By Gregory Michael Brewer (AutTumn)
Hello and Merry Meet Laurie. We thank you much for doing this interview. I’m sure that most of our readers know who you are, but could you please tell us a bit about yourself such as how long you have been practicing and what drew you to the path of the Witch?
I had many psychic experiences as a child, some quite spectacular. Rather than being fearful of the unexplained as people often were, my father and mother were instead very supportive and helped search for a reason and especially one ground in science. I read every book I could and in the 1940’s we met a Witch from Kent England, and I began to study with her and things started coming into focus. I have been practicing now for well over 50 years.
Would you care to share with us a bit of information regarding the books you have had published, how many you have written in total, and which one you would call your favorite?
I only write what I know about and what I’m passionate about - my spiritual path and its exploration. I wanted to share this with the world, hoping to help the world to understand Witchcraft as a science, art and religion. My first book, POWER OF THE WITCH is my favorite, however, I would like to bring it up-to-date. There were five editors on the book, and it is still filled with typos and misinterpretation of what I wrote. One quote that makes me wince is the one stating that a Christian can also be a Witch which is not true; you don’t see a Baptist Buddhist or a Catholic Jew. What I meant was that, one can be a Christian dedicated to the intellectual or historical study of Witchcraft or change spiritual paths and eventually become a Witch, but not both simultaneously.
I have written a total of eight books; five have been published and several new volumes are on their way to being released in one form or another. What has changed greatly is that today, the science of quantum physics tells us that what we call magick is in fact quite real and that the basis of the Hermetic principles which are the cornerstone of my tradition, are also quite real, eliminating the need to take most things on faith.
Who are some of your favorite authors?
Some of my favorites are Jane Austen, T. H. White, C. S. Lewis, Louise Mae Alcott and Yeats to name a few.
What is your opinion of Eclectic practice vs. specific traditions?
If you look at most accomplishments in human history whether in art, science or philosophy, all were built on the work of others. The relationship between master and apprentice or teacher and student is paramount to our continued growth. Otherwise, each of us would have to discover fire and invent most of the things we take for granted. Imagine in four years of applied mathematics today you learn what our ancestors took a 1000 years to unravel.
Eclectics are often following a thirst for knowledge which is admirable. I was such a person, but things did not come into focus until I was initiated into the Kent tradition. Some of the knowledge I had accumulated along the way was very relevant while other things were not. My personal experiences were profound, but when put into the proper context, I could understand far more of what I was naturally doing and feeling. Then I was able to do it all better and when I found myself lacking answers, at least I had a platform from which to start my personal research.
I think it is very important to belong to an established and proven tradition. Our religion makes us Witches, our science and work allows us to practice Witchcraft. We need both and the good thing is that there is no belief needed to work the craft but there is an underlying philosophy guiding each step we take. We actually do it and the results are obvious. Any tradition that does not have a reason for the rituals, cannot explain why the color is black or green or scientifically explain what happens when we travel or meditate is not a system I would invest much time in.
So many people think they know the path by reading nonsense on the internet. I have an ongoing and now amusing debate with some “Wiccans” who really think there is a specific religion thusly named.. Some point to the 13 principles as the basis for this religion when it was nothing more than a position paper and has no liturgy or practices assigned to it (on purpose I might add), others to Gardner, yet others say that it is totally new and is an amalgam of everything yet fail to agree on any liturgy, mythology or practice. Wiccan is term we are all stuck with, I certainly do not need it to define me, as I am a Witch and it fails to bring with it any concrete definition, at best it tells me that someone is Witch like or Pagan like but not much more.
To be a Witch is as descriptive as to be a Buddhist, while belonging to a specific tradition such as the Alexandrians, Gardenarians or Cabots is akin to being a Theraveda or practicing Zen or Tibetan Buddhism, but the core is the same and that core is very well defined. Without such a well defined core, there is much room for error in both the path and the practice and that is best avoided.
As many are aware, Christopher Penczak began learning under you and he gives you much credit and respect. Could you tell us what that was like and if you had any idea that he was to become one the best-selling and leading authors today?
Christopher always had a spiritual presence and a great passion for our tradition and path. In many ways, he is an example of the student succeeding the teacher. He is a great credit to the world of Witches and Witchcraft.
Do you follow a specific Pantheon or have a Patron Goddess and God that you work with?
Yes, Witchcraft is not a umbrella term for all people that do some form of Magickal work. It is specifically Indo European, therefore, the basis of the mythology and religion is Celtic. The migration of the Celtic tribes was extensive and covered northern India Russia and a lot of what we know now as Europe. Our Ancestors and our Gods and Goddesses and our mythology were all shaped by this travel. Scotland, however, is unique, having been named after a Pharaoh’s Daughter, Scota who married the first chieftain of the land and brought with her many Egyptian troops (as archeological discoveries now prove), adds another dimension, one that ties many of the Scots genetically to Egypt. Over time this added many Egyptian Gods to the awareness of the Celts. I often call on the Goddess Macha and Isis, the Great Mother.
