Ritual Creation | Class | Lesson II

[eaglewolf]

Transfered



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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

Well, we will be starting a ritual creation class here soon as well. What I want to focus on first is the elements of a ritual. What needs to be included. Then we will go over several textbook rituals that are pretty wellknown. Then we will move to creating our own.





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-- Posted by Kiarda on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

Count me in!! You two are great!





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-- Posted by Rosabelle on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

that would be brilliant!





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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969



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Quote: from Kiarda on 3:27 pm on Jan. 30, 2001
Count me in!! You two are great!

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Youre counted! Just keep coming back! :)

Oh, and thanks!!




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-- Posted by Kiarda on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

However do you keep finding the time Mol? Your a blessing in disguise..well, yeah..since I cant see you guess you really are hehehehe





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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969



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Quote: from Kiarda on 5:09 pm on Feb. 1, 2001
However do you keep finding the time Mol? Your a blessing in disguise..well, yeah..since I cant see you guess you really are hehehehe
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I dont know. Ever since we started this I have been getting about 4 hours sleep tops. But for some reason I just keep going. The energy is being provided for me from sources unknown. Maybe all of you. I just want you to know that as long as this community stays strong I will continue to make this the best place for Pagans to exchange information on the web. I am having so much fun...maybe that is why I am not getting tired!

I thank you all my friends!

Blessings.




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-- Posted by Rosabelle on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

thanks mol!!! :)
Rosabelle





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-- Posted by Litha on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

Love the idea of a ritual class. Nothing like planning ahead when you have something to do!





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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969



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Quote: from Litha on 5:43 am on Feb. 2, 2001
Love the idea of a ritual class. Nothing like planning ahead when you have something to do!
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And the theory behind the Ritual class is to discover the True way of creating Rituals. Which comes from within...it just needs to be unlocked, if it isnt already!

Blessings.




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-- Posted by semele on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

Also one point I might make is that there are tons of example rituals in books, online ect. While it is great to look at these and get ideas, I personally prefere to write my own. Rituals are like haircuts... no one style is right for everyone. They are easier for me if the words spoken rhyme but sometimes that is hard. i think as long as you speak what is in your heart and are sincere in your actions you will find success.
Semele





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-- Posted by Mairwen on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

Are we still doing these?





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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969



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Quote: from Mairwen on 11:51 pm on Feb. 4, 2001
Are we still doing these?
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I am working on the first one right noe in fact! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee....

Having fun...are you?




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-- Posted by Mairwen on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

I think the site god needs a nap!





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-- Posted by mol on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969



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Quote: from Mairwen on 7:54 am on Feb. 5, 2001
I think the site god needs a nap!
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i need to sleep for about a week...then I will be good. Heh. :biggrin:




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-- Posted by Litha on 7:00 pm on Dec. 31, 1969

you're not kidding, I've been averaging 4-5 hours lately, my dark circles have dark circles!

[mol]

Ritual Creation - Lesson II (Finally)

Ok. We are going to jump right into it. Lets get into ritual design. Now, keep in mind that we have a very wide range of traditions here. But, I would like us to all use that to our advantage. Because it can be, if we choose to let it be. The first thing we need to do in Ritual Design is we have to figure out what to include in the Ritual. Do I mean the Tools? No. Not right now. For right now lets look at the basic components of the Ritual itself.

As in the Magick class I want to try a different approach to this class. I want everyone to give me one component that you FEEL needs to be included in a Ritual. This makes no difference if you are a Solitary or part of a Group. If you feel it needs to be in Our Basic Components then give your input.

I will start us off.

Cleansing and Purification of Self

This is the very basic foundation of all Rituals. I Know it to be of vital importance that all negativity should be ridden from your Self. When going into a Ritual...the Body, Mind, and Spirit should be cleansed of all impurities and your Self should be completely conditioned and ready to complete the Ritual at hand.

This can be done several ways...and we will look at each of our Components one by one after we have listed all that we Feel are critical to Ritual Design.

Do give us a basic Component, but dont explain it in detail. We will all give input on each component after the list is made.

So, go to it. Lets hear what YOU Feel should be included in each Ritual.

[Litha]

Creation of sacred space and attunement to the rhythms of the earth, being aware of the changing seasons. Yes, all space is sacred as the God and Goddess is everywhere. I have found setting aside a place from the everyday world in which to work has been desirable.

[Mariposa De La Luna]

A clear purpose for doing the ritual. What the energy will be used for.

[mol]

These are great...keep going...everyone join in and name a basic component.

:) Make sure you read all the ones that have been named.

[Mairwen]

Purification of self by ritual bath.

[mol]

Originally posted by Mairwen
Purification of self by ritual bath.
Ok. That is a form of purification...but what else...other than cleansing and purification is needed in a ritual.

Remember! Components! Components! :)

[Mairwen]

Like I said elsewhere on the board ...

intent, intent, intent

... oh ... and location, location, location. heh. :D

[mol]

Originally posted by Mairwen
Like I said elsewhere on the board ...

intent, intent, intent

... oh ... and location, location, location. heh. :D

Ok...ok.. :)

Lets try some more...even if you have answered already. Name some more...

Like, how about...Energy Raising! That is a component.

Next...

[mol]

Well, if we have no more then we should probably move on with the class. I will give everyone until this afternoon.

[Mairwen]

To tool or not to tool, that is the question ...

[mol]

Originally posted by Mairwen
To tool or not to tool, that is the question ...

Of course, tools! And another?

Anyone? (This seems to be my theme post for the day...anyone...anyone?)

heh. Why are Tuesdays always SLOW!

[Shatav]

Protective space, as well as sacred. Sorry, hard to teach an old mage new tricks. :D

[mol]

Originally posted by Shatav
Protective space, as well as sacred. Sorry, hard to teach an old mage new tricks. :D

Absolutely. The creation of the Sacred Space...and a Circle. To some, the Circle is not necessary at all times...that is fine. But we need to list it and take a look at all the components that make up any ritual.

[Kiarda]

I like a candle, and sometimes incense

[mol]

Originally posted by Kiarda
I like a candle, and sometimes incense

Ok..but we can classify those as tools...which we already have on the list...we need some more components..I am going to assemble what we have so far and go ahead and forward this lesson later tonight...so if want to get in here and name some more components - do it now or forever be silent! :)

[eaglewolf]

Either I missed the substinance of your question, or others did... but here is my take on necessity.

1) Knowledge
2) Intent
3) A ritual
4) Preparation
5) Cleansing
6) Welcoming of elements or deities
7) Stating ritual purpose
8) Working of the ritual
9) Raising of energy
10) Releasing and directing energy
11) Grounding
12) Thanking the elements or deities
14) Closing
15) Re-energizing personal power

Maybe I am way off, if so, sorry...

~ew

[mol]

Originally posted by eaglewolf
Either I missed the substinance of your question, or others did... but here is my take on necessity.

