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| | From:  LustreofHope (Original Message) | Sent: 11/14/2007 8:02 PM |
Yule Ritual From The Wayside: Ivy's Book of Shadows and Crafts, an original document © 2001. For private use only. This ritual is not to be included in any other collections without permission, and has been put online with a minimum of formatting for easy printing for individuals and small groups. Original craft ideas and symbols have in some cases been incorporated. E-mail [email protected] for suggestions, changes, or questions.
To prepare the self: Bathe as usual and anoint with oil of an appropriate scent for the season. Wear fire-safe clothes in colors of red, green, white, silver, or gold, or a combination. Wear magickal jewelry and flowers or a hair wreath made of plants of the season. To prepare the circle: Sweep. ¤ Lay out cord. ¤ Position altar with red, green, or seasonal-themed cloth. ¤ Position God and Goddess candles. ¤ Position other God and Goddess representations. ¤ Add Earth bowl and salt at north. ¤ Add incense burner and incense at east. ¤ Add candleholder and red, green, white, silver, gold, or seasonal candle at south. ¤ Add goblet and water at west. ¤ Put pentacle at north. ¤ Put wand at east. ¤ Put athame at south. ¤ Put chalice at west. ¤ Add bolline to south. ¤ Add matches to south. ¤ Add match holder to north. ¤ Add wet napkins to west. ¤ Add bell to west. ¤ Add libation bowl to north. ¤ Add any decorations for the season. ¤ Place the cauldron on the altar. ¤ Place a yellow or gold candle in a candleholder and put it in the cauldron. ¤ Place a white candle to the left of the cauldron, a red candle behind the cauldron, and a black candle to the right of the cauldron. ¤ Place Yule Log behind the cauldron at the back of the altar, between the God and Goddess candles. ¤ Have materials for wish tree and last year’s pot and wish ashes from Samhain ready at the left of the altar, and dragon’s blood oil or other catalystic oil. ¤ Have materials to make charms for love, fertility, wealth, and abundance. ¤ Put an apple and some cinnamon and rosemary on a plate on the right of the altar. ¤ Have yarn ready for finger-knitting. ¤ Complete with feasting foods of the season. Begin ritual: Cast the circle. Sit inside and focus, and invoke the God and Goddess. Meditation (to seasonal music if desired): Today begins the season of Yule. Today, the Goddess gives birth to Her son, and gives birth to the new year as well. Tonight is the longest night of the year. Six months have passed since the God was in His prime. Tonight as He is born again, the darkness will again wane. Today, I come to honor the Mother of All, and to honor the Child of Light.1 Note: Some prefer to see the God in two aspects rather than one continuous one: The Oak King and the Holly King. The Oak King is the king of the waxing year and the Holly King is the king of the waning year. At Yule, the Oak King takes over, as the days grow longer. The Holly King “dies�?and sleeps in the Goddess’s womb until Midsummer (Litha). You can change your meditation and ritual to fit this if you prefer to view the year this way. Opening Honor: Honor the Goddess and acknowledge the Triple Goddess. Light the white candle to the left of the cauldron, and honor the Maiden aspect, who is synonymous with fresh starts and new beginnings. Reflect on the influence of women in your life who are in their Maiden aspect. Light the red candle behind the cauldron, and honor the Mother aspect, who is synonymous with enduring love and strength. Reflect on the influence of women in your life who are in their Mother aspect. Light the black candle to the right of the cauldron, and honor the Crone aspect, who is synonymous with wisdom and magick. Reflect on the influence of women in your life who are in their Crone aspect. Honor the aspects together and admire their different aspects appearing all throughout your life. Thank the Goddess in your own way, or read a tribute to Her, such as �?A target=_top href="http://members.aol.com/ivycleartoes/chardess.html">The Charge of the Goddess.�?SUP>2 Reflect afterwards on the fact that you are one with the Goddess and just as the God is born today from the cauldron of the Goddess and returns to Her womb in death every year, so are we born and so do we die. Acknowledge your acceptance of this by pulling or cutting a hair from your head and putting it in the cauldron with the unlit yellow or gold candle. Light the yellow or gold candle to symbolize the birth of the Sun King. Now sprinkle rosemary into the cauldron for a peaceful sleep since labor is difficult work. Congratulate the Goddess with a toast to Her; drink wine or dark juice. Now honor the newborn Sun King and meditate upon his arrival. Recognize His three aspects and concentrate on the youngest, the child. Read a tribute to His greatness, such as �?A target=_top href="http://members.aol.com/ivycleartoes/chargod.html">The Charge of the God.