Wiccanning

Wiccanning                                                        

This is the Wiccaning Ceremony I wrote for my daughter.  It worked very
well, and even the (several) non-pagan participants told me it was
beautiful, meaningful, and heart-warming.  :)

* Set up the altar as usual, but avoid all sharp objects.
* Use milk and cookies rather than wine and cakes.
* Cast the Circle before the guests arrive, as usual.
* When the guests arrive, bring everyone into Circle and close the Door
  (if there are those who might be "offended", you can easily have a
  Maiden or friend close the Door surrepituously...).

"Guardians of the Four Quarters
Air, Fire, Water Earth
Join us here, celebrate
Confirmation of a child's birth!"

* Have four people call the Quarters (arrange this beforehand).

"Maiden, Warrior, Mother, Crone,
Join us here; watch o'er Your own.
Young Lord, Old Lord; Husband, Son,
Be with us to bless this one."

Bless the milk:  "As the athame is to the male,
                 So the Chalice is to the female.
                 And conjoined they be one in truth.
                 For there is no greater magic in all the world
                 Than that of a man and a woman (alt: "two people")
                 Joined in the bonds of love."

Bless the cakes: "These cakes are the fruition of the union
                 of our Lord and Lady.
                 Let all but the blessings of that union
                 Be cast out, that we may all
                 Share in Their bounty!"

HPS:  We are met in this Circle to ask the blessings of the Lord and
Lady on (child's mundane name), daughter of (mother's name) and
(father's name).  May she grow in beauty and strength, joy and wisdom.

(Pause)

HPS:  There are many Paths, and each must find her own.  Therefore, we
do not seek to bind (baby) to any one Path while she is still too young
to choose.  Instead, we ask the Lord and Lady, who know *all* Paths, to
bless, protect and prepare her through the years of her childhood.
Then, when she is at last fully grown, she shall know, without a doubt,
which Path is hers, and shall tread it gladly.  (Father), please bring
(baby) forward that she may be blessed.

HPS:  (Baby's) mother has chosen a Hidden name for her.  (Mother), what
is that name?

Mother:  (Hidden name)

HPS:  Then in the silent senses of the Lord and Lady, she shall be known
as (Hidden name).

* Anoint forehead with oil (pentagram):
  "I anoint thee, (mundane name), with oil,
  and give thee the Hidden Name, (Hidden name)."

* Anoint forehead with wine/juice/milk:
  "I anoint thee, (Hidden name), with wine,
  In the name of the Lord."
  (Whisper private name of the God into baby's ear).

* Anoint forehead with water:
  "I anoint thee, (Hidden name), with water,
  In the name of the Lady."
  (Whisper private name of the Goddess into the baby's ear).

* Touch the baby's crown, and say:
  "You are named (mundane name), also (Hidden name).
  And I dedicate you to a life of peace and love.

* Touch baby's "third eye":
  "...That you may see your way clearly."

* Touch baby's throat:
  "...that you may speak the truth."

* Touch baby's heart:
  "...that your heart always be open."

* Touch baby's solar plexus:
  "...that your Will and Strength be strong."

* Touch baby's belly:
  "...that your sexuality be joyful and loving."

* Touch baby's vagina (penis):
  "...that you be a gateway (progenitor) of lives and creations to come."

* Touch baby's hands:
  "...that you may always do the Lord and Lady's work,
  no matter how you see or worship Them."

* Touch baby's feet:
  "...that you always walk the Path you're called to."

* Touch baby's crown:
  "Bless this child, who is a tiny Goddess...
  Bless her, protect her, and give her a joyful life!"

HPS:  In the story of Sleeping Beauty, the good fairies all blessed the
baby with a special gift.  (Mother) asks now that you each bestow her
with a personal blessing.  (Baby), I bestow upon you the gift of love.
(Kiss baby's head, then walk to Father, who says blessing, then to
Mother, etc. through all guests present.)

HPS:  Are there any here who would stand as Godparents to (baby)?

* Godparents step forward:  "We would."

HPS:  Do you, (names of Godparents, one at a time), promise to be a
friend to (baby) through her childhood; to aid and guide as needed; and
in concord with her parents, to watch over her and love her as if she
were of your own blood; until, by the grace of the Lord and Lady, she is
ready to choose her own Path?

Godparents (one at a time):  I, (name), do so promise.

HPS:  The Lord and Lady have blessed her;
      We, her friends and family have welcomed her;
      Therefore, Oh Circle of STars,
      Shine in peace on (baby),
      Whose Hidden name is (Hidden name).
      So mote it be!

* Thank guests, cut them a door, allow them to leave.
* Close Circle as usual.
* Party, and gift giving if the baby (or parents) are ready.

Ally

http://www.ladyoftheearth.com/rituals/wiccaning-3.txt

i love this ritual a lot!

Yule Log

The Yule log. What is it? What do I use it for? How do I make one?

These are the most frequently asked questions about the yule log, and i will be answering all of those questions in this post!

