RITUALS FOR THE WHEEL OF THE YEAR

Pagan Ritual: Casting A Circle by Kerrilyn Bachler-Conner

Often when groups are first starting to practice together, there are many questions raised on how to go about setting up a ritual. The first major component of any ritual - or spell working for that matter - is to cast a circle. The circle serves different purposes all at the same time. The circle protects while also allowing a space in which energy is confined while it is being built, before it is released. The circle gives the participants a guide for where they should focus their attention - to the inside of the circle, while mentally blocking out events taking place outside of the circle. But when most new groups start out practicing together, they are often unsure of just how they should go about casting this all important circle. This is especially true for new people starting out with Pagan practices. It is simple, yet effective, and easy to memorize. What you will need: A pitcher of moon water (Moon water is made by setting a pitcher of water outside underneath a full moon - it should be replenished every month.) A jar of salt, sand, or dirt. A stick or cone of incense along with a safe way to carry it. A "torch" - this can be an actual torch if you can safely carry one and put it on the altar, or something as simple as a candle that can easily be picked up and moved around. Remember to always be careful when handling candles or other forms of fire. Long sleeves and an open flame are not a good combination. Chant together In this time, through this place, we join together, in Sacred Space 3 times. The person at the West takes the pitcher and walks around the outside of the circle pouring water onto the ground saying, Sacred Water blessed by the moon and the Goddess protect our ring. This person completes the circle and takes place again at the West. The group continues the chant. The person at the East takes the incense and walks around the outside of the circle saying, Sacred Air blessed by the Goddess protect our ring. This person completes the circle, and takes place again at the East. The group continues the chant. The person at the North takes the bowl of salt and walks around the outside of the circle sprinkling salt onto the ground saying, Sacred Earth blessed by the Goddess protect our ring. This person completes the circle and takes place again at the North. The group continues the chant. The person at the South takes the candle and walks around the outside of the circle saying, Sacred Fire blessed by the Goddess protect our ring. This person completes the circle and takes place again at the South. You can then call in your deities or proceed in whatever way you normally would. To bring the circle down, everyone can hold hands and say" The circle is open but unbroken" and release hands. This circle casting can be easily completed by a group of any size, or by an individual.