�?Honor the birth with a toast of Wassail or light juice. Greet Him with the lighting of the Yule Log, reflecting on the waxing year and the man He will be to his now-tired Mother. Yule Activities:3 Wish Tree can be constructed now. Disassemble old tree and bury ashes from Samhain under the base of a new tree, with dragon’s blood oil anointing a new walnut or seed to wrap the craft wire around, for the new shoot of a tree. Ponder what your wishes might be come Imbolc. Charm sachets can be made now. They can be given later or hung in the home for the purposes described. You can put a little baby bundle into the arms of your corn dolly now if you wish, and change her appearance to reflect seasonal changes. Ritual Core: To honor the God for His return to the world, offer Him some of each element of the pentagram. Take salt from the bowl and sprinkle it into the cauldron, wishing for His influence in the “soil�?of your life. Take ashes from the incense holder and sprinkle into the cauldron, wishing for His laughter to become your breath. Take wax dripped by the fire candle and put it into the cauldron, wishing for His passion to infuse your life. Take water from the cup and put it into the cauldron, wishing for His purity to be carried in your blood. Take cinnamon and sprinkle it into the cauldron, using it as a symbol of your own spirit that you are offering, and ask to be infused with peace and happiness. Send your spirit to mesh with the cinnamon as it falls. Ask that these gifts help draw Him into the world and encourage him to take root in it again, to become part of it. BANISH THE SAMHAIN SEASON AND INVOKE THE YULE SEASON with banishing and invoking pentagrams. Ring the bell and say “it is done�?or “so mote it be.�? Follow-up: Greet the new year with a wassail toast and pour a libation. Dust the libation with cinnamon, and celebrate the reunion of the God and the Goddess with a feast.4 Begin the feast by cutting the apple, separating the stem from the bottom, to see the five seeds inside arranged in a pentagram. Eat one bite from both sides, acknowledging your acceptance of both sides of life: Light and dark, male and female, life and death. Put the remainder of the apple in the libation bowl.5 Now begin the feast. Make sure to share everything you’ve eaten with the libation bowl. Finger-knit and tie your rope to the previous years�?ever-growing rope. Meditate on the meaning of this weaving to symbolize the journey. Think about previous Yules you might have celebrated, and what has transpired in your life since you finger-knitted for Samhain. Closing: Thank the God and Goddess for coming and put out their candles with a pinch or a snuffer, and thank all elementals, then earth and close the circle. Put anything that was given in the cauldron into the libation bowl also, with the exception of the candle and its holder. When the circle is broken, the first thing you should do is go outside and bury the contents of the libation bowl, then commence cleaning up. Document anything important in your Book of Shadows. Change any decorations around your house that you have to reflect the new season. Alternatives and Additions: If you wish, you may leave goodies out for the little people, animals, or whatever you choose. You may dedicate this food to them before the ritual’s core. This Sabbat is conducive to magickal workings having to do with harmonious futures, peace, tolerance, respect, love, and unity. If magick is to be done, do it right before the feast. If dancing, singing, or any other personal or individual merriment is scheduled, it can be done either after the feast and the core of the ritual, OR it can be done after the circle is broken.
Footnotes: 1--Groups can alternate speaking lines of this as a chant, and use “we�?instead of “I.�?BR>2--“The Charge of the Goddess�?can be read by a High Priestess or alternated between lines for every member of the coven, or read only by those in their Mother phase.
3--With groups, it may be preferable to do these activities outside circle, or in such a way that the High Priest and Priestess lead and allow everyone else to contribute in a small way, so that it does not take up the entire ritual.
4--After greeting the new year, if you are not alone, now is a good time to share Yule gifts.
5--Working partners should each take a bite of the apple and then switch; in coven situations, just pass each piece around to make sure everyone gets a bite. |
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Here is another ritual. Yule Ritual The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay, juniper and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the Circle of Stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar. The cauldron, resting on the altar on a heat proof surface (or placed before it if too large), should be filled with ignitable spirit (alcohol), or a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites, lay a fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual. Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the Circle of Stones. Recite the Blessing Chant. Invoke the Goddess and God. Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it. Say these or similar words: I sorrow not,
though the world is wrapped in sleep.
I sorrow not,
though the icy winds blast.
I sorrow not,
though the snow falls hard and deep.
I sorrow not,
this too shall soon be past. <O:P></O:P> Ignite the cauldron (or candle), using long matches or a taper. As the flame(s) leap up say: I light this fire in Your honor, Mother Goddess
You have created life from death;
warmth from cold;
The Sun lives once again;
the time of light is waxing.
