tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69906194634867847052024-03-05T15:47:36.603-05:00Oak Forest CovenOak Forest Coven was established on Imbolc of 2002 after hiving off from its Mother Coven, the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron. We are a Traditional British Coven and adhere to the Beliefs and Practices of Traditional British Witchcraft. All Material on this Site is Copyrighted by Oak Forest Coven.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-40999130602166122052009-02-22T11:36:00.021-05:002011-01-17T15:21:48.814-05:00The High Priestess and High Priest of Oak Forest CovenThe High Priestess<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1P8RV_KE6YHnzo3PN9p4kTSeBYkdrAnAFx0vt-EjbVMPilimxQCuCUm_2smqLLnGRa_PX3ZKG3TxxBd8vL0mOcCuzuRR1KGdu_wIWw6aguvkJ3XBfJbKuj2ruV0qYrjrQrXIxSX4xEMQ/s1600/Alicee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1P8RV_KE6YHnzo3PN9p4kTSeBYkdrAnAFx0vt-EjbVMPilimxQCuCUm_2smqLLnGRa_PX3ZKG3TxxBd8vL0mOcCuzuRR1KGdu_wIWw6aguvkJ3XBfJbKuj2ruV0qYrjrQrXIxSX4xEMQ/s200/Alicee.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Alicee (Angel Dianne Spears) was born in Huntsville, Alabama, on January 28, 1977. Alicee grew up and attended school in Downtown Atlanta, Georgia. <br />
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Alicee was baptized at the First Baptist Church of Chamblee in 1988. She grew up in a Southern Baptist family, although religion wasn’t a demanded part of her immediate family life. Her mother dabbed in the Occult and her father was Agnostic. Her grandfather was a Baptist preacher and was the source in which religion was taught to her; however, the more answers he gave the more questions she had. Her grandfather encouraged her to seek her own answers and after he passed, when Alicee was 11 years old, she continued to ask questions to the church, which they refused to answer and told her that she needed to accept that it was God’s Will. Her family moved to Jackson County, Georgia in a rural area where Protestant Churches, mostly Baptist, flourished and continued to offer information. She decided to educate herself on other religions within the world and began to look at the beliefs of Paganism and Witchcraft. She began to see her own personal beliefs reflected within Paganism and Witchcraft and in March of 2009, Alicee began her training as a Neophyte within Oak Forest Coven. She became an Initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft and within Oak Forest Coven in October of 2009. <br />
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Alicee is legally ordained to perform Weddings in Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. She is currently the mother of 6 and engaged to Arden (Justin Jarrard) and plans to be wed on Samhain 2011. You can contact Alicee at: angelds77@hotmail.com.<br />
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The High Priest<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMr6Vx2mAIJ4rZrFa4JMmXc7EXsq8ai0H551sBL3cxaqCS3uPppU4G0ojJ81wpc44hA6G94XjmVUqJjxJvIrXlSAHxa3XEzC3Pgu6HTy6o7vWT1NfIMPzlqqXWGSzZzS9EZeT2hAgWMKg/s1600-h/Adam+Gray.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMr6Vx2mAIJ4rZrFa4JMmXc7EXsq8ai0H551sBL3cxaqCS3uPppU4G0ojJ81wpc44hA6G94XjmVUqJjxJvIrXlSAHxa3XEzC3Pgu6HTy6o7vWT1NfIMPzlqqXWGSzZzS9EZeT2hAgWMKg/s200/Adam+Gray.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305665767213491986" /></a><br />
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Vertius (Adam Gray) attended school in Franklin County and in 1999 he attended college at Athens Technical College where he earned his degree in Certified Nursing Assistance. During his study as a Certified Nursing Assistance he would learn valuable skills that would prove to benefit his life to come. These skills include, but are not limited to: counseling, helping others with chronic or terminal illness, and comforting or helping others that have been abused. He is currently enrolled in North Georgia Technical College and is majoring in Accounting (Associates Degree).<br />
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Vertius wasn’t subjected to religious beliefs as a child, although he was raised in a predominantly Christian society. At the age of twelve, he would be the first in his immediate family to attend a local Baptist church. He would attend this church for four years and would be baptized before he realized that this wasn’t the belief system in which he wanted to live his life. Shortly, after his departure from the Baptist church, he would attend a United Methodist Church before converting to Catholicism in 1997.<br />
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In the later part of 1998, Vertius began to research the major religions of the world and would come to realize that many of the major religions had many similarities. During his research, he came across an ancient neo-pagan belief system called Traditional British Witchcraft and in the later part of 1998 would begin his training as a Neophyte within Traditional British Witchcraft. He became an Initiate of the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron, from which he was elevated to Third Degree, and in 2002 would hive off to establish Oak Forest Coven.<br />
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After establishing Oak Forest Coven, Vertius' love for healing would lead him to earn his Master/Teacher Certification in Usui Reiki in 2008. He is currently writing a book on Traditional British Witchcraft. <br />
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He also is the owner of the Window Live Group called Traditional Witches. This Group is a place for Initiates and Non-Initiates to discuss the Beliefs and Practices of Traditional British Witchcraft. Anyone wishing to join this Group can do so by visiting the link provided on this website.<br />
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<strong>Contact Information</strong><br />
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Online Groups:<br />
<a href="http://traditionalwitches.groups.live.com/">Traditional Witches</a><br />
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Social Networking:<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/Vertius">Facebook</a><br />
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Videos:<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/VertiusMysterium">YouTube</a><br />
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You may contact Vertius at: vertius@live.com.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-6848819094820384962010-01-27T20:37:00.005-05:002011-01-17T13:45:52.090-05:00Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Jkg54776OuqpmJiD8V9W-B_WlLhaPATM2UaFeDtL9c5fc-gLt2sGiP4YFPy3qFM4sq6wv6zTfCvbM1H1MnLfj6KnxabC-q0kE6XNT3zpbDm0zeMXURaw1ojQ4_NKpzmDCHKBAivmp8w/s1600/TVDqD+Seal.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Jkg54776OuqpmJiD8V9W-B_WlLhaPATM2UaFeDtL9c5fc-gLt2sGiP4YFPy3qFM4sq6wv6zTfCvbM1H1MnLfj6KnxabC-q0kE6XNT3zpbDm0zeMXURaw1ojQ4_NKpzmDCHKBAivmp8w/s200/TVDqD+Seal.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470888804875467842" /></a><br />
By-Laws of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea<br />
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Article I: Name and Statement of Purpose<br />
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Name: The name of this Church and Corporation is: Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea. Hereafter, referred to as Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea or TVDqD. Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea (TVDqD) is a Nonprofit Religious Organization; organized and incorporated to perform legal activities appropriate of Religious Organizations. Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea is a Church (Temple) of the Tradition of Traditional British Witchcraft. Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea was incorporated in the State of Georgia on January 14, 2010.<br />
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Statement of Purpose: Our purpose is to educate Members, Seekers, Initiates, and the General Public about the Beliefs, Practices, and Tradition of Traditional British Witchcraft; to provide Members, Seekers, and Initiates with materials and tools to aid in their Spiritual Journey.<br />
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Article II: Qualifications of Membership and Participation<br />
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A. Membership shall be offered by Application to Seekers and Initiates of Traditional British Witchcraft upon approval of the Council of Elders. No person shall be denied access to membership on the basis of Gender, Race, Sexual Orientation, Physical Handicap, or Age providing they are 18 years of age.<br />
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B. All perspective members have read and understand these By-Laws.<br />
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C. Degrees of Participation<br />
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1. Guest: Individual who may attend all open events of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea. <br />
2. Initiates: Individuals who can validate their Lineage and Initiation within Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
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Article III: Administration and Operation<br />
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A. The Council of Elders: The Council of Elders shall oversee the operation of the Church. By-Laws for the Church are voted upon by the Council. The Council will consist of no more than 13 Elders of Traditional British Witchcraft. There will always be an odd number of Elders on the Council. After initial election, all terms will consist of 4 years. The Council of Elders shall be responsible for activities to the General Public including: Events, Information for Membership of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea, and Resources for Initiation within Traditional British Witchcraft, Outreach, and Networking. All Elders are elected by the general vote of the membership of the Church. Election of Elders for the Council will occur at the announced meeting in the year of the term expiration.<br />
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B. Elders: Defined as any Third Degree Initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft, who has shown High Levels of Commitment to the Church and voted upon by the Council of Elders. Elder are responsible for the long term Health and Sustainability of the Church.<br />
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C. Ordained Clergy: The Status of Ordained Clergy is authorized by Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea through the Council of Elders to Third Degree Initiates of Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
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Article IV: Schedule of Meetings<br />
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A. Rituals: The Rituals will be at the recommendation of the Council of Elders to benefit the General Public and Members of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea.<br />
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B. Seminars: Seminars shall be open to the General Public and should be offered at such times and places as the Council of Elders decides. The Council of Elders shall establish the Curricula.<br />
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Article V: Attendance<br />
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A. Esbats: Esbats should be held in the Homes of the Elders and shall be closed to the General Public and are considered a teaching and learning event for the Members of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea and Initiates of Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
B. Sabbats: Sabbats should be held in the Homes of the Elders and shall be closed to the General Public and are considered a teaching and learning event for the Members of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea and Initiates of Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
C. Sabbats (Public): Public Sabbats shall be open to the General Public and are scheduled on or near selected Sabbats.<br />
D. Classes: Classes shall be designated open only to Initiates and Elders of Traditional British Witchcraft and Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea, or open to the General Public by the Council of Elders.<br />
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Article VI: Finances<br />
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A. The Finances of the Church shall include donations, profit from fundraising activities, and sales of items established by the Council of Elders.<br />
B. The Council of Elders shall make a quarterly report of income and expenses to the Council of Elders and Members of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea.<br />
C. All required forms and reports shall be filed with the State and Federal Government as required to maintain Legal Status of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea.<br />
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Article VII: Privacy of Members<br />
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A. The Names, Addresses, Phone Numbers, and other information relating to Members of Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea shall be considered confidential and may not be disclosed without prior permission from the Member(s) involved.<br />
B. Disclosure of confidential information shall be grounds for expulsion.<br />
C. Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea considers the Personal Information provided by Members to be used by the Church only and will not give such information without explicit permission for the Member(s).<br />
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Article VIII: Revision of By-Laws<br />
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A. Any part of these By-Laws may be amended by the request of the Council of Elders at any time without prior notice.<br />