*snip*

Maybe I am way off, if so, sorry...

~ew

Nono...that is fine. At first, I only wanted one element...but since I am sure a lot would like to move on I wanted everyone just to start blasting me with the components of a ritual.

Alas, I am too tired to complete this tonight. I will start fresh when I wake up in 5 hours. :(

[mol]

Lets finish up on our look at components by compiling a list of the all the great suggestions we have had in this class..

Here they are:

1. Purification of Self.
2. Creation of the Sacred Space.
3. A clear Purpose.
4. Raising of Energy.
5. Prepare Tools.
6. Calling the Elementals.
7. Release and Direction of Energy.
8. Grounding.
9. Show appreciation for ALL involved!
10. Closing.
11. A Work!

Here is our list in no particular order...and probably unfinished. i am sure we have missed a few things...what are they? This discussion is still open but we are going to move on to the next lesson...

[mol]

Of course, the first Component you must have is a Purpose...clear and defined. This is where intent comes into play. Know you Purpose and Know your Self. Now, this purpose can only come from within and really cannot be taught.

A SIMPLE definition of intent or purpose...is what do you want to be accomplished.

Now, with that being said...the next component is purification. This is a first and really should be a requirement in all successful Rituals.

I want everyone to give me ONE method of purification...NOTE: We are referring to purification of You. Self.

So...lets hear it..

[CERNUNNOS]

MERRY MEET,ALL
I TAKE A BATH IN THE BEACH TO PURIFY MY SELF,SOMTIMES I PUT SOME SALT AND HERB IN THE BATH TAB TO CLEANSE AND BANISH ALL NEGATIVE ENERGY INSIDE OUR BODY!!!

BLESSED BE TO ALL!!!




"WITH PERFECT LOVE AND PERFECT TRUST"

[mol]

Originally posted by CERNUNNOS
MERRY MEET,ALL
I TAKE A BATH IN THE BEACH TO PURIFY MY SELF,SOMTIMES I PUT SOME SALT AND HERB IN THE BATH TAB TO CLEANSE AND BANISH ALL NEGATIVE ENERGY INSIDE OUR BODY!!!

BLESSED BE TO ALL!!!




"WITH PERFECT LOVE AND PERFECT TRUST"

Hey, Cernunnos...welcome back. Take your CAPS lock off...all CAPS simulates SHOUTING.

And you should post this in Ritual Lesson III...

;)

[Litha]

white light meditation and self smudging with sage after a ritual bath

[folkwitch]

My method will probably seem silly to some of you but it's real easy for me to visualize and it works. I visualize my mind as a dirty old attic full of cobwebs, dust and junk that needs to be thrown out, then I simply clean house.

[mol]

Originally posted by folkwitch
My method will probably seem silly to some of you but it's real easy for me to visualize and it works. I visualize my mind as a dirty old attic full of cobwebs, dust and junk that needs to be thrown out, then I simply clean house.

Doesnt seem sill at all....if it works for YOU then that is all that matters. I was reading somewhere about a technique for clearing your mind to imagine a pink bunny...concetrate on that bunny until all you is that bunny...then let it fade away.

Heh.

Doesnt work for me...but to each his/her own.

[BrightStar]

Hi all!
I take a shower and imagine the water as a silver light.I also see darkness running out of all the chakras and down the drain.
Peace and Love
Rain BrightStar

[mol]

Originally posted by BrightStar
Hi all!
I take a shower and imagine the water as a silver light.I also see darkness running out of all the chakras and down the drain.
Peace and Love
Rain BrightStar

Ok...So a Ritual Bath...any others?

[mol]

Cmon...ppl...dont make me get the ruler!

[Mairwen]

That's funny! I virtually (of course), I "whack" my Students with a Yardstick ... Our main tenet behooves us to "measure all things with the yardstick of oneness", so when someone gets out of line, you see me type *WHACK!* across the screen. I've threatened to buy a yardstick and paint it blue ... What a hoot. :D

[mol]

*WHACK*

[Mariposa De La Luna]

I think a ritual bath is the most common.

to add to that, cleaning of your house may also be important to you. I think cleaning of your circle, space may fit in with purification of self. "Your mind is only as uncluttered as your space." I know that may not be a saying but I've heard it alot.

[Mairwen]

Originally posted by mol
*WHACK*

Oh gee, thanks!
I prolly needed it though. heh ;)

[Shatav]

I rinse my mouth with saltwater after the ritual bath to insure purity of speech...it's kinda metaphoric, but it works for me.

[mol]

Originally posted by Shatav
I rinse my mouth with saltwater after the ritual bath to insure purity of speech...it's kinda metaphoric, but it works for me.

Sounds perfectly natural to me...and interesting.

Anyone else? We need a few more and then we are going to move on...

[Dagda Moon~Lily]

I go for a walk and meditate in the park to rejuvenate my energies then when I get home, I reiki myself before I begin!

Dagda
:D

[mol]

Originally posted by Dagda Moon~Lily
I go for a walk and meditate in the park to rejuvenate my energies then when I get home, I reiki myself before I begin!

Dagda
:D



Sort of your version of 'attuning' yourself?

[Kaylara]

It depends on where the ritual is being held... At the shore (east coast) I'll use the natural magick of the ocean and moon to purify me. At home, I'll take a ritual bath with purifying and calming herbs, smudge myself with sage. Then I will mentally force the negativity that would be detrimental to the ritual out and into the earth.

Kaylara

[mol]

Has anyone actually rubbed the soil onto their bodies to purify with the Earth?

Ever wonder why they say that pigs are actually Clean animals?

[eaglewolf]

I love to roll around in the mud...

...should I be telling you that?

~ew

[mol]

Originally posted by eaglewolf
I love to roll around in the mud...

...should I be telling you that?

~ew

If you do it to prepare for a ritual... ;)

I am serious...does anyone do this? Has anyone ever thought about it?

[Litha]

I've used soil to annointe myself,
especially after I first move to a new home.

[mol]

As a cleansing portion of a ritual I have used the Earth and I find it very...well...soothing. The Earth as our Mother cleaning us like a Mother and her Child.

[Shatav]

Wow, um, I'd never actually thought about that, truthfully. But as far as elements, Earth and I are about as far apart as they come. I don't know why, but I have little connection with that element normally.

But now that you've brought it up, I'm thinking here...I usually add salt to my purifying bath, hence, water and Earth and cleansing me in some way. But I really don't use the other elements to cleanse and purify. Maybe something I should consider for a more balanced ritual.

Thanks, oh wise Site God!

[CERNUNNOS]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by mol


Hey, Cernunnos...welcome back. Take your CAPS lock off...all CAPS simulates SHOUTING.

And you should post this in Ritual Lesson III...

;) [/QUOTE

merry meet,
sorry bro/sis mol i got mistake... thank you for your advise....