"May the log burn"
"May the wheel turn"
"May evil spurn"
"May the Sun return"

The Yule log is a central part of Yule festivities. The log is kindled from the remains of the previous year's Yule fire(This piece was kept in the home throughout the year for protection . . The Yule log symbolizes the light returning to conquer the darkness. According to tradition, the log must either have been harvested from the householder's land, or given as a gift... it must never have been bought. Once dragged into the house and placed in the fireplace it was decorated in seasonal greenery, doused with cider or ale, and dusted with flour before set ablaze . The log would burn throughout the night, then smolder for 12 days after before being ceremonially put out. A different type of Yule log, and perhaps one more suitable for modern practitioners would be the type that is used as a base to hold three candles. Find a smaller branch of oak or pine, and flatten one side so it sets upright. Drill three holes in the top side to hold red, green, and white (season), green, gold, and black (the Sun God), or white, red, and black (the Great Goddess). Continue to decorate with greenery, red and gold bows, rosebuds, cloves, and dust with flour. Once, the Yule log had been the center of the celebration. There are many traditional ways to collect your log; Some collect a log at Beltane and dry out till Yule. Others use the thickest part of the Yule tree trunk to save till it becomes next years Yule log. Still others will make a ritual of trekking into the woods at yuletide and dragging their Yule log home. Yule Log Magick The yule log is a remnant of the bonfires that pagans would set ablaze at the time of winter solstice. These bonfires symbolized the return of the Sun.   The Yule log can be made of any wood (Oak is traditional). Each releases its own kind of magick. Ash -- brings protection, prosperity, and health Aspen -- invokes understanding of the grand design Birch -- signifies new beginnings Holly -- inspires visions and reveals past lives Oak -- brings healing, strength, and wisdom Pine -- signifies prosperity and growth Willow -- invokes the Goddess to achieve desires The burning of the Yule Log can easily become a family tradition. Begin by having parent(s) or some other family member describe the tradition of the Yule Log. The tale of the Oak King and Holly King from Celtic mythology can be shared as a story, or can be summarized with a statement that the Oak represents the waxing solar year, Winter Solstice to Summer Solstice, and the Holly represents the waning solar year, Summer Solstice to Winter Solstice. Lights are extinguished as much as possible. The family is quiet together in the darkness. Family members quietly contemplate the change in the solar year. Each in her/his own way contemplates the past calendar year, the challenges as well as the good times. Then the Yule Log fire is lit. As it begins to burn, each family member throws in one or more dried holly sprigs and says farewell to the old calendar year. Farewells can take the form of thanksgiving and appreciation and/or a banishment of old habits or personal pains. Once the Yule Log itself starts blazing, then the facilitator invites family members to contemplate the year ahead and the power of possibilities. Each member then throws in an oak twig or acorn into the fire to represent the year ahead, and calls out a resolution and/or a hope. Families using a Yule Log with candles each family member can write a bad habit and/or a wish for the upcoming year on a slip of paper and burn it in the candle flame. When this process is done, the family sings a song together. The traditional carol, "Deck the Halls," is good because it mentions the Solstice, the change in the solar year, and the Yule Log. Let the Yule Log burn down to a few chunks of charred wood and ashes (or candles burn down). Following an ancient tradition, save remnants of the fire and use them to start the Yule Log fire the following year. or the stumps of the candles to start next years candles.

MAKE A YULE LOG

To make a Yule Log, simply choose a dried piece of oak(or other wood) and decorate with burnable ribbons, evergreens, holly, and mistletoe. To make a Yule Log with candles (suitable for indoor observances when a fireplace is not available), you will need a round log at least thirteen inches long and five inches thick. Flatten the bottom of the log with a saw (preferably a power saw or you'll be their a long time) by trimming off an inch or two so the log will sit without wobbling. Next determine where the three candle holes should be drilled along the top of the log. They should be evenly spaced. The size of the holes will be determined by the size candles you are using. Drill the holes 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch to accommodate the candles.

The log with candles may be painted or sprayed with varnish or shellac to keep it from drying out. When the varnish is dry, insert candles and decorate it with holly, evergreens, and mistletoe. Candles may be green, red, and silver or white to represent the Oak King, the Holly King, and the Goddess; or white, red, and black to represent the Triple Goddess.

 http://thecronescottage.tripod.com/thecottagedecyule2001/id16.html

Just a link :D

So I found this new web site page, and if any pagans other than my mother's read this I think you should check it out :D here's my personal profile


http://www.themerrymeet.com/ScatteredOwl

Bedtime prayers for kids

most pagan children feel a little left out when it comes to bed time prayers because most parents don't know what type of prayers to teach them, well I have perused the internet for as many examples as I could find and the result is this post  hope you can find something you enjoy :D


Now I lay me down to rest
I pray that all the world be blessed
Lady Moon and Sister Star watch over me from afar
Mother Earth is always there
And keeps me safe within her care
The Lord of Dreams will dance and sing
And happy dreams to me will bring
And when I wake to greet the day
Brother Sun will light my way.
~Kitty Degler.~

The Child's Rede
———— —
Oh Gracious Goddess, Mother Earth,
I call to Thee with love and mirth,
Oh Horn-ed Hunter of the night,
I pray to Thee; show me thy light
As my heart grows strong
Teach me right from wrong,
Keep me safe
Keep me warm
So none will I harm,
So I will be
One with thee
As my will
So mote it be!

-Author Unknown

teaches children to raise a protection spell for sleep…
o golden light
o silver light
please weave your web around me and protect me through the night…
my day is done
my nights’ begun
my dreams before me are found
i sleep in peace of light
my perfect circle bound…
goddess bless

(for meal time)

Lord and Lady, watch over us,
and bless us as we eat.
Bless this food, this bounty of earth,
we thank you, so mote it be.

Corn and grain, meat and milk,
upon my table before me.
Gifts of life, bringing sustenance and strength,
I am grateful for all I have.

Hail! Hail! The hunt has ended,
and meat is on the table!
We honor the deer* who feeds us tonight,
may his spirit live within us!

