Creating Circles and Ceremonies: Rituals for All ... - reading...

100 Creating Circles & Ceremonies
Preface: Types of Ritual Workings
By Oberon Zell-Ravenheart
132. Children of the Goddess
Let no man dare to ride the wind as Mother’s children do.
Let no man dare to tempt the fire their way.
Let no man think the waters will obey him and be true.
Nor order up the earthquake in his day.
For the Children of the Goddess walk a very special road,
And to speak the truth, it’s not an easy way.
But to one who hears Her calling and has felt the gentle goad,
There is no other path and he is fey.
So filled with joy he follows Her, and though the road is long
He hums an ancient ley, or merry tune;
And his burdens grow much lighter, for he knows he is not wrong,
And his children’s children’s children sing the ancient witches’ rune.
He’s the one to ride the wind that answers his command.
And he’ll tame the fire that others say is wild;
And the waters will obey him and the earthquake seek his hand;
And he smiles, for he knows he’s Mother’s Child.
—Author unknown
The “Working” is the core, heart, and purpose of a magick ritual. There are many types of
workings that may be done—indeed, this phase of the ritual may be as varied as your own
purposes and imagination may conceive. Various examples of such rituals will be presented
in this section, but here I would like to give a brief explanation of a few basic types of ritual
workings and how they may be conducted.
Worship & Celebration
Worship and celebration is a perfectly good purpose for a ritual. This basically means
throwing a party and inviting the Gods to attend! Such a rite should include lots of drumming,
singing, dancing, music, feasting, and general merrymaking. Full moons, birthdays,
special events (such as an eclipse) and seasonal Sabbats are generally celebrated in this
manner (see Book III: “Wheel of the Year”).
One of our favorite such rites is a “Convocation of the Gods,” wherein everyone comes
prepared to aspect (take on the persona of) their favorite Divinity, with appropriate costumes,
masks, and associated accoutrements. It is important to remember, however, that if
you invite the Gods to attend a really good party, They will most likely show up! And Their
first response is going to be: “This had better be good!” So make sure it is!
Anodea Judith says: “When you take on a Deity role in a ritual, it’s of the utmost importance
that you know/become that Deity. You must have ample resources and time available to
immerse yourself in that energy. I suggest you build and dedicate an Altar to the Deity and
that every day you devote some time getting to know that persona.”
Consecration & Blessing
Every new venture—moving into a new home, establishing a business, opening an office,
starting a family, founding an enterprise, beginning a major project—is a perfect opportunity