BLESSED BE!!!

"WITH PERFECT LOVE AND PERFECT TRUST"

[mol]

A purification with all of the Elements is one thing i would say is very important. Purification in one area only purifies in that area. The need is is complete...therefore a complete method should be used.

;)

[Dagda Moon~Lily]

yeah, kind of. Just getting all my energies "flowing the right way" and get rid of stress brought on by ....just living life! :D Freeing my mind of the everyday trivial matter too.


Dagda

[mol]

Lets talk now of the Creation of the Sacred Space.

The Altar, the Circle (if you cast one), the place where the ritual will take place.

How do You create it? How do you place items on the altar? Why?

Newcomers...? What do you think a Sacred Space is?

This will probably prove to be a very long class discussion so lets all join in. A piece at a time.

[Shatav]

Alright, I have a rather unusual set-up for the creation of sacred space and set-up of my altar and what-not. It's based on what I've learned from alchemical processes, so bear with me, I'll try and explain as best I can. I'll use this message to explain some of the generals of why things are in what directions and everything before actually going into my creation of sacred space.

The first step in alchemical transformation is the process known as Nigredo, or the blackening. This process is when you take fire and burn away something leaving only black ashes. Hence everything must start with fire, symbolized alchemically speaking by a triangle point up.

Fire is in the south for me, as south of me it is far hotter, living in the upper hemisphere, so the further south I travel, the closer to "fire" I get.

The direction of my work is always counter-clockwise, following the path of the sun. In alchemy, the final goal is to become gold, which is often symbolized as the sun, so to me it seems to make sense that in striving to become the sun (also a form of divinity in many cultures), one would attempt to traverse the same path.

The east, would therefore be air, as the reason that air is a triangle with point up with a line across it, is because symbolically speaking, air prevents fire from stretching to the heavens...a boundry or border, so-to-speak.

North would be water (symbolized triangle point down), for the farther north I proceed, the more water exists in the polar ice-caps and whatnot. Also, water flows from up to down, hence to complete it's natural pattern, it would have to be upwards in direction.

To the west is Earth, with a similar reason for Air being east. The triangle with the point down (water) is bounded and prevented from flowing further by air, hence the bar in the middle, symbolizing that boundry.

Below would be Prima Materia, primal matter, the source and beginning of all things.

Above is Alchemical Gold, perfection, whatever you might want to call it, that which we strive for in the end of our spiritual/magickal developement.

And in the center is the White element (as I call it), aether/spirit/or whatever term else describes it. It is composed of all of the elements, but is none of them and an element of it's own. It's what happens when all the elements come together and lose their own elemental attributes to become a new one.

Clear as mud, probably.

[Shatav]

This is an adaptation of part of the LBRP, but an important part of creating sacred space to me is making yourself sacred and centered, ready to be a part of the sacred space.

*Stand with legs slightly apart, arms at side*
*take a deep breath and clear your mind of all but what you are to do*
*form a triangl , point up, above your head with your thumb and forefingers of each hand, curling unused fingers into palm*
*visualize a stream of fire shooting down from above, igniting the triangle and everything within until all it is is fire*
Recite: Ab Igne Caelesti! (From celestial fire)
*While reciting move triangle slowly down to in front of your heart*
*visualize the fire moving from the triangle into your heart, as if your heart was a flask for storage*
*form a triangle with point down in the same way you made the first, and hold below your waist*
*visualize a stream of water coming up from below you to fill the triangle with water*
Recite: Ad Aquosum Profundum (to the eternal waters)
*While reciting move the triangle again up to in front of your heart*
*visualize the water moving from the triangle into the flask of your heart, not mixing with the fire, but remaining its own separate entity, like when you add oil to water...two layers separate and distinct layers*
*Reach your right arm out, palm cupped upwards as if someone was about to drop something into your hand*
Recite: Via Aeria (by air)
*Visualize a clear sphere in your hand, a stream of yellow incense smoke flowing from beyond your hand and filling up the sphere*
*Reach your left arm out same as the right*
Recite: Via Terrana (by Earth)
*Visualize another clear sphere in your hand, a stream of dark brown dirt flowing to fill the sphere*
Recite: Semper in Maedio Mannens! (together exist in me)
*As you recite, move arms to cross in front of your heart, dropping each sphere off as it passes, forming two more layers inside the flask of your heart*
*Arms fully cross should be touching the tops of your shoulders, two fingers outstretched, thumb and last two fingers curled into palm*
Recite: Esto! (it is done)

[Shatav]

This is my version of the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram based on many of my studies and current thoughts. It is how I finish purifying and sanctifying and protecting my sphere for magickal and spiritual work.

Set up:
Altar to the South, Triangular candle farthest away from you, chalice nearest to you, dagger to the left, offering bowl with bread to the right, one white rose and one left rose in the center. (mine are dried, but fresh would work too, they are symbolic of beginning and ending)

Purification of the Sphere
*Start South, candle in hand, walk the edge of the sphere counterclockwise until you arrive back at South*
Say: Nigredo! (First step of alchmical purification is by fire)
*Again starting from the south, take the chalice and sprinkle water as you walk counter-clockwise around sphere edge until reaching south again*
Say: Solutio! (Next step of alchemical purification by water)

Summoning of the sphere and Elementals
*Face South, take candle and hold it high, tracing a triangle point up in the air with it*
Say: Ante, ignis ! (Before me Fire)
*The elemental or representative of the element of fire should then come*
*Take athame and face East, holding it high and then tracing a triangle point up with a slash across it with the athame*
Say: Sinistra, aer! (To the left, Air)
*The elemental or representative of the element of air should then come*
*Take Chalice and face North, holding it high and tracing a triangle point down with it*
Say: Post, aqua! (Behind me Water!)
*The elemental or representative of the element of water should then come*
*Take bowl and face West, holding it high and then tracing a triangle with point down with a slash across it with the bowl*
Say: Dextra, terra! (To the Right, Earth!)
*The elemental or representative of the element Earth should then come*
*Take the White Rose and stand in the center, pointing it downward, tracing a circle with it*
Say: inferus Prima Materia! (Below, primal mater)
*The elemental or representative of the element of primal matter should then come*
*Take the Red Rose and stand in the center, pointing it upward, tracing a circle with a dot in the middle of it with the Rose*
Say: supernus aurum! (Above, Gold)
*A devine being or representative of the element of Divinity should then come*
*stand before altar*
Say: Nam circa flagrat Septagrammon. (For around flames the Septagram.)(The holy representation of the One in my tradition)
Say: Entos de lampei ho Hexaktinotos Aster. (And within shines the Six-rayed Star.) (The combination of the symbols of the four elements creates the perfect hexagram, a representation of the balance we seek to achieve inside)
Say: Sicut supernus, Ita inferus! (As above, So Below)( The Septragram signifies the Microcosm, and the Hexagram signifies the Macrocosm. Thus the Macrocosm shines within the Illuminated Microcosm, showing the divine reflection we are of the One).

