As we experience the longest night
We hold to hope of the returning sunGiving thanks for the many blessings
The darkness, the stillness the peace
Resting and reflecting
Awaiting the coming Spring
This weekend was full of celebration with two Yule/Mid-Winter Solstice Sabbats.
My coven and I were invited to join my dear friend Tamara at her first ritual in her new circle and at her amazing property. (So thinking of running my Tarot courses there) We gathered in the main hall and spent time greeting friends and then gathered for the official welcoming and song. Tamara then lead us down the lantern lit winding path to a beautifully candle lit Oak Tree, which symbolises the return of the Oak King (The Sun God and the Light) after the longest night of the year. The Tree was glowing with energy and light. After the lights were extinguished we were lead in the dark, representing the longest night of the year to the circle opening.
A song of Silent Night (the Pagan version of course) was sung by the S.C.O.T.I.F. coven through the walk. Tamara's circle is AMAZING and her fantastic husband and her really did some hard work getting it all ready and looking and feeling so welcoming and magical. With Altars at each elemental gateway/direction and so much thought put into it, it is large enough to host up to 40 adults.
The youngest male lit the fire and we placed our oak leaves and our thanks into the flames. We got a little rained on but it is Winter after all! Luckily none of the Witches in the circle melted. (we know what soap is)
The circle flame was carried inside and was used to light the fires indoors and then we gathered around the ever green tree for decoration and wish making and more carol singing (still have that song in my head!). After that we all feasted on lovely warm winter foods and roasted beasties (for those who enjoy roasted beasties), enjoyed mulled wine and enjoyed the community conversation and merriment that went well into the night. The newest Father Pete was ordained the Oak King and handed out the gifts under the tree to everyone.
KITCHEN WITCHES!
After we got home and had a wonderful nights' sleep AmberFishy, GaiaMara and I were up and out the door to get the rest of the items needed for the S.C.O.T.I.F celebration. We had great success hunting for plates at a local Op Shop and even found a Punch bowl for the Coven to use. We are slowly gathering a lot of stuff for the coven J we got the groceries and headed home to start the hours of cooking and cleaning.
The girls really all pulled together to get it all done and I enjoy the magick of working in the kitchen with them and preparing it is a very important part of working with a group I personally believe. The Alter was dressed and the tables set and then our guests arrived. I am still impressed that we managed to fit 15 people in our house.
Our ritual was incorporated into the feast as we designed the dishes to be aligned with the elements and blessed them. More mulled wine and feasting occurred and talking through the night. We all shared what we were thankful for and then we had our gift game played. I think most people were happy with what they ended up with.
The Coven's Yule Altar
It was another wonderful evening with friends and spiritual family and I am hugely thankful to everyone who participated and shared their energy. The Solstice is tomorrow and then we will feel the light returning. I hope at least the rain sticks around as well for a while.
Reference: spellscasting.blogspot.com