B. If at any time, any portion of these By-Laws are deemed to be in conflict with any Applicable Laws, that section will no longer be valid.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-82113061838179412722007-12-31T22:00:00.001-05:002011-01-17T13:37:21.852-05:00Beliefs and Practices<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWc7KSrnB_GjKQS6NvAi9zIolFbDxf29X92AJ4nFrDbyOu9W54MnasRQbSD894WnOEAIpEw5YTrjCjzJ81sc42mkwjOUTrXrNOOsijsAfGhiZ9uReAiNKyjVsRgE3G6ltVqnkUASrhLYU/s1600-h/Stonehenge.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150337958887441266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWc7KSrnB_GjKQS6NvAi9zIolFbDxf29X92AJ4nFrDbyOu9W54MnasRQbSD894WnOEAIpEw5YTrjCjzJ81sc42mkwjOUTrXrNOOsijsAfGhiZ9uReAiNKyjVsRgE3G6ltVqnkUASrhLYU/s400/Stonehenge.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />
Beliefs<br />
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We believe in the Ancient Providence, which was, is, and ever shall be omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent. We believe that the Ancient Providence is omnificent and is hereby omnifarious. We acknowledge that the Ancient Providence is androgynous and is understood by humanity as the Goddess and God of Witchcraft, or the Craft. We acknowledge the existence of the Lords of the Watchtowers, the Kings of the Elements, which guard and protect the Temple of the Gods, or the Circle.<br />
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We believe and adhere by the Old Laws and the teachings of Traditional British Witchcraft and the Rede, which is accepted as a moral guideline to which we should live our lives according to Tradition. We believe that the standards of conduct in Traditional British Witchcraft are based on the Old Laws and the Rede, which advises us to live our lives to the best of our ability with minimum harm to others and to ourselves. We believe and acknowledge that the Rede isn’t a law, but advise to help us to realize that as individuals we are not perfect, but as individual with a free will, we are capable of limiting our destructiveness and to live in harmony with other.<br />
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We believe and accept the authority of the High Priestess and the High Priest, which are living representations of the Goddess and God. We believe that a High Priest/High Priestess refers to a Third Degree Initiates that establishes and operates a coven according to Traditional British Witchcraft. We believe that only a Third Degree Initiate can form and operate a Coven. We believe and accept that every Coven in Traditional British Witchcraft is anonymous and should have no more than thirteen initiates. We believe and accept that a Coven is ruled by the High Priestess who is assisted by her consort, the High Priest and is supported by the advice of the Elders and the Messenger of the Gods, or the Summoner. We believe in the honorary relationship between the Parent and Daughter Covens and accept the Parent Coven as our Queen or Magus. We believe that a Coven is where an initiate learns of the Religion and Magic. We believe that initiation is a means of validity within the tradition and is not offered to everyone. We believe that every initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft is a Priest/Priestess within the tradition with a direct connection to the Gods.<br />
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Practices<br />
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We believe that working skyclad (ritual nudity) is a sign of freedom and equality. We believe and acknowledge the polarity of opposites and work in female - male couples. We believe that all rites are to take place within a properly prepared Circle. We believe that our rites bind us to the Gods and celebrate our connection to the Gods and to nature.<br />
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We believe and acknowledge three types of rites. We believe and acknowledge these rites as the Esbats, which are Lunar Rites dedicated to the Goddess, the Sabbats, which are Solar Rites dedicated to the God and the Wheel of the Year, and Rites of Transition, such as Initiation, Handfastings, and Death. We believe and acknowledge the Sabbats as:<br />
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- Imbolc<br />
- Vernal Equinox (Spring Equinox)<br />
- Beltane<br />
- Midsummer (Summer Solstice)<br />
- Lughnasadh<br />
- Autumnal Equinox (Fall Equinox)<br />
- Samhain<br />
- Yule<br />
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We believe that Magic is a means to better our lives and to aid humanity. We believe that Magic should never take place on a Sabbat, for these are times of celebration. We believe that Magic is secondary to Traditional British Witchcraft, for the Craft must ever survive.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-86999237384142204122008-01-01T21:12:00.005-05:002011-01-17T13:33:11.273-05:00History<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6QVBELEIuc4_u9-q9Vp2bqEhJ4raZ0lJdvtg4xNJ6cBhJGB4DB5DYMKKybyr6w71hzoeSDLvzTWmwkT9Kj2UHjMaWAumgs8pub_ZClXt0-ZZWFN7Oc5iaSIRmLcfaQj-bC5LCpBQwXMg/s1600-h/image004976.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6QVBELEIuc4_u9-q9Vp2bqEhJ4raZ0lJdvtg4xNJ6cBhJGB4DB5DYMKKybyr6w71hzoeSDLvzTWmwkT9Kj2UHjMaWAumgs8pub_ZClXt0-ZZWFN7Oc5iaSIRmLcfaQj-bC5LCpBQwXMg/s400/image004976.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254914493741808578" /></a><br />
The purpose of this article is to inform initiates and non-initiates alike of the history of Traditional British Witchcraft. Traditional British Witchcraft is not the same as British Traditional Witchcraft and initiates and seekers should not interpret them as such. Much research has been done to ensure that anyone who reads this article has the most accurate information available regarding our Tradition.<br />
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The birth of Traditional British Witchcraft, began with George Browne (1818-1872), a male Witch (referred to as a Master at that time) who claimed hereditary descent from Agnes Browne, which was persecuted for the act of bewitchment of Master Avery and his sister and was hanged at the gallows of Abington in Northampton, England on July 22, 1612. According to Tradition, George Browne was a very quiet and secretive man living and working as a laborer in the farm of his family in Maidstone, Kent, England; the place of his birth. George Browne was considered an Adept in the Art of Witchcraft, which is probable one of the reason for his secrecy, since England had passed the Anti-Witchcraft Act, a law stating that any individual practicing or considered practicing Witchcraft would be prosecuted and hung. George Browne kept this part of his life a secret until he passed his knowledge of Witchcraft to his daughter, Mary Catherine Browne (1854-1916), which was born in Dundalk, Louth, Ireland on October 16, 1854. <br />
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Mary Browne was very close to her father, helping him as much as she could with the activities of daily life since the absence of his wife, the mother of Mary Browne. George Browne, seeing how loyal his daughter was toward the family, decided to share his beliefs and practices with her in order to keep the knowledge of the family alive. The connection that Mary Browne had with nature, in her daily life, lead her to a greater understanding of the beliefs and practices of her family that had been established through the generations. Mary Browne would continue to acknowledge and practice these beliefs according to the tradition of her family, but according to Tradition she had no children or heir to pass this knowledge to and decided to pass this knowledge to an individual who was not part of the immediate family. Mary Browne shared this knowledge with Charles Smith and would continue to do so until her death on Beltane (May 1), 1916. <br />
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Charles Smith (1880-1970) who was born on January 28, 1880 in Ventor, Isle of Wight, England was the first person that Mary Browne entrusted with the teachings and practices of her family. Charles Smith was knowledgeable in the occult practices of ancient England and of the Golden Dawn and was one of the factors that lead him to be chosen by Mary Browne. Charles Smith combined his knowledge of the Golden Dawn with the teachings of Traditional Witchcraft, as passed down to him by Mary Browne, to establish a complete system that is known by initiates outside England as Traditional British Witchcraft. Charles Smith lived a long and prosperous life, living until the age of 90, until his death in Northampton, Northamptonshire, England in 1970, the place where the persecution and execution of Agnes Browne had taken place by hanging in 1612.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0O7drCCVivNmrB6gqQnTRqmqNLxsAwOqsqbkkpbC_-bhN80nxQmlMAkQ3T42e9EcNJpAQy25JQJ8598fhzA_dh09UerPCJbhEn7qAoBgqx1dHnKHHEYb9PvnEllbLIVRbrAHM8Iow9E/s1600-h/Elizabeth+Document.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0O7drCCVivNmrB6gqQnTRqmqNLxsAwOqsqbkkpbC_-bhN80nxQmlMAkQ3T42e9EcNJpAQy25JQJ8598fhzA_dh09UerPCJbhEn7qAoBgqx1dHnKHHEYb9PvnEllbLIVRbrAHM8Iow9E/s320/Elizabeth+Document.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294177750754500482" /></a><br />
Letter Written to Elizabeth Pomponios from Charles Smith. It reads:<br />
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"January 21, 1956<br />
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Dearest Elizabeth,<br />
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I was glad to hear that you and your husband will be traveling to England to visit. It will be such a honour to meet you and Gilbert after so many years of us writing to one another. I look forward to seeing the both of you and to share with you and Gilbert the knowledge that I have attained. I pray that the knowledge of the Browne Family that I will share with you both will remain and will blossom into Light within this World of Darkness. Mary and George would have wanted it that way.<br />
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I was sorry to hear that your mother has fallen ill. What I know of her from your letters is that she seems to be a great woman. May the strength of the Old Ones be with her.<br />
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With great concern,<br />
Charles Smith (Signed)"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVAOShltxOQvhzJzjEEVd0IoXPRChKWwSiSkbNb5GD-DnJXp7D_npSSjHfYOZHm9QLX7EVsXBh0xexy9ZUGqo_089SDKxtxUtaSdJ7gk1LiuvaZVBnyNclxq35lalXiyvsFrQSbRw_9g/s1600-h/Elizabeth+McCormick.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 149px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVAOShltxOQvhzJzjEEVd0IoXPRChKWwSiSkbNb5GD-DnJXp7D_npSSjHfYOZHm9QLX7EVsXBh0xexy9ZUGqo_089SDKxtxUtaSdJ7gk1LiuvaZVBnyNclxq35lalXiyvsFrQSbRw_9g/s320/Elizabeth+McCormick.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294181470657155922" /></a> <br />
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Elizabeth Louise Pomponios (1926-2003), was born Elizabeth Louise McCormick in Lake Township (Huron County), Michigan on October 26, 1926. Elizabeth Pomponios was the first American to be initiated by Charles Smith and to establish the first Traditional British Coven, the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron, in North America. The Coven of the Mystical Cauldron was established and located in Athens, Georgia, the place where Elizabeth Louise and Gilbert Albert Pomponios decided to live when they moved from Michigan. The Coven of the Mystical Cauldron remained an active Coven for twenty-one years until it was disbanded in 2003. Elizabeth Pomponios remained the active High Priestess of the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron since it establishment, considering her age and health, until Imbolc of 2001 when she decide to move with her husband to Oak Forest (Cook County), Illinois. The reason that Elizabeth Pomponios remained the High Priestess for so many years is because none of the Elders wanted the responsibility of operating and maintaining the Coven, except for Sara Owens, the deputy of Elizabeth Pomponios. It was Sara Owens that Elizabeth Pomponios entrusted with the responsibility of initiation and elevation of those within the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron. Elizabeth Louise Pomponios (February 7, 2003) and Gilbert Andrew Pomponios (March 4, 2003) both died in Oak Forest, Illinois and were cremated.<br />
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Traditional British Witchcraft, is the terms used by initiates in North America to denote the tradition into which they were initiated and adhere by according to the beliefs and practices of that tradition. However, the terms “The Craft”, and “Traditional Witchcraft” have been used to denote the tradition of Traditional British Witchcraft, and all these terms are interchangeable within the tradition. The reasoning behind the terms “Traditional British Witchcraft, is to specify that we are a tradition based on lineage, the origin of our establishment, and the beliefs and practices that our tradition adheres. Traditional British Witchcraft is an initiatory, oath bound, and mysterious tradition, which establishes it as a secretive tradition within Witchcraft, or the Craft. Initiates begin their training within the Outer Court and when considered admissible, were accepted into the Inner Court of the Tradition. The Outer Court was established, according to Traditional British Witchcraft, to evaluate and train initiates without positioning the tradition or Book of Shadows in jeopardy. The Inner Court was established of admissible Elders containing the inner secrets of the tradition. These arrangements lead to two copies of the Book of Shadows, one for training, which was openly shared among initiates of the Outer Court of the Tradition, and one authentic (complete) and secretive, obtained by the initiates of the Inner Court of the Tradition.<br />
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This concludes the article on the History of Traditional British Witchcraft, commonly referred to as Traditional British Wica. I hope that this article leads the reader to some insight into our Tradition.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-27529507443015538722009-07-27T19:19:00.006-04:002011-01-11T11:05:28.242-05:00Oak Grove Sanctuary (OGS)Oak Grove Sanctuary is a Pagan Sanctuary located in Franklin County of Northeast Georgia. Oak Grove Sanctuary was established on Beltane (May 1), 2008 by Oak Forest Coven and is dedicated to Communal Celebrations, Networking, and Education. Oak Grove Sanctuary is privately owned, operated, and maintained by Oak Forest Coven and encourages Nature Preservation and Environmental Education.<br />