I set a place at my table for the gods,
and ask them to join me here tonight.
My home is always open to you,
and my heart is open as well.

In ancient Rome, it was common to leave a bit of your food on the altar for your household deities. If you would like to do this at your meal, you could use the following prayer: This meal is the work of many hands,
and I offer you a share.
Holy ones, accept my gift,
and upon my hearth, leave your blessings.

Goddess Prayers
1. Mother of all things, watch over me tonight,
Hold me in your arms, until the morning light.

2. Blessed be the mother goddess, by all her many names.
May she bless my family and friends.
May she bless the animals of the world,
and all people everywhere.

3. Diana, goddess of the moon,
Shining in the sky above,
Bathe me in your magical light,
And protect me with your love.



God Prayers
1. The horned god runs in the night,
And hunts among the stars,
May he watch over and keep us safe,
No matter where we are.


2. Lord of night, welcome me as I sleep.
Guide me in the darkness,
and protect me as I dream


Goodnight Earth
The earth is big and fat and round,
I love the sky, the sea and the ground,
I love the birds and dogs and sheep,
and all the animals that fall asleep,
I love the flowers and rocks and trees,
I love the earth, and it loves me.

Fantasy Bedtime Prayer for Kids

Now I lay down in my bed,
And pull the covers up to my head.
I'll dream of dragons and fairies bright,
And pixies and wizards and elves tonight.
I'll dream of some sort of magical place, and
wake in the morning with a smile on my face.

A Psalm for Gaia
Written by Dolores Stewart Riccio
The Earth is my mother, I shall not want.
She nurtures me in green pastures;
she freshens me with flowing waters.
She restores my body and awakens my soul.
Although I walk in the shadow
of changing seasons and passing time,
I will not fear death,


The Magick (a bedtime chant)


(Close your eyes and imagine a circle of light going all around the room.)

O golden light,
O silver light,
Please, weave your web around me
And protect me through the night.
My day is done, my night begun,
With dreams before me found.
I shall sleep in peace and light,
My protective circle bound.
I said this prayer with all my children, and I sing a version of it to little Dante when I put him to bed at night.

 

Bedtime Prayer
author unknown

Day is done, it's time for bed
Goddess bless my sleepy head
Earth and Water, Air and Fire
Bring gentle dreams as I retire
When the morning sun does rise
The God will bless my open eyes

INVOCATION OF THE MOON GODDESS

Diana, queen of night,
In all your beauty bright,
Shine on us here,
And with your silver beam
Unlock the gate of dream;
Rise bright and clear.
On earth and sky and sea,
Your magic mystery
Its spell shall cast,
Wherever leaf may grow,
Wherever tide may flow,
Till all be past.
O secret queen of power,
At this enchanted hour
We ask your boon.
May fortune's favor fall
Upon true witches all,
O Lady Moon!

Doreen Valiente

EARTH MY BODY

Earth my body,
Water my blood,
Air my breath,
And Fire my spirit.








THE GODDESS CHANT

Isis, Asarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali, Innana
 


Make me strong in spirit
Courageous in action
Gentle of heart
Let me act in wisdom
Conquer my fear and doubt
Discover my own hidden gifts
Meet others with compassion
Be a source of healing energies
And face each day with hope and joy
~ Abby Willowroot




A MORNING PRAYER
Oh Great Goddess
Bless this day
Keep me safe and whole
Oh Great Goddess
Bless my path
Help me to act on thy wisdom
Oh Great Goddess
Bless my family
All life on this Earth
~ Abby Willowroot



NIGHT PRAYER
Thank You Great Goddess for this day
for the blessings and lessons that came my way
May my sleep be peaceful in dreams and rest
and tomorrow may I do my best
~ Abby Willowroot

Bed Time Prayer

Lady and Lord,
Please guide me,
and protect me,
and keep me safe,
from all harm

Please watch over Mommy,
and Daddy,
and me,
and all my family!

Blessed Be.

Food Blessing

Lady and Lord,
Thank you for this food which we're going to eat
Thank you for the earth in which it grew,
the rain that watered it,
the wind which gave it breath
and the sun which gave it life

Thank you for the life which was given so we can eat

We are grateful for all the blessings we have in our lives
and for all the unknown blessings already on the way

May we continue to live in health
happiness,
love,
family,
and prosperity

Blessed Be.

Travel Blessing

Lady and Lord,
Please guide us and protect us on our journey
and keep us safe from all harm.

Please don't let us get into any accidents,
breakdowns,
bumps, rubs,
or other trouble.

Just help us get to all the places we want to go to today,

Safely.

So mote it be.


PRAYER OF DAILY THANKSGIVING
(found in the book Wiccan Prayers)
 Dearest Father, thank you for this glorious day.
Thank you for the sunshine, and thank you for the rain.
Thank you for the blue skies, rivers, streams and lakes.
Dearest Mother, thank you for the green grass, and thank you for the trees.
Thank you for the many birds singing in the breeze.
My dearest parents, thank you for giving of yourselves so selflessly to me.
Thank you for life itself, a precious gift that's free.
Blessed Be

EVENING PRAYER

Dearest Parents, Father God and Mother Goddess,I wish to thank you for a truly wonderful day.

I have experienced many ups and downs today, and with your help,

I have gained much joy and wisdom along the way.

Thank you for my health, thank you for my friends, and family,

thank you for my faith and thank you for the opportunity to be part of your world. 