I honor all of the Celtic Gods and Goddesses, for each has their own particular magick and, during their lifetimes on earth, their own trials and tribulations which gives them great knowledge to guide us in our times of need. I am grateful for their divine intervention
Could you share with us a few of your favorite ritual activities and ways to celebrate (E) Ostara?
The ancient tradition of coloring eggs in the Springtime was practiced by the Celts, as such, at our rituals we often paint symbols, runes and designs on our eggs. We paint some of the scarlet to symbolize the burning sign; a green egg is to represent the birth of the universe. We often do egg hunts after the ritual for both adults and children, we place a basket of eggs at the foot of our altar during our ritual.
I honor the Goddess by giving thanks and praise to the Pagan Goddess Ostara and the Fairy Queen Blodeuwedd, pronounced Blod-oo-eeth. Ostara is often spelled Eostre. She stands amid the flowers and vines of Spring holding an egg in her hand. Birds fly overhead and a rabbit hops playfully at her feet. Ostara and the eggs she carries are symbols of newborn life. The Welsh Blodeuwedd is Goddess of earth’s renewal, fairy queen, giver of life. The patches of white clover we see in the grass and fields in Spring are said to mark a flower’s woman path. Blodeuwedd’s face and hair are made of spring flowers. Her dress is from the mystical waters of the ninth wave; it sparkles in the sunlight as it runs the length of her to become Tara, the earth at her feet.
In my opinion being a Wiccan, a Witch, or following any Pagan path, one should live the life day to day in order to walk the walk and not just the talk. Do you have any advice and or tips for our readers regarding how to empower and enrich our lives with daily practice?
As I wake every morning in Salem, I look to my altar and call the names of my Gods and Goddesses. I thank them for their constant connection and their divine intervention. This reminds me that I must think, walk and talk the ethics of my craft and my tradition. In addition and because I speak to so many people, I try to find common ground with everyone, yet as I look around to our community I see so much dissention and it worries me greatly. I hope that going online will help educate some people and at the very least stimulate conversation, there is more that unites us all than divides. We need to remember that.
Titles and labels can be both beneficial and limiting. What do you think about titles, labels, degrees, and how would you classify yourself?
I am a high priestess in our tradition and of our church, the Cabot-Kent Hermetic Temple. The degrees in our tradition allow all to know what our Witches have learned and how we practice. These concepts, teachings and spiritual ways are known to all and in our case our abilities which come from our science are demonstrable. By remaining in good standing with the Temple, we also vouch for our people and their abilities. Elders of the Craft are owed respect and respect seems in short supply these days.
Out of complete curiosity, do you have a personal favorite technique of casting a circle and clearing a space?
I do so as I was taught by the Witches of Kent England. We use four replica Excalibur replica swords; four priests and priestesses touching the center of the altar with the tip of their swords, then raising their swords over their head, and turning around and walking outward to the perimeter of the circle, then touching the ground with the tip of their sword creating not only a circle but also a dome representing Tara and the otherworld.
How do you feel about scripted and or planned out rituals vs. on the spot rituals and celebrations without prior planning?
Both are valid, and all our priests and priestesses write liturgy for our sacred book. However, no script is allowed in a Cabot circle nor is it necessary. All initiated High Priests and Priestesses can call a circle and perform a ritual at a moment’s notice without prior planning. Words of enlightenment and power come from the heart of a well-read and schooled Cabot Witch
Lastly, do you have any words of wisdom and advice to offer our readers?
Be kind and compassionate to all living beings. Try not to judge the path of others. We are only here to learn so constantly expand your knowledge.
Thank you so much for your time.
Blessings and Gratitude for all your work!
Let’s keep the flame burning.
Heart of the Morrighan Community Interfaith Temple
Interview with Gregory Michael
Brewer (AutTumn)
By:Maria Alioto
Merry Meet Gregory and thank you for agreeing to conduct this interview
For those who do not know you, you are the founder of the Circle of the Spirit Tree. Can you tell our readers a little about The Circle of the Spirit tree?
The Circle of the Spirit Tree has a rich history. About eight years ago I saw a flier at Heartland Community College in Normal, IL that said “The Olde Religion: Interested?” There was a picture of a Pentacle and an email address attached. At that point in time I had been practicing solitaire for a number of years and had shortly before asked the Goddess to lead me to a group. The great synchronicity of it was that it was on the night of a Full Moon when I saw the flier. From there I met Lady Saffire, a High Priestess from Oregon and I joined her group. That group did not last long, but through her group I met several other movers and thinkers in our local Pagan community including Starr, Lady Emerald, and Nate. When Saffire’s group disbanded, I was invited to join the new and upcoming group that would later be called The Spirit Shrine Association, or the SSA, and was formed by Starr and Lady Emerald. Eventually they asked me to be one of their board members and the treasurer of the group. The SSA endured for nearly five years.