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<strong>Accommodations</strong><br />
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Oak Grove Sanctuary has several accommodations that benefit the Pagan Community. Oak Grove Sanctuary currently has a Ritual Circle for Private and Communal Celebrations, a Private Vegetable Garden, Flower Gardens, and ample space for Primitive Camping. Oak Grove Sanctuary sponsors Gathering of the Wise and Lifting the Veil; Communal Pagan Gatherings hosted by Oak Forest Coven at or around Beltane and Samhain. Oak Grove Sanctuary also sponsors workshops throughout the year for the purpose of Networking and Education. <br />
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<strong>Projects</strong><br />
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Oak Grove Sanctuary’s projects include the construction of a Nature Walk, a Meditative Trail that will surround Oak Grove Sanctuary for Contemplation, and a Private Herb Garden that will educate others of the Healing Properties of Herbs.<br />
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<strong>Events and Workshops</strong><br />
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Gathering of the Wise (Beltane Gathering)<br />
Earth Day <br />
Traditional Usui Reiki <br />
Pagan Education <br />
Lifting the Veil (Samhain Gathering)<br />
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<strong>Events and Workshops Schedule</strong><br />
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<strong>Gathering of the Wise</strong> – Gathering of the Wise is an annual Gathering sponsored by Oak Grove Sanctuary and is hosted by Oak Forest Coven at or around Beltane. Gathering of the Wise starts at 3:00 pm on or near Beltane (May 1) and will last until 3:00 pm the following day. If you wish to attend Gathering of the Wise, you must first register with Oak Forest Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net or call Vertius at 706-498-8820. There is no charge to attend this Gathering, but donation will be accepted for the cost of the Gathering.<br />
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<strong>Traditional Usui Reiki</strong> – this workshop is taught by Vertius (Adam Gray), a Third Degree Initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft. Vertius is a Usui Reiki Master/Teacher and has a traceable lineage to Dr. Mikao Usui. This workshop teaches the value of Traditional Usui Reiki and its use in daily life. The Traditional Usui Reiki Workshop meets each month at Oak Grove Sanctuary. If you wish to attend this workshop, please email Vertius at vertius@live.com or call Vertius at 706-498-8820. There is no charge for this service.<br />
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<strong>Pagan Education</strong> – this workshop is taught by Vertius (Adam Gray), a Third Degree Initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft. This workshop teaches the Beliefs and Practices of Paganism and Traditional Witchcraft. The Pagan Education workshop meets each month at at Oak Grove Sanctuary. If you wish to attend this workshop, please contact Vertius at vertius@live.com or call Vertius at 706-498-8820. There is no charge for this service.<br />
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<strong>Lifting the Veil</strong> – Lifting the Veil is an annual Gathering sponsored by Oak Grove Sanctuary and is hosted by Oak Forest Coven at or around Samhain. Lifting of the Veil starts at 3:00 pm on or near Samhain (October 31) and will last until 3:00 pm the following day. If you wish to attend Lifting the Veil, you must first register with Oak Forest Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net or call Vertius at 706-498-8820. There is no charge to attend this Gathering, but donation will be accepted for the cost of the Gathering.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-36872040592126653812009-02-21T13:21:00.006-05:002011-01-11T10:35:39.343-05:00Oak GroveOak Grove is a Pre-Initiatory Religious Working Group of Oak Forest Coven where participants are introduced to the Beliefs, Practices, and Customs of Traditional British Witchcraft (TBW). Participants of Oak Grove are not Initiates of Traditional British Witchcraft or Oak Forest Coven, but are referred to as Neophytes of Traditional British Witchcraft and Oak Forest Coven. <br />
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As a participant of Oak Grove, you will be required to commit yourself to prompt and regular attendance, to respect the confidentiality of other participants and the teachers of Oak Grove, to refrain from discussions of the workings of Oak Grove, and to refrain from referring to yourself as a Initiate of Traditional British Witchcraft or Oak Forest Coven. Upon completion of participation in Oak Grove, participants will have the opportunity to join Oak Forest Coven for Initiation. Not all participants of Oak Grove will be considered for Initiation into Oak Forest Coven or Traditional British Witchcraft. This decision is based on your dedication to Oak Grove and considerations for Initiation is determined by the High Priestess and the Elders of Oak Forest Coven. <br />
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In keeping with the Old Laws of Traditional British Witchcraft, participants are not charged monetary payments for participation in Oak Grove. The only payment that is required by participants of Oak Grove is their time and energy. <br />
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Although there is no set time limit for completion within Oak Grove; participants are required to spend at least a minimum of a year-and-a-day before being considered for Initiation within Oak Forest Coven and Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
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If you are interested in becoming a participant of Oak Grove, please email Oak Forest Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net or Vertius at vertius@live.com for acceptance and approval.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-21301651311270641762008-09-18T22:42:00.014-04:002011-01-11T10:23:13.412-05:00Initiation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_do9kCZM4MRZt2UVK9EfdQl71Dj6Rg2GMtqsFwIrgU4NfIC2ohREkDAV-U3Yn3AcHHBt2Ya4yj3xu762nX7zfBVnUP1zAmajZNIDAmf2hnPJm7LFUfD-84BcQg9vHOlAsh1OTbSybHxg/s1600-h/tornadohouse.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_do9kCZM4MRZt2UVK9EfdQl71Dj6Rg2GMtqsFwIrgU4NfIC2ohREkDAV-U3Yn3AcHHBt2Ya4yj3xu762nX7zfBVnUP1zAmajZNIDAmf2hnPJm7LFUfD-84BcQg9vHOlAsh1OTbSybHxg/s400/tornadohouse.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247580582718158322" /></a><br />
Initiation into Oak Forest Coven and Traditional British Witchcraft is not taken likely and all applications are not accepted. We do not give Initiations on a silver platter. Having made that point, this article is to inform the applicant of the procedure of accepting new candidates into Oak Forest Coven and Traditional British Witchcraft.<br />
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Once an application is received, the applicant will receive and email or postal letter with a questionnaire and a personal information sheet. When these two forms have been completed and returned to Oak Forest Coven, they are reviewed by the High Priestess and High Priest and finally by all members of Coven. If the candidate is known to anyone in the Coven, this is discussed at length to determine what that member knows about the pending candidate. After the candidate has been presented to all members of the Coven, then the Council of Elders discuss the application in depth to determine if the applicant process should continue to the final stages of acceptance.<br />
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If the Elders agree, then a meeting is established between the High Priestess, the High Priest, an Elder (speaking on behalf of the Council), and the applicant. Once the meeting has taken place then the detail of the meeting are presented to all member of the Coven to determine if the applicant is accepted and should continue to the Outer Court for training as a Neophyte to learn about the History of Traditional British Witchcraft, its Lineage, and Beliefs and Practices.<br />
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When the Neophyte is taught the History and the Beliefs and Practices of the Tradition, then the Neophyte begins their training in Meditation, Visualization, Grounding, Centering, and Shielding. This is time when a Neophyte will determine if this is the path they wish to follow and to determine if they wish to continue on that path. This is also the time when the Neophyte promises to keep secret all that the Coven and the Tradition hold sacred. <br />
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When the Neophyte decides that this is the path that they wish to continue and to follow and promise to keep the secrets of the Tradition, then the Neophyte is presented to all members of the Inner Court for Initiation. <br />
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Although there is no set time limit for a Neophyte to determine if they wish to continue and to promise to keep secret all that is taught to them in Traditional British Witchcraft, the least amount of time that is generally accepted is a year-and-a-day. <br />
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Anyone thinking about joining Oak Forest Coven should contact the Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-33030140075426965772008-09-18T22:42:00.012-04:002011-01-11T10:13:21.589-05:00History of Oak Forest Coven<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXxnDIgdGYW06JjaK9mic5keOwOS59_olDil8w5xD8-U5srgpYQXTRLaG-yJoBuU2A9SiCFJXF9ydSF6yjTPdrjkgZ6bKnTyWms-o17J6p8422Ab0IUSSU_lPf9qi17Kb7FLwQ3p4tKA/s1600-h/Coven.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXxnDIgdGYW06JjaK9mic5keOwOS59_olDil8w5xD8-U5srgpYQXTRLaG-yJoBuU2A9SiCFJXF9ydSF6yjTPdrjkgZ6bKnTyWms-o17J6p8422Ab0IUSSU_lPf9qi17Kb7FLwQ3p4tKA/s400/Coven.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247557765524441634" /></a><br />
Oak Forest Coven was established on the Sabbat of Imbolc in the year of 2002, when Vertius (Adam Gray) hived off from his Mother Coven, the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron after obtaining his Third Degree Initiation in Traditional British Witchcraft. Oak Forest Coven took its name from Oak Forest, Illinois, the location where Elizabeth Pomponios moved when she resigned from the Coven of the Mystical Cauldron. <br />
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Since the establishment of Oak Forest Coven there have been many changes in regards to the location of the Coven. When the Coven was first established it was located in Carnesville, Georgia and operated in this area of Georgia from Imbolc of 2002 until Beltane of 2004. Since then, Oak Forest Coven has relocated twice to new areas of Georgia, Royston (Sandy Cross), Georgia and to Canon, Georgia; all which are located in Franklin County. On Beltane, in the year 2004, Oak Forest Coven remained at Royston, Georgia until the Vernal (Spring) Equinox of 2007, when eventually it was relocated to Canon, Georgia and were it currently resides and is located.<br />
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Although, Oak Forest Coven has relocated twice since its establishment, the Coven has remained true to the teaching and practices of Traditional British Witchcraft and values these teachings and practices that have been passed down from previous generations. Oak Forest Coven strives to keep the Olde Ways alive by actively operating and practicing these ancient teachings and by holding true to the Tradition in which it was established.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-58509553969718069032008-10-09T15:51:00.013-04:002010-09-17T14:13:26.356-04:00Lifting the Veil<A href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VsaKfU6F2PLjg73kKScapFPGU9R8vbaU1NZ8N1O0n7fzgV5J4vsnfAKhLbW7JmEOaorkmAEPKNWOC5uRVWxyJRK3SvQ3_vnWCdMIcWC4do0ea8ASvYqRCy5PUXr-6Ux7hq3K1gIP_m8/s1600-h/fallpent333.jpg"><IMG style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; DISPLAY: block; CURSOR: hand" id=BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255244788261673266 border=0 alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VsaKfU6F2PLjg73kKScapFPGU9R8vbaU1NZ8N1O0n7fzgV5J4vsnfAKhLbW7JmEOaorkmAEPKNWOC5uRVWxyJRK3SvQ3_vnWCdMIcWC4do0ea8ASvYqRCy5PUXr-6Ux7hq3K1gIP_m8/s400/fallpent333.jpg"></A> <br />Lifting the Veil is an annual Gathering hosted by Oak Grove Sanctuary and Oak Forest Coven on or around Samhain to bring Pagans, Witches, and the Wica together in Northeast, Georgia. This Gathering is open to all age groups, to all Traditions, and to all Pagan Paths. Discrimination will not be tolerated and anyone displaying such actions will be asked to leave.<br /><br />Registration: <br /><br />Anyone wishing to attend Lifting the Veil should contact Oak Forest Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net or the High Priest of Oak Forest Coven at adamgray@wytchcraft.net. Anyone wishing to attend must also complete a Waiver and Release of Liability Form. <br /><br />Where and What Time: <br /><br />This year’s annual event will take place in Canon, Georgia in a secluded area in the woods. The Gathering will be held from October 30, 2010 starting at 10:00 am and lasting until 12:00 am. <br /><br />Events: <br /><br />The events that will be held this year at Lifting the Veil will include Fire Walking, Samhain Ritual, and a Pagan Book Swap. Traditional Usui Reiki Level One Attunements will also be offered to all Attendees.<br /><br />Schedule of Events:<br /><br />10:00am – 11:00am: Registration <br />11:00am: Handfasting (Alicee and Arden)<br />1:00pm: Lunch<br />2:00pm: Discussions <br />4:00 pm: Reiki I Attunements<br />6:00pm: Dumb Supper<br />7:00pm: Apple Bobbing<br />8:00 pm: Fire Walk<br />10:00pm: Samhain Ritual<br /><br />Activities for Children:<br /><br />Corn Husk Dolls<br />Pumpkin Carving<br />Make Autumn Wreath<br /><br />Candy will be Provided for Children<br /><br />What to Bring: <br /><br />Anyone wishing to attend this Gathering should bring a blanket or chair to sit upon, a pagan book for the Pagan Book Swap, and sufficient clothing. If want to camp onsite, please bring a tent and all supplies that you may need during your stay.