Blessed Be

PRAYERS FOR EACH DAY OF THE WEEK(for the adults!)
SUNDAY (For Strength)
O dearest Father, help me to know and understand your will, allow me the strength to accomplish all you ask of me. My dearest Mother, help me to be strong enough this day to show love to everyone, even those who show hatred toward me. So Mote It Be.

MONDAY (For Compassion)
Dearest Parents, please grant me the gift of compassion: For the green earth; your woods, forests,waters,air, animals and all people. Help me to become an example of compassion, so I may plant the seed of compassion for the betterment of all creation. Blessed Be

TUESDAY (For Fidelity to One Religion)
I call upon you, my Lord and Lady, to grant me the strength to remain forever faithful to my Path. Please help me to keep all of the promises I have made to you, my eternal parents, as well as those I have made to my brothers and sisters, especially those of my hearth and home. So Mote It Be

WEDNESDAY (For World Peace)
Dear Mother, please grant your children knowledge, understanding, patience, and love. Dear Father, please grant that through these gifts all nations may work together to end the world's suffering and put an end to all war so there will be everlasting peace. Blessed Be 

THURSDAY (For Wisdom)
O my dearest and eternal parents, please show me the way of wisdom, and grant me the strength to follow it no matter what adversary stands in my way. So Mote It Be


FRIDAY (For Patience)
O eternal Goddess, Maiden, Mother and Crone, I am made from your flesh and you know me better than I know myself. You understand depression, frustration, and anxiety. Please help me to control these emotions, and help me to convert these powerful feelings into love. O eternal God, King of infinite wisdom and goodness, I am created from your essence, and I thank you for the gift of life. Please teach me to be patient and humble, tolerant and gentle, especailly when life's problems become heavy and difficult to bear. So Mote It Be

SATURDAY (To Know and Accomplish the Will of the God & Goddess)
Dear Lord, Dear Lady, you have created me for a special purpose. This I know as fact. I humbly ask that you make known to me your will so I can understand and accomplish my life's mission. I promise to do my best to do good, to bring peace to the world, to always speak the truth, and to uphold the sacred teachings of my Path all the days of my life. So Mote It Be.

PRAYER FOR PAGAN CHILDREN

O God, O Goddess, you have created all people, all races, all traditions, and all faiths. 

You have taught us to worship you each in our own way. 

This can be very confusing at times and to a small child often traumatic.

Mankind has created much discontent, and prejudice is everywhere.

My prayer is for all the children, but especially the pagan child. 

Give them and their families the strength and endurance needed to survive these times

. Help them to grow and understand that ignorance and greed is the cause of all suffering, 

so that one day we all can be united as one family again. 

So Mote It Be

PRAYER FOR PAGAN UNITY
Dear eternal Father,
there is much unrest and disunity in the world.
Help us to embrace each other and live in peace and harmony in the pagan way
Dear eternal Mother,
we realize there are many different traditions of faith.
Help us to see past the difference and unite as one family in total harmony and love.
So Mote It Be

I Love The Earth
The Earth is big, fat, and round
I love the sky, sea, and ground
I love the birds, dogs, and sheep
And all the animals that fall asleep
I love the flowers, rocks, and trees
I love the Earth and she loves me!

Nighttime Prayer
Now I lay me down to rest
I know today I did my best
Into the Goddess care I’ll be
With Guardians watching over me

Morning Prayer
Each day I wake and blessed be
For all that has been shown to me.
I have each morning, all I need
Myself, the Law, and the Witches Rede

I hope you can find some of these useful, and I hope the kids enjoy them!

circle of protection

Opening the circle
 
Purify the place where you will cast your circle. Purify physically (clean up) as well as spiritually (take your hands, or broom, athame or wand and direct positive energy into the area, to push away negative energy). You could try using witch hazel or even a smudge stick-which is sage dried and tightly bound into a stick form-  to cleanse the area - a couple of drops in each corner of the room and round the perimeter of the circle should be sufficient.

Physically determine the bounds of your circle, if you want. Do this by drawing a circle on the floor, sprinkling salt water in a circle, or by laying a cord in a circle (make sure you tie it). Anyhow, the circle is usually as wide as you are tall. unless you are doing a rite with many people them your circle should be wide enough for every one to fit inside it.

Place all the objects you will be using in your ritual inside the circle

Represent the elements in the four quarters of your circle (called corners by some, but a circle doesn't have any corners!). Place something that represent Earth in the north(crystal, salt, twig,dirt etc.) Air in the east(feather, incense, oil etc) Fire south(candle) and Water west(tap will work the gods aren't picky) Bless (or ask for consecration of) these things. Be sure to have some food(bread, cake, cookies etc) and drink(water, wine, mead, juice, etc) to share with the spirits, to thank them and to replenish your energy.

(This is where you may (if your confident enough) make changes, as long as the same thing is being accomplished)

Take your magick weapon, whether it be hands, a broom, athame or wand, and walk round the spot where your circle will be thrice, clockwise: "Cast the circle thrice about, to keep the evil spirits out." State the purpose of the circle.

Invoke the elements and spirits and deities you wish to work with. Call them to the objects that represent them. Take each of the objects that represent the elements around your circle, filling it with the power of each of them.

Meditate for a while now. Meditation or astral projection might be the main act, or it serves just to shift your consciousness.