During the time of the SSA, Lady Saffire came back and re-united with the SSA. She automatically became another board member of the group. After a while the SSA really took off and we needed to invite additional board members to help plan and run the group.
Sadly enough, the time came upon my heart to leave the SSA and form my own group. It was not an easy decision and many tears were shed. I asked Joshua, who had eventually become one of the other board members of the SSA to join me along with Rachel who was also a member of the SSA. They said yes and together we formed a new group called the Circle of the Spirit Tree along with a few students that I had been working with privately in a project called Five Points Road. Rachel, Joshua, and I did a LOT of work, contemplation, meditation and praying to make our new group the best it could be and we included many aspects of the SSA and our own ideas as well.
Eventually, for unknown reasons, the remaining SSA fell apart. Lady Saffire has again formed a new and permanent group of her own. Lady Emerald does her own thing. Starr still teaches his own students, but has also joined the Circle of the Spirit Tree and is one of our greatest teachers
In between the break up of the SSA and the reformation of the Circle of the Spirit Tree, Lady Saffire agreed to come and initiate me into the 3rd Degree of the High Priesthood.
Rachel, who was with us for so many years and one the greatest Witches and people on the Earth, in my opinion, worked hard, diligently, and gave so much dedication to our group and was eventually initiated in the Circle of the Spirit Tree tradition as a 3rd degree High Priestess. With much grief, Rachel ended up moving back to Shaumberg, IL and has since begun our Chicago branch of the Circle of the Spirit Tree. She is still an active leader, teacher, student, and joins us for many of our ritual celebrations and field trips.
Our group now has over 45 members and we keep growing. Nate is still with us as well and has become a member of the Circle’s Council of Elders.
Joe Reda joined The Circle of the Spirit Tree a bit over two years ago and is also one of our leaders, teachers, and a member of the Council. Joe came to us from California and there had been initiated into the 3rd degree of the New Albion tradition. He has been a great blessing and has become one of my best friends. We love him dearly.
This June will mark the 3rd anniversary of the Circle of the Spirit Tree and for our Midsummer ritual we will be camping for two nights and three days. For this monumental event, Starr, Lady Saffire, Lady Emerald, Rachel and her branch, and the entire Circle of the Spirit Tree are re-uniting to enjoy and plan this event. I would also like to give credit to Liz and Holly W. for the three years of dedication they have put into our group to make it work. They as well are now a part of our Council of Elders.
The Circle of the Spirit Tree is an Eclectic Wiccan study group and coven. Our education system ranges from complete beginner to advanced 3rd degree. We however, also teach Shamanism, Ceremonial Magick, and beliefs and magickal practices of many other religions and paths as well.
You have had work published in a book. Can you tell our readers a bit about that book and some of your experiences with it?
I wrote a short biography in a book that has been published worldwide called “Out Of The Broom Closet: 50 True Stories of Witches Who Found and Embraced the Craft.”
It was an honor to be a part of this publication. There are so many great stories in this book and everyone that reads it can relate and benefit from them. I was greatly moved emotionally and spiritually when I read the other stories. Some of the other authors are Dee from Pagan F.M., Greywolf that conducts the Pagan Heart In Maine Podcast, and a couple other published authors as well. It is truly a great read and a wonderful way to connect with other like-minded people of our faith.
You conducted a past workshop at Chicago Pagan Pride. What was your experience with that?
I taught a lesson at Chicago Pagan Pride 2009 called Daily Wiccan Living. Initially there were many people that signed up for this class, but due to complications and not such good planning my workshop was brushed off. Thanks to Maria Alioto I was still able to conduct the workshop but only three people attended. I will say however that the other workshops were great and much knowledge and good material was shared. Everyone that attended and took part of all the workshops learned and benefited from them.
Can you tell us about your involvement with Chicago Pagan Pride?
Maria, now the current L.C. for Chicago Pagan Pride, who gave me much faith to continue believing in this event contacted me and asked that I be her Co-LC. After much contemplation I accepted her proposal. We have also added Sherry Gilles to our leadership committee and are working very hard and diligently, almost daily, to make sure that absolutely everyone that attends will get something out of it. I want to give much thanks and recognition to Paulette who got the whole event going and we promise to live up to her name and do our best to expand the event and make it memorable. We will strive to make each year better than the one before. Also I want to give a big thanks and recognition to Rosina who is a huge influence, teacher, leader, and such an important part of Chicago Pagan Pride. Blessings and love to all that have helped to make Chicago Pagan Pride what it is today. We will not let anyone down.
What words of wisdom do you have for those beginning on their pagan path?