<br /><br />Food and Drinks:<br /><br />Oak Grove Sanctuary and Oak Forest Coven will be selling food and drinks that will help cover the cost of Lifting the Veil. The Dumb Supper will be provided by Oak Forest Coven.<br /><br />Dumb Supper: <br /><br />Apple and Cranberry Stuffed Pork Loin <br />Curried Butternut Squash and Pear Soup<br />Herb Grilled Corn on the Cob<br />Thyme Roasted New Potatoes<br />Olive Rosemary Yeast Bread<br />Apple Pie <br />Pecan Pie<br /><br />Restrooms and Facilities<br /><br />A Half-Bath will be provided for Attendees to use during their stay at Lifting the Veil.<br /><br />Weather: <br /><br />The weather is normally pleasant within the day with temperatures ranging from 75 Degrees to 85 Degrees Fahrenheit and it is usually sunny. However, during the night the temperatures can range from 50 Degrees to 55 Degrees and is normally cold and damp. If it should rain upon this date then the Gathering will be cancelled. <br /><br />Cost: <br /><br />There is no cost for this event. However, we will be accepting donations for the cost of the Gathering. We will also be accepting donation of canned and non-perishable foods for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. To learn more about the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, visit their website at <A href="http://www.foodbanknega.org/">www.foodbanknega.org</A>.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-29408980371112994402009-02-17T08:42:00.008-05:002010-03-26T13:35:55.108-04:00Gathering of the Wise<A href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhz-zb8PalGNwzz99wXrupUB-MVYbWGXIqqMdewXwiEDvhVHGydU1-7VLmA7lyEZgWObPKHyQ859170Oo8ppKgkWVEaNcFn9HiSS9YqGXHGeSypg-Za7G3CCBWD7wtJSC7480dwkduCw/s1600-h/maypole.jpg"><IMG style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id=BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303762040283843186 border=0 alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhz-zb8PalGNwzz99wXrupUB-MVYbWGXIqqMdewXwiEDvhVHGydU1-7VLmA7lyEZgWObPKHyQ859170Oo8ppKgkWVEaNcFn9HiSS9YqGXHGeSypg-Za7G3CCBWD7wtJSC7480dwkduCw/s320/maypole.jpg"></A> <br />Gathering of the Wise is an annual event hosted by Templum Vetus Deus quod Dea and Oak Forest Coven on or around Beltane to bring Pagans, Witches, and the Wica together in Northeast Georgia for companionship and celebration. Gathering of the Wise is open to all age groups, to all Traditions, and to all Pagan Paths. Discrimination will not be tolerated and anyone displaying such actions will be asked to leave. Gathering of the Wise will and should be a secure and compassionate event for all to attend.<br /><br />Registration <br /><br />Anyone wishing to attend Gathering of the Wise should contact Oak Forest Coven at oakforestcoven@wytchcraft.net or contact Vertius, the High Priest of Oak Forest Coven, at adamgray@wytchcraft.net or call 706-498-8820 between 12:00 – 5:00 pm. All attendees must complete a Waiver and Release of Liability Form before taking part in any event hosted by Oak Forest Coven at Gathering of the Wise. <br /><br />Date and Time <br /><br />Gathering of the Wise will be held from May 1, 2010 starting at 3:00 pm and lasting until 3:00 pm on May, 2, 2010. <br /><br />Location <br /><br />The location for Gathering of the Wise will be held in Canon, Georgia and directions to Gathering of the Wise will be sent to those who register with Oak Forest Coven. <br /><br />Events <br /><br />The events that will take place at Gathering of the Wise will be a public Beltane Ritual, the Dancing of the Maypole, Fire Walking, the Leaping of the Bonfire, Pagan Book Swap, and discussions on Paganism, Witchcraft, and Wica. <br /><br />Traditional Usui Reiki Level One Attunement will also be offered to all attendees if they so wish. If you are interested or may be interested in receiving Usui Reiki Level One Attunement, please contact the High Priest of Oak Forest Coven using the email address or contact information above. There is no cost for this service and certification and lineage is provided. Information will be given after receiving Usui Reiki Level One Attunement to attendees that wish to obtain Usui Reiki Levels Two and Three (Master/Teacher Level) Attunements. <br /><br />What to Bring <br /><br />Anyone wishing to attend Gathering of the Wise should bring a blanket or chair to sit upon, a covered dish for the Potluck, a pagan book for the Pagan Book Swap, and comfortable clothing. If you wish to camp onsite, please bring a tent and all supplies that you may need during your stay. <br /><br />What Not to Bring <br /><br />We kindly ask that anyone wishing to attend Gathering of the Wise not to bring anything that is considered illegal, such as drugs.<br /><br />Restroom and Facilities<br /><br />A restroom is being constucted with a sink (Half-Bath) and should be finished before the Beltane Gathering.<br /><br />Weather <br /><br />The Weather is normally pleasant at this time of year with temperatures ranging from the mid to upper 80’s within the day and it is usually sunny. However, during the night temperatures can range from mid 60’s to mid 70’s and it is usually cold and damp. If it should rain upon the date of Gathering of the Wise, the gathering will be rescheduled to the following weekend of May 8 and May 9, 2009. If it should rain upon the rescheduled date, Gathering of the Wise will be cancelled. <br /><br />Cost <br /><br />There is no cost to attend Gathering of the Wise. However, we will be accepting donations for the cost of the gathering. We will also be accepting donations of canned and non-perishable foods for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. To learn more about the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and to learn about what foods are in high demand at this organization, visit their website at <a href="http://www.foodbanknega.org">Food Bank of Northeast Georgia</a>.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-86776018042547411782009-12-21T18:26:00.002-05:002009-12-21T18:31:31.624-05:00Craft HumorAre you getting a bit old to practice the Craft? Signs that you may not be quite as spry as you once were:<br /> <br />The ritual feast is pureed.<br /> <br />Last Beltane the Coven decided it would be nice to go out to dinner to celebrate. <br /><br />The last time you tried to do a spiral dance your oxygen feeds got tangled. <br /><br />Viagra is kept in the coven supplies. <br /><br />The Maiden of the Coven is a grandmother. <br /><br />The ritual room is outfitted with defibrillators. <br /><br />The Coveners drive their RV's to Scottsdale for the Autumnal Equinox.<br /> <br />When you are at a festival you go to bed at sunset. <br /><br />It takes the whole Coven to move the cauldron. <br /><br />The High Priest still has a vendetta going against Richard Nixon. <br /><br />You find yourself using your pendulum over the stock pages in the newspaper. <br /><br />You tell an Initiate that in your day you had to slog through 5 feet of snow uphill both ways when you did a Yule Ritual. <br /><br />You drop your teeth in the ritual cup. <br /><br />At Samhain you see more of your Coveners in the Wild Hunt than you do in Circle. <br /><br />You put your Athame in the chalice during ritual but you can't remember why. <br /><br />You hold an all night blow-out drum frenzy and none of your neighbors noticed. <br /><br />You use Glenn Miller records for trance music. <br /><br />All of your ritual robes are tie-dyed. <br /><br />Your Coven has a 401(k) retirement plan. <br /><br />A nitro pill vial replaces the crystal on your pendant. <br /><br />No one has successfully jumped the Beltane fire since 1983. <br /><br />You set comfy chairs around the circle. <br /><br />You sit on the floor and can't get up again. <br /><br />You do anointing with Aspercreme. <br /><br />The oak tree your coven planted died of old age. <br /><br />You use Bran Muffins and Prune Juice for Cakes and Wine because you need the fiber. <br /><br />You don't use salt to consecrate you altar because you need to stay away from extra sodium. <br /><br />You use a walker during the Wild Hunt. <br /><br />You prefer to rent a Hall for rituals because the bathrooms are closer. <br /><br />You need a flashlight to find the candles.<br /><br />Written By:<br />AnonymousOak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-56337105229212238552007-04-30T23:35:00.004-04:002009-12-20T22:55:28.065-05:00Sabbats and Esbats<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzf1hWyf4e73eApDIN4ALNbKeRJ9_GYfLM-PrDAtFmwYGSL7Ej617ginmvyBJt90F5r9NvhyphenhyphenEpUA6lZSiy1wAntcqsLjDb4PSMY0yeAD5rwn_VLNJGbT22WrlN9Twhb16RIznKOnIWV0w/s1600-h/Sun+and+Oak.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5059453191603353170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzf1hWyf4e73eApDIN4ALNbKeRJ9_GYfLM-PrDAtFmwYGSL7Ej617ginmvyBJt90F5r9NvhyphenhyphenEpUA6lZSiy1wAntcqsLjDb4PSMY0yeAD5rwn_VLNJGbT22WrlN9Twhb16RIznKOnIWV0w/s200/Sun+and+Oak.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em>Sabbaticals</em></strong></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><br />Universal Time</div><div align="center">2010</div><div align="center"><br />Imbolc – February 2<br />Vernal Equinox – March 20 – 13:32<br />Beltane – May 1<br />Midsummer – June 21 – 7:28<br />Lughnasadh – August 1<br />Autumnal Equinox – September 22 – 23:09<br />Samhain – October 31<br />Yule – December 21 – 18:38<br /><br /> <br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6RzwMIOKGVcxDKeIHdRrL5tlKdRdthVtmMywrTcXqVGecrlZSZjT-_nhlosgfWsQWu4vR-EX8uKXH2Dx2_9CemQVupqk4B2sx9Y6psMN53LDj14sMKFcXBD9IkFFPgEfRGf-uGvLBvk/s1600-h/Oak+Tree+with+a+Full+Moon.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5059432627299939874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6RzwMIOKGVcxDKeIHdRrL5tlKdRdthVtmMywrTcXqVGecrlZSZjT-_nhlosgfWsQWu4vR-EX8uKXH2Dx2_9CemQVupqk4B2sx9Y6psMN53LDj14sMKFcXBD9IkFFPgEfRGf-uGvLBvk/s200/Oak+Tree+with+a+Full+Moon.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><strong><em>Esbaticals</em></strong> <strong><em>and Moon Phases</em></strong></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><br />Universal Time</div><div align="center">2010<br /><br />Esbatical<br /><br />January 30 – 6:18<br />February 28 – 16:38<br />March 30 – 2:25<br />April 28 – 12:18<br />May 27 – 23:07<br />June 26 – 11:30<br />July 26 – 1:37<br />August 24 – 17:05<br />September 23 – 9:17<br />October 23 – 1:36<br />November 21 – 17:27<br />December 21 – 8:13<br /><br />New Moons<br /><br />January 15 – 7:11<br />February 14 – 2:51<br />March 15 – 21:01<br />April 14 – 12:29<br />May 14 – 1:04<br />June 12 – 11:15<br />July 11 – 19:40<br />August 10 – 3:08<br />September 8 – 10:30<br />October 7 – 18:44<br />November 6 – 4:52<br />December 5 – 17:36<br /><br />First and Last Quarter Moons<br /><br />January 7 – 10:39 – Last Quarter Moon<br />January 23 – 10:53 – First Quarter Moon<br />February 5 – 23:48 – Last Quarter Moon<br />February 22 – 0:42 – First Quarter Moon<br />March 7 – 15:42 – Last Quarter Moon<br />March 23 – 11:00 – First Quarter Moon<br />April 6 – 9:37 – Last Quarter Moon<br />April 21 – 18:20 – First Quarter Moon<br />May 6 – 4:15 – Last Quarter Moon<br />May 20 – 23:43 – First Quarter Moon<br />June 4 – 22:13 – Last Quarter Moon<br />June 19 – 4:29 – First Quarter Moon<br />July 4 – 14:35 – Last Quarter Moon<br />July 18 – 10:11 – First Quarter Moon<br />August 3 – 4:59 – Last Quarter Moon<br />August 16 – 18:14 – First Quarter Moon<br />September 1 – 17:22 – Last Quarter Moon<br />September 15 – 5:50 – First Quarter Moon<br />October 1 – 3:52 – Last Quarter Moon<br />October 14 – 21:27 – First Quarter Moon<br />October 30 – 12:46 – Last Quarter Moon<br />November 13 – 16:39 – First Quarter Moon<br />November 28 – 20:36 – Last Quarter Moon<br />December 13 – 13:59 – First Quarter Moon<br />December 28 – 4:18 – Last Quarter Moon<br /></div><div align="center"></div>Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-2827142483578869252009-02-19T11:25:00.005-05:002009-02-19T11:40:02.822-05:00Book of ShadowsThe Book of Shadows is a personal book that has been copied by each initiated Witch that contains the format of worship according to one’s tradition. In Traditional British Wica, every Initiate is required to copy the Book of Shadows (BoS) in their “own hand of write”. Normally the BoS is copied with the Initiator present in case any questions arise that isn’t understood by the initiate. The Traditional teachings of Traditional British Wica states that “nothing is to be taken out” of the Book of Shadows but that you may add to the BoS as you wish. This means that your copy of the BoS contains the same materials as your Initiator’s. Even if the material that you copy doesn’t appeal to you, it may appeal to your initiates. Copying all the material in your Initiator’s BoS also establishes a link to those that are initiated in your tradition and Initiated Line. <br /><br />Many individuals have taken the “lazy approach” and instead of copying the Book of Shadows in their “own hand of write” have decided to copy the BoS electronically either using a computer or typewriter. There is much to be said about electronically copying the BoS. First and foremost, it doesn’t have the same appeal as it would if you copied the BoS in your own “hand of write”. To copy the BoS in your own “hand of write” leads the Witch to be conscious about what is being written and infuses the BoS with the personal energy of the Witch. Over the years, I have heard many excuses as to why one wishes to copy the BoS electronically; one being that the Witch doesn’t have legible handwritten. Terrible handwritten is a hallmark of many Witches and Magicians, but copying the Book of Shadows by hand requires that the Witch carefully construct each letter with precision and mindfulness. Another reason is that a Witch has some medical condition that interferes with their ability to write anything for long periods of time. There are several Witches in the Traditional British Wica that have arthritis or some other debilitating disease that may interfere with their ability to sit and copy the BoS at length, but they realize the benefits of copying the BoS in their own “hand of write.” Although it may take any Witch with these conditions longer to copy the Book of Shadows, it is always done with love and devotion. It isn’t a race to see who can copy the Book of Shadows in the least amount of time. Think about it, even Gerald Gardner had a typewriter and terrible handwriting but he even wrote the Book of Shadows in his own "hand of write".