Welcome to our introductory newsletter. We will be conducting interviews with Celebrity Pagans and local pagans who have made an impact on their community, in addition to all kinds of articles that your fellow pagans would find informative and entertaining. We have interviews, columns, stories, poems, articles helpful hints and so much more. Our Oct newsletter is dedicated to Samhain.

Many of you have been involved in Chicago Pagan Pride for years and now Paulette has passed the torch on to us. I am Maria Alioto, the new Local Coordinator for Chicago Pagan Pride. I am a hereditary witch, family tradition, and High Priestess of Temple of Avalon.

AutTumn is Co Local Coordinator. He is a published Author,Founder and leader of Circle of the Spirit Tree, teacher and an inspiration to so many people.

Tonya also former Co LC has been a solitary practicioner for many years and was a volunteer for 2009. Due to health issues she has resigned from Co LC but is still a valued volunteer. Her outstanding work and leadership skills bring so much to Chicago Pagan Pride.

I feel very Blessed to have such outstanding individuals to work with for upcoming Chicago Pagan Pride events.
Blessed Be
Maria
In This issue
    Interview with Christopher Penczak
·  Interview with Rosina Mostradini
·  Volunteer Corner
·  Samhain
·  Witches Runes
·  Poems
·  Community events
·  Samhain Recipies
 Interview with Christopher Penczak
By AutTumn

1)Hello Christopher. First thank you for offering your time to do the interview. Last I knew I believe you had either 12 or 13 books out in print now. Is that accurate? And are you working on any new material?

My sixteenth book, The Witch's Coin, comes out in October 2009. In terms of products, I also have six CD boxed sets, with 4-5 CDs in each, but in terms of just books, I'm at 16. I'm pretty excited about the Witch's Coin, as it deals with prosperity from a pagan perspective. It's about true growth and well being, not just getting what you think you want in the moment. I like the balance between spell craft, meditation, philosophy and basic common sense to finance. My friends who have read it say that it really brought out my sun sign Taurus.
I am working on a lot of new material. As the Witch’s Coin is the follow up for the Witch’s Shield, I have at least one more planned in the series, one of love magick entitled The Witch’s Heart. It’s almost done and will probably be my next release. I have a book on trance magick in witchcraft, which is also almost ready to go. It will look at the Brit Trad Wicca Eightfold Path and get into how the techniques can be expanded upon and applied to other rituals and resources. I’m particularly excited about the material on trancing with plant substances. It will get into some things people will think of as taboo – pain, scourging, blood – but also focus on simple techniques, like breath, movement, chant and basic meditation.
In the research stages are a lot of things. I have an artsy book on a personal vision I received involving the Three Rays of Witchcraft – the link between witchcraft, ceremonial magick and some aspects of Theosophy that came together very powerfully for me. I also have a plant familiar book I’m working on, as well as a book on the Qlippothic Tree of Life. I’m digging deeper into ancestral work, as well as past lives too. So I’m sure they will show up in some form in the next few years.

2)I am not sure that I could tell you which of your books is my favorite so far, of the 8 I have read, I love all of them. If I had to choose one it would be The Temple of High Witchcraft. Do you have a personal favorite of your work?

Thank you so much. I used to say Ascension Magick, as it was such a bridge between my communities, but right now I’m really excited about The Living Temple of Witchcraft Volume I and II. It was one book that neatly split into two, otherwise it would have been too immense to sell. It’s my training course for high priestesses and high priests, and I think there is a lot in there that I wish I had when I started out as a minister, both in terms of professional work and personal mystery.

3)I know that you have a great knowledge of many magickal and spiritual systems, such as herbology, Ceremonial Magick, Shamanism, Reiki, and what I will for now call common Wiccan Circle magick and ritual. Is there a particular area or field that you are most drawn to?

I think I write about them all because they are all dear to me. My own personal practice is very shamanic, very spirit and other world oriented, and I feel one of my vocations is a healing facilitator, so that is powerful for me. I’m an animist at heart, so I think everything has a spirit, intelligence, be it stones, herbs, stars or the classical spirits and gods. So shamanic technique is a way of deepening all those experiences.

I love the Qabalistic side of my work, as it gives me an intellectual framework to better understand and operate. I love the system of visions, virtues and vices to understand where you are on your tree, and how to move to the next level. Reiki is something I use everyday, almost like breathing at this point. But I’m a witch at heart. I think all of these things fall under my view of witchcraft. Witchcraft is the toolbox that holds all these different aspects of my work.

