Rituals Page
This page provides information about all the different types of ceremonies performed during the weekly rituals.
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There are five main types of events celebrated during weekly Circles each of which is based on a seasonal event. These seasonal events are brought on by the cycles of the sun, the moon, and Earth. The five types of rituals are Sabbats, Esbats, Astors, Healing Rituals, and the Rituals of Changes. Each ritual is related to a specific event, a cosmic energy, and a color.
Sabbats are celebrations of sun cycles (actually, cycles of Earth in relationsship to the sun) which we recognize as the seasons. There are two solstices and two equinoxes. We also celebrate the four days in between the solstices and equinoxes. These are called the cross-quarter days and come at the height of each season. Each of these days has a name, a particular date and a particular significance. In some Sabbats, we also bless certain tools of the altar related to the element of that season.
Esbats are celebrations of moon cycles - specifically days when the moon is full. Significance for each of the full moons is taken from the sign in which the moon is rising. The particular energies of that sign are used to create an emphasis on the types of life energies we experience. Each sign of the zodiac is related to one of the four elements (Air, Fire, Water, Earth) and one of three energies (cardinal, fixed, and mutable). Each of the four elements is related to a part of the self (Air = Mind, Fire = Heart, Water = Soul, Earth = Body) and of each of the three energies is related to three cosmic forces present in all living beings (Cardinal = Expressive, Fixed = Balancing, Mutable = Enfolding). The force combined with the part creates an emphasis for that particular full moon. Thus, each Esbat has a particular name and activity related to it.
Astors are celebrations of the stars which are best seen when the moon is dark. During the Astor, the stars are more visible. The Astor can be used to honor the stars and to prepare for the upcoming Esbat. During the period of the waxing moon we will honor those who may be ill or in need. We will keep them in our thoughts and ask that suffering be reduced. During the period of the waning moon we will celebrate those who have gone through major changes. This will be the time to honor and recognize those people who dedicate themselves to the Pagan path, seek initiation to a new degree, are entering a milestone birthday in the wheel of life, or have any other major life changing event. We will also recognize and honor those things which we depend on for stasis in our life. For those seeking degrees in the Order they are as follows:
Coming of Age Life Changes and Their Rituals:
Texts for the rituals come from Shanddaramon's Book - Sacred Gatherings: Rituals for the Pagan Family. Chants and Songs can be used during
rituals. For some chants see Shanddaramon's book - Pagan Chants and
Songs. |