Do whatever it is you want to do in your circle. Remember: "An it harm none, do what ye will." If you must leave the circle before you are done, cut a doorway (quite literally, envision a doorway being cut from the edge of the circle, up, to the side, then down again. Re-close the circle once you're back in.


http://www.wikihow.com/Cast-a-Circle


  Closing the circle

Walk counter-clockwise around your circle three times. On the first turn, verbally thank the four directions as you pass their stations. On the second turn, verbally thank your guardians and angels for their protection and guidance. On the third and final turn, say:

"O circle of power,
By my will, I release thee.
Thank you for your guidance.
Return to your place of power.
my will so Mote It Be!" 

Clap hands loudly, or ring the bells to disperse the energy. This action is like bursting a bubble or taking a broad expanse of energy and scattering it into a million parts to go out to the earth and be transformed into your desire. With a broom or your hand, erase the circumference of your circle.
http://www.spellsthatwork.com/circle-closing.html

Good dream fairy spell

If you are haunted by the Mares of the night (aka. nightmares) then this spell will bring the help of the fairies to keep your dreams good and the Mares running

Materials Needed 
A Dream Catcher, make sure it is is cleansed of all energy.
Bell(for calling the fairies)
Incense (something that reminds you of fairies or spring)


Spell 
Light Incense and draw a star in the air over the dream catcher with the smoke and say

"Fairies of light,
so good and so bright.
Guide only good dreams to me tonight"


Draw a circle around the star and say

"Fairies of night,
so playful and fun
keep the night mares on the run."

place the incense down (keep safe and make sure its where it wont sent any thing on fire, an incense burner is recommended) hold your hands over the dream catcher, and imagine good feelings flowing out of your hands and into the dream catcher, take as long as you feel you need to do this, when done pick up the Bell and say

"Triple Goddess of the moon bless me with the fairies soon.
one ring of the bell brings the fairies to me."

ring bell

"Second ring, lets them hear my plea"

ring bell again

"Third ring may they bring good dreams only"

ring bell, let the Incense burn out on its own. hand the dream catcher at the head of your bed, about the middle is best. And remember Fairies are more likely to listen and help if you get a small tea set for them and offer cream(milk if you don't have cream) cake(bread works ) and honey (they get mad if you try to substitute the honey)   




I wrote this spell for my little girl, and have recently perfected it, I thought it would be nice to share this one with you all.

Spirit guide ritual for children

Children's Rituals are generally shorter then adult ones and have a lighter atmosphere. These rites give children an opportunity to stretch there attentive skills, and there spirits, by creatively interacting with the metaphysical world. (guided by an adult) Whenever possible children involved should themselves call the Quarters (and other terms) so they learn how to work with magical energy more effectively. Sometimes it helps to present this idea to the children as taking a role in a special play.
Explain to them the importance of this  "play" and what to expect in advance. Then walk the children through a few "dress rehearsals" so they feel comfortable with the proceedings. In the end, as children grow older 'this prepares them for taking an adult role in the family circles.

Animal Guide:

Most children have a natural affinity for animals. This Ritual is designed to help them find a personal animal guide that can stay with them and support them through the most difficult parts of growing up. You'll need a small piece of bread, a celery leaf, seeds and a bowl of water for each child. These are left on the alter until needed. You also need one nine inch strand of yellow yarn for each child participating.

Invocation:

Rhyming invocations help children remember them better. Older children can write some of their own. This particular invocation ends in the North to emphasize the earth and its creatures. If possible enact the circle
outdoors- it proves far more successful.

In the East say: " Lord of the Wind, come dance and play---Join us in sacred space today"

In the South say: "Lord of the fires, warm us within---so our magic can begin"

In the West say: " Lady of Water, fill us with cheer---Cleanse and protect everyone here"

In the North say: " Lady of Earth, reveal your spirits---let them join in this circle with us"

The Ritual:

Have each child take the seeds, celery leaves, bread, and a bowl of water to a spot in the circle, facing outward. Have them pour out the water, sprinkle the seeds, break the bread, and toss the celery leaves out to the ground saying:

"Spirit animals of water, earth, air and fire, take our gifts our dreams inspire"

Next give each child the yellow yarn. Have them tie into it three knots saying:

"With the knot of one, my magic's begun.
 With the knot of two, let my dreams come true.
 With the knot of three, bring my guide to me!"

Every night for the next three days the children should keep the yarn knots under there pillow and a dream journal handy. If a spirit animal is to come it will reveal itself in these dreams.

Closing the circle:
 
The circle should always be closed in the opposite direction it was opened


In the North say: "Earth and stone, earth and stone, stay with us, till we're safely home."

In the West say: 'Waves and rain, Waves and rain, Merry part and Merry Meet again."

In the South say: "Fire and flame, Fire and flame, return freely from where you came."

In the East say: "Air and wind, wind and air, move our power, our magic bear."



Take time after the ritual  to let the children discuss the experience and verbalize what they think different animals might represent (and why).




http://www.wicca-chat.com/childrit.htm

Full Moon Ritual

this one is more complicated than the yule but just as good :D  

materials needed:
something to symbolize earth (a bowl of dirt, a twig, etc.)
a stick of incense for air
a candle(red, yellow, or white a universal color)
a bowl of water
and something to represent the moon goddess(i find the symbol of the triple goddess- )o( -the best to use)
you will also need something to eat(small cakes, cookies, rolls etc)
and something to drink, the ritual says water but you can also use wine, mead, or juice and just replace to word. 