4)I know that you have in the past sometimes referred to yourself as a Hermetic/Shamanic/Thelemic/green/folk/Reiki/Witch, or something along those lines. Would you care to explain that a bit and what you think of labels and titles?

Ah, that old joke. There’s not a good word that describes me accurately, other than Witch. I don’t shy from the work eclectic, as I would be considered an eclectic witch, but I’m also a big believer in discipline, roots and an understanding of history and tradition. All of those titles describe a part of me. Labels are both good and bad. They are good when they work for you. They are bad when they limit you. While I think I am ultimately more than any one of my labels, be it magickal or any other – male, gay, American, Italian-Polish, New Englander, musician, son, partner, etc. – those labels help me relate to others, and build bridges between myself and other communities, as well as find people with similar interests and identities. Witch is the spiritual label that works best for me, but it also lends me into explaining what witchcraft is for me, both among other witches, and among the world at large. I feel a kinship to past witches and a resonance with the tradition, even if I have a modern view of it.

5)Have you ever been called upon to deal with an unwanted spirit? Have you used the Lesser Banishing Rituals of the Pentagram and Hexagram for this or do you have another technique?

Yes I have. I think we are all called to do that sometime or another, for ourselves or for a friend. Though I do like the Pentagram and Hexagram rituals, if I’m clearing a space for another, I tend to follow them up or precede them with a more traditional clearing. For stubborn and malevolent spirits, I like equal parts Dragon’s Blood and Black Copal, but will also use Frankincense and Myrrh when they are all I have on hand. I also like to use salt and water mixed with some Rue to bless the spirit and the home. In one experience with a particularly stubborn and harmful spirit, I did a bodily invocation of a death goddess to send him back to the underworld and all was fine afterwards. Generally though I tend to be gentle. I like to start with a conversation between the spirit and me. Then if things don’t move along easily, and there is a good reason to banish the spirit, as it is doing harm, I use these techniques. Each situation is unique.

6)Of the authors and books that have inspired you, could you pick one or two that you hold dearest?

I’ll pick a living and a dead. For the living, I’ve noticed that Raven Grimassi has been a huge influence. Though I’m not a practitioner of Strega, I realize his mix of both folklore and occultism has influenced me greatly in my worldview. His Way of the Strega was one of the first books I sought out on my own after my initial training in a Celtic tradition. I’ve been blessed to get to know him and it’s always great to see people walk their talk in their daily life. So I treasure both our time together and his writings. Can’t wait for his new book.

For authors who are no longer with us, I think I would choose Doreen Valiente. She’s had an enormous influence on me, and on all of us via her work with Gardner, and then her own books. I truly treasure her perspective and practice. Though I didn’t meet her before she passed, I’ve been honored to meet those who have met her and heard wonderful stories. Her last high priest tells a wonderful story of their coven’s first gay handfasting. I think she was very progressive in all areas. Maxine Sanders also tells wonderful stories about her and her kindness. She’s an all around hero for me.

7)Do you have any favorite Pagan musicians?

I adore Wendy Rule. Though we know each other and I would like to know her better, I love her music and try to catch her whenever she is playing. Festivals that have her booked have an easier time getting me to come speak. My new favorite for ritual music is Karagan who put out a very powerful vocal CD that will blow you away. And he’s an amazing guy on top of it.

8)I was wondering how, with all of your writing, teaching classes, traveling to give various workshops, and your personal life, you manage so well to still take time to respond to all of your emails so quickly. Do you have a secret for budgeting time?

I think some people would argue that I don’t answer my emails quickly, but it depends on your expectations. I try to answer as much as I can, but sometimes things fall through the cracks and I do apologize. I’m better with emails with a specific question than social networking messages and well wishes. I do have a secret. I had a wonderful conversation early on in my career with author and professor Patricia Monaghan. She talked to me about balance, budgeting and goal setting. I write a bit about it in Living Temple of Witchcraft. I still follow her advice for planning not only my year, but also my weekly schedule. I make sure to schedule time out for family and rest, which is the hardest part for me. I understand the separation between my creative outlets and writing, my job as a teacher and my job sadly as a promoter of my own work and services. I don’t get them confused or get resentful when I’m doing one and not the other. All are necessary to make my whole job work.

9)I know that you work with your spirit guides quite a bit. Are any of them an animal spirit guide? If so, how did you first come to know this was one of your guides and do you have any suggestions for the readers as to how they can discover their own?