If someone tells you “this is the right way” or “this is the only way to do something,” or perhaps, “I know the truth,” ignore them and just walk away. If someone says “I am seeking the truth,” or “I may have been practicing and studying for years but I am still a beginner and always learning,” those are the ones you should listen to and learn from.
Embrace all religions; only Baby Pagans bash other religions and degrade other people. In all endeavors in life, be they mundane, magickal, or spiritual, know that Persistence Brings the Breakthrough.
What led you to your chosen path?
Like many Pagans, I was brought up in a very devout and pious Christian family. It didn’t work for me as an individual and I felt that there was just so much missing from the picture. As a child I was always fascinated by nature, that is the trees, animals, stones, ancient ruins, etc. One night after I had finally realized that God is not nor ever has been limited to one path or one faith, I felt the energy of nature all around and the Goddess said, “Now you are ready!”
There was also a night many years ago that I went walking outdoors with two friends of mine. On that walk we ran into a full-blooded Native American woman who was also out and about on a walk to commune with nature. I asked her what her opinion and beliefs were regarding God. Her answer was simple and so profound that I still tell everyone to this day about the experience
She asked me, “Do you want to know God? Do you want to find God?” She then took her right hand and very firmly placed it on my heart and said, “Here is where you find God!” That experience changed my life. She later went on to tell me that there was something special about me and that I had work to do. The truth is, there is something special about all of us and we all are here for a reason.
When I finally dedicated myself to the Goddess and God I found internal happiness and joy in a way that words cannot express. It is funny. I have spoken to many Christians that said they were never happy until they became a Christian. It was the opposite for me. I was never truly happy until I left Christianity.
The age old question about titles and labels. What do you identify with and why?
Labels help us to build self-esteem and confidence. As Dee from Pagan FM said, “labels are a way of finding others like us.” They are a means of proclaiming accomplishments. But we must also know that we are not limited to labels and titles. They can also make us proud but we are so much more than a word.
All in all I am a Wiccan High Priest. I am a Witch. I am a magician because I use magick for others when the need arises, and I study Ceremonial Magick. I am a Shaman because I communicate via meditation with my animal and spirit guides. Some say that you cannot be Christian and a Witch. I say that is absolutely incorrect and untrue. If you are a student of the Spirit it matters not what spirituality you follow and in actuality the Jewish, Islamic, and Christian faiths were originally based upon ancient Pagan religion and mythology. I do not claim to be a Christian Witch, but in actuality I am. In the teachings and message of Jesus can be found the same ethics and principles in Wicca and much Pagan practice such as the Wiccan Rede. If you do your research you will actually find more similarities than differences. As is commonly said, “all Gods are one God and all Goddesses are one Goddess.”
In a nutshell, I am an individual and my path is my own!
Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share with our readers?
Yes. I am almost finished with my new book. Many books available at the stores are informative but limited to 101 beginner level study. There are also, if you look, a few great books that go beyond that and what would be considered “advanced.” However, many times people after reading them are still left with more questions such as “Now what?”
My forthcoming book is called “Becoming The Power.” This is a book of hands on activities and digging into the dirt. If this book goes over I will be writing two sequels. I would call my books my “babies,” but I also feel that the Circle of the Spirit Tree is one of my babies as well and there you can find my heart and soul. My passion to help others is what I live for. If you ever do one thing that helps another, even if it is to say hello to a stranger on the street and this simple gesture puts a smile on their face, the reward for this is instant: it makes you feel good to lift the spirit of another.
Do you have any rules or guidelines for balancing the mundane with the divine?
I wouldn’t ever say rules, but I can offer some helpful guidelines.
• As Above So Below – if your home is dirty and unclean this is a reflection of your health and spiritual life
• If you seek magick to bring something to your life you must follow it up in the physical
• Read, meditate, and learn always
• Find fellowship with other like-minded individuals and NEVER judge another or point a finger. To each their own. Live and let live
• Go outside and “breathe” the energy of the Earth through your feet. Breathe the energy of the Sky through the top of your head or “Crown” chakra.
• Breathe the energies of the Earth and Sky at the same time
• Pray and ask for guidance to whatever you call your higher power or deity
Any words of wisdom or words you would like to leave our readers with?
• Persist
• Persevere
• Believe in yourself
• Know that the greatest power of all is love
• Learn to improve your negative aspects
• Respect all religions and views of others
• Know your own path the best you can
• Know that you are born complete and will die complete and whole. There is no such thing as your other half and you do not need another person to complete you. Two people, two complete and whole individuals can unite together and love each other completely. There is no one soul mate. We have many soul mates
• Never give up on any worthwhile endeavor.
• Celebrate nature and always give thanks for what you have, have had, and will have
Blessed Be –
Gregory Michael Brewer
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The Origins of St Patrick's Day
By Maria Alioto and Gregory Michael Brewer(AutTumn)
Many people are unaware of the history of St Patrick’s Day. St Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. He is credited with driving the snakes out of Ireland. It was proclaimed a miracle that he did so.