First cast a Circle. The Circle should be fully cast, as major acts of Magick that are required by a full moon ritual, need a Witch's total concentration. It is very difficult/draining to maintain a lesser Circle during major Magicks and could be dangerous to the Witch. Once the Circle is cast, kneel before your alter looking up at the moon and say;

"Lady Moon bright and serene,

Shining with the bounty of the Mother,

Look down on us your Children of the Earth.

Come, light of the Goddess,

Fill us with your power.

Lend us your blessings,

Let your light surround us.

Impart to us your light and blessing.

Your love and grace, surround us.

Surround us Goddess,

Surround us with your love."

Once the moon's energy has been called down, a Witch must direct the granted energy. Sometimes, there will be no direction but only meditation. The energy is then released with the undoing of the Circle into the environment. A spell or series of spells can also direct or use up the granted energy. A request can also be made of the Goddess. She may then choose to use the energy you have been granted, for the stated purpose.

"Power blessed to me by the Goddess,

rise in me for healing,

to replenish and renew my being.

Power blessed to me by the Goddess,

Surround me with strength.

By the power of the Goddess,

So mote it be."

Keep the request formal if you want. A more personal prayer will be better heard if you choose not to set your request into words. If there are others within the Circle who have taken part in the ritual, have them also make their own request. I have also heard of group requests that work just as well. As with many other strong Magicks or major rituals, the rite must be closed.

"Goddess and Spirits,

You have heard our voices,

and our Craft has been completed.

Depart with our thanks and our love,

as we eat these cakes to replenish our bodies,

and this water which shall cleans our souls.

By the power of the Goddess and Spirits,

This Circle is open but never broken,

So mote it be."

Variations on calling down the moon and working with the given energy are all over the internet. There is no version that is the 'correct' version. The correct version, is the version that makes you feel good. Don't hesitate to make your own or adapt an existing ritual.

In the Shamanistic and Wiccan version that I recently did, the Circle was not formally closed. Instead we worked on a beach and let the sea naturally close and undo the circle. This was according to Shamanistic tradition and I found that it worked very well. I went back the next day and found that the circle was as fully washed away and no residues were left. I have given the ritual closing that we did that night above

 http://hearthwitch.tripod.com/full.htm

and remember this is a full moon ritual NOT thanks giving, their is no need to say what you are thankful for even though some people think it is needed.

simple yule rituals

Materials Needed:

Dirt from the land you live on (to represent the Earth)

A candle (bright yellow to represent fire, and the sun)

Water (to represent, of course water.  From your tap is fine)

Incense (to represent air. Choose a scent that represents the holiday to you)

An evergreen branch (small or large will do)

A small offering to the Reborn God (something handmade by you, a string of beads, etc.)

And most important, a quiet ritual space where you will not be disturbed.

 

Additional materials, such as pine cones, antlers, flowers, etc. can be added to the ritual space as desired.  I usually have many things around me, that have special meaning to me, but this is meant to be a very simple ritual for the newcomer, so I will forgo adding more than needed

 

Place the Earth element in the North, the Air in the East, the Fire in the South, and the Water in the West.  Try to place them so that you can reach each of them easily from one position.  This can be on a small table, a tree stump, or the ground.  If you wish, cover the area with a cloth that you will only use for ritual to help put you in the right frame of mind for it.  Light the Fire candle, and meditate on what Yule means to you.

if your not quite sure what yule means to you refer to this-

Our Christian friends are often quite surprised at how enthusiastically we Pagans celebrate the 'Christmas' season. Even though we prefer to use the word 'Yule', and our celebrations may peak a few days BEFORE the 25th, we nonetheless follow many of the traditional customs of the season: decorated trees, caroling, presents, Yule logs, and mistletoe. We might even go so far as putting up a 'Nativity set', though for us the three central characters are likely to be interpreted as Mother Nature, Father Time, and the Baby Sun-God. None of this will come as a surprise to anyone who knows the true history of the holiday, of course.

In fact, if truth be known, the holiday of Christmas has always been more Pagan than Christian, with it's associations of Nordic divination, Celtic fertility rites, and Roman Mithraism. That is why both Martin Luther and John Calvin abhorred it, why the Puritans refused to acknowledge it, much less celebrate it (to them, no day of the year could be more holy than the Sabbath), and why it was even made ILLEGAL in Boston! The holiday was already too closely associated with the birth of older Pagan gods and heroes. And many of them (like Oedipus, Theseus, Hercules, Perseus, Jason, Dionysus, Apollo, Mithra, Horus and even Arthur) possessed a narrative of birth, death, and resurrection that was uncomfortably close to that of Jesus. And to make matters worse, many of them pre-dated the Christian Savior.

Ultimately, of course, the holiday is rooted deeply in the cycle of the year. It is the Winter Solstice that is being celebrated, seed-time of the year, the longest night and shortest day. It is the birthday of the new Sun King, the Son of God -- by whatever name you choose to call him. On this darkest of nights, the Goddess becomes the Great Mother and once again gives birth. And it makes perfect poetic sense that on the longest night of the winter, 'the dark night of our souls', there springs the new spark of hope, the Sacred Fire, the Light of the World, the Coel Coeth.

That is why Pagans have as much right to claim this holiday as Christians. Perhaps even more so, as the Christians were rather late in laying claim to it, and tried more than once to reject it. There had been a tradition in the West that Mary bore the child Jesus on the twenty-fifth day, but no one could seem to decide on the month. Finally, in 320 C.E., the Catholic Fathers in Rome decided to make it December, in an effort to co-opt the Mithraic celebration of the Romans and the Yule celebrations of the Celts and Saxons.