I have quite a few animal guides. Some have appeared in quite scary ways. Spider was the most ferocious, showing up at unwanted times physically to remind me of our connection and then showing up in a quite frightening vision. After the initial fear, our working relationship became quite powerful. I think one of the best ways is to use the shamanic drumming technique to seek out a power animal. Hold the intention. Pray to the Horned God to help you find it, and then using drumming and visionary technique, seek out an animal guide. I write about it in both Temple of Shamanic Witchcraft and Spirit Allies.

10)Do you have any last bits of advice for beginners and for those who have been practicing for many years?

I think it’s the same for both – regular dedicated practice. That is the only way you really can evolve on this path. Witchcraft is like any other art and science. If you want to be an artist you have to continue to practice and challenge yourself. If you want to be a doctor you continually study and practice. Witchcraft is the same. It’s not just a system of belief, but also one of experience and will. You have to do it, not just think about it.

Interview with Rosina Mostardini
by Maria Alioto
1) Can you tell me a bit about your temple and what sort of assistance you give to people both in and out of the Pagan community?

The Temple was created to provide a home, a safe haven, for all people seeking to enrich their spiritual practice and experience of Divine, as well as raise funds for local organizations working to assist those in need.

All events are open to the public, and this includes rituals for every New and Full moon as well as the Wiccan Sabbats, Morning Mantra sessions, Healing Circles, Crystal Bowl Meditations, Guided Meditations and a Children's Group called the Blessed Beez. All of these are offered for a Love offering and open to all people of all faiths.

We offer long distance healing for thos who send me a request via email. I also do work on behalf of anyone and everyone who asks for help.

Everything we do in our Temple is done on a volunteer basis and there is a wonderful core group of people who spend countless hours putting things togethe for the larger events such as the Ancestor's Ball, the Fire Ball and Tutti Insieme (all together). There are no membership fees involved, I just wanted to have a name for this beautiful Circle of people who come together as one and who give so much to those in need.

2) You have spent so much of your life in such a variety of studies especially in the healing field. Do you have a favorite or prefered method of healing.

In my Healing Practice, I combine several modalities to suit each individual and their specific needs. I work with three forms of Reiki, Usui, Dar'Shem and Karuna Reiki and combine this with the use of crystals and sound vibrational healing via the use of tuning forks, Tibetan Bowls and sound healing CD's in the background to bring the individual back into balance and strengthen the body's innate ability to heal itself. Working with energies in this way, allows one to thin out denser energies and raise their vibration, restoring helad and balance to the client. Each session is different and each offers work done specifically for each individual.

I have also created a product line of candles, oils, sprays, and more that incorporate all of the energies used in a healing session, herbs and magick to support the healing process and growth of the person using the product.

3)Many people in the community know of Rosina and her band of bowls. I personally love the crystal bowls and can see why they are such a favorite of everyone. Can you tell me a little about your crystal bowl meditation?

The Crystal Bowl Meditation combines the use of the Crystal Bowls with the Tibetan Metal or Singing Bowls. It is a powerful experience in that the sounds and vibrations of the combination of the bowls and pitches, breaks up congestion in the energy field, clears, energizes and replaces the congestion with the energies of a Higher Vibration. The session will continue to work withing a few weeks afterward! The medidation is geared toward release, transmutation, balance, and regeneration! I love the Band of Bowlz and have recorded 3 cd's live during the meditations. It gives me an opportunity to utilize my musical background with my love of healing works! For me, it is my honor to be able to share the sounds of the bowls with all who attend, and I am always looking for new sounds to support these meditations.

4)You seem to have quote nearly every day and a special blessing each day too. Do you have a favorite quote? A favorite blessing??

My favorite quotes are ones that I seem to repeat and no one seems to mind!

The first:

"The Divine is not something high above us. It is in heaven, it is in earth, it is inside us...It is right here in this very body. Each one of us is a miniature Universe, a living shrine." ~ Morihei Ueshiba

This quote brings to mind a time in my younger years when I was calling to the Goddess and She clearly asked, "Why are you looking up? I am inside you." Every time I see this quote, it reminds me of Her words and I have based all that I do on this simple fact, that we are All Divine within, that Divine Presence is in all Life. All we need to do is remember this, treat ourselves and all Life with the same respect and Love that we would give to Divine, in whatever form one honors.