Many People are unaware that the snakes that St Patrick drove out of Ireland happen to be pagans. Snake was used as a metaphor for pagan. The Druid High Priests often had the symbol of a snake wrapped around their staffs. He violent slaughtered the Druid Priests. The could have used magick to fight back but instead chose love and peace as their defense. What did they get Genocide and death.
If you happen to see reference made to snakes on St Patrick’s Day or see pagans wearing snakes on St Patrick's Day you will know why.
Ostara Traditions
By Maria Alioto
Ostara is the second of the spring fertility festivals. It celebrates the vernal equinox or the first day of spring. This day has equal parts day and night. The light will increase in the upcoming months and weather will warm up. The snow will eventually go away and the earth turns green again.
Ostara is believed to have been named after the Germanic Goddess Eostre, who is the Goddess of spring.
This has been celebrated throughout the world in other cultures.
Middle Eastern cultures celebrate No Ruz which means "new day" and it signifies renewal. People purify their homes and celebrate the renewal of a new year.
In ancient cultures this was the beginning of the New Year.
It has also been celebrated as the time that the goddess becomes pregnant and later gives birth on Yule.
There is so much different lore regarding this day. Eggs have always been regarded as representing birth, rebirth, fertility and life. The history of coloring eggs has been practiced for centuries. Ancient Egyptians colored eggs and offered them to their gods.
Ancient Persians gave eggs as gifts.
During the middle ages eggs were also given as gifts. It was considered fortunate to be given an egg as a gift. They were also gathered and eaten in rituals for spring, birth, and fertility. Eggs were colored to mimic the different colored eggs in nature and egg hunts were common to find different colored eggs.
Eggs were also decorated and colored to be used as talismans and charms and also in spells.
There is lore regarding the rabbit too. The lore of the rabbit started with Eostre. One legend is that she found an injured bird and in order to prevent it from dying she turned it onto a rabbit and once it healed and went on its way it was still able to lay eggs. As a gift to Eostre the rabbit would decorate the eggs and leave them as offerings. There are several other variations on the story.
We can celebrate Ostara by decorating eggs and placing a basket of them on our altar in honor of the Goddess and to welcome springtime. We can incorporate them in our ritual to eat them to bring us blessings.
We can make sweet cakes or bread to leave as an offering and use in our ritual for cakes and ale.
If you have not blessed your seeds in ritual during Imbolic do it now. Plant your seeds now, indoors if you are in colder climates. This is the perfect time to plant your herbs, inside or outside if weather permits.
Honor nature, spend time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the renewal, the green earth coming back, trees budding, flowers starting to sprout, animals being born and all forms of nature.
If it is possible to hold your ceremony outside decorate the area with ribbons in spring time colors, hang decorative eggs from the trees around you. Add springtime flowers and create a spot for a bonfire if you are permitted to do so.
Volunteer Corner
By Nikki Moulesong
Merry Meet Pagan Pride Readers;
My name is Nikki Moulesong and I am a new volunteer this year.
I enjoy helping others; it makes me smile to know I have helped someone
in their time of need.
I’m looking forward to helping Chicago Pagan Pride with their event this year. I am especially excited about the food drive. It breaks my heart to see people struggling and it is rewarding
to know that I can do something to make someone’s day a little bit brighter. I’m also looking forward to helping out with other projects as well.
.
Blessed Be
Nikki
Chicago Pagan Pride Updates
By Maria Alioto
Merry Meet,
We would like to welcome our newest vendor, Unique visions by Jen, gorgeous bracelets with a pagan flair.
We also have Mystic Moon Elements vending and Circle of the Spirit Tree and The Troth will have community booths at CPP this year.
Workshop space is filling up fast. If you are interested in conducting a work shop please let us know.
Registration is open for merchants, vendors, artisans, healers, readers or entertainers. If you are interested in any of these please email us at chicagopaganpride@yahoo.com
More info is availabe at www.chicagopaganpride.org.
Blessed Be
Maria Alioto
Local Coordinater Chicago Pagan Pride 2010
An Elemental Fairie
by Sherry Gilles
An elemental fairie
Dancing in the night
Shrouded, gleaming, elfish
In the pale moonlight
Nimble, spritely, sharpened nose Dressed in gauze and silver wisps Shimmering head to toe Choreography light and quick
Clustered violets tickling toes Fragrance heady, deep To the wind with caution thrown The mystery in fragrance steep
I am the Wind I breathe of life Sometimes calm with love I send Sometimes betides great fright
Another spoke I am of Fire And danced with flickering madness Into creation, born of flames and feed desire Yet may portend deep pain and sadness
Wending, as frolicking in the wave I am Water, one he said Essential to creation, brave Embrace me too he said
I am a child of Earth it seems Clad in velvet, misty green I am renewal, growth and trees My mortal form is rarely seen
They look into the circle's center Bowed to Spirit there and say You bind us, link our souls as mentor To make the pentacle so it's said
Four elemental fairies Holding hands in meadow charmed Spirit smiles, watches over them Keeps them safe from harm
until the morning dawns
until the morning dawns
Community events
By Sherry Gilles
SPECIAL EVENT!!!