Welcome,
ever returning God of the Sun!
Hail Mother of All! <O:P></O:P> Circle the altar and cauldron slowly, clockwise, watching the flames. Say the following chant for some time: The wheel turns; the power burns. <O:P></O:P> Meditate upon the Sun, on the hidden energies lying dormant in winter, not only in the Earth but within ourselves. Think of birth not as the start of life but as its continuance. Welcome the return of the God. After a time cease and stand once again before the altar and flaming caldron. Say: Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You,
Reborn One of the Sun! <O:P></O:P> Works of magick, if necessary, may follow. Celebrate the Simple Feast, then release the Circle.
<O:P></O:P> Scott Cunningham, "A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner" |
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| Here is another ritual. | Yule Ritual
For Solitary; Easily Editable for Groups Preparations & Setup
This Ritual shall be performed during the evening hours, sometime after Sunset. Sweep area, starting in the North and moving deosil, with your magickal broom to cleanse the Circle area and "sweep away" any lingering negative energies. Set up the Quarter candles (North-Green, East-Yellow, South-Red, West-Blue) and/or other items symbolizing the elements at the Four Quarters. Set up your altar as desired, and face it to the North, covering it with a red or green altar cloth. Place all of the items listed below in their proper places upon it. For this ceremony, decorate the altar with holly, mistletoe, evergreen, pine cones, ivy, berries, ribbons, and whatever else feels right. Having a Yule Tree nearby the altar will add a lot to the ritual. Along with your usual ritual tools and items, have upon the altar: -
Red or Green Altar Cloth -
Holly Sprig (placed upon the altar) -
Mistletoe Sprig (placed underneath the altar, for use later) -
Three Candles in Holders for the Triple Goddess
(1 White, 1 Red, and 1 Black - arranged around the Cauldron) -
Cauldron with a Green Candle inside | |
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Incense - Any of the following either alone or mixed together to make a Winter Blend:
Cinnamon, Myrrh, Cloves, Frankincense, Aloes Wood, and Saffron When all is set up, take a shower or bath for purification and don your Ritual Robe or other ritual attire. Be sure to wear your Magickal jewelry, if you have any. Sit quietly and meditate for a little while - to ground and center. When you feel ready to begin, play some quiet peaceful music for the ritual. The Ritual Cast the Circle... Light the God and Goddess candles. Leave all the other candles unlit until the appropriate time within the ritual. Have the green candle placed inside the Cauldron, surrounded by the white, red, and black candles. Also have the sprig of Holly upon the altar, and the Mistletoe sprig tucked away underneath the altar. Sit quietly meditating within the cast Circle for a little while... When you feel ready, begin your ceremony with these words: "Blessed be the season of Yule.
This is the Winter Solstice,
The longest night of the year.
Darkness reigns triumphant,
Yet gives way and changes to Light.
The Sun King has gone into the realms of Death ---
Yet, within the Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
He is once again transformed into
The Newborn Divine Child of Light.
Blessed be the young Virgin Goddess
Who gives to her people tonight
A Newborn God.
Blessed be the Newborn Sun King." Pause and reflect on the meaning of this spoke in the Wheel of the Year for a few moments, then continue... Saying:
"All is cold, and I await the coming of Dawn.
As the Sun rises, the Triple Goddess once more
Gives birth to the Divine Child.
In silence and wonder I stand before
The Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
Knowing that one day I too must pass
Through the Cauldron to be reborn. |
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Here is another ritual. SOLITARY YULE RITUAL Tools needed:
A Green Altar Cloth
A Cauldron w/Lid or Cover Plate
Holly Sprig Wreath
Mistletoe Sprig Wreath
12 Low Vibration Stones (flat oval river rock work well)
1 Black Votive Candle
1 Green 12" Taper Candle
1 White 12" Taper Candle
1 Gold (12hr) Pillar Candle
Pine Incense
Bowl of Water w/ Pine Sprig in it
Plate of Sand
Athame
You are welcome to add any personal items of your choice Preparation:
This ritual showed be performed right after sunset. About an hour before, sweep area moving in a deosil manner. Yule symbols such as Poinsettias, Pine Cones, and even a decorated Yule Log nearby (if too big for altar) adds to the ambiance.
Place the proper candles and symbols at the four cardinal directions. Place the gold God pillar candle at right top of altar. Place the white Goddess taper candle at the top left. Place your Pentacle (or a plate with a Pentagram drawn on it) in the center of the altar. Place your Cauldron to the right of the altar, with the black votive candle, Holly sprig wreath around it , inside.