The second quote is one of Hafiz, a Persian author:

"I am in love with every church, and mosque, and temple, and any kind of shrine; because I know it is there that people say the different names of the one God." ~ Hafiz

I love this because it speaks Truth. We are All One people and The One has many names, the roads are many, but All is of the same essence, and I believe that the One Essence is Love. I created the Temple based on Love and Kindness, bringing all together as one, learning to embrace our similarities and honor our differences.

I believe that the most important thing we can do for each other is treat each other with Love and Kindness.

5)I understand that music is a huge part of your life. Are there any groups and/or performers that have influenced you or inspire you?

Music is an integral part of my life. I play stringed instruments and my main instrument is the cello. I love all music...it is a strange thing with me in that I love all kinds of music and don't seem to have to preference. I love Loreena McKennitt, Classical and Renaissance Music as well as music of hte 60's and classic rock. I can narrow down my response by saying I love all musicians who are innovative, individual, and follow their heart. One can hear the energy behind the music...If I feel it in my heart and spirit, then I love it! I am always looking for new thingsto add to mantras, rituals, etc. Recently, I bought a Turkish spike fiddle, which is an interesting sound, and I plan to bring that out somewhere in a ritual or meditation. I also acquired a harmonium, which is a bit of a challenge, but I am a stubborn old crone and I will figure it out. I believe that music is a language of the Soul, it is timeless and Universal, and we all have out own special and unique "soul song" as it were, that expresses our ancient and authentic selves! Music can heal, awaken and enrich our spiritual ives in the most magickal of ways!

6)We have been so blessed to have you perform the ritual at Chicago Pagan Pride each year. You manage to raise so much energy and leave all who partipate in your circle feeling both blessed and energized. How do you feel your rituals vary from year to year and what other rituals do you perform?

Each year, the Pagan Pride Event has had a different title and I strive to work in harmony with the theme of the event. I also try to involve everyone to have an active role in the ritual, to make it more personal for each individual present. I always ask all in the Circle to create the circle, call in the Goddess and God that they work with, call in the Spirits that they would call int the quarters, their ancestors, and always have something to do for the spiritual growth of each individual in the circle. This often takes several forms. The last ritual, we released some thought form that was hindering, asked for assistance with an issue we were facing, and made a pledge to grow in some area of the Spirit by placing an athame in the soil, the Breast of the Mother, which was returned to the Earth.

It has been an honor to serve the community in this capacity and hope to continue in years to come. It is always so exciting for me to see new people of all ages come out for the day. It is a special day to join together and renew our Spiritual Beliefs and I have felt it both an honor and a blessing to be part of that since the beginning.

7)When I saw the photo of you with Christopher Penczak on your website I knew we had to include your interview along with his in the same newsletter. Any comments on your meeting with Christopher Penczak.

Christopher is my Brother, and a dear friend. I cannot say enough good things about him. He did a book signing at Sanctuary Crystals around 6 years go and Ed, the owner, called, and asked me to pick Christopher up and Bring him to the store. We had so much in Common and became instant friends and have remained so to this day. Each year when he comes to Chicago, we have a day that we have made sacred, and we go shopping! It gives us a chance to talk and just be crazy running around the city. He is an amazing author, wise teacher, and has so much to offer through his practice. There is so much material there and it is presented in a simple, clear, manner. He is always growing, evolving and creating. It is an honor to be his sister, or as I like to cal myself, his, "Twisted Sister".

8) Your ancestors ball is in it's third year. I have heard it is absolutely wonderful and hope I can attend this year. Can you tell everyone a little about it?

I wanted to have a Ball at Samhain, a Witch's Ball, but some who come to rituals do not consider themselves Witches. I asked the Goddess to give me something that would enable all to come, honoring their own belief system. Morrigan gave me the name, The Ancestor's Ball. We dress as our Ancestors of blood and/or tradition and honor them. In years past, we all brought food of our ancestors to share.

It also enables us to come together as One People and break down any walls or barriers between belief systems.

Much of the work I do, my personal practice, involves working with the Old Ones, The Ancestors of Blood and Tradition, and I bring them into every ritual, public and personal, this Ball is a wonderful way to honor them and commune with them at this most sacred time.

The Ball will have music, dancing, food, raffles, ritual, and costume contests. It is a wonderful way to get out, meet others, and for me, the ritual is a perfect way to end the evening. The ritual is based on communing with those who have gone before us, giving them honor and Love, and asking for their guidance in the year to come.