There was never much pretense that the date they finally chose was historically accurate. Shepherds just don't 'tend their flocks by night' in the high pastures in the dead of winter! But if one wishes to use the New Testament as historical evidence, this reference may point to sometime in the spring as the time of Jesus's birth. This is because the lambing season occurs in the spring and that is the only time when shepherds are likely to 'watch their flocks by night' -- to make sure the lambing goes well. Knowing this, the Eastern half of the Church continued to reject December 25, preferring a 'movable date' fixed by their astrologers according to the moon.

Thus, despite its shaky start (for over three centuries, no one knew when Jesus was supposed to have been born!), December 25 finally began to catch on. By 529, it was a civic holiday, and all work or public business (except that of cooks, bakers, or any that contributed to the delight of the holiday) was prohibited by the Emperor Justinian. In 563, the Council of Braga forbade fasting on Christmas Day, and four years later the Council of Tours proclaimed the twelve days from December 25 to Epiphany as a sacred, festive season. This last point is perhaps the hardest to impress upon the modern reader, who is lucky to get a single day off work. Christmas, in the Middle Ages, was not a SINGLE day, but rather a period of TWELVE days, from December 25 to January 6. The Twelve Days of Christmas, in fact. It is certainly lamentable that the modern world has abandoned this approach, along with the popular Twelfth Night celebrations.

Of course, the Christian version of the holiday spread to many countries no faster than Christianity itself, which means that 'Christmas' wasn't celebrated in Ireland until the late fifth century; in England, Switzerland, and Austria until the seventh; in Germany until the eighth; and in the Slavic lands until the ninth and tenth. Not that these countries lacked their own mid-winter celebrations of Yuletide. Long before the world had heard of Jesus, Pagans had been observing the season by bringing in the Yule log, wishing on it, and lighting it from the remains of last year's log. Riddles were posed and answered, magic and rituals were practiced, wild boars were sacrificed and consumed along with large quantities of liquor, corn dollies were carried from house to house while caroling, fertility rites were practiced (girls standing under a sprig of mistletoe were subject to a bit more than a kiss), and divination's were cast for the coming Spring. Many of these Pagan customs, in an appropriately watered-down form, have entered the mainstream of Christian celebration, though most celebrants do not realize (or do not mention it, if they do) their origins.

For modern Witches, Yule (from the Anglo-Saxon 'Yula', meaning 'wheel' of the year) is usually celebrated on the actual Winter Solstice, which may vary by a few days, though it usually occurs on or around December 21st. It is a Lesser Sabbat or Lower Holiday in the modern Pagan calendar, one of the four quarter-days of the year, but a very important one. This year (2010) it occurs on December 21st at 7:38 pm CST. Pagan customs are still enthusiastically followed. Once, the Yule log had been the center of the celebration. It was lighted on the eve of the solstice (it should light on the first try) and must be kept burning for twelve hours, for good luck. It should be made of ash. Later, the Yule log was replaced by the Yule tree but, instead of burning it, burning candles were placed on it. In Christianity, Protestants might claim that Martin Luther invented the custom, and Catholics might grant St. Boniface the honor, but the custom can demonstrably be traced back through the Roman Saturnalia all the way to ancient Egypt. Needless to say, such a tree should be cut down rather than purchased, and should be disposed of by burning, the proper way to dispatch any sacred object.

Along with the evergreen, the holly and the ivy and the mistletoe were important plants of the season, all symbolizing fertility and everlasting life. Mistletoe was especially venerated by the Celtic Druids, who cut it with a golden sickle on the sixth night of the moon, and believed it to be an aphrodisiac. (Magically -- not medicinally! It's highly toxic!) But aphrodisiacs must have been the smallest part of the Yuletide menu in ancient times, as contemporary reports indicate that the tables fairly creaked under the strain of every type of good food. And drink! The most popular of which was the 'wassail cup' deriving its name from the Anglo-Saxon term 'waes hael' (be whole or hale).

Medieval Christmas folklore seems endless: that animals will all kneel down as the Holy Night arrives, that bees hum the '100th psalm' on Christmas Eve, that a windy Christmas will bring good luck, that a person born on Christmas Day can see the Little People, that a cricket on the hearth brings good luck, that if one opens all the doors of the house at midnight all the evil spirits will depart, that you will have one lucky month for each Christmas pudding you sample, that the tree must be taken down by Twelfth Night or bad luck is sure to follow, that 'if Christmas on a Sunday be, a windy winter we shall see', that 'hours of sun on Christmas Day, so many frosts in the month of May', that one can use the Twelve Days of Christmas to predict the weather for each of the twelve months of the coming year, and so on.

Remembering that most Christmas customs are ultimately based upon older Pagan customs, it only remains for modern Pagans to reclaim their lost traditions. In doing so, we can share many common customs with our Christian friends, albeit with a slightly different interpretation. And thus we all share in the beauty of this most magical of seasons, when the Mother Goddess once again gives birth to the baby Sun-God and sets the wheel in motion again. To conclude with a long-overdue paraphrase, 'Goddess bless us, every one!'

This was written by Mike Nichols, and should help you understand the day even more. 

 

After meditating, pick up the bowl of Dirt, and say (or think), “I am of this Earth, forever linked to the Gods.”  Draw a pentacle in the dirt.  Replace.

Next pick up the Incense, drawing a pentacle in front of you with it say, “This is the breath of the Gods, which gives me life.”  Replace.

Picking up the candle, say, “This is the Flame that warms our heart, just as the love of the Goddess and the God warms our souls.”  Replace.