Dr. Karl E. H. Seigfried is teaching a new adult continuing education class on Norse Mythology at Loyola University in Chicago. Class Starts on March 24th.
He is also giving a talk to The Wagner Society of America on March 23rd
called "Wagner & Wotan: The Ring Cycle & Norse Mythology."
Here are links with more info and instructions for registration -
Loyola Page for the Class: https://perseus.luc.edu/continuum/getCourse?classnbr=10241&term=1102#
MySpace Page for the Class: http://www.myspace.com/norsemythology
Twitter Page for the Class: http://twitter.com/norsemythology9
TranZformation: A Center for Spirit
WAKE UP BALL!!! Saturday March 27, 2010
hosted by Rosina and the
Heart of The Morrighan Community Interfaith Temple
Start Time: Saturday, March 27 at 8:00pm
End Time: Sunday, March 28 at 1:00am
The Wake Up Ball is a welcoming of New Life, New beginnings and fresh
starts for Spring! This replaces the Fire Ball, but will not lack the
same fire! Be sure to wear your pajamas.
With Dinner, raffles, dancing, cash bar and a midnight
ritual to give birth to your hopes and dreams! All raffle proceeds to
benefit Brementowne Manor of Tinley Park! A facility for senior
assisted Living!
Where: American Legion Post #615
17423 67th Ct
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Rosina's other March Events/Rituals
21 March, Sunday, 6 PM, Ostara Ritual and Celebration (bring food to share for the celebration after the ritual)
28 March, Sunday, 6 PM Full Moon Ritual
All rituals are held at TranZformation, 8101 W. 123rd Street, Palos Park, IL 60464, (708) 361-2080.
If you cannot be physically present at any of the rituals and have an intention, please email to me and I will be sure to place that in for you in the ritual as well as do some work on your behalf!
Morrighina@aol.com
Drumming
Saturday Saturday March 20th
Fox Valley Drum Circle in Aurora - Hosted by Sam and Lissa, we will be drumming on the first day of Spring! Join us for our regular potluck and community rhythms. I will be sending out a reminder for this gathering closer to the actual date, but for more information, visit http://foxvalleydrumcircle.blogspot.com/
Saturday, March 27th:
Lake Shore Drum Circle in Oakwood Hills - Hosted by Brian and Amy. For more information, please contact Brian at brian@healingthemodernspirit.com
Well Read Witch - sponsored by NIPA
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This event repeats every month on the third Monday and meets at Bakers Square on Rt 30 in Merrillville on Route 30 in Merrillville, IN
The Brotherhood of the Phoenix
The Brotherhood of the Phoenix is sponsoring
a Town Hall Meeting at Lake Street Church in Evanston from 6-8pm on Saturday, April 10th. Several Pagan leaders who are also board members of the Parliament for the World's Religions will be present. The purpose of the Town Hall is to offer information about the Parliament for the World's Religions, information about the interfaith movement and its importance to Paganism, and probably much more.
For more info go to http://www.gaiaswomb.com/
Tarot Share at Witchy Wearables
every month on the first Friday until December 12, 2010
4459 W. 147th. St.
Midlothian, IL 60445
708-389-1313
Led by KestrelMorn and Vivian.
Love Offering appreciated.
Witchy's offers many classes so call them up or drop by to learn more. This is dragon month! Dragon Rune class is available. Call for details
Starting on the second Tuesday of April Year and a Day class will be offered.. It will meet at 7pm the second Tuesday of each month until May 2011. Contact Morn at maureengeiger@hotmail.com if you are interested.
JUST ADDED FOR KIDS
DRAGON TALES - Sunday, March 28th 2:00 - 3:30PM Stop in and bring your children and listen to Dragon stories read by CatWitch. There will be light refreshments. All ages welcome ! Fee - FREE !
Register EARLY as SPACE IS LIMITED !
WITCHING HOUR- Friday, March 19th 7-9 pm Topic to be announced
SEID - Heathen Book club is February 21st at 1pm
Ostara Ritual March 21st at 6pm led by David Spellsinger and Katrinia Spelldancer
Fox River Valley Pagan Social
7:00 pm - 9:15 pm
When: Every Second Wednesday, at 7:00PM
Where: Panera Bread
2871 E Main St
St Charles IL 60174
630-513-1044
Merry meet. Come hang out with the pagans.We get together every
month for discussion. A different topic and learning activity every month. Come to our gathering and share in the magic. Bring your friends bring you kids, bring your neighbors, co workers, and bring strangers off the street, bring relatives we let everyone in. Formerly Aurora/Wheaton Pagan Meetup now on a new format
The Chicago Pagan Fellowship! (formerly Earth Spiritualists of Chicago)
SPECIAL EVENT: Look in April, from the 15th-18th for Raven Kaldera http://www.ravenkaldera.org/ coming into town with a full weekend of workshops.