[mol]

And you say something to me about starting things to big!!!

[BrightStar]

Hi all!
Wow,Shatav!I was just going to say clean the area thoroughly first.(:
Peace and love
Rain Brightstar

[Mairwen]

Okay, here's how we do it: (dontcha just love cutcopypaste ~ not awake enough to do this from merembery)


Gwyddon Ritual Notes

Remember to prepare your ritual space, devising a spiritual plan for the evening (ie, are you just going to do ritual and feast, or is there magic work to be done? If a Full Moon, you would do a general healing after the two Preliminaries and the Full Moon Circle.), and then obtaining all the materials you need. If this is a closed meeting (ie, Full Moon Study meeting), don't forget to include Lesser, Greater and "note" Books to your tools list. If your group is big enough, this would be jointly accomplished by the High Priest and High Priestess and either the Warden or Maiden.

Then, prepare yourself. Take a relaxing bath in good-smelling herbs, while considering your goals for the evening. You may choose to dress in ritual garb or wait.

After your bath, you will put the God Feast on to cook (or to heat, on a "warm" setting), and set up what you need for the Feast. I usually set out a special set of dishes and glasses, wine, soda, silverware, and papertowels. When the ritual is over, the meal is added to this, buffet-style. Don't forget to place a Greating Cup of wine by the front door! (You DO remember the passwords?)

As members and guests arrive, have them change into ritual garb and retire to the ritual area with a glass of wine or other drink (ritual is thirsty work!). Once there, each person should be contemplating his goals for the evening (indeed, as each did individually at home!), the Seasonal or Moon purpose of the ritual, and what magical acts are to be performed, if any. NOTE OF COURTESY: Anyone having a magical request would tell the HP/HPs at least a week prior to the meeting, unless an emergency arose.)

Once everyone arrives and is meditative, dim the lights, prepare the sacred space (by rapping 9 times (3 sets of 3) on the altar with the end of your wand), and begin. Again, this preparation may be done by both (or either/or) the Warden and the Maiden, as the HP/HPs have other roles. But of course, if you're working alone, you get to keep all the fun to yourself! If you ARE working alone, after magic, you may choose to do meditative work, or try simply sitting in the space in quiet contemplation; I do it, and it's very rewarding!

After all the magical proceeding comes the God Feast. Fill your plates and cups and be merry! This time is reserved for Craft discussion ONLY ~ no private or personal conversation allowed, please! When the energy wanes, rap three times on the altar with the end of the wand.

The meeting has come to a close. You may choose to engage in social activity at this time, or just have everyone pitch in on clean-up and disperse. Your choice.

May all your rituals be beautiful!!

~ Mairwen ~

[Mairwen]

Once everyone arrives and is meditative, dim the lights, prepare the sacred space (by rapping 9 times (3 sets of 3) on the altar with the end of your wand), and begin.

Before any of this happens, before the ritual bath even, I take some water in a small dish, and drop in a few granuals of salt (salt is pure, and therefore, a purifier). Then I take it around my entire house, not just the ritual space, and "sprinkle" and "flick" the water where the energy tells me it needs to go. While doing so, I say the following words (which are from my Tradition):

Begone! All evil and foulness!
Begone! In our Lady's name!

While I'm doing this, I may also break up some sage into my cauldron, light it, and leave it to burn in the entry (I live in a townhouse with a "split foyer"); that way, the scent and the smoke waft throughout. I don't do this everytime, just when I feel the house needs it ~ or I or the group needs it ~ I can always tell. ;)

After this, I bring out the altar and all the tools and get those ready to go. ... To see a sketch of a Gwyddon altar, go here: http://pagan.drak.net/gwyddon/meeting.html ... We have a very concise altar pattern, and very specific reasons for doing so. The altar is placed in the North. The altar cloth is traditionally red, but the one I made for the College of the Blue Butterfly is unbleached muslin and has little blue butterflies stitched into it, with elemental symbols in each corner. A green candle (Goddess) goes in the upper left corner, a white candle (Tuatha) goes in the upper center, and a red candle (God) goes in the upper right corner. The wine chalice goes in the exact center of the altar. The water dish (with a few granuals of salt) goes in the lower left corner, with the salt dish going between that and the wine chalice, in a diagonal line. The votive representing "Fire" goes in the lower right corner, with the incense going between that and the wine chalice, in a diagonal line. The wand is placed with the base in the middle-left area, just "behind" the water and salt, pointing toward the center. The athamé is placed with the base in the middle-right area, just "behind" the candle and salt, pointing toward the center.

*looking for disk with "the why" on it* [next post!]

[Mairwen]

This is copied directly from our Seeker Lore:


Why Gwyddons Set Their Altar as They Do

The pattern we use to set up a traditional Gwyddon altar has both practical as well as metaphysical roots.

The obvious practical advantage is the ease in which one may obtain and manipulate the individual elemental symbols. They’re easy to reach and there are no singed robes, or hands.

The metaphysical ones are a little more complex, and only a fraction of that will be dealt with here. The elemental arrangement is the basis of this pattern, which we begin in the west, with water. and form a semi-circle with earth, air and ending with fire in the east. Visual observations can bisect the altar so that the “god” side has the so-called “male” or power elements of air and fire, and the “goddess” side the “female” nurturing elements of water and earth. Note that wine, the symbol of love, sets at this bisecting line. Out of the “goddess” side, the wand grows in the direction of its own transformation in fire: the laws of manifestation ever seeking change. In the same way, the athamé‚ springs from the creative/destructive force of the “god” side: a hot force, pointedly seeking the cooling diffusing of the water force, fertilizing and creating anew from the Waters of Life.

Most traditions deal with only the manifest aspects of the elemental forces, but the Gwyddoniad provides a unique integration of Manifest and Unmanifest metaphysics. The wand and athamé‚ point out the direction of the energy flow (wand is Manifest and the athamé‚ is Unmanifest) so that the elements depict the cycle pattern of life. As the wand arises in the west, the Water of Life creates anew from the Unmanifest. The new seed, when fertilized, grows from the earth, fed in the enclosing womb until breaking forth into the air; thereby recognizing its existence - growing in understanding, wisdom and self-awareness. But the new seed seeks ever sunward, and transforms in fiery death/rebirth—now following the athamé’s path into the unmanifest realm. For the plant world, this transformation is the harvest fruit, the dying vegetation being reborn in the new seeds of life for the next cycle—awaiting the spark of life to be gifted from the unmanifest waters. For the Pine, our symbol of rebirth, spark means fire literally, as the Pine seed must actually pass through fire before it can germinate.

