Open Circles
There are periodic rituals for Full Moons, New Moons and Sabbats. Events tend to be held on the actual Full Moon, New Moon or Sabbat, regardless of what day of the week it happens to be. The circles are held indoors during winter months and outdoors when the weather is amicable. Please see the Schedule of Events for details.
RSVPs are generally required so the facilitators can plan for supplies and space.
Moon Rituals
The full or new moon circles are for adult men and women (sometimes just women). No experience necessary, no applications required. The rituals tend to follow the same basic format but the intentions and details change with the seasons, the energy of the community, and the facilitator’s inspiration.
Some elements which are always included:
- A cleansing smudge to begin
- Addressing the spirits of the cardinal directions
- Casting a sacred circle
- Invoking the Divine (by different names in different rituals)
- Some form of ritual work (meditation, prayer, celebration, etc.)
- Blessing and sharing bread and wine/juice
- Honoring and releasing the Divine and the directional energies
- And opening the circle
Sabbats
The Sabbats include the eight Holy Days on the Pagan calendar. Names and dates vary per tradition but here are some common ones:
- Yule (Winter Solstice)
- Imbolc (February 2nd)
- Ostara (Spring Equinox)
- Beltane (May 1st)
- Litha (Summer Solstice)
- Lughnasadh (August 2nd)
- Mabon (Autumn Equinox)
- Samhain (October 31st)
Sabbat rituals (with the exception of Samhain) are family-friendly, meaning children are welcome and the rituals are designed to include all ages. Gatherings often include a potluck meal and a seasonally appropriate ritual. There is frequently a lot of music and movement included as well as traditional celebrations for each holiday (yes, we always weave a Maypole for Beltane).
The Samhain ritual is for adults only because it goes through midnight and tends to be a solemn, formal ritual.