Cover cauldron with lid or cover plate. Place the green taper candle and mistletoe wreath where they will be behind you at the beginning of the ritual. Outline your circle perimeter with 11 of the low vibration stones (save 12th to close circle when you enter. Place the rest of your tools and props according to personal preference.
Take a shower or bath for purity. Sit quietly for a period to ground and center. When ready put on some soothing music associated with the Sabbat and your ritual. Enter the standing stone circle and close with 12th stone. Cast circle by envisioning flames of Yule colors red, green, and gold coming up between the stones. When all become a continuous line, step up to the altar. Begin:
"From the darkness is born the light,
From void, fulfillment emergesThe darkest night of the year's at the threshold,Open now the door, and honor the darkness."
Take the lid/plate off the cauldron and light the black votive candle inside. Step back from the cauldron and give silent honor to the Holly King, the ruler of the dark half of the year. Call quarters, start by lighting yellow candle in the East:
" Powers of Air, step forth from the darkness,
Enter my circle , as dark gives 'way to light.
Bring along with you the essence of pine trees,
Remind me of Springtime as I face Solstice Night."
Light the pine incense and place on Pentacle/Center Plate. Light the red candle in the South:
"Powers of Fire, step forth from the darkness,
Enter my circle, as dark gives 'way to light,
Bring along with you the first glint of tomorrow,
Remind me of Summer as I face Solstice Night."
Pick up the Athame and brandish it in the flame of the candle to reflect the light. Place on the Pentacle/Center Plate. Light the blue candle in the West:
"Powers of Water, step forth from the darkness,
Enter my circle, as dark gives 'way to light,
Bring along with you bittersweet memories
Remind me of Autumn as I face Solstice Night."
Pick up the bowl of water, sprinkle water with pine sprig in Pentacle/Center Plate. Light brown candle in the North:
"Powers of Earth, step forth from the darkness,
Enter my circle, as dark gives 'way to light,
Bring along with you the land that now slumbers,
Remind me of Winter and this cold Solstice Night."
Pick up the plate of sand, sprinkle sand in a line around the other symbols. Step back from the alter for a moment and contemplate the seasons of the past year, and how their lessons have brought you to where you are today. When ready, begin again:
"Dark my surroundings, and cold be this night
But Thy labor, Blessed Mother has reborn the Sacred Light
The Child Divine, The most honored Sun. Shall return with the sunrise again, Two will be One."
Remove the Holly wreath from around the black votive candle. With your right hand, present it to the four elements in a deosil manner. Finally, in a clockwise motion, place it behind you, to signify the death, "passing", of the Holly King.
Turn back to the altar. Then with your left hand, reach behind you, and in a clockwise motion bring forward the Mistletoe wreath and the green candle. Present them to the elements, slide the wreath over the green candle and place the candle in its holder in the cauldron. Light the green candle with the black votive candle:
"Hark! Behold the Rebirth of the King of the Woodlands!
Behold the Oak King, strong and vital he rises!"
Snuff the black votive candle and with your right hand, place it behind you in a clockwise motion. Turn back to the cauldron, close your eyes, and silently honor the Oak King.
Begin again:
"Awake now Thy Mother, Thy Lover, Thy Lady -
Awake now Thy Goddess of Life, Death, Rebirth."
Take the green candle out of the cauldron and light the white Goddess candle on the altar. Replace the green candle in the cauldron. Take the white Goddess candle with both hands and hold out at arm's length over the cauldron:
"Awaken, my Lady, look upon Thyne Divine Child,
His rebirth while You slumbered was subtle and silent.
The Stag King, the Green Man, Lord of Fertility,
He awaits thy wakening gentle and benevolent"
Place the white Goddess candle back in its holder at the left top of altar. Step back and assume the Goddess position.
In a bold voice:
"All hail the Oak King, His rebirth; a promise
All hail the Divine Child, Giver of Life
All hail the Blessed Sun, reborn to the Mother
For he retakes His throne at the end of Solstice Night!"
Now is the time for meditation and any spellworkings. Spellworkings associated with Yule include those for peace, harmony, love, and happiness. Next celebrate with the Cakes and Ale (Fruitcake* and Spiced Cider *) ceremony, saving some for the wee Folkes, outside. Thank the Goddess and snuff Her candle. Thank and release the elements:
"Carry sweet tidings, 'round the world and beyond,
I charge thee as messengers Earth, Water, Fire, and Air
Let all rejoice loudly in the Oak King's return
Teach all that you meet, with the glad tidings you bear."