9) You also have your own festival in June Tutti Insieme (all together). How many years have you been putting on this festival and can you tell our readers a little more about it?

The Tutti Insieme event is also going to be in it's Third year this June. This year, we are hoping to return to the woods, as we did the first year.

It is an event to bring people of all faiths together, sharing their gifts, talents, merchandise, etc. I created this event to bring us all together as One People, United in Love and kinship. My mission is that we respect all life and break down barriers that would prevent a sense of kinship.

It has been a blessing to see everyone join together and spend a day together, learning, sharing, eating, dancing, and shining their own Light, creating One Light!

10) As someone who has so dedicated her life in service the the God and Goddess and having studied such a wide variety of traditions and belief systems do you have any words of wisdom for beginners?

One of the most important things I can say is to always keep the connection to the Gods. Keep the vibration high and always maintain the conection to the Goddess and God. It is very easy to fall into the "stuff" around, but maintaining that connection will keep the filters clear allowing one to come from a higher perspective.

By Consistent spiritual practices, such as daily ritual or meditation, one can build a strong foundation. This will strengthen that connection and open the channels for Higher Guidance. I have worked with the Morrigan since I was a young girl and sometimes the lessons have been difficult, but always, in retrospect, I see the Wisdomm the Beauty, and the Growth. Staying connected has strenghtened my trust and has allowed me to flow, knowing that what lies before me will be more than I ever could have imagined.

11) Do you have any special blessings or words of wisdom or a favorite Qute that you would like to leave our readers with?

"This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness." ~The Dalai Lama

When I teach, I always tell my students that the Gods hear one's heart. Sincerity, simplicity, truth and love. May the Love, Wisdom, and Power of the Old Ones fill you, surround you and sustain you! Blessed Be.

Volunteer Corner
by Tonya Banks

Hello Fellow Pagan Brothers and Sisters:

My name is Tonya Banks and I am one of the volunteers from Chicago Pagan Pride 2009. You may have seen me this past year at the kids' crafts table.

It was a great honor and a pleasure to be a part of CPP 2009. The kids's Crafts (youth activities) was a success! I had so many compliments about the great variety of crafts for the kids to make and take home. I could not have done all that work alone though. I have to thank Maria and Paulette for supplying me with such cute crafts and the great supplies we used. I have to thank Manny, my fiancee for helping me set up the tables and helping me with the kids. I also want to than all the wonderful volunteers and coordinators and the many people who joined us this year to make CPP 2009 one of the best Pagan events in the Midwest.

And that is what Pagan Pride is all about: people coming together to help each other create a wonderful event that brings together a community of magickally, gifted, talented people who share and celebrate their beliefs and spirituality.

We at Chicago Pagan Pride want to see YOU join us next year for Chicago Pagan Pride 2010. We would love to add you to our list of volunteers who make CPP 2010 one of the biggest and best Pagan Celebrations ever!

We welcome all Pagan, Wiccan, Heathen, New Age, Pagan Friendly individuals, groups and clergy who are interested in volunteering for CPP 2010. “Chicago Pagan Pride volunteers work together without ego, drama, or thought of personal gain/status. Our CPP volunteers are reliable, dependable, mature adults, who can be counted on to accept working with people from all Pagan-based religious paths and traditions. “

-Chicago Pagan Pride website

If you are willing to give us your time, talents and resources to help us put together another successful event please contact our new CPP Local Coordinator, Maria or visit the Chicago Pagan Pride website

Chicago Pagan Pride

Have a wonderful Samhain and a Blessed Fall season!

Tonya

Leadership Committee Chicago Pagan Pride 2010

  Samhain
by Maria

Samhain, properly pronunced "so-wen" is the last of the three harvest rituals. It is believed to have been celebrated for over 6000 years. Back in the time of the harvest the crops would have all been harvested for the year, anything still left in the field would be considered an offering to the gods. The crops would be stored for the winter and and it would be decided what livestock would be slaughtered and stored for winter to conserve grain for the animals. With that all being done they would hold a celebration for the end of the season.

In most pagan traditions this celebrates the end of the year as well, where there is a transition from the old to the new. People would honor the harvest, honor the dead, and honor loved ones which had passed during the year.

This is not a day to perform magickal work but a day for communicating with the spirit world and contacting the dead. The veil between the two worlds is the thinnest on this day and the best for communication. Places are set at the dinner table for those who recently passed away and loved who passed before and to honor the ancestors and the gods. All are invite to partake in the feast.

