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">The Temple of the Sun: An Astrological Solar Year<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: large;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"font-family: Times New Roman, serif;\">Writings in the Shadow: An Exploration of the Shadow Nature<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; We begin a journey through the Witch\u2019s Wheel of the Year for 2022! &nbsp; The Witch\u2019s Wheel of the Year &nbsp; &nbsp; What is the Wheel of the Year? The Wheel of the Year marks the Sun\u2019s journey across the sky, the solstices, equinoxes and the Earth\u2019s changing seasons. Each spoke of the wheel marks an important moment of progression and change in the Earth and in accord with that progression a celebratory festival is aligned. These celebrations are called Sabbats. The Wheel of the Year is also a reflection of the recurring cycles of the Natural world. Traditionally, these celebrations were very closely tied to the cycles of the agrarian culture of Western Europe and were marked by those specific seasonal rites of celebration. There are eight festivals or celebrations that mark the turning of the Wheel, the never-ending movement of time and the changing of the seasons and tides of nature. &nbsp; The Cycles of the Wheel The cycles represent birth, death and eventual rebirth and are symbolized through the continuum of life held within the mythos of the God and Goddess. The cycle of the God is one of sacrifice, moving from his birth at the Winter Solstice in the form of the return of the light (Sun) to his claiming of manhood and fecundity at Beltane to the sacrificial God of the Harvests at Lammas. The Goddess moves through her forms of triplicity- Maiden \u2013 Mother and Crone and remains as the undying one. &nbsp; The Sabbats Four of the Sabbats are known as the \u201ccross-quarter\u201d or Greater Sabbat celebrations, and include Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas and Samhain. The remaining four, or Lesser Sabbats mark specific astronomical positions of the sun. These are the Winter and Summer Solstices and the Vernal and Autumnal Equinoxes. &nbsp; Origins of the Festivals The four Greater Sabbats are Imbolc, Beltaine, Lughnasadh and Samhain. These cross-quarter festivals were more relevant to herding people and were all marked by Fire festivals; usually very large and held of sacred importance to encourage and renew the continuance of the Sun, and, therefore, their survival. The equinoxes and solstices or the Lesser Sabbats are more closely attuned to the growing of crops and the cycle of planting and harvesting. The dying and rebirthing aspect of the crops became associated with the persona of the God (and thus, Solar energies) as the sun was very much needed to perpetuate this cycle. The Goddess became the representation of that which was necessary to contain, grow within, harvest and replant the very essence of survival and life\u2026 namely food. Just as food nourishes, heals, sustains and aids in giving life, so did the Goddess move through the wheel in the form of Maiden (the promise of new life), Mother (the sustainer and nurturer of life) and Crone (keeper of the wisdom and death, with the promise of rebirth). &nbsp; A Turn of the Wheel The symbology of a wheel is one that is used to represent the belief that all of life moves in accord with a natural cycle of change. Additionally, if we think of the function of a wheel, its purpose is that of movement; of stirring up momentum to propel or carry whatever it is attached to from a place of being stationary and stagnant. If all of life were simply to pause and cease to move, there would be no growth. If there was not the revolution of the sun\u2019s light in the course of a day, there would be perpetual darkness where it\u2019s rays did not reach and blinding light and unbearable heat where its energy was focused. At a deeper level of understanding, the Wheel of the Year and the celebrations and cycles that each \u201cturn\u201d, or movement towards the next Sabbat brings, offers the potential for greater understanding of our place within this planet we call home and the tides and changes that occur within its natural domain. &nbsp; The Act of Celebration Each of the Sabbats has multiple correspondences, Deities, cultural preferences and intent that are associated with its celebration. Additionally, because there is the astronomical component to this cycle there will be differing celebrations dependent on whether you live in the Northern or the Southern Hemisphere. The dates that we will work with correspond to the Northern Hemisphere (since this is where I live), but I will give reminder of the celebration honored in the Southern Hemisphere. The ecstatic nature of the Wiccan Path is held in its celebrations. We weave our magick of spell working and sit in practice of devotion to our Gods and Goddesses. But, the raising of energy specific towards celebration, the invocation of the carefully selected Deity (ies), cakes, ale and community are what enliven us as we chant, dance and