Snuff each Quarter candle in a widdershins manner. Step back and face the cauldron and the green candle still burning bright.
"Before my circle, tonight, I close blessings I ask for this house and my kin tomorrow at daybreak, when I arise
A special flame I will carry, withinAnd a gold candle upon my altar I'll light adding my will to the Sun King's intent
To climb aloft in the vaulted skies and for strength back to me; three times, strength I've sent."
Snuff the green candle. Take the Mistletoe wreath and place it on the other symbols on the Pentacle/Center Plate. Release the circle. Clean up, leaving the gold God pillar candle in center front to light upon rising in the morning. You are done.-
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Here is another ritual. Scott Cunningham's Yule ritual
The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay, juniper and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the Circle of Stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar. The cauldron, resting on the altar on a heat proof surface (or placed before it if too large), should be filled with ignitable spirit (alcohol), or a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites, lay a fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual.
Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the Circle of Stones.
Recite the Blessing Chant.
Invoke the Goddess and God.
Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it. Say these or similar words:
I sorrow not,
though the world is wrapped in sleep.
I sorrow not,
though the icy winds blast.
I sorrow not,
though the snow falls hard and deep.
I sorrow not,
this too shall soon be past.
Ignite the cauldron (or candle), using long matches or a taper. As the flame(s) leap up say:
I light this fire in Your honor, Mother Goddess
You have created life from death;
warmth from cold;
The Sun lives once again;
the time of light is waxing.
Welcome,
ever returning God of the Sun!
Hail Mother of All!
Circle the altar and cauldron slowly, clockwise, watching the flames. Say the following chant for some time:
The wheel turns; the power burns.
Meditate upon the Sun, on the hidden energies lying dormant in winter, not only in the Earth but within ourselves. Think of birth not as the start of life but as its continuance. Welcome the return of the God. After a time cease and stand once again before the altar and flaming caldron. Say:
Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You,
Reborn One of the Sun!
Works of magick, if necessary, may follow. Celebrate the Simple Feast, the release the Circle.
- by Scott Cunningham, "A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner"
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| Here is another ritual. Solitary Yule Ritual Statement of Intent: "Since the beginning of time witches have gathered in this season To celebrate the rebirth of the Sun. On the Winter Solstice - the darkest of nights The Goddess becomes the Great Mother And once again gives birth to the Sun Beginning the yearly cycle anew Bringing new light and hope to all the World. On the longest night of winter Flares the spark of hope The Sacred Fire, The Light of the World, I am present here to welcome the new light. As I join the Goddess in greeting the new Sun I also welcome the new light within myself." Calling the Quarters: "Hail guardians of the east, spirits of Air, powers of Thought I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect me from all negativity from the east." "Hail guardians of the south, spirits of Fire, powers of Will I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect me from all negativity from the south." "Hail guardians of the west, spirits of Water, powers of Emotion I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect me from all negativity from the west." "Hail guardians of the north, spirits of Earth, powers of Stability I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect me from all negativity from the north." Casting the Circle: "I conjure ye O Circle of Light to be a temple between the worlds In the name of the Silver Lady and the Golden Lord. Wherefore do I bless and consecrate thee, So Mote It Be." Invocation: "Lady, you who are the beauty of the snowy earth and the white moon among the stars the mystery of the waters the desire in the heart of humanity We invite to you to come to this place and attend this rite, for you are the soul of nature that gives life to the universe." "Lord, You who are the freedom of the wild things the bright sun that lights the day the mystery of the forest The resolve in the heart of humanity We invite you to come here to this place and attend this rite, for you are the body of nature who gives life to the universe." Meditation: "The old solar year has run its course and completed its cycle. So too have some of our habits or traits completed their cycles and outlived their usefulness. This is a time for shedding that which is no longer needed." (Take a few moments now to consider which things you would leave behind as you go into the coming year.) (pause to meditate) "As the old year dies away so to will these old ways will fade into memory." "In the beginning we came from the darkness of the womb. There we were created, nourished and prepared for our birth into the light. Within us, we still carry that fertile darkness. There we hold the seeds of hopes and dreams to come. There we nourish are hopes for love, joy and peace for all. We shield these tender roots until they are strong enough to come forth and flourish in the light." (Spend a little time now tending these creations to come. Name them, nurture them for they will grow with you and bloom in the coming year.) (pause to reflect) "As the sun strengthens above, so will my new ways grow." Reading: "I light this candle for the infant Solstice Sun One small flame to pierce the darkness A ray of hope A symbol of the Light within me Light