Also offering
Northwest Pagan Bar Night!
Friday, March 19, 2010 8:00 PM
Williams Street Tap
80 North Williams Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
(815) 459-7408
Finally, a Northwest social event is in the works!
Every third Friday of the month, there will be a Northwest Pagan Bar Night. Every night, we'll meet up at William Street Tap to talk and mingle, and then around 9:00 we'll head next door to Finn McCool's to dance and party and just have some fun.
Both bars are in downtown Crystal Lake, just off of the train station. They're located next to the local New Age Shops and other various interesting stores and most close around 6:00.
Come and explore downtown in the afternoon and then meet up with us around 8:00 p.m. to mix, meet and mingle with your fellow pagans.
RSVP before hand so we know how many to expect. You'll be able to recognize us by a sign that will say Northwest Branch of the Chicago Pagan Fellowship. Bring your dancing shoes and some lively conversation and prepare to have some fun!
If you have any questions- go to meetup.com/earthspiritchicago or call Mark at 312-428-0497.
Also planning a Summer Solstice Ritual and Camping Trip
Anyone interested in a camping trip for the Summer Solstice? I'm thinking Saturday, June 19 thru Wednesday, June 23. We would do a Solstice ritual and have some activities. You provide a tent and your own food & beverages. We would like to find a few drummers for the evenings also. If interested respond soon to beth.rizzi@gmail.com.
Come out to March 18th, Thursday, 7pm for Pagan Discussion Night
@spot cafe - 901 N. Larabee- Chicago, IL 60610- 312-244-3747
"Every month we will get together talk about all kinds of topics in Paganism and Earth Centered Spirituality. We tend to steer people towards their own conclusions, and do not press upon anyone a specific dogma or path."
http://www.meetup.com/earthspiritchicago/calendar/12682938/
March 20th, Saturday, 2:30pm- Come See Avatar!
Kerasotes Webster Place 11- 1471 W Webster Ave- Chicago, IL 60614- 773-327-1314
See URL below for directions where everyone is meeting.
http://www.meetup.com/earthspiritchicago/calendar/12699366/
March 21st, Sunday, 11am
The Chicago Pagan Fellowship Presents:
Pagan Family Ostara: Kids Ritual, Egg Hunt, and Crafts!
Humboldt Park Boat House- 1359 N Sacramento Ave- Chicago, IL 60622
11:00 AM- Arrival, Meet at the Boat House Steps
11:35 AM- Egg Hunt
12:00 PM - Lunch
Through the Egg Hunt and to after lunch, kids can craft an Ostara Tree: http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/ostarathespringequinox/ss/OstaraTree.htm
For more info go to http://www.meetup.com/earthspiritchicago/calendar/12745083/
Weekly Heathen Chat
Meets every Tuesday from 8-9 central time.
How it works---------Sign into Yahoo IM (from 8-9pm Central time) and look for "Atheleasi" or "Hofkona". (When you IM us, please send us BOTH a friend request and mention you are there for the Heathen chat.)
We'll be acting as beacons so everyone can find each other, and we'll then invite you to the private chatroom. (We can't invite people to a private chat, unless we have received a friend request!)
Kindred Spirits Intuitive Arts Center
4025-A Route 34 - Oswego, IL. 60543
(630) 554-1111
Women Who Run With The Wolves study group started on March 9th
"Within every woman there is a wild and natural creature, a powerful force, filled with good instincts, passionate creativity, and ageless knowing. Her name is Wild Woman, but she is an endangered species. Though the gifts of the wildish nature come to us at birth, society's attempt to "civilize" us into rigid roles has plundered this treasure, and muffled the deep, life-giving messages of our own souls. Without Wild Woman, we become over-domesticated, fearful, uncreative, trapped."
The preceding quote is from the book Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Ph.D. Based on the book by Clarissa Pinkola Estes we study the stories of the Wild Woman Archetype. Each month we choose a story to read and discuss.
There are many classes offered at Kindred Spirits. Call for details or stop by the shop.
EVENT: Attention Heathens - space is limited for Illinimoot
Illinimoot will occur this year on May 14-16 at Camp Wokanda in Chillicothe (near Peoria) IL. We'll be holding sumble, doing crafts, hanging out and doing a bit of blacksmithing.There will also be a Seidth ritual. This is a ceremony where one may ask questions of the Seeress and get answers, as depicted in the Saga of Erik the Red.