revel in being alive and surrounded by the Divine. Even in the quiet space of solitary celebration, the unseen join as witness to the act of designating time and energy to mark the passing of the seasons. This is the ultimate goal of the Witch- attunement with all of life and knowledge of Nature, the Earth and the Cosmos in all of its glory. &nbsp; We Begin Our Journey during Imbolc-February 1-2.2022 &nbsp; &nbsp; This turn of the Greater Wheel moves us towards a place of newness and the quickening of what was brought to light at Yule, the Winter Solstice. We stand at the mid-mark between the act of revealing (Winter Solstice) the fertility that lay dormant from the triple harvest and the action of sowing and planting (Spring Equinox) what we hope will prove viable and grow to its fullest potential. This is the time of quickening and enlivening the hidden seeds of transition and preparation of what will wither and die and what will germinate a become viable product. A traditional focus of Imbolc is often infused with the gifts of the Celtic Goddess, Brighid. Many will craft candles, infusing them with HER healing properties. In coven workings, some will make oath and re-dedicate to the quickening of our minds and hearts, laying the space of ground to awaken what can blossom in the months ahead. Many will call upon her creativity to inspire us as we move forward towards the next turn of the Wheel. For most, the first encounter with this fiery Goddess is one associated with her triune nature. She is Maiden, Mother and Crone holding the keys to creativity, inspiration and deep healing. She is also the Triple Flame, acting as central catalyst of the purpose intended and initiator of those who willingly cross the threshold of transformation. As the patroness of poets, divination and prophecy she is the Fire of Inspiration. In her role of patroness of healers and Goddess of fertility, she is the Fire of the Hearth and childbirth. And, as patroness of smiths, craftsmen and the forge, she is the Fire of the Forge, burning brightly and transforming and transmuting all that enter the heat of the flame. This is just a very small sampling of how we can honor the turning of the wheel and Imbolc\u2019s gifts. Using this as a starter for your own practice, think on how you will celebrate this Sabbat. Use the template below to guide your celebration, knowing that there is no right or wrong way to celebrate if intention, heart and mind are holding the highest service to Deity, yourself and community. Blessings of the Sabbat&#8230; *** THE WITCH\u2019S WHEEL OF THE YEAR Date: February 1 \u2013 2.2022 Imbolc &nbsp; What have I learned about Imbolc? &nbsp; How did I celebrate Imbolc? &nbsp; How did I feel after my celebration? &nbsp; What would I change-What would I add to make Imbolc more meaningful to me? &nbsp; So Mote It Be! Sign Your Magickal Name Here ** About the author: Robin Fennelly\u00a0is an Elder 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 a 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, 3rd and 4th (Elder) degrees within the Assembly Tradition and has served as High Priestess of two ASW covens since Samhain of 2001 and the Winter Solstice of 2015. As a teacher of esoteric and magickal studies\u00a0she uses 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. Her most recent projects include a channel on youtube: A Journey to the Inner Chamber. She also shares audio pathworkings and ritual on her bandcamp site: Teachings on the Path with Robin. 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 Website:\u00a0www.robinfennelly.com Coven of the Mystic Path, ASW:\u00a0www.covenofthemysticpath.org Her books can be found on Amazon or purchased directly through her website: For more info:\u00a0http:\/\/www.robinfennelly.com\/books.html 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 The Temple of the Sun: An Astrological Solar Year Writings in the Shadow: An Exploration of the Shadow Nature<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":208,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"iawp_total_views":1,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10004,10008],"tags":[10049,10050,11044,12747,10931,10041,10077,10744,10054,11312,10053,12507,13125],"class_list":["post-25458","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-monthly-columns","category-spells-rituals","tag-book-of-shadows","tag-bos","tag-february","tag-imbolc","tag-journal","tag-journaling","tag-magick","tag-rites","tag-rituals","tag-sabbats","tag-spells","tag-wheel-of-the-year","tag-witchs-year"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25458","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=25458"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25458\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25463,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25458\/revisions\/25463"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25458"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25458"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25458"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}