Many covens and traditions also have a ritual to celebrate the new year in which they petition the goddess and gods help in removing certain aspects and behaviors from their life and replacing it with more positive things.

For many traditions this was a 3 day festival, for others only one. When Christianity came into being and the church decided to hold a celebration at the same time they chose Nov 1st and called it All souls day. It became known as the day to celbrate for all saints that did not have a specific day of their own and it became known as All Hallow's day. Samhain became known as All Hallow's eve and eventually shortened to Halloween.

Many of the present day Halloween traditions have their roots in Ancient Samhain celebrations and traditions.

People used to dress up to disguise themselves, men would dress as women and women dress as men., people would disguise themselves with straw and other means so the spirits could not recognize them.

Trick or treating came from an old tradition of people going door to door asking for soul cakes which were baked each year in honor of the souls of the dead.

Gourds and squashes were hollowed out for the faries and fay on this day too. The tradition of carving pumpkins came from this tradition and was also used to keep unwanted spiritis away.

Bonefires were also part of the celebration. After the feast the bones of the animal were thrown into the fire called a bone fire as an offering to the Gods and the Ancestors. This where our traditional bonfires come from.

Traditonal foods varied from region to region. Some traditions celebrated this holiday with no meat at all and made all vegetarian dishes of squash, apples, and nuts. Also celtic tradtion served colcannon a dish made with potatoes, cabbage and onions. The traditional meat if served was pork.

This has been carried over into many halloween traditions now, serving candy, cakes, pumpkin pie, bobbing for apples and serving pizza with sausage on it.

Witche's Runes
by Maria

Runes are one of the oldest known writing systems. The Elder Futhark runes are the earliest known runes, dating back as early as 200 BC and were in use to about 800 AD. These are the most commonly known runes and are the runes that most people read.

The Saxon Futhore are a modified version of the Elder Futhark runes. They are Anglo-Saxon and emerged 800-900 AD. This rune set was increased to 33 runes. The younger Futhark runes are considered the real Norse Runes, these date back to 600-800 AD. There are several different versions of these runes but all contain 16 runes.

As times and cultures changed the runes have also changed. There have been several sets that have been popularized in the 20th century. Swedish Professor Sigurd Agrell made a design based on the Futhark runes and they were popularized by Kenneth Meadows. Guido Von List created a set of runes called the Armenian Runes. This 18 Rune set came to him in a dream.

There are several sets of witches runes, including gypsy runes. They vary between 7,8,9 and 13 runes. Silver Raven wolf created a rune card deck, which was illustrated by Nigel Jackson. The deck includes a book that was originally published as "The Rune Oracle" and was later renamed "Witches Runes"

Susan Sheppard designed a 13 rune set of witches runes. Some of the symbols are based on the older rune sets but have a more contemporary flair to them. These runes are highly original and have not been popular with the traditionalists and since they are based on astrology many people consider them an altogether different divination system. Each rune corresponds to a different planet and they are cast on to a wheel representing the 12 houses of the zodiac. It is read much like a natal chart, you read each rune in correlation to the house that it falls in or near.

Sun- ruled by the sun, sheds light on the issue, clarifying things and bringing them sharply into focus. Also indicates power places in your reading, where the sun turns up you can expect much activity or strength.

Moon- ruled by the moon. Wherever this stone appears you can be certain it is somehow linked to your past. This rules childhood issues, genetics, family, memories, feelings, intuition, instincts and dreams. It stands for inheritance, female relatives or a worman or man of wisdom.

Flight- ruled by mercury, the meaning involves news, travel and all types of communication.

Rings- Ruled by Venus, which represents partnerships, good vibes, good fortune, the appetite, easy flow, beauty, art, marriage, acquired wealth and not wanting to go it alone.

Romance- ruled by both Venus and Mars, this stone carries a great deal of weight in any reading since it has to do with reconciling opposites. You can expect magnetic attractions, as well as intrigues or scandals.

Woman- ruled by Venus, but corresponds more to the energies of Taurus and Cancer. Read this stone first as a woman and pay close attention to which house it falls in.

Man- Ruled by Mars, the house which this rune falls in will be one of much physical activity. It quickens or speeds up certain actions and developements in the chart. It is also a stone of recklessness, impulsivity and certain dangers

Harvest ruled by Jupiter, this stone represents obstacles being lifted and important goals achieved. This can be one of the most fortunate runes in a reading. This is the payoff for the many projects that you have put into action especially areas of interest where you have concentrated most of your energies.