<br /><br />There is another point that I would like to bring up about the Book of Shadows and that is that the Book of Shadows used by Traditionalist can be found on the internet. I would like to state that the Complete Book of Shadows has never been published on the internet or in book format. It is true that portions of the Book of Shadows have been published, but not the Complete BoS. The information that is found on the internet can easily be placed in a ½ inch binder, but the complete BoS of Traditionalist would take many more pages and a larger binder to contain all the material of Traditional Wica. Desert Henge, a Gardnerian Coven in Arizona, wrote about this topic on their website. If you would like to read about what Desert Henge had to say on this topic, it can be viewed by clicking <a href="http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Oracle/6992/bos2.html">here</a>.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-1838452673136483632009-01-10T12:09:00.001-05:002009-01-10T12:16:26.644-05:00Lughnasadh<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoRUtQfakUfyDjVmJBjcJGIGO42S_aCkJVIubDJ1ol3H8yVNXK99a-4MUkp1lVzGUHAViKt4Qn-MgR9cFUBMFK6fAKlCTlcUgc-qm6Vd6pokF5CFSC1zioqEj6LHmaW0rMtdfIiMWorM/s1600-h/Wheat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoRUtQfakUfyDjVmJBjcJGIGO42S_aCkJVIubDJ1ol3H8yVNXK99a-4MUkp1lVzGUHAViKt4Qn-MgR9cFUBMFK6fAKlCTlcUgc-qm6Vd6pokF5CFSC1zioqEj6LHmaW0rMtdfIiMWorM/s320/Wheat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289714991237261186" /></a><br />Lughnasadh or August Eve is a Gaelic celebration traditionally associated with the first of August and commemorated the start of the harvest season and the ripening of first fruits. It is also favored as a time for handfastings, a trial marriage lasting a year and a day, before actual getting married before the New Year (Samhain). This Sabbat is traditionally celebrated with bonfires and dancing and the festival was spelled Lughnasa, Lughnasad, or Lughnasadh in Old Irish.<br /><br />However, in England, it was common for tenants to present harvested wheat to their landlords on or before Lughnasadh and probably was the reason why some neo-pagans refer to Lughnasadh as Lammas, but this term means “Loaf-Mass Day” in which it was customary to bring a loaf made from the first wheat harvest to church as an offering. In Traditional British Witchcraft, this Sabbat is always referred to as August Eve or Lughnasadh because of the statement above.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-19144953130268276002009-01-10T12:04:00.003-05:002009-01-10T12:07:32.774-05:00Midsummer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip851wiLyqJcYuhLR2ehR2U3xqZRVGQt3DGLz9xv3uRhDpTpoqD3GFvFF-GwrB0Y9PBw7ieC7QwY1ABZ0JbZF1SwNZs8jm9R0D99xe9JokABGVfXwWTBKKSHi36gQEmg83mAZ2Jl4sxq8/s1600-h/Camp+Fire.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip851wiLyqJcYuhLR2ehR2U3xqZRVGQt3DGLz9xv3uRhDpTpoqD3GFvFF-GwrB0Y9PBw7ieC7QwY1ABZ0JbZF1SwNZs8jm9R0D99xe9JokABGVfXwWTBKKSHi36gQEmg83mAZ2Jl4sxq8/s320/Camp+Fire.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289712691483587874" /></a><br />The Summer Solstice is derived from the Latin “sol” meaning “sun” and “sistere” meaning “to stand still”, because of the Sun’s movement from north or south comes to a standstill. In many Celtic Nations, this Sabbat is referred to as Midsummer because the ancient Celts only had two seasons, summer (which began at Beltane) and winter (which began at Samhain) with the Summer Solstice (Midsummer) being placed between the two. It is also referred to as the first sign of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere and the first sign of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. In fact, for half the year (from the Vernal or Spring Equinox to Autumnal or Fall Equinox) the Northern Hemisphere tips to the Sun with Midsummer or the Summer Solstice being at its height, while in the Southern Hemisphere the Sun being at its height around Yule or the Winter Solstice. Since the Sun is at it height and is the hottest, due to the fact that it is closer to the Earth, the whole planet enter summer.<br /> <br />Midsummer is also sometimes referred to by neo-pagans as Litha, though in Traditional British Witchcraft we prefer to use the traditional name Midsummer or the Summer Solstice. Traditionally, at Midsummer bonfires were lit and leaped to ensure prosperity, good luck, and to ensure a good harvest.<br /><br />In Traditional British Witchcraft, Midsummer is celebrated with the lightening of bonfires, feasting, and merrymaking and to commemorate the strength and height of the Sun (God).Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-26177392204926356182009-01-10T12:00:00.001-05:002009-01-10T12:03:03.744-05:00Beltane<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vwLp-nL3m7YMh5IwTHvuhO9M6BpIvC4-phfbotXVsau5ytVhugSn83vqX3xQNiCYXsp7_9sw8mj18iC21Bc2u739G8HfYKeTPcYJxau8Q76sEvaD5c7y2FIdLbExkKfHAcLhsa08aCo/s1600-h/May+Pole.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vwLp-nL3m7YMh5IwTHvuhO9M6BpIvC4-phfbotXVsau5ytVhugSn83vqX3xQNiCYXsp7_9sw8mj18iC21Bc2u739G8HfYKeTPcYJxau8Q76sEvaD5c7y2FIdLbExkKfHAcLhsa08aCo/s320/May+Pole.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289711378857321346" /></a><br />Beltane is derived from the Celtic God Belenus or Bel and was worshipped in Gaul, Britain, Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. The term Beltane means “bright fire” which is also known as May Eve or May Day. The name Belenus means “the brillant or shining one” with Bel means “shining”. The term Beltane also is derived from the Old Irish Beltain, which later became known as Bealtaine and in the Scottish Gaelic is referred to as Bealltainn. Both Beltain (Bealtaine) and Bealltainn are from the Old Irish Beltene meaning “bright fire”. The term Bel or Bael is linked to the English term bale and refers to the bale-fire which is often lit on Beltane. The term Bealtaine also refers to the month of May or the festival that takes place on the first of May in Ireland.<br /><br />For the Celtic Nation, Beltane marked the beginning of summer when the herds of livestock were driven out to the summer pastures and mountain grazing lands. The lighting of bonfires on the eve of Beltane was a main activity of this festival. In fact, on the Hills of Uisneach and Tara, the community would light the bale-fires from their individual hearth fires. These fires symbolized purification and transition, welcoming the summer season and the blessing of the land for a good harvest.<br /> <br />It was also common in Ireland to decorate the homes by hanging boughs made of Rowan (Mountain Ash) and hawthorn over the doors and windows and in Scotland boughs of junipers were thrown in the fires for purification and blessing. It was also common to drive livestock and individual through two fires for purification.<br /> <br />In Traditional British Witchcraft, this Sabbat is observed as a festival of fertility and often the Great Rite is enacted to bless the land on May Eve. It is also a time of unity between the Goddess and God, often seen as dancing around the Maypole.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-82498765696641059782009-01-10T11:57:00.001-05:002009-01-10T11:59:36.880-05:00Vernal Equinox<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW77dQmEaj-_khf2bTPmr3yI0LTE_cC32CruaG2VMrDAPHXD1zt5sF4Rxz-G8dHFT6_SxW-YDGLSNmOgjmZDyjuP2nVgtbX4fdFu7svIQ45SZ9DF5JkKkUjyrxg5c7IjvnqJXwicPa4GE/s1600-h/hypericum-flower-yellow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW77dQmEaj-_khf2bTPmr3yI0LTE_cC32CruaG2VMrDAPHXD1zt5sF4Rxz-G8dHFT6_SxW-YDGLSNmOgjmZDyjuP2nVgtbX4fdFu7svIQ45SZ9DF5JkKkUjyrxg5c7IjvnqJXwicPa4GE/s320/hypericum-flower-yellow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289710730783350066" /></a><br />The Vernal Equinox (Spring Equinox) is derived from the Latin terms “ver” meaning spring, “aequus” meaning equal, and “nox” meaning night. It is celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere between March 20th and March 22nd and in the Southern Hemisphere between September 21st and September 23rd. The dates are derived from the Gregorian calendar and these dates may not hold true if one follows a lunar calendar, since the Gregorian calendar is a Solar Calendar. The Vernal Equinox marks the time of year when the Sun can be observed directly above the Earth’s Equator which leads way for the day seeming equal in both light and darkness. It is also observed as the first point of Aries within the astrological calendar marking when the Sun enters into the astrological sign of Aries. On the Vernal Equinox, the Sun rises at the same time all over the world which is normally around 6:00 am and sets around 6:00 pm, however one must take in account that the world is divided into time zones and this fact must be calculated to determine the correct time for the Vernal Equinox to occur in your part of the world.<br /><br />Some neo-pagans refer to this Sabbat as Ostara (Eostar), but this term was used by Aiden Kelly to denote the feast of spring and is disregarded by most Traditionalists as inaccurate because the term Eostar, from which Ostara derives its name, refers to the Goddess Eostar and not the feast of spring. In fact, Easter is derived from the name of this Goddess. <br /> <br />The celebration of Earth Day was normally celebrated on the Vernal Equinox, but has since been moved to April 22nd in many countries around the world.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-47662721605325942592009-01-10T11:54:00.003-05:002009-01-10T11:55:42.897-05:00Imbolc<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKUH24bVJqOT94h84uWthMwo4FqNCzNxlILqP633CFXKO6wtHyMVd8JY6EjPq_9TmNtU6bIygpXat6SZGEBW_yqpvaG-tGsVA0UpRnWjlgGxe4onHgTlMkjpb125-84R4SvDJ2biDPWk/s1600-h/Brigits+Cross.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 198px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKUH24bVJqOT94h84uWthMwo4FqNCzNxlILqP633CFXKO6wtHyMVd8JY6EjPq_9TmNtU6bIygpXat6SZGEBW_yqpvaG-tGsVA0UpRnWjlgGxe4onHgTlMkjpb125-84R4SvDJ2biDPWk/s200/Brigits+Cross.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289709633896959954" /></a><br />Imbolc or February Eve is one of the four principal festivals in the Celtic Calendar, marking the first signs of spring, and is celebrated among the Gaelic people and other Celtic Nations on February 2nd. This date was chosen because it was the midpoint between Yule (Winter Solstice) and the Vernal Equinox (Spring Equinox) on the Solar Calendar. In the Northern hemisphere this is when the sun reaches fifteen degrees of Aquarius and in the Southern hemisphere it is the midpoint of Leo. Imbolc is derived from the Irish Gaelic term “Imbolg” meaning “in the belly” and is celebrated as one of the four fire festivals in Traditional British Witchcraft.<br /> <br />In some Celtic Nations, Imbolc or February Eve is dedicated to the Goddess Brigid (also known as Brighid, Bríde, Brigit, or Brìd), the Goddess of poetry and healing and is associated with holy wells and sacred flames. The flame symbolizes the lengthening of the days and the first signs of spring. In Pre-Christian times a sacred fire was kept alight by the Priestesses of the Goddess Brigit on the hill of Kildare to protect their herds and to provide a fruitful harvest. On the Isle of Man, She is known as Caillagh ny Groamagh, and is seen as a gigantic bird, carrying sticks in her beak.<br /> <br />Candles play an important role on Imbolc because they symbolize the light of inspiration and healing and are normally lit on the eve of February to welcome the first signs of spring.<br /> <br />Imbolc was an important time for Ancient Ireland and this is evident by the Loughcrew burial mounds and the Mound of the Hostages in Tara, Ireland, where the inner chamber of the passage tombs are perfectly aligned with the rising sun of both Imbolc and Samhain.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-76388686311852823082008-12-11T10:55:00.006-05:002008-12-11T12:51:11.684-05:00The True Meaning of ChristmasThe reason that this article appears on this website is because Vertius (High Priest) and an Elder (Messenger) of Oak Forest Coven decided to educate followers of different religions of the true meaning of Christmas. There are so many followers of other religions which have no idea of the origins and traditions of this holiday. In this article we hope to inform the reader of the true meaning of Christmas, past and present.<br /><br /><strong>The Etymology of Christmas</strong><br /><br />The term Christmas is derived from the Old English term “Cristes maesse” and the Middle English term “Christemasse” and was first recorded in 1038, according to the Catholic Encyclopedia, meaning “Christ’s Mass” or “the Mass of Christ.” There are times when the term Christmas is abbreviated “xmas” and this abbreviation is derived from the first letter of Christ in Greek. The first letter of Christ in Greek is X (Chi) and appears in the Greek version of the New Testament.<br /> <br /><strong>Christmas and the Winter Solstice</strong><br /><br />There is no doubt that Christmas is derived from the ancient pagan celebration of the Winter Solstice. In the ancient Roman calendar, December 25 was the date of the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year until the invention of the Gregorian calendar when the Winter Solstice was moved to December 21. In the ancient Roman calendar, the feast of Dies Natalis Solis Invicti (the birthday of the Unconquered Sun) was celebrated on December 25 to signify that the Sun could not be conquered by the dark of winter when there was fewer hours of light within the day and when most, if not all, of the vegetation has died. In the Roman calendar, the festival of Saturnalia was also celebrated at this time of year, starting on December 17th and lasting until December 23rd. This feast celebrated the dedication of the Temple of Saturn by untying the ropes or chains that had bound the statue of Saturn throughout the year. Gambling was allowed and the masters and slaves reversed roles in which the masters served the slaves. Punishment of slaves was not allowed during the festival of the Saturnalia which led to the slaves disrespecting their masters. Overall, the feast of the Saturnalia was a time of merriment, with large quantities of food and presents.