that can never be extinguished Light that will grow in glory Waxing strong, despite the cold to come Light that dispels despair and resignation Giving us a glimpse of golden days ahead" "Behold the light that can never die Reborn anew in the Solstice Sky!" Before the Chant: (While chanting, think of those who you would send positive energy to: Loved ones perhaps, those in need of healing or added strength. Perhaps people who's names you do not know, who are living with war or hunger. You may wish to focus on that which important to you, your values, Perhaps the earth itself, or the animals who share it with us Whatever it is you wish to send your healing energy to. As we chant we will build the our energy with the turning of the wheel. As you chant feel the energy of change resonate within you. When you stop the chant, visualize the positive energy bursting forth, like the sun coming out from behind a thick cloud, and imagine strong rays of streaking out, empowering your wishes, and carrying your healing thoughts to their targets. The Chant: "Hoof and horn, hoof and horn All that dies will be reborn Corn and grain, corn and grain All that falls will rise again." Blessing of Cakes and Wine: "This food and wine is the blessing of the Goddess and God to our bodies. I will partake in it freely. And remember to share what I have with those who have nothing." Releasing: "Thank you, Goddess of the Moon for attending these rites in your honor, and for sharing with me your gifts of compassion and wit. Hail, and farewell." "Thank you, God of the Sun for attending these rites in your honor, and for sharing with me your gifts of freedom and rejuvenation. Hail, and farewell." "Guardians of the north, I thank you for your presence here and for your gift of stability. Hail and farewell." "Guardians of the west, I thank you for your presence here and for your gift of empathy. Hail and farewell." "Guardians of the south, I thank you for your presence here and for your gift of purity. Hail and farewell." "Guardians of the east, I thank you for your presence here and for your gift of clarity. Hail and farewell." "The circle is open, yet never broken, merry meet, and merry part, and merry meet again." Written by Zephyr; December 22, 1996 http://wuzzle. org/cave/ yulerit.htmlAdapted for the Solitary Practicioner by Joelle, December 13, 2001 |
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| Here is another ritual. Scott Cunningham's Yule ritual The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay, juniper and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the Circle of Stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar. The cauldron, resting on the altar on a heat proof surface (or placed before it if too large), should be filled with ignitable spirit (alcohol), or a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites, lay a fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual. Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the Circle of Stones. Recite the Blessing Chant. Invoke the Goddess and God. Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it. Say these or similar words: I sorrow not,
though the world is wrapped in sleep.
I sorrow not,
though the icy winds blast.
I sorrow not,
though the snow falls hard and deep.
I sorrow not,
this too shall soon be past.
Ignite the cauldron (or candle), using long matches or a taper. As the flame(s) leap up say:
I light this fire in Your honor, Mother Goddess
You have created life from death;
warmth from cold;
The Sun lives once again;
the time of light is waxing.
Welcome,
ever returning God of the Sun!
Hail Mother of All!
Circle the altar and cauldron slowly, clockwise, watching the flames. Say the following chant for some time:
The wheel turns; the power burns.
Meditate upon the Sun, on the hidden energies lying dormant in winter, not only in the Earth but within ourselves. Think of birth not as the start of life but as its continuance. Welcome the return of the God. After a time cease and stand once again before the altar and flaming caldron. Say:
Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You,
Reborn One of the Sun!
Works of magick, if necessary, may follow. Celebrate the Simple Feast, the release the Circle.
- by Scott Cunningham, "A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner"
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| Here is another ritual. This Ritual shall be performed during the evening hours, sometime after
Sunset. Sweep area, starting in the North and moving deosil, with your magickal
broom to cleanse the Circle area and "sweep away" any lingering negative
energies. Set up the Quarter candles (North-Green, East-Yellow, South-Red,
West-Blue) and/or other items symbolizing the elements at the Four Quarters. Set up
your altar as desired, and face it to the North, covering it with a red or
green altar cloth. Place all of the items listed below in their proper places
upon it. For this ceremony, decorate the altar with holly, mistletoe,
evergreen, pine cones, ivy, berries, ribbons, and whatever else feels right. Having a
Yule Tree nearby the altar will add a lot to the ritual. Along with your
usual ritual tools and items, have upon the altar:
Red or Green Altar Cloth
Holly Sprig (placed upon the altar)
Mistletoe Sprig (placed underneath the altar, for use later)
Three Candles in Holders for the Triple Goddess
(1 White, 1 Red, and 1 Black - arranged around the Cauldron)
Cauldron with a Green Candle inside
Incense - Any of the following either alone or mixed together to make a
Winter Blend:
Cinnamon, Myrrh, Cloves, Frankincense, Aloes Wood, and Saffron
When all is set up, take a shower or bath for purification and don your
Ritual Robe or other ritual attire. Be sure to wear your Magickal jewelry, if you
have any. Sit quietly and meditate for a little while - to ground and
center. When you feel ready to begin, play some quiet peaceful music for the ritual.