For the man and his magical creations, however, the path is not so simplified. The human “vegetable” simply physically dies rather than experience rebirth of the transformed spirit. Transformation sends him straight to the Unmanifest as new life material later. But transformation of the spirit, or ego/self, may occur in those who seek it so that the being begins again the cycle of life from the watery Unmanifest, but one step closer to godhood on the sacred spiral. It is within the grasp of all of us to do this many times before physical death. This is enlightenment.

[mol]

A great look at these two Paths and the setup's you use...I guess I will have to be elaborate and post mine now. When I return home I will. Still at work now, and it is going to take a few minutes. Heh.

Great work.

[Shatav]

Originally posted by mol
And you say something to me about starting things to big!!!

:D You asked Mol! I can't help it, I love my rituals and have thoroughly worked with most of the nook and crannies within them. I know, darn ceremonial mages anyway. ;)

[Shatav]

Originally posted by BrightStar
Hi all!
Wow,Shatav!I was just going to say clean the area thoroughly first.(:
Peace and love
Rain Brightstar


*LOL* Well, my hubby tells me I make my rituals far too complex for his tastes. But that's how I feel most comfortable. I've been involved in rituals more complex than mine (yes, it IS possible) and those where all that was done was as you said. It's all just personal preference, especially for individual work.

[Shatav]

Very interesting and beautiful, Mairwen! Thanks for sharing!

[mol]

All right everyone...dont feel overwhelmed with Shatav and Mairwen's posts. They have both been doing this for quite a while. Just let the info sink in...and let us know your thoughts. This is a class, after all, and we should be learning from each other.

[Mairwen]

Originally posted by Shatav
Very interesting and beautiful, Mairwen! Thanks for sharing!

Why, thank you! And thank you for sharing yours, as well! It's always so interesting (and such a learning experience) to see how others do things, as well.

Thanks to you, too, Mol. I've been on the Pagan Path for over 12 years now, and in the Gwyddon Tradition for over 8, so. Just call me an Old Stick in the Mud Crone!

[bansidhe]

*looks at all these rituals, says oh my gods, and faints, wondering what she's got herself into.*

[Mairwen]

Originally posted by bansidhe
*looks at all these rituals, says oh my gods, and faints, wondering what she's got herself into.*

Naaaah. As far as what I do, it's not near as involved as it looks. It's more "energy pushing" than anything else. In fact, what we do (actions-wise/outwardly) is very simplified compared to what I've seen or read elsewhere.

[Shatav]

Originally posted by bansidhe
*looks at all these rituals, says oh my gods, and faints, wondering what she's got herself into.*

*ROFL* Hey, I just like to make things far more complex than they have to be. It's in my nature. :D

Personal rituals can be as complex or as simple as you want them to be. I'm used to doing 10 things at once, and I like routine and strict form with what I do. Hence, my adapted rituals follow my own personal tastes in my everyday life. (Yeah, I'm one of those annoying people that if they lose their daily planner, they think they're going to die.) ;)

[mol]

Personal rituals are just that...personal. Even a Coven or Group ritual is personal to that group.

So, dont feel discouraged. This is supposed expand everyones knowledge so that you can learn to build your own rituals. Some of the members of this class have been practicing a long time...so use this knowledge and keep what you want to keep...

[mol]

All right now...come on new members...lets hear some of your views...I know you are out there. Lets not let this discussion die.

[mol]

Originally posted by mol
All right now...come on new members...lets hear some of your views...I know you are out there. Lets not let this discussion die.

Okie...I guess we should move on then...unless someone objects?

[pagangoddesschild]

Hi everyone. Okay, i'm jumping in again right in the middle of the lesson lol Hope no one minds :-)
I'm a newcomer so i suppose i will answer the question "What do i think a Sacred Space is".
I would think that it is an area that has been cleared of any negitive energies, has been cleansed in some form and is within a magick circle (not all the time though i know). What am i missing here?

[mol]

Originally posted by pagangoddesschild
Hi everyone. Okay, i'm jumping in again right in the middle of the lesson lol Hope no one minds :-)
I'm a newcomer so i suppose i will answer the question "What do i think a Sacred Space is".
I would think that it is an area that has been cleared of any negitive energies, has been cleansed in some form and is within a magick circle (not all the time though i know). What am i missing here?

Nothing at all. It is relative to you. Now, what do you think are some ways of purifying this space? I will ask of negative energies next...lets work on one thing at a time.

[chaos]

the sacred space is where the great work will take place. to cleanse it, we must introduce the elements into it one by one.

*mine*

[pagangoddesschild]

The only way i know of is by introducing the elements, just like Chaos mentioned. What are some other ways?

[mol]

Originally posted by pagangoddesschild
The only way i know of is by introducing the elements, just like Chaos mentioned. What are some other ways?

What about the use of salt?

[pagangoddesschild]

Well i thought the use of salt and water for earth and water of course and insense for air and fire was doing the intro of the elements. Isnt it? That's what i meant but i prbly should've clarified a bit.

[Shatav]

Perfect! I think that's what Mol is trying to get at...any specifics that you might use to create your sacred space. Incense and salt water are great examples of ways to summon the elements.

[belladonna23]

At the risk of sounding like a real dumbass....

Doesn't salt have purification properties of itself, aside from its representation of the element of earth? So you could just use salt or salt water to create your sacred space?

I'm learning a lot from what you all are sharing here. I would like to learn enough to have my first Ostara ritual this year. Thanks for all the great advice!

[mol]

Salt is a purifying substance...asbolutely...not just a symbol of the Earth. i have often used Salt to purify a space before ever creating a circle. I use Salt to purify my tools before use, etc.

[Mairwen]

Well, speaking of salt. ...

For us, salt is pure, which makes it a purifier. Before we do anything, we lay a circle of sprinkled salt. (a pinch can lay a 9 foot circle) From there, the circle is cast (if we're using one), then the elements are waved and sprinkled in their appropriate positions.

Didn't I already answer this question. *needs more coffee*

(Mol, you really need to see about that Java-brew script)

[Shatav]

When I first started casting circles on my own, I did as Mairwen did, sprinkled a circle of it to purify my space...but it was also representative of Earth. I walked each element around the circle to leave a trail of it, so-to-speak.

[mol]

yes, thank you everyone who answered.

On Salt: I wanted to express the importance of Salt in the purifying portions of Rituals. This is not just a symbol of the Earth and can be used with the Creation of a Sacred Space.

[Dextra]

Say: Dextra, aer! (To the left, Air)



[/B][/QUOTE]

In my 24 years on this Earth, I had no idea my name meant "to the left". In the 2 name books I have seen with my name in it, they never gave that definition. They always said it was related to the word dexterous (good with the hands). That was the newer book. The older book was a family heirloom that had a family history dating back to medieval Germany, where Dextra was the name of some member of German royalty. I asked a friend about it, and she said that it also meant "to the left" in Italian. Learn something new everyday!