<br /><br />According to the Bible, there are no records of the date of the birth of Jesus and historically Christmas was not even celebrated until the year 354 C.E. Traditionally, the birth of Jesus was March 28th, according to “De Pascha Computus”, a calendar of feast produced in 243 C.E. However, the birth of Christ was not celebrated because according to the theologian Origen of Alexandria “only sinners celebrated their birthdays.” In the East, the birth of Jesus was celebrated on January 6th after 354 C.E. It was only after Charlemagne was crowned Emperor on December 25th in 800 C.E. that the birth of Christ and the celebration of Christmas increased dramatically.<br /> <br /><strong>Christmas Traditions</strong><br /><br />There are many customs or “traditions” that are associated with Christmas, but here again most, if not all, of these customs are direct results of the pagans. The following paragraphs have been divided so that the reader can get a clear idea of the customs of Christmas and their origins.<br /><br />Christmas Decorations<br /><br />There are so many families in the world that celebrate Christmas by decorating their homes and churches, but most do not know where the tradition started. Many of us are familiar with the decoration of the Christmas tree, which is derived from the pagan custom of tree worship. The pagans would place a evergreen tree in their homes and decorated it with candles to symbolize the rebirth of the Sun at the Winter Solstice and since the evergreen were the only tree that appeared to “be alive” at the most darkest time of the year it became a great representation of rebirth with the candles representing the light of the Sun. The term “Christmas Tree” is first recorded in 1835 from the Germanic language. This custom was introduced to England from Germany to Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, then successfully to Prince Albert during the reign of Queen Victoria. The Germans also introduced this custom to the United States during this time. The Yule log is also Germanic in origin and was a charm against lightening and good fortune. The Yule log would be lit from a piece of the previous years log and would be dusted with the ashes of that log. In English folklore, Father Christmas is often depicted carrying a Yule log. Another custom that is derived from the pagans is the decorating with evergreens, especially with holly, ivy, and mistletoe. This custom is derived from the custom of rebirth of the Sun as described above.<br /> <br />Gifts<br /><br />The custom of giving of gifts at Christmas is derived from many sources, most which are pagan. It is believed that one source is from the Roman feast of Saturnalia. At the feast of Saturnalia items were made and distributed among friends and family. The Germanic custom of gift given was associated with the God Odin and there is a great resemblance between Odin and Santa Claus. Below is a image of Odin the Wanderer from 1886.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwKtoQRy0-CaaA2zIj1WnHrfZaB_01utpeAwHLdgQLoC9sexauH8SuPCYXKiCmabtGAI8G59Tv5kMTOBe2QHUZIMr8Lr8sConeyNi005tHJhYVfXRg3cTT_U5LpebRIGDMqc5u9hBP5o/s1600-h/180px-Georg_von_Rosen_-_Oden_som_vandringsman,_1886_(Odin,_the_Wanderer).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 264px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwKtoQRy0-CaaA2zIj1WnHrfZaB_01utpeAwHLdgQLoC9sexauH8SuPCYXKiCmabtGAI8G59Tv5kMTOBe2QHUZIMr8Lr8sConeyNi005tHJhYVfXRg3cTT_U5LpebRIGDMqc5u9hBP5o/s320/180px-Georg_von_Rosen_-_Oden_som_vandringsman,_1886_(Odin,_the_Wanderer).jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278562522964528674" /></a><br />The traditional gifts associated with pagans were the making and giving of dolls to the children and the making and giving of candles to the adults to remind them of the rebirth of the Sun. The candles would be lit on Yule and placed within the windows throughout the night. The lighting of the Yule log is also traditional and would remain burning throughout the feast of Yule.<br /> <br />Conclusion<br /><br />As this article shows, Christmas is pagan in origin and is celebrated by pagans as the feast of Yule or the Winter Solstice. The customs of Yule (Winter Solstice) remind us of the everlasting wheel of transformation and the return of the Sun until it’s height at Midsummer (Summer Solstice).Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-92029720560806978462008-10-30T01:38:00.001-04:002008-11-11T14:44:33.190-05:00Traditionalism and Eclecticism<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBhqaeFV8LNfKegj0vcLGx2WNVw4jAALw8hgljrSIW-S5e1_wolfEBaZOSJvQXxXxGWN5culsMJCBNTida42nJIvHKuposzsFEJJit-WEUK-solzk7aoWfXhr0OptA9GbIEpdESKLaiU/s1600-h/image004976.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXBhqaeFV8LNfKegj0vcLGx2WNVw4jAALw8hgljrSIW-S5e1_wolfEBaZOSJvQXxXxGWN5culsMJCBNTida42nJIvHKuposzsFEJJit-WEUK-solzk7aoWfXhr0OptA9GbIEpdESKLaiU/s320/image004976.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262817538448271826" /></a><br />What is the difference between Traditionalism and Eclecticism? How does a Traditionalist view an Eclectic? Does a Traditionalist think that their way of working is more correct than that of an Eclectics’? These are many questions that are asked regarding our Tradition, our views on certain issues, and the way we view others in the pagan community. This article is a response to those questions, in hopes to bring every individual that reads it, either as a seeker or an initiate, to a greater understanding of occult knowledge within Traditional British Witchcraft. This article should be read carefully, because this is a response and not the response of Traditional British Wica. Each Initiate of Traditional British Wica may have a difference response to the same questions and this should be debated at length.<br /><br />What is the difference between Traditionalism and Eclecticism?<br /><br />Traditionalism is the act of strict adherence to traditional methods or teachings and accepts these methods or teachings as authority, especially in cultural or religious practice. Traditionalism is also a system holding that all knowledge is derived from a divine source or revelation and is transmitted by tradition. Eclecticism is the act of making a decision on the basis of what seems best instead of following a single doctrine (teaching) or style. So a Traditionalist is a follower (initiate) that adheres to a particular Tradition as a means towards greater understanding of cultural and religious practices and accepts these practices as authority because these teachings and practices have validity within the Tradition. An Eclectic, is an individual that selects and chooses from various sources, not following any one system, as of philosophy, but selects and uses what are considered the best elements of all systems. <br /><br />How does a Traditionalist view an Eclectic?<br /><br />In Wica, a Traditionalist view on Eclecticism and Eclectic is very diverse. Each Traditionalist views Eclecticism in a different way, however most will agree that taking information from different sources and applying them to a religious matter is unwise and unsafe. It is never wise to assume that you can take a deity from one culture and another deity from another culture and make it work effortlessly. The reason behind this is as diverse as the reason behind why that decision was even made because most cultural views on the deities are different and most cultures have a different method of working with a particular deity. You have to ask yourself the question is the deities’ compatible and most of the time you will come to the realization that the two deities are not. To answer the original question, it is only through Tradition that Wica has remained alive and it is through Tradition that it will survive. <br /><br />Does a Traditionalist think that their way of working is more correct than that of an Eclectics’?<br /><br />I have been asked this question many times and have had some defensive remarks, but from my point of view, and from many others that have been in a Traditional Circle, the energy in a Traditional Circle is more intense than that of an Eclectic Circle. The reason for this is simple. In a Traditional Circle, the initiate draws upon the collective power of all initiates, in the past and the present. The reason this can be achieved is because there is an established link between initiates through the process of initiation. This process didn’t happen suddenly and is one of the main reasons that all candidates wishing to join a Traditionalist Coven aren't accepted.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-57444306957172850872008-10-10T20:07:00.005-04:002008-10-13T21:37:57.470-04:00The Altar<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HO6Md8vALIm6d7l8M_NlI0964280beNftF21Y2fRJBqZhTGwXUWdwttIWzhM1glVRlYf2NGuB1WfrKZjUUkjzNuYGiQMr_x8V2c8iqUUPt9ZN8tPqdplpU926NeM981OWWFVa0C-tn0/s1600-h/Altar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HO6Md8vALIm6d7l8M_NlI0964280beNftF21Y2fRJBqZhTGwXUWdwttIWzhM1glVRlYf2NGuB1WfrKZjUUkjzNuYGiQMr_x8V2c8iqUUPt9ZN8tPqdplpU926NeM981OWWFVa0C-tn0/s400/Altar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256096116094794882" /></a><br />The term altar is derived from the Latin term “altare” or “altus” meaning “a high place for burning offerings” and refers to an elevated place or structure where religious rites were performed or where sacrifices were offered to the Gods. In the Olden Days, altars were normally an elevated structures such as mounds or platforms in which animal sacrifices or crops were offered to the Gods for a successful hunt or a bountiful harvest. However, the Wica and most followers of Witchcraft no longer offer animal sacrifices to the Gods and in Traditional British Witchcraft sacrifices are made to the Gods in the forms of harvest, flowers, and incense. <br /><br />In Traditional British Wica, the altar is an elevated structure made from natural materials such as wood and stone and is placed in the centre of the Circle during rituals. The altar is the structure where the Working Tools are placed during the rites, according the gender and elemental association, and were offerings are placed or made when not in use for the rites associated with Tradition. In Traditional British Wica, the only items that are placed on the altar are those that have been properly consecrated to the Gods and offering that have been dedicated to the Gods for a specific occasion. The altar is always placed facing the North because this is the direction of the Gods realm and domain. <br /><br />In Traditional British Witchcraft, the altar should be covered with a black cloth to represent procreation; the only exemption to this rule is at the Esbats and some Sabbats in which other colors are used. The altar candles upon the altar should always be white except for Beltane, Samhain, and Yule and are placed in the upper right and left hand corners of the altar to symbolize the presence of the Gods when lit. When not in use for rituals, the only items upon the altar are the altar candles, statues of the Gods, the Censer, offerings (in the form of flowers or harvest), and the perpetual or eternal flame. All Initiates of Traditional British Wica keep a perpetual or eternal flame on their altars to symbolize life eternal and the union between the brothers and sisters of the Art and the union of the masculine and feminine forces or energies. <br /><br />The altar is either circular or square. The round altar represents life eternal and a square altar represents balance and the Netherlands or the Underworld. The ideal altar is three feet around or square and three feet tall. This is a comfortable height for an altar because the Witch can stand at the altar without having to lean over to reach the Working Tools during ritual. <br /><br />The altar is divided into two parts and represents the masculine and the feminine. The masculine side of the altar is the right side and the left side of the altar is feminine. Therefore, the statue of the Goddess should be placed on the left side of the altar and the statue of the God should be placed on the right side of the altar. The offerings should be placed between the statue of the Gods and the perpetual or eternal flame should be placed in the center of the altar. The Censer should be placed to the East of the altar. <br /><br />In Traditional British Wica, the altar is the physical foundation of their life as a Witch. It represents their connection with the Gods and is the place where offerings are made and devotion takes place. The altar is a reflection of the Witch and should always be kept clean and free of clutter.<br /><br />In the olden days, the woman was the altar with her womb placed within the centre of the Circle. In Traditional British Witchcraft, this is still held true during the Great Rite.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-35898255112173940562008-10-10T16:07:00.003-04:002008-10-10T16:08:39.845-04:00Yule<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVRSPyErbYu4y4AJr1Vxhvai5DNvZMpMfHyifGWBIcW2dRPYYWfrQh3b58mYxLR4r1w9ZRVQ2fWxBIzFyxMrXl0fIGBORkgFbZebqTWTXLoqQXdKo78uu9AZ5avtS5xZpjPYim4PZnD8/s1600-h/Yule+Tree.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVRSPyErbYu4y4AJr1Vxhvai5DNvZMpMfHyifGWBIcW2dRPYYWfrQh3b58mYxLR4r1w9ZRVQ2fWxBIzFyxMrXl0fIGBORkgFbZebqTWTXLoqQXdKo78uu9AZ5avtS5xZpjPYim4PZnD8/s320/Yule+Tree.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255619435470442690" /></a><br />Yule is the ancient celebration of the Winter Solstice (which is derived from the Latin terms “sol” meaning sun and “sistere” meaning “to stand still”) and is derived from the Old English term “geol” meaning “December”. The term “geol” was used by the English and Anglo-Saxons before 900 C.E. and the term “Yule” was used from 1450 C.E. until the present day. The Sabbat of Yule is celebrated between December 20th and December 23rd and commemorates the shortest day and the longest night of the year and the rebirth of God since His departure into the Netherlands or the Underworld during the Autumnal Equinox. However, the date of Yule was moved from the above dates in the Julian calendar to December 25th to correspond with the date of Christmas and is one of the reasons that Yule and Christmas are often used interchangeably. <br /> <br />Yule predates Christianity and it is no surprise why the Christian Church chose the 25th of December as the birth of Jesus and the celebration of Christmas, which means the Mass of Christ. The reason that the Church chose this date as the birth of Jesus is because the pagans of Europe celebrated the rebirth of the sun and their God and to sway the pagans to the New Religion the Church chose the Winter Solstice as the birth of Jesus. However, historically the birth of Jesus would have taken place at the Vernal or Spring Equinox and not at the Winter Solstice.