Cast the Circle... Light the God and Goddess candles. Leave all the other
candles unlit until the appropriate time within the ritual. Have the green
candle placed inside the Cauldron, surrounded by the white, red, and black
candles. Also have the sprig of Holly upon the altar, and the Mistletoe sprig
tucked away underneath the altar. Sit quietly meditating within the cast Circle
for a little while... When you feel ready, begin your ceremony with these words:
"Blessed be the season of Yule.
This is the Winter Solstice,
the longest night of the year.
Darkness reigns triumphant,
yet gives way and changes to Light.
The Sun King has gone into the realms of Death ---
yet, within the Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
he is once again transformed into
the Newborn Divine Child of Light.
Blessed be the young Virgin Goddess
who gives to her people tonight
a Newborn God.
Blessed be the Newborn Sun King."
Pause and reflect on the meaning of this spoke in the Wheel of the Year for
a few moments, then continue... saying:
"All is cold, and I await the coming of Dawn.
As the Sun rises, the Triple Goddess once more
gives birth to the Divine Child.
In silence and wonder I stand before
the Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
knowing that one day I too must pass
through the Cauldron to be reborn.
For this I now give honor to the Triple Goddess."
Light the White candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"White is for the Maiden.
Blessed be the Virgin, innocent and fresh.
May you plant your seeds of joy and
new beginnings within my life."
Light the Red candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"Red is for the Mother.
Blessed be the Mother, fertile and loving.
May you grant me gifts of creative ideas and
the strength to bring them to completion."
Light the Black candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"Black is for the Crone.
Blessed be the Crone, powerful and wise.
May you give me wisdom to
understand the Magickal Mysteries."
Light the Green candle inside the Cauldron, saying:
"Green is for the Newborn Lord of the Forests,
the Divine Sun Child who comes once more into the world.
I welcome you, Child and Consort of the Triple Goddess."
Face the North, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Earth!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the East, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Air!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the South, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Fire!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the West, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Water!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Take up your Athame and banish the Old Year by drawing a banishing Pentagram
in the air, saying:
"Farewell to the Old Year.
Farewell to the Holly King."
Now draw an invoking Pentagram in the air and say these words:
"Welcome to the New Year.
Welcome to the Oak King."
When you are done, replace your Athame on the altar.
Next, remove the Holly from the altar and place it out of sight. Then place
the Mistletoe, the symbol of the Oak King, on top of the altar in a place of
honor. Say these words:
"Blessed be the King of the Waxing Year.
I pray you will guide your children safely
through to the season of warmth and light."
Take the Goddess candle in your left hand and the God candle in your right,
saying these words:
"Tonight the Goddess and God are reunited.
Tonight Life begins anew, and Light begins anew.
Blessed be the One Light.
Blessed be the Divine Force of Creation."
Move the candle flames together so that they are one. Spend a moment
reflecting on its meaning, and then replace the candles side by side on the altar.
Continue with these words:
"Hail, O God of the Woodlands and New Life!
I give you honor and ask your blessing."
Sit in silence to receive His blessing... then continue, saying:
"Hail, Triple Goddess, bringer of Light out of Darkness
and New Life out of the Cauldron of Rebirth.
I give you honor and ask your blessing."
Again sit in silence to receive Her blessing. Drink from the Chalice, pour a
Libation to the Lord and the Lady and save some to be put outside for the
little people. When you are finished, proceed with the Cakes and Ale Ceremony.
followed by Releasing the Circle in your usual manner.
Please note this ritual is based on the Northern Hemisphere correspondences
of elements and their colors, and directions and so on.