Crossroads- Although the message in this rune can be ominious and it gives a strong warning, there are house in which the rune falls in that are positive in the sense that they represent substantial progress being made. Albeit this progress may be slow and you may encounter many pitfalls.

Star- ruled by Uranus and Venus, represents your highest dreams and goals, especially those that have impacted your life in a deep and meaningful way.This can indicate fame or accumulating prosperity or wealth.

Waves- ruled by Neptune, the planet of Deception and unrealized goals, the reading of this stone has a lot to do with the kind of person you are.

Scyth- ruled by Pluto, the planet of the hidden, this stone is an avenger and exposer of core truths, this is not a very fortunate stone for those involved in denial.

Eye- ruled by Saturn and Pluto, both planets of tremendous pull and magnetism. Wherever this stone appears it is often an area of immediate concern and should be addressed accordingly.

Samhain Serenade
By: Rachel Forbes (Seillowyn)

I can smell it –
The leafy-dry crispness lingering, clinging to the air
Like a mother does her firstborn.
Dry – so dry
The kind of dry that keeps me parched,
Even in a month of monsoons.
Envision. I can see it –
The truth of my existence
Cresting upon crimson-clear waves.
One with me and those who tread the waters by night
When the eyes from below
Gaze the shadows of the night.
Samhain night.
No reflection, no mirror image
Simply all that you are,
Contained within the realm where eclipses never sour.

So take this sweet chariot, swinging low she is not.
For the salted tears of the past wearying year
Are dissolving the absolved of their crimes.
A Peace does surround me
Like branches whose hands hold secrets of love,
Those duly entranced.
Deep-seeded roots, transcendence of Sun.
Oh shine on me with your flowing yellowed rays,
Tickle my fists with your wispy serenades.
Let the dryness bedazzle,
Our thoughts be unslung.
Releasing the past that the future may be won.
A future to be shared with the spirits beyond the veil
Gliding so serenely to a long awaited meeting.
One with witches garbed in style, toe to head –
God and Goddess looming idly in their stead.
A bird’s eye view of the circle below,
The magick within draws them ever so close.
An altar espied from ethereal eyes,
Beckons and welcomes them this Samhain night.

In a choral cacophony, spirits of the dead descend
Entering the circle, pulsing with energy end to end.
Each relays a message steeped deeply in mystique,
To the witches who would honor them, listen to them speak:
“Remember me always and in a time of need,
Remember to forget me, that I may sow the seeds
Those of a tomorrow perhaps alight in timeless lands
Those that grow and flourish, amid believing hands.
Though the world goes ever by,
Keeping the everlasting rhythm of time
You may truly come to spy a karmatic truth stationed nearby.
So go on life-living and keep on self-giving,
That portals of escape may be forged anew.
Then you will learn that your world as you see it
Forms your reality and everything in it.
A new type of key, shall then open willingly
The veil between the places of truth and the unseen.”

With this message the witches are entranced,
Moving about the circle with a chant-evoking dance.
The spirits weave effortlessly among them,
Adding song to the witches’ chant, singing
“Merry meet, merry part and merry meet again.”

Samhain night is finally here –
I can see it in the stars, feel it in the trees
Smell it in the air and in the crispness of the leaves.
The Wheel indeed has turned anew,
For Samhain night is here, it’s true.
Rejoice and be merry spirits and witches alike –
Celebrate my friends, for ‘tis Halloween Night!

Halloween 1953
By: David O. Norris

Velinda held the flickering light
And cast grim shadows on the wall
While whispering stories in my ear
On Halloween so long ago

The ghosts she conjured howled then
To match the winds that moaned outside
Her Witches crossed the golden moon
On brooms above the clouds they’d ride

That night I’d try my best to sleep
With thoughts of graveyards in my mind
I’d pull the covers o’er my head
To leave those visions far behind

Now she’s living in New Hampshire
Over forty years have passed us by
Still, on Halloween, I hear her whisper
And once again the Witches fly!