[Shatav]

Originally posted by Dextra

In my 24 years on this Earth, I had no idea my name meant "to the left". In the 2 name books I have seen with my name in it, they never gave that definition. They always said it was related to the word dexterous (good with the hands). That was the newer book. The older book was a family heirloom that had a family history dating back to medieval Germany, where Dextra was the name of some member of German royalty. I asked a friend about it, and she said that it also meant "to the left" in Italian. Learn something new everyday!

Glad I could help! But making that post, I noticed a huge boo boo I made! Dextra is right, not left. Gotta edit that post. See what I get from trying to type on the fly? ;) Oh, and Dextra also means skillful, which is undoubtedly why it is the root of dextrous and ambidextrous.

[mol]

We learn something new everyday...

:p

[mol]

Are we ready to move on...or shall we continue with this discussion?

[Shatav]

I'm ready to move on. Everyone else?

[mol]

So lets take a step back and peer in through the glass shall we?

We have discussed what components our rituals should have in general...we have discussed how we all purify and create our sacred spaces.

Now, I want to know what the class wants to do with this class. Keep discussing rituals? Or, shall we put our minds together and CREATE a ritual. All of us. Maybe then you will surely know the process of Ritual creation.

Lets hear your thoughts...

[ELM]

I have to say, I read some of the comments in the last class, and though very interesting it seems that preparing a space shouldn't be quite that complex! Clean it if its indoors, if outdoors go straight to blessing it. The most important thing is that you feel the space is sacred. And in preparing the space you prepare your mind to focus on the ritual. All you ever need is yourself and a focused mind, if props and stuff help raise your awarness then fine. But simplicity is best I think. And the mor you use a space the more powerful it becomes.

How do you attain the correct state of mind might be a useful discussion?

[mol]

Originally posted by ELM

How do you attain the correct state of mind might be a useful discussion?

Absolutely. A great suggestion. And it is on the list! ;)

[Mairwen]

Well, Beltaine's coming up ... And we have two New Moons and one Full Moon in between ... I say we create a ritual.

[mol]

Originally posted by Mairwen
Well, Beltaine's coming up ... And we have two New Moons and one Full Moon in between ... I say we create a ritual.

Any more takers? Probably the best way to learn anything is by practice. And this way we can all learn together and create a ritual that is part of all of us...

[ELM]

ok is it a group ritual or an individual one? Beltane is about fertility and new growth. I personaly feel that celebrating Beltane is not appropriate at this time with foot and mouth disease destroying many of the joys of Spring. Farmers are in a terrible position being ordered to kill their animals etc, thisis very sad Beltane. I would like to make a ritual specificly to do with the crisis we face at this time. I would like to send my will out into the cosmos and ask that a solution comes. But its just a suggestion, if we all did this it might work, but I know that this does not really affect americans, so maybe it won't appeal to eveyone.

[Mairwen]

Originally posted by ELM
I personaly feel that celebrating Beltane is not appropriate at this time with foot and mouth disease destroying many of the joys of Spring. // SNIP // but I know that this does not really affect americans, so maybe it won't appeal to eveyone.

First of all, why would it not be appropriate? You totally lost me on that one. The joys of Spring and fertility need to be celebrated. That's the point ~ celebrate what you do have, wrap the ribbons around the maypole in order to ensure that your life and the fields are overflowing with abundance.

Foot & Mouth isn't limited to just Britain. A friend of mine sent me a news article where there'd been an outbreak reported somewhere in the Middle East. So saying it doesn't appeal to everyone may be jumping the gun a little. The whole thing has me wanting to become a fruitarian again.

But to call off Beltaine? Give me a break.

[mol]

ELM:

I understand what you are trying to say. But, you cannot stop the Wheel from turning. Therefore, Beltane will come and go and if we Choose not celebrate it, it will make no difference in the problems you speak of.

However, if we celebrate with all of our Will. Then perhaps something good can come of that, eh? Perhaps that energy will be blasted into problems facing us today?

[Dagda Moon~Lily]

Here, here! I'm all for learning to create a ritual from start to finish! At the moment, I just do the create as I go kind of thing :D ; so, a planned one would be wonderful!!

[mol]

Hmm.

*bump*

Cmon ppl. ;)

[Mairwen]

Well, I didn't mean to run people off! Really!!

[mol]

Originally posted by Mairwen
Well, I didn't mean to run people off! Really!!
:p

[Star]

I put space in my rituals to generate healing energies, either family or friends that need help at the time and also the Earth's environment. This year, then, it would be very appropriate to focus energy raised in ones ritual towards the solution or possibly to ease the pain of the animals with foot and mouth and also those who are destroyed because of it. I feel very upset about the whole thing and have prayed for them, but I can't help thinking it is a warning of somekind. I'm not a vegetarian, but it seems like it's our fault. I feel really bad about that.
Blessings,
Donna

[ELM]

A lot has been said sinse I wrote what I did. First of all, it seems I have been a little misunderstood. I know that Foot and mouth is not just in Britain, it has spread over most of Europe now too, and it did start in the Middle East, its just I gather most of the people who use this site are either from the UK or the US, thats all I was saying.
Secondly I wasn't saying that we should cancel Beltane, I was saying that rather than celebrate it this time, I personaly am going to mourn and to send my will out inot the cosmos to ask that a solution to this problem arises and that something new and beautiful will grow out of this darkness. I was saying that maybe would could divise a ritual together that will express the need for healing. And that's all I was trying to say. I didn't mean to upset anyone!

[ELM]

Just one more thing. Have you seen the news reports? A farmer was holding backthe tears saying that this time of year the fields are supposed to be full of new life, another cried as he told how his uncle had to shoot their bull, others refused to help kill the animals saying that they loved their animals and just wouldn't do that etc etc. These people have had one long winter, they don't have the funds to farm the way they'd like etc. I live next door to people like this, so the thought of celebration obviously seems unfitting. But a ritual for Beltane that takes these things into consideration does.

[Silverwitch]

I to live in an area that is devastated by foot and mouth, and have seen the appalling things that have been happening to people and animals. However, I feel that this disease, as others, must be laid at our own doorsteps. With centralised abbatoirs, intensive farming, CJD, WHEN ARE WE GOING TO LEARN!!! There are always :bad:terrible things going on around the world, far worse than our present predicament here. Take a look at Rwanda. None of these appalling things have stopped us celebrating Beltane before, perhaps that's because they weren't on our own doorstep.

In spite of this, and everything we do to her, Mother Earth is putting out her new growth all around me. I "feel" spring in the air, and in me, along with the rising hope (just like the sap) that things CAN get better.
Maybe we can help it along with a joint effort.
As Mol says, Beltane will come and go, with or without us, and what better way to mark it, than with a group ritual. You can count me in.