This Ritual shall be performed during the evening hours, sometime after
Sunset. Sweep area, starting in the North and moving deosil, with your magickal
broom to cleanse the Circle area and "sweep away" any lingering negative
energies. Set up the Quarter candles (North-Green, East-Yellow, South-Red,
West-Blue) and/or other items symbolizing the elements at the Four Quarters. Set up
your altar as desired, and face it to the North, covering it with a red or
green altar cloth. Place all of the items listed below in their proper places
upon it. For this ceremony, decorate the altar with holly, mistletoe,
evergreen, pine cones, ivy, berries, ribbons, and whatever else feels right. Having a
Yule Tree nearby the altar will add a lot to the ritual. Along with your
usual ritual tools and items, have upon the altar:
Red or Green Altar Cloth
Holly Sprig (placed upon the altar)
Mistletoe Sprig (placed underneath the altar, for use later)
Three Candles in Holders for the Triple Goddess
(1 White, 1 Red, and 1 Black - arranged around the Cauldron)
Cauldron with a Green Candle inside
Incense - Any of the following either alone or mixed together to make a
Winter Blend:
Cinnamon, Myrrh, Cloves, Frankincense, Aloes Wood, and Saffron
When all is set up, take a shower or bath for purification and don your
Ritual Robe or other ritual attire. Be sure to wear your Magickal jewelry, if you
have any. Sit quietly and meditate for a little while - to ground and
center. When you feel ready to begin, play some quiet peaceful music for the ritual.
Cast the Circle... Light the God and Goddess candles. Leave all the other
candles unlit until the appropriate time within the ritual. Have the green
candle placed inside the Cauldron, surrounded by the white, red, and black
candles. Also have the sprig of Holly upon the altar, and the Mistletoe sprig
tucked away underneath the altar. Sit quietly meditating within the cast Circle
for a little while... When you feel ready, begin your ceremony with these words:
"Blessed be the season of Yule.
This is the Winter Solstice,
the longest night of the year.
Darkness reigns triumphant,
yet gives way and changes to Light.
The Sun King has gone into the realms of Death ---
yet, within the Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
he is once again transformed into
the Newborn Divine Child of Light.
Blessed be the young Virgin Goddess
who gives to her people tonight
a Newborn God.
Blessed be the Newborn Sun King."
Pause and reflect on the meaning of this spoke in the Wheel of the Year for
a few moments, then continue... saying:
"All is cold, and I await the coming of Dawn.
As the Sun rises, the Triple Goddess once more
gives birth to the Divine Child.
In silence and wonder I stand before
the Sacred Cauldron of Rebirth,
knowing that one day I too must pass
through the Cauldron to be reborn.
For this I now give honor to the Triple Goddess."
Light the White candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"White is for the Maiden.
Blessed be the Virgin, innocent and fresh.
May you plant your seeds of joy and
new beginnings within my life."
Light the Red candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"Red is for the Mother.
Blessed be the Mother, fertile and loving.
May you grant me gifts of creative ideas and
the strength to bring them to completion."
Light the Black candle near the Cauldron, saying:
"Black is for the Crone.
Blessed be the Crone, powerful and wise.
May you give me wisdom to
understand the Magickal Mysteries."
Light the Green candle inside the Cauldron, saying:
"Green is for the Newborn Lord of the Forests,
the Divine Sun Child who comes once more into the world.
I welcome you, Child and Consort of the Triple Goddess."
Face the North, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Earth!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the East, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Air!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the South, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Fire!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Face the West, raise your arms and say:
"Rejoice, O Powers of Water!
Welcome the Divine Child."
Take up your Athame and banish the Old Year by drawing a banishing Pentagram
in the air, saying:
"Farewell to the Old Year.
Farewell to the Holly King."
Now draw an invoking Pentagram in the air and say these words:
"Welcome to the New Year.
Welcome to the Oak King."
When you are done, replace your Athame on the altar.
Next, remove the Holly from the altar and place it out of sight. Then place
the Mistletoe, the symbol of the Oak King, on top of the altar in a place of
honor. Say these words:
"Blessed be the King of the Waxing Year.
I pray you will guide your children safely
through to the season of warmth and light."
Take the Goddess candle in your left hand and the God candle in your right,
saying these words:
"Tonight the Goddess and God are reunited.
Tonight Life begins anew, and Light begins anew.
Blessed be the One Light.
Blessed be the Divine Force of Creation."
Move the candle flames together so that they are one. Spend a moment
reflecting on its meaning, and then replace the candles side by side on the altar.
Continue with these words:
"Hail, O God of the Woodlands and New Life!
I give you honor and ask your blessing."
Sit in silence to receive His blessing... then continue, saying:
"Hail, Triple Goddess, bringer of Light out of Darkness
and New Life out of the Cauldron of Rebirth.
I give you honor and ask your blessing."
Again sit in silence to receive Her blessing. Drink from the Chalice, pour a
Libation to the Lord and the Lady and save some to be put outside for the
little people. When you are finished, proceed with the Cakes and Ale Ceremony.
followed by Releasing the Circle in your usual manner.
Please note this ritual is based on the Northern Hemisphere correspondences
of elements and their colors, and directions and so on.
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