<br /> <br />There are many Yule traditions that have survived throughout the centuries that are even found in the celebration of Christmas. These traditions are the decorating of the Yule Tree (which normally was a fir or spruce tree), the burning of the Yule Log (started from a piece of the previous year’s Yule Log that was kept under the bed for protection), the hanging of holly branches, the giving of gifts (which were normally candles, to commemorate the rebirth of Light or the Sun and homemade dolls for the children), the hanging of boughs, the eating of pork, and merriment. However, there is one tradition that the Church never accepted and that was the hanging of mistletoe.Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-21987072260579693572007-10-31T19:54:00.001-04:002008-10-09T00:43:56.334-04:00Samhain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRhiszEMdoS5Z-rmvUlAWGlUFZKl7D_jQaT669SD73n137-Y72W3onOFfWbWpec33lQnzQZ0rzJKiFl1Wb5I7ykEhq4q_Pxs9aDviCvtEzQvJxNy3ve0CVYUd5GEAxrk9QTpc8Bl-oLs/s1600-h/23040981.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127654001183720050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRhiszEMdoS5Z-rmvUlAWGlUFZKl7D_jQaT669SD73n137-Y72W3onOFfWbWpec33lQnzQZ0rzJKiFl1Wb5I7ykEhq4q_Pxs9aDviCvtEzQvJxNy3ve0CVYUd5GEAxrk9QTpc8Bl-oLs/s400/23040981.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Samhain is celebrated on the 31st of October and is the ancient celebration of the end of the harvest season, which is regarded as the Celtic New Year. The term is derived from the Old Irish “samain” meaning “November” or “the end of summer”. The ancient Celtic calendar (the calendar of Gaul) was divided into two seasons, the summer, which was referred to as the “light” half of the year and was celebrated from Beltane, the 1st of May until Samhain, the 31st of October, and winter which was referred to as the “dark” half of the year and was celebrated from Samhain until Beltane. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Bonfires are a traditional element in the celebration of Samhain and historically two bonfires were lit in which the cattle and livestock were driven, as well as the villagers would pass through as a sign of purification. One this night the villagers would extinguish all other fires and would light their hearth from one of the two bonfires uniting the villagers. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In the Celtic tradition, Samhain was the time within the year when the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead were thin, allowing the spirits of the departed to pass between the worlds to commune with humanity. In Wica, this is the time when one would honor the spirit of their deceased ancestors that would have died that year. </span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"> <br />The modern holiday of Halloween is derived from pre-Celtic celebration of Samhain and is the combination of the Old English terms “hallow” meaning “saint” and “even”, which was shortened to “e’en” to refer to the Roman Catholic and some Protestant Church’s celebration of All Saint’s Day. However, traditionally the Roman Catholic Church celebrated All Saint’s Day on the 13th of May; this date was changed in 835 B.C.E. when Popes Gregory III and Gregory IV decided that the pre-Christian pagan celebration of Samhain should be eliminated from Europe. So, this day was established a day of fasting and was considered the vigil of All Saint’s Day. In North America, Halloween wasn’t celebrated until the nineteenth century when the Irish and Scottish immigrants brought this custom from their homeland and this custom didn’t reach other western countries until the twentieth century.<br /> <br />Today, Halloween is a holiday among many countries as a day associated with activities that include wearing costumes (which came from the English tradition of guising), bobbing for apples (which was a Roman festival dedicated to the Goddess Pomona and her ancient symbol of the apple which was adopted by the Celtic territories during the Roman invasion), and the carving of pumpkins lit by candles (which was a tradition adapted by North Americans from the Irish and Scottish tradition of carving yellow turnips).<br /><br />A Celtic forms of Divination attributed to this holiday include the divining of one’s future spouse by peeling an apple and tossing it over one’s shoulder into a pool of water forming the initials of their future love and the baking of brambrack in Ireland. In North America, the unmarried would gaze into a mirror to see the face of their future love or spouse, but if a skull appear it was destined that they would die and never marry.<br /><br />Halloween<br />By Robert Burns<br /><br />Upon that night, when fairies light</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">On Cassilis Downans dance,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Or owre the lays, in splendid blaze,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">On sprightly coursers prance;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Or for Colean the route is ta'en,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Beneath the moon's pale beams;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">There, up the cove, to stray and rove,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Among the rocks and streams</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To sport that night.<br /><br />Among the bonny winding banks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Where Doon rins, wimplin' clear,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Where Bruce ance ruled the martial ranks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And shook his Carrick spear,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Some merry, friendly, country-folks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Together did convene,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To burn their nits, and pou their stocks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And haud their Halloween</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Fu' blithe that night.<br /><br />The lasses feat, and cleanly neat,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Mair braw than when they're fine;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Their faces blithe, fu' sweetly kythe,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Hearts leal, and warm, and kin';</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The lads sae trig, wi' wooer-babs,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Weel knotted on their garten,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Some unco blate, and some wi' gabs,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Gar lasses' hearts gang startin'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whiles fast at night.<br /><br />Then, first and foremost, through the kail,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Their stocks maun a' be sought ance;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">They steek their een, and graip and wale,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">For muckle anes and straught anes.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Poor hav'rel Will fell aff the drift,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And wander'd through the bow-kail,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And pou't, for want o' better shift,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">A runt was like a sow-tail,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Sae bow't that night.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Then, staught or crooked, yird or nane,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">They roar and cry a' throu'ther;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The very wee things, todlin', rin,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' stocks out owre their shouther;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And gif the custoc's sweet or sour.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' joctelegs they taste them;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Syne cozily, aboon the door,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi cannie care, they've placed them</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To lie that night.<br /><br />The lasses staw frae 'mang them a'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To pou their stalks of corn:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But Rab slips out, and jinks about,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Behint the muckle thorn:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He grippet Nelly hard and fast;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Loud skirl'd a' the lasses;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But her tap-pickle maist was lost,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">When kitlin' in the fause-house</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' him that night.<br /><br />The auld guidwife's well-hoordit nits,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Are round and round divided,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And monie lads' and lasses' fates</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Are there that night decided:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Some kindle coothie, side by side,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And burn thegither trimly;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Some start awa, wi' saucy pride,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And jump out-owre the chimlie</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Fu' high that night.<br /><br />Jean slips in twa wi' tentie ee;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wha 'twas she wadna tell;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But this is Jock, and this is me,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She says in to hersel:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He bleezed owre her, and she owre him,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">As they wad never mair part;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till, fuff! he started up the lum,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And Jean had e'en a sair heart</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To see't that night.<br /><br />Poor Willie, wi' his bow-kail runt,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Was brunt wi' primsie Mallie;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And Mallie, nae doubt, took the drunt,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To be compared to Willie;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Mall's nit lap out wi' pridefu' fling,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And her ain fit it brunt it;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">While Willie lap, and swore by jing,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">'Twas just the way he wanted</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To be that night.<br /><br />Nell had the fause-house in her min',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She pits hersel and Rob in;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In loving bleeze they sweetly join,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till white in ase they're sobbin';</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Nell's heart was dancin' at the view,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She whisper'd Rob to leuk for't:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Rob, stowlins, prie'd her bonny mou',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Fu' cozie in the neuk for't,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Unseen that night.<br /><br />But Merran sat behint their backs,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Her thoughts on Andrew Bell;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She lea'es them gashin' at their cracks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And slips out by hersel:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She through the yard the nearest taks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And to the kiln goes then,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And darklins graipit for the bauks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And in the blue-clue throws then,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Right fear't that night.<br /><br />And aye she win't, and aye she swat,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I wat she made nae jaukin',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till something held within the pat,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Guid Lord! But she was quakin'!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But whether 'was the deil himsel,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Or whether 'twas a bauk-en',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Or whether it was Andrew Bell,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She didna wait on talkin'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To spier that night.<br /><br />Wee Jennie to her grannie says,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">"Will ye go wi' me, grannie?</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I'll eat the apple at the glass</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I gat frae Uncle Johnnie:"</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She fuff't her pipe wi' sic a lunt,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In wrath she was sae vap'rin',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She notice't na, an aizle brunt</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Her braw new worset apron</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Out through that night.<br /><br />"Ye little skelpie-limmer's face!