By the way Elm, if you don't know, there is a great area on this site, (Altar of the Ancients), where you can place
your personal prayer for an end to the present crisis.

[ELM]

ok many good points made etc. Beltane is a British festival I believe that each land has it's own God/desses etc, and this is why problems in other places don't stop me celebrating a festival specific to my land and my people, but every Yule I include all nations in my prayers and rituals as I hope that the end of sola darkness will bring light into the hearts and lives of all people. I did donate to commic reliefe too. I'm just a big believer in the geography affects earth spirits gods and culture etc. So anyway, I would like to devise a ritual also, lets just do it, it doesn't have to include anything about the problems affecting the land that the festival originated in, it can just be a straight forward general ritual. I was just making a suggestion at the beginning about the sorts of things we could think about while constructing our ritual and frankly I'm sick of talking about it and defending my view point!!!!

Ahhhhhhh, maybe the best way to get on with this whole thing is, a) start again, b) do it without me! Whatever, you know, just create something.

So as I guess many of us will be working on our own how about we start with casting a basic circle or something? Or maybe I've made too many suggestions for one class and should now sit at the back with my mouth shut and head down?!! (By the way I mean to be light hearted here!)

[bansidhe]

well, i for one would like to start designing a ritual, general or otherwise ! coz for a start, i dont really know what im doing ! only thing is im gonna be observing Samhain here........

[mol]

Ok. And I think that maybe we have been driven a little off track.

My question was this: Do we want, for the next class, to just build a ritual together, as a group, from start to finish. Not to perform, per say, but do just build and learn.

[mol]

Originally posted by bansidhe
well, i for one would like to start designing a ritual, general or otherwise ! coz for a start, i dont really know what im doing ! only thing is im gonna be observing Samhain here........

A little early arent we?

;)

[Mairwen]

Um Mol. Bansidhe is from Southern Australia, so she's right on time! :D

[Silverwitch]

Originally posted by mol
Ok. And I think that maybe we have been driven a little off track.

My question was this: Do we want, for the next class, to just build a ritual together, as a group, from start to finish. Not to perform, per say, but do just build and learn.


Yes!

PS I never knew that Australia etc held Samhain on any other day but Oct 31st, but it actually makes perfectly logical sense. Well, you live and learn!!!!

[mol]

Ahh..

I stand corrected! And it is good to know. The Wheel stops for no one...not even the calendar!

[mol]

This is an oppurtunity for all of you to direct how this class will continue...voice your opinion!

Do it now!

:)

[LaDaya]

Okay, if you use all the elements to purify before a ritual how would you use the fire element... I have a thing against pain so I'm not going to set myself on fire but what would you do? I have always used a ritual bath with salt and herbs to purify and usually have a lit candle and some incense also. Is that taking into account all elements or am I missing one?

[LaDaya]

I think preparing a ritual together would be good. But I think it should be somewhat generic for a particular thing like a full moon ritual, new moon ritual, or for an actual festival. But that is just my opinion. I'm really bad about not preparing anything before I do a ritual I just get in a do it and do it by memory and instinct. I do need to learn how to actually prepare a ritual.... ;-) Anyway, that's my opinion... I think it would be good as a group to learn how to prepare a ritual.

[Mairwen]

Nope, you're not missing a thing.

Incense ~ air
Candle ~ fire
Bath ~ water
Salt ~ earth

You got it going on!! :)

[Mariposa De La Luna]

I like the idea of doing a moon ritual together. we just had the Equinox so the next Sabbat is a bit away. I would like to make a generic one then maybe go into how it can be used for full or new moon, sabbats, healing, etc. Isn't this like constructing our BoS? I t would be really neat if we could all do it for the next full moon and then relate our experiences, if one wishes, or how we could change it. Well theres my $0.02.

[bansidhe]

sowwie if i confused any ppls ! it juss mader sense to me at the time.....
(is still up for designing a festive ritual though!)

[sisba]

I must agree with Elm and Star, if a ritual is usually celebrated, then maybe it should be done differently
to respect the current situation of foot and mouth. I do not totally beleive the full effect of what is actually happening around us can be fully respected by people who are not seeing it day to day, and the devastation is is causing to our local communities in England.

I don't mean to tell you all what to do, especially as I haven't a clue about any rituals etc (hope I'm making sense), it was just the views were so strong I felt I had to have an input. Spring is here, and it's fresh new beginning is around us, maybe it should be to celebrate the near ending of a complete disaster.

[Silverwitch]

I have to say again that although the Foot and Mouth Disaster is dreadful, [no one in Britain (or Europe) can fail to be dismayed as the news seems to worsen each day], in relation to the World (of which surely we are a part in this Community) our problems, however severe to us, are small in comparison to the wholescale slaughter, epidemics, earthquakes, floods etc that are going on Worldwide.

Yes, Let's all put together a generic ritual, which could then be used for whatever purpose each individual wants. Perhaps with everyone reporting their results, or not as the case may be!

I know my own rituals inside out, and am quite happy to share them if anyone wants to hear, but I'm always prepared to explore new avenues.

[belladonna23]

I would like to construct a ritual as a group. I have performed only a few rituals, and this would be a valuable learning tool for me. I am really looking forward to it!!

[ELM]

I take my shoes and socks off. Stand with feet shoulders width apart, focus on one point on the wall in front of me. I breath deeply into my gut and imagine I am breathing in light, I imagine also that a stream of water is flowing up from the Center of the Earth through the soles of my feet to meet my breath in my gut. There you have all the elements and a clear focused mind. The trick is to think of nothing.

[Silver Venus]

Originally posted by Mairwen
[B

Incense ~ air
Candle ~ fire
Bath ~ water
Salt ~ earth

You got it going on!! :) [/B]

~ I take a pre-cleansing ritual bath and use all of the above to focus and concentrate. Then I dip dry, annnoint myself with oil and dress in my robe before castign my circle and setting to work...

[Silver Venus]

I'd love to join in with you all... Everyone's posts have been soo interesting! :D
How about one for the full moon that is coming up on Saturday? We could go mad and talk about Drawing down the moon too? or even construct one for the New Moon at the end of this month?

[Silverwitch]

Have just been re-reading this thread, and feel that I may have been too outspoken about some of the views held by others. :( For this I apologise. An important part of my beliefs is that everyone is entitled to their own, as long as it doesn't harm others, and I seem to have lost this a little here. Blame it on my passion and enthusiasm. I meant no offence.

Back to the original theme here of creating a ritual. I'm beginning to see that it may be a lot trickier to do than I first envisaged. How do we decide a purpose, (if that's what we are going to do), with so many different beliefs and views. Some people may not want a ritual to be specifically orientated, such as Drawing down the Moon/Sabbat/Festival etc, as their Path may be different from Wicca, towards which this idea is orientated. On the other hand, a 'clinical' ritual may not have enough 'spiritual' imput to satisfy., whilst a Golden Dawn type ritual may be too jargonistic and drawn out for others! Help, I'm getting bogged down here!! Does anyone else see this as a difficulty, or am I just being 'picky'?