Last, pick the bowl of Water up, and say, “And this the ever-changing waters and nourishes life, without which we would not be.”  Replace.

 

Think on the God’s rebirth, and the lengthening days that follow the Winter Solstice.  Say what is in your heart at this time to the Goddess and the God.  If you are in a situation that you are not comfortable to speak aloud, then think those words. 

 

Next, take the offering you are giving to the Gods up in your hands, hold it to the sky and say, “This is my gift to you, for you have given many gifts to me.  This symbolizes my pledge to you.”  Replace.  Add why to this why you chose this offering. 

 

Now for the closing of your ritual.  Take up the Earth again, saying, “Thank you for watching over my rite.”  Pour the dirt back onto the ground if outside, if not, wait till you are completely finished then do it.  Say the thank you for each of the elements.  Pour the water out onto the ground as well.  Take your offering to a favorite tree or plant of yours, and either place it on the branches where it won’t be disturbed, or bury it near the roots.  Place the incense under/over the offering, and leave it to burn itself out.  Take the candle inside, and place in a window.  Let it burn all the way out.  (Make sure there aren’t any curtains or other flammable materials nearby that could catch fire.  Be safe.)  Spend the rest of the day aware of the significance of the day. 

 

 

If you have any changes that you would like to make for yourself in this ritual, go ahead.  Paganism is a living religion, always growing and expanding.  To the new person, I would suggest keeping it as simple as possible.  This is why you will not see the usual tools, such as the knife or a circle used here.  It is not needed.  They have their purposes. 

 

Go with the Gods, Blessed Be.

thanks to 

http://www.angelfire.com/ca5/witchcraftstudies/yule.html

http://www.angelfire.com/ca5/witchcraftstudies/yuleritual.html

for providing the information 

Have Children? Then here is something you can do with them 

Start this Seasonal Celebration early in the day, Make Sun symbol ornaments and White Stag Ornaments to hang on the Yule tree, You can always put some type of sealant on the ornaments and hang them outside on a special tree, if this is what you prefer.
Write your own songs to sing to the Lord on his day of rebirth. Decorate the house in Golds, Greens (Ivy, Pine), Whites, some Reds, cut out big Suns and Stars hang them around the house or make a mobile to hang from the ceiling.
Go walking through the woods, park and be on the look out for a Yule Log. And once you locate your Yule log, drill three holes in it, one for a White candle, Red candle, and a Black Candle (Maiden, Mother and Crone) place these in the holes that you drilled in the Yule Log and light the candles.
Decorate your Table/Altar in Golds and Whites.
Have the children and yourself, take a Ritual Bath, burn some Pine Incense or whatever appeals to your emotions and reminds you of Yule. Help each other get dressed for the Celebration of welcoming the rebirth of the Lord, and this is also the time to Thank the Lady. Everyone should have some part in helping to set up the Ritual Area, I use a Gold cord to mark the Circle, this helps the kids, as a Yule Ritual can be pretty long. (let the kids lay down in the Circle, the Lady understands-make special pillows, stuffed with Pine, Orange Peel, of course I wouldn’t suggest using Pine needles, nothing like having one stick you in the cheek, just use some Oil, these pillows are for the kids to put their heads on while they wait for the return of the Sun)
Once it gets closer to the Yule Ritual, have the Children welcome in the guests if any are coming. 

The Ritual:
Lay the Gold cord on the floor Cast your Circle Call the Quarters Welcome the Lady and the Lord

Mommy/Daddy:

"Welcome to our Yule Ritual, this is the time we look forward to our Sun/Lord/God to return, We have missed him high in the sky, smiling upon us as we start another day, his hugs are the rays that shine upon us as we work or play outside, his kisses are a warm breeze that gently caresses our cheeks, he is the green of the woods, the bright gold of the sun, he is the White Stag in the Woods, Protector and Watcher".

Children/All:

"Father/God/Lord we await your return". (Say as much as you want to, this is also a good short, sweet chant to use to raise any energy you may want during the ritual)

Mommy/Daddy:

"We light the Candles on the Yule log in honor the Goddess/Mother/Lady, White for the Maiden, Red for the Mother, and Black for the Crone". (Light the candles and let them burn, to almost the Yule log, don’t want the log to catch fire)

Children/All:

"We thank you Goddess/Lady for all that you have given us".(Once again another short and sweet chant to raise energy) At this time Share of some Cakes, Wine/Ale/Fruit Juice should be done. (One of our favorites is light and fluffy Divinity Candy, or baked sugar cookies that look like the Sun)

Share stories about Yule’s past and talk about what you would like to do next Yule Talk about what the Goddess and God mean to you and of course let the Children tell their Stories and feelings too! Exchange small Yule Gifts.

Mommy/Daddy:

"We thank the Lady and Lord on this day for the gifts they have given us, and for each other. Bright Blessings upon us all".

At this point you can either stay in the Circle and keep on talking until the Sun comes up, or dissolve the Circle, of course always thanking the Quarters and the Lady for being there. Go for a walk outside and Welcome the New day as the Sun comes back.
I know that this Ritual is not as formal, as some would wish, but you have to remember you are involving young Children with short attention spans (some adults have those, too!) These types of Short, Sweet and to the Point Rituals prepare your children for the more Formal ones later in this Lifetime. Blessings for a Bright Yule


a thanks to 
http://awitchintime.wordpress.com/2009/11/20/friday-form-a-circle-yule-ritual-for-children/
for this fun ritual