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

Book I: T he Magick Circle 87
T he Fifth Element-Spirit
Chocolate
As a “snackrament,” chocolate is widely recognized in Pagan circles as the “Fifth Element.”
Celebrants are known as “Chocolytes,” though those who over-indulge are known as
“chocoholics.” Chocolate beverages were considered a drink for the gods during the time of the
Aztec Empire. In Tantric practices a couple would place a square of dark chocolate between
their lips and eat to the middle where they would meet in a long passionate kiss. This not only
raises the kundalini (among other things) but involves the use of the taste buds in oral satiation.
Chocolate has a divine taste that is orgasmic as it melts in your mouth. The theobromine causes
a euphoric state which satisfies the deepest of desires and most compelling of cravings.
In Circle, when sharing this snackrament, the most common phrases are “Thou art sweet,”
“Thou art creamy,” and, for the darker time of year, “Thou art bittersweet.” When you ingest
this snackrament and reach true enlightenment, you achieve the realization that there “s’more
than enough for everyone and some to share” (—Aeona Silversong).
Dance
One of the most primal and prevalent scenes in Pagan life is a fire circle with drummers
and dancers. Both freeform dancing and circle dancing are essential parts of our rituals and
celebrations. Expressing the joy, sorrow, and beauty of our lives through our bodies and
through dance affirms our identity as part of the natural world and prevents our rites from
becoming mere head trips.
Humor
Pagans in general seem to have an inordinate fondness for humor and jokes, both clever and
stupid. Puns especially are virtually a trademark of our sense of humor, and the references from
which these are drawn are an affirmation of our common group heritage.
Ceremonial Bread
by Aeona Silversong
I grew up in a Jewish family and I love to cook. I have the medicinal use of chicken soup
programmed into me. The sharing of food was an affirmation of family and an extension of love
and caring given to friends.
Thus for many years I have baked the breads for our festival rituals. It is a sacred act and I
try to infuse the intent and energy of the Circle Magick into the bread. Breads formed into Celtic
knots, spirals, and braids weave the energy and give support to the magick when made with
intent. I also try to look at the various elements of the ritual for which I’m making the bread. Is
it a spring, summer, or fall ritual? If it is, I make a fruit and nut bread, a bread of prosperity. If it’s
a winter ritual, I make a dark, heavy bread. While kneading the bread, I sing and chant all the
songs I know that relate to that particular topic/ritual. I also speak affirmations and words of
power into the bread.
The inner artist can manifest with various designs and shapes to be incorporated in the
bread. In my opinion, the most beautiful bread I’ve ever made was for my clergy ordination in
1993: I made a 16-inch Gaiarinth design comprised of the nine circles with Gaia in the center (this
was before the Dearinth had been adopted in CAW). For special occasions, I’ve made a wishing
ring cake which gives everyone a wish on their first bite.
I’d like to share with you a fruit and nut bread recipe used for the most special of rituals.
I hope you enjoy it. If you’ve never made bread before, I’d suggest getting a basic bread