[moonmagick4]

Ialso take ritual baths.As I lie there ,I close my eyes and concentrate on nature-birds,sky,the moon,trees.I concentrate on "The All".All that is around us and within us.The God .The Goddess.Then I breath slowly and imagine a white light coming from the earth ,through my toes and filling me with peace and tranquility.At the end of the bath ,I imagine the light going out the top of my head.This is very awesome just writing it down!!I feel energized!!!!!!!!
I REALLY HAVE TO TRY THE MUD THING!!SOUNDS GREAT!!!!!!

[Flar's Freyja]

~*~bump~*~

[Flar's Freyja]

bump

[Flar's Freyja]

bump

[Flar's Freyja]

Bump

[Flar's Freyja]

Merging threads for classes one through five.

[Flar's Freyja]

Bump

[e4e123@yahoo.com]

Ok...ok.. :)

Lets try some more...even if you have answered already. Name some more...

Like, how about...Energy Raising! That is a component.

Next...

Grounding and vizualization are essential, are they not? I cast a spell and felt the energy right at the soles of my feet. I knew it was time to act although I knew nothing of ritual cleansing at the time.

[e4e123@yahoo.com]

[QUOTE=mol]Ritual Creation - Lesson II (Finally)

Ok. We are going to jump right into it. Lets get into ritual design. Now, keep in mind that we have a very wide range of traditions here. But, I would like us to all use that to our advantage. Because it can be, if we choose to let it be. The first thing we need to do in Ritual Design is we have to figure out what to include in the Ritual. Do I mean the Tools? No. Not right now. For right now lets look at the basic components of the Ritual itself.

As in the Magick class I want to try a different approach to this class. I want everyone to give me one component that you FEEL needs to be included in a Ritual. This makes no difference if you are a Solitary or part of a Group. If you feel it needs to be in Our Basic Components then give your input.

I will start us off.

Cleansing and Purification of Self

This is the very basic foundation of all Rituals. I Know it to be of vital importance that all negativity should be ridden from your Self. When going into a Ritual...the Body, Mind, and Spirit should be cleansed of all impurities and your Self should be completely conditioned and ready to complete the Ritual at hand.

This can be done several ways...and we will look at each of our Components one by one after we have listed all that we Feel are critical to Ritual Design.

Do give us a basic Component, but dont explain it in detail. We will all give input on each component after the list is made.

So, go to it. Lets hear what YOU Feel should be included in each Ritual.[/QUOTE

If you don't mind my asking, just who is Semele, anyway?

[Faeawyn]

If you don't mind my asking, just who is Semele, anyway?
Who is Semele??? Why....she is the one we all adore....she is our rock....she is our mentor....she is the site goddess :D...she is also married to Mol...Which means she is super human....:lol:
She and Mol are the developers of this lovely community :lol:

[mol]

Who is Semele??? Why....she is the one we all adore....she is our rock....she is our mentor....she is the site goddess :D...she is also married to Mol...Which means she is super human....:lol:
She and Mol are the developers of this lovely community :lol:
:)

Semele is my wife. Wow, this is an old thread. I forgot I taught a class on Ritual creation.

Grounding and vizualization are essential, are they not? I cast a spell and felt the energy right at the soles of my feet. I knew it was time to act although I knew nothing of ritual cleansing at the time.

They are very much essential! I am so much different than the man that taught this class, though...so I think I can disagree now with a lot of the points I included here. :D

[Teresa]

Bumping for a seeker of knowledge!

[~Owl~]

:)

Semele is my wife. Wow, this is an old thread. I forgot I taught a class on Ritual creation.



They are very much essential! I am so much different than the man that taught this class, though...so I think I can disagree now with a lot of the points I included here. :D


I second what Mol and Shalaye just said (and did)...

After conversing with Mol privately a few times, he's not so bad. ;)

He's a big dragon on the outside, but like GEBS knows I'm sure, he's just a big ole' teddy bear underneath. _wedgie_

*ducks a swipe*

[~Owl~]

Actually, for anyone whose enquiring mind wants to know, I have taken this topic to the Admins for discussion on having me restart a class on Ritual Creation, including Theory, Outline, Setup, Cause and Effect, and covering topics from beginning to advanced...

To be continued...

[Teresa]

Actually, for anyone whose enquiring mind wants to know, I have taken this topic to the Admins for discussion on having me restart a class on Ritual Creation, including Theory, Outline, Setup, Cause and Effect, and covering topics from beginning to advanced...

To be continued...

Sounds like a great idea I know of many that would be interested in that class !

[Brightshores]

I certainly would be. :)

[~Owl~]

OK...

I've got the OK from the Admins I've been working with...

We considered taking this Sticky down, but since it's being revived with replies and attn, I'll keep this thread going to see how many people would be interested in an all new Ritual Creation and Theory Class.

Now this will be a SERIOUS class. No grade school stuff.

I'll start with the basics and move up to the advanced. This class will be more on the theory of Ritual, not the set up of altars, etc.

More on the WHY we use ritual, etc. From the beginning, up to the modern. Everone is welcome to attend. You don't need to be experienced to sign up.

Right now, just post here to let me know you're interested in it, so I can feel it out first.


Many other things will be covered as well. I'm prepared to do it, and will start creating an outline, as well as lessons, a banner, the works, if I get enough people interested. I've already been working with an Admin via PM about all this, so...


Also, I'll be doing a "short" on Familiars later. This will be first. Technically, it will be just a few articles, and that's it. No grads, etc.

Just some tidbits, Q/A, etc. Then I'm closing it, and moving on to the Ritual class.


ALL THIS will be in the fairly near future. NOT right away. It's still in the planning phases. I've got work to do in MW Magazine, as well as some Astrology work too. So this won't happen for a couple of weeks or so.

In the meantime:


Post here, like others have done, if you're interested in the Ritual Creation and Theory class. THIS will be an actual Class, with banners, graduates, lessons, exams, etc.

So let me know here, and later I'll announce a sign up in CoT.

Owl~

[David19]

I'd be interested.

[~Owl~]

Great!

Everyone keep posting, and let me know, so I'll know if I'm going to do a sign up, or if I'm just wasting time.

Pass the word around, and later, I'll do a Formal sign up, and Announcement for the Class in the CoT.

[Glory]

I think I'd be interested too. :)

[~Owl~]

Not intending to reply to every post here, but wanted to mention, that setup of altars, and the different ways, etc., and any other "novice" tytpe questions can be addressed in this potential class, and should be.

Therefore, keep posting if you're interested, for if you REALLY are, I'll plan on making a sign up Annoncement, and have you sighn up again! LOL...

Also, post here anything you would like to particularly learn about, (optional).