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I daur you try sic sportin',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">As seek the foul thief ony place,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">For him to spae your fortune.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Nae doubt but ye may get a sight!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Great cause ye hae to fear it;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">For mony a ane has gotten a fright,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And lived and died deleeret</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">On sic a night.<br /><br />"Ae hairst afore the Sherramoor, --</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I mind't as weel's yestreen,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I was a gilpey then, </span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I'm sureI wasna past fifteen;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The simmer had been cauld and wat,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And stuff was unco green;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And aye a rantin' kirn we gat,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And just on Halloween</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">It fell that night.<br /><br />"Our stibble-rig was Rab M'Graen,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">A clever sturdy fallow:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">His son gat Eppie Sim wi' wean,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">That lived in Achmacalla:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He gat hemp-seed, I mind it weel,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And he made unco light o't;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But mony a day was by himsel,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He was sae sairly frighted</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">That very night."<br /><br />Then up gat fechtin' Jamie Fleck,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And he swore by his conscience,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">That he could saw hemp-seed a peck;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">For it was a' but nonsense.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The auld guidman raught down the pock,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And out a hanfu' gied him;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Syne bade him slip frae 'mang the folk,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Some time when nae ane see'd him,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And try't that night.<br /><br />He marches through amang the stacks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Though he was something sturtin;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The graip he for a harrow taks.</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And haurls it at his curpin;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And every now and then he says,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">"Hemp-seed, I saw thee,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And her that is to be my lass,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Come after me, and draw thee</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">As fast this night."<br /><br />He whistled up Lord Lennox' march</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To keep his courage cheery;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Although his hair began to arch,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He was say fley'd and eerie:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till presently he hears a squeak,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And then a grane and gruntle;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He by his shouther gae a keek,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And tumbled wi' a wintle</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Out-owre that night.<br /><br />He roar'd a horrid murder-shout,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In dreadfu' desperation!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And young and auld came runnin' out</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To hear the sad narration;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He swore 'twas hilchin Jean M'Craw,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Or crouchie Merran Humphie,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till, stop! She trotted through them,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And wha was it but grumphie</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Asteer that night!<br /><br />Meg fain wad to the barn hae gaen,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To win three wechts o' naething;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But for to meet the deil her lane,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She pat but little faith in:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She gies the herd a pickle nits,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And two red-cheekit apples,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To watch, while for the barn she sets,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In hopes to see Tam Kipples</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">That very nicht.<br /><br />She turns the key wi cannie thraw,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And owre the threshold ventures;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But first on Sawnie gies a ca'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Syne bauldly in she enters:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">A ratton rattled up the wa',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And she cried, Lord, preserve her!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And ran through midden-hole and a',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And pray'd wi' zeal and fervour,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Fu' fast that night;<br /><br />They hoy't out Will wi' sair advice;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">They hecht him some fine braw ane;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">It chanced the stack he faddom'd thrice</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Was timmer-propt for thrawin';</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He taks a swirlie, auld moss-oak,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">For some black grousome carlin;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And loot a winze, and drew a stroke,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till skin in blypes cam haurlin'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Aff's nieves that night.<br /><br />A wanton widow Leezie was,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">As canty as a kittlin;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But, och! that night amang the shaws,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She got a fearfu' settlin'!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">She through the whins, and by the cairn,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And owre the hill gaed scrievin,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whare three lairds' lands met at a burn</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To dip her left sark-sleeve in,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Was bent that night.<br /><br />Whyles owre a linn the burnie plays,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">As through the glen it wimpl't;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whyles round a rocky scaur it strays;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whyles in a wiel it dimpl't;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whyles glitter'd to the nightly rays,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' bickering, dancing dazzle;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Whyles cookit underneath the braes,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Below the spreading hazel,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Unseen that night.<br /><br />Among the brackens, on the brae,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Between her and the moon,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The deil, or else an outler quey,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Gat up and gae a croon:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Poor Leezie's heart maist lap the hool!</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Near lav'rock-height she jumpit;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">But mist a fit, and in the pool</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Out-owre the lugs she plumpit,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' a plunge that night.<br /><br />In order, on the clean hearth-stane,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">The luggies three are ranged,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And every time great care is ta'en',</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">To see them duly changed:</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Auld Uncle John, wha wedlock joys</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Sin' Mar's year did desire,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Because he gat the toom dish thrice,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">He heaved them on the fire</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In wrath that night.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wi' merry sangs, and friendly cracks,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">I wat they didna weary;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">And unco tales, and funny jokes,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Their sports were cheap and cheery;</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Till butter'd so'ns, wi' fragrant lunt,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Set a' their gabs a-steerin';</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Syne, wi' a social glass o' strunt,</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">They parted aff careerin'</span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Fu' blythe that night.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;">In Traditional Wica, Samhain is considered the celebration of death; while Beltane is the celebration of life and fertility.<br /></span>Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-62263391779493435102008-10-08T20:44:00.003-04:002008-10-08T20:53:04.977-04:00Recommended Reading List<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy7Uf9kOj7DBcr4b88OFLfxKWj-XxQsUpuokTb_d28mM-WyqZI6D3E7P-L5u6mmmIle2q853W77mGRzW20MendbqUgDObB9j-kuBE2W8CCIgN1SV7wUWOyvdMA5FGIjEFHJXIW9r1i7s/s1600-h/pentacle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy7Uf9kOj7DBcr4b88OFLfxKWj-XxQsUpuokTb_d28mM-WyqZI6D3E7P-L5u6mmmIle2q853W77mGRzW20MendbqUgDObB9j-kuBE2W8CCIgN1SV7wUWOyvdMA5FGIjEFHJXIW9r1i7s/s400/pentacle.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254948753935275090" /></a><br /><strong>Gerald Gardner</strong><br /><br /><em>Witchcraft Today<br />The Meaning of Witchcraft<br />High Magic’s Aid<br />A Goddess Arrives</em><br /><br /><strong>Doreen Valiente</strong><br /><br /><em>Witchcraft for Tomorrow<br />ABC of Witchcraft<br />Rebirth of Witchcraft</em><br /><br /><strong>Patricia Crowther</strong><br /><br /><em>Lid off the Cauldron<br />High Priestess<br />Witch Blood<br />One Witch’s World<br />Witches Were for Hanging<br />Witchcraft in Yorkshire</em><br /><br /><strong>Vivienne Crowley</strong><br /><br /><em>Principles of Wicca<br />Wicca: The Old Religion in the New Millennium</em><br /><br /><strong>Janet and Stewart Farrar</strong><br /><br /><em>What Witches Do<br />The Witches God<br />The Witches Goddess<br />The Witches Bible Compleat<br />The Witches’ Way: Principles, Rituals and Beliefs of Modern Witchcraft<br />The Pagan Path: The Wiccan Way of Life<br />Eight Sabbats for Witches</em><br /><br /><strong>Dion Fortune</strong><br /><br /><em>The Training and Work of an Initiate<br />Mystical Qabalah<br />The Sea Priestess<br />Moon Magick <br />The Secrets of Dr. Taverner <br />The Goat Foot God</em><br /><br /><strong>Ronald Hutton</strong><br /><br /><em>The Triumph of the Moon<br />The Pagan Religions of the Ancient British Isles<br />The Ritual Year<br />The Stations of the Sun</em><br /><br /><strong>Margaret Murray</strong><br /><br /><em>The God of the Witches<br />Witch Cult in Western Europe</em><br /><br /><strong>Sir James Frazier</strong><br /><br /><em>The Golden Bough</em><br /><br /><strong>Philip Heselton</strong><br /><br /><em>Wiccan Roots: Gerald Gardner and the Modern Witchcraft Revival</em><br /><br /><strong>Robert Graves</strong><br /><br /><em>The White Goddess</em><br /><br /><strong>Charles Leland</strong><br /><br /><em>Aradia: Gospel of the Witches<br />Etruscan Magic and Occult Remedies</em><br /><br /><strong>Ellen Cannon Reed</strong><br /><br /><em>The Heart of Wicca<br />The Witches Qabala</em><br /><br /><strong>Alex Sanders</strong><br /><br /><em>Alex Sanders Lectures</em><br /><br /><strong>Marion Zimmer Bradley</strong><br /><br /><em>The Mists of Avalon</em>Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6990619463486784705.post-62698459996305988172008-09-18T22:42:00.009-04:002008-10-08T18:42:32.196-04:00Lineage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiULm3VKM4QTG_ey-N6yG2wTr82BzWrtVvUyQbrZQ6FMClYqHSDgXPYYOJleylmrucz6S9GJHgpxIsq4bybATNzGY5m0MsrbqXoHAZxz6vsb_KQDEt3yYEHyQj1_K4pd9mp0sxwBiIHxM/s1600-h/123.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiULm3VKM4QTG_ey-N6yG2wTr82BzWrtVvUyQbrZQ6FMClYqHSDgXPYYOJleylmrucz6S9GJHgpxIsq4bybATNzGY5m0MsrbqXoHAZxz6vsb_KQDEt3yYEHyQj1_K4pd9mp0sxwBiIHxM/s400/123.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247561024371952482" /></a><br />George Browne<br /> <br /> - Mary Browne<br /> <br /> - Charles Smith<br /><br /> - Elizabeth Louise Pomponios (The Coven of the Mystical Cauldron)<br /><br /> - Vertius (Adam Gray) (Oak Forest Coven)Oak Forest Covenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05834654878066419163noreply@blogger.com0