Community events
Terra Mysterium
Terra Mysterium’s Samhain/Halloween show “Professor Marius Mandragore’s Salon Symposium regarding Spirits, Spells, and Eldritch Craft” begins at 8pm, on the nights of October 15th, 16th, 17th, at La Costa Theatre, 3931 N Elston Avenue , Chicago , IL . Tickets are $20 ($18 for students and seniors with valid ID) To learn more about the show, and purchase advance tickets, please visit: www.terramysterium.com
About the show:
Professor Marius Mandragore, internationally renowned master of multifarious arcane arts, once again hosts a magical salon for seekers of mysterium. For this auspicious symposium, the salon room will be unveiled in the Windy City and is currently aligning itself to the terrestrial energies of American soil. It=2 0misses tea time terribly.
The professor cordially invites you to join him and his esteemed colleagues for an evening devoted to an exploration of the phenomenon of witchcraft, cunning creatures of the night, and phantasms from beyond.
The professor guarantees that he and his colleagues shall be able to elucidate the impenetrable (or at least make their topics somewhat permeable) for even the most insensitive of “sensitives.” In other words, no prior experience in the occult sciences is required for attendance. Open minds, fancy dress, and polite manners, however, are most welcome.
Cumbersome parcels, melancholic dispositions, and demon spawn may be stored at the coat check. Refreshments shall be provided for a slight fee (we have to pay the apprentices something, otherwise it will be another year of watercress sandwiches).
The symposium shall cost $20 for all adult attendees, and $18 for student apprentices and senior citizens (proper card identification will be required).
Through a transposition of extreme magical energies the salon has manifested itself at the La Costa Theatre located at the following address:
3931 N Elston Ave # 2 (Second floor) Chicago , IL 60618-4227
(773) 383-9104 (La Costa Theatre)

To reserve a seat for the symposium in advance, please visit our website: www.terramysterium.com
Join us on:
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/ykc7pyu
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/terramysterium
Pagan Space: http://www.paganspace.net/profile/TerraMysterium

Ancestor's Ball

You are welcome to join us for the 3rd Annual Ancestor's Ball
Saturday Oct 31
8pm-1am
American Legion Post #615
17423 67th Court
Tinley Park IL
Come and join us as we honor those who have gone before us, as our ancestors of both blood and tradition. The evening will be spent as one people, joined together in kinship with dinner, dancing, costume contest, raffles and a Midnight ritual to life the veil and commune with the Spirits of Old.
Tickets are available:
$13.00 in advance $15.00 at the door
Please contact Rosina at www.heartofthemorrighan.org

Witch Hat Society

Witch Hat Society is having a meeting Thursday Oct. 22 7:00 p.m. at Baker's Square in Merrillville, IN Topic: Paranormal from Karen T. Hope to see you there!

Witch Hat Society

Miss Illinois for Children's Miracle Network

Miss Illinois Erin Oconner, is sponsoring a fundraising event for the Children's Miracle network.
Friday Oct 30, 2009
6:00pm-10:00PM
115 Bourbon Street
3359 W. 115th Street
Merrionette Park, IL 60803
This is an all ages event and tickets are $10 for children $20 pre sale and $25 at the door. Click the text to take you directly to the website for more details.
Recipes
Donated By: Tonya Banks

Hobo Hot Dish

1 ½ lbs. lean ground beef
2 large potatoes, raw, sliced
1 box of frozen vegetables
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cheddar cheese soup
Lightly grease a 9x13 baking pan
Make a layer of ground beef, add seasonings
Spread a layer of raw potatoes over the meat
Spread a layer of the frozen vegetables over the potatoes
In a bowl mix the cream of mushroom and the cheddar cheese soup and pour over the meat mixture
Bake at 325’ for 1 ½ hours or until done

Cinnamon Apple Salad

½ cup red cinnamon candies
2 cups boiling water
2 packages cherry Jell-O
2 cups of applesauce
Dissolve candies in boiling water, stirring constantly
Add Jell-O, stir well
Add applesauce, stir well
Pour in a mold or pan and refrigerate till set

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Copyright * 2002 - 2010 Greater Chicagoland Pagan Pride Committee. All rights reserved

Blessed Be,
Maria, AutTumn and Tonya
Chicago Pagan Pride 2010 leadership committee   If you're NOT a subscriber and someone else has sent you this newsletter, you can visit the following URL to join us and get your own copy each month... http://chicagopaganpride.org You were sent this newsletter because you were in the Chicago Pagan Pride email update database by signing up at an event or online to request updates on Chicago Pagan Pride or you signed up thru the Chicago Pagan Pride website to be updated or receive this newsletter. If you received this in error or if you do not wish to receive this email please hit reply and type remove in the subject line and your email will be removed from our database.