We'll be camping in a cabin with woodburning stove and meals will be potluck. Cost will be $15 for individuals and 20$ for couples/families.
More information will be posted soon, but if you are interested, please email me off list.
Phyllis Steinhauser
Atheleas@rcn.com
The South Side Chicago Pagan Dinner:
All dinners are held on the 'Third' Monday' of the Every Month.
The Olympic Star Restaurant is located:
7100 171st Street (just east of Harlem Ave on 171st St)
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Phone: 708-532-8900
The South Side Chicago Pagan Dinner is an open event that welcomes Pagans, Witches, Neo-Pagans, their families and friends to meet once a month and share dinner, engage in good conversation, and make new friends.
Occultist Lon Milo DuQuette is coming to Chicago and is being hosted by the AUMHA Oasis.
Lon Milo DuQuette is a noted expert in Magick, Qabalah and the Western
spiritual traditions. Since 1994 has served as the O.T.O. (Ordo Templi
Orientis) Order’s United State Deputy Grand Master. DuQuette has authored
numerous magical texts including The Magick of Aleister Crowley,
Understanding Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot, and Angels, Demons, and Gods
of the New Millennium, and his new book, Enochian Vision Magick. For a full list of class schedules and to learn more
about Lon visit his web site, http://www.lonmiloduquette.com
Spring Ceremony (Preparation) NEW!!! With Rodrigo Duque
March 20th from 10:00am - 12:00Noon
With Ceremony to follow on March 21st
In preparation for the Sunday March 21st Spring Ceremony, we will be making ceremonial arrows and imprinting them with all the negative states (emotional and physical) that we want to rid from our lives. The arrows will be blessed during the Spring Ceremony on Sunday and will later be released asking the spirits of the land and water to take away and wash away these negative states. Allowing us to have a fresh start in this New Year.
Spring Ceremony - March 21st
Join us on March 21st to celebrate nature's New Year.
Lets celebrate our own renewal and the start of a new cycle in our lives. In synchronizing our cycles with those of nature, we have a better chance of being successful with new resolutions and commitments we make for the new year.
Recipes
Kolachki Rolls
By MICHELLE AUGUSTYN
3/4 c milk
4 c flour
4 egg yolks (save the whites)
1 c butter
1 envelope yeast dissolved in a little bit of warm milk
Cut the butter into the flour.
Add remaining ingredients.
Work until incorporated.
It will be stiff for awhile.
Put in refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
Grease cookie sheets.
Roll out small amounts of dough at a time.
Roll to 1/8" thickness.
Cut into 1 1/2" squares.
Spread 1/2 tsp filling over each square. A baggie with the corner cut off works well as a piping bag.
Roll up & place on cookie sheet.
Bake 15-20 minutes.
Nut filling:
1 1/2 lb ground walnuts
1 c sugar
1 Tbsp butter, melted
4 egg whites
Slowly heat on the stove so the sugar disolves.
If you use too much filling, it will ooze out the ends.
Poppyseed Filling
1 pound ground poppyseed
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup milk
Combine sugar with poppyseed. Add melted butter. Then add honey and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until blended. Cool and spread over dough.
Other fillings found in the baking section: Almond, plum and apricot.
Killer Curry
Submitted by Paula Stone
•1 x 19 oz / 540 g can garbanzo beans, drained, liquid reserved
•2 x 10 oz / 285 g packages frozen chopped spinach
•4 T margarine
•2 fresh long slim red cayenne peppers, stemmed and minced
•1 fresh red jalapeno pepper, stemmed and minced
•7 garlic cloves, minced
•3 medium onions, minced
•2 carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2 inch / 13 mm slices
•1/2 cup slivered almonds
•1/2 cup golden raisins
•2 t ground cumin
•1 t ground coriander
•1 t turmeric
•1 T paprika
•2 t salt
•1 t ground black pepper
•1/4 t ground ginger
•1 cup water
•1 yellow bell pepper, cored and cut into 1/2 inch / 13 mm squares
•2/3 cup coconut milk
•Cooked rice, hot
In a large saucepan, combine the liquid from the garbanzo beans and the frozen spinach. Place over low heat, cover and allow the spinach to thaw.
In a large saut? pan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the hot peppers, garlic and onions and saut? for 1 minute. Add the carrots and saut? for 4-6 minutes or until the onions are golden brown. Stir in the slivered almonds, golden raisins, and garbanzo beans and stir well. Saut? for 1 minute. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika and ground ginger. Stir well and saut? for 1 minute. Add the thawed spinach and garbanzo liquid and water to saut? pan, stir well and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the bell pepper and coconut milk to the saut? pan and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
Serve piping hot with rice.
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Blessed Be,
Maria, Gregory(AutTumn) and Sherry
Chicago Pagan Pride 2010 leadership committee
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