New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
The August long weekend (the first Monday of the month) is called Civic Holiday here in Canada. It's when the annual Kaleidoscope Gathering takes place. In a huge forested campground by a river, hundreds of pagans come together to share learning and tools, perform rituals and trials, and celebrate and feast. Coinciding loosely with Lammas/Lughnasadh, the traditional first harvest celebrations included feasting, competitions, and games, plus stories and song around a bonfire. Have you been ...
The Irish harvest holiday of Lughnasadh, and the Christianized celebration of Lammas in Britain, is a joyful time of gratitude for bounty. For this rite, first verbally thank deities, ancestors, spiritual beings, or the universe itself for all the blessings you've enjoyed this year. Next, anoint a green candle with lavender and rose oil, and light it in a safe holder. Slather thick slices of bread (preferably homemade) with butter, honey, and/or jam, and prepare a platter with seasonal fruits, ...
When the August full moon rises on Lammas, the moon will cast a golden glow upon a lush, bountiful Earth ready for the harvest. This is a time to give thanks. You’ll need a small piece of bread or cornbread. If possible, when the moon rises, go to a place outdoors where you won’t be disturbed. Bring the piece of bread as an offering. Sit on the ground holding your bread. Raise the bread toward the moon and say: Mother Earth and Mother Moon, Summer’s end is coming soon. ...
Deity feast days get a lot of attention. Create a feast day for yourself! Today works for this spell because it’s before the first harvest (Lammas) and comes after the more social Summer Solstice. When you wake up, take a moment to just be, and then state: Today I celebrate myself. Build a unique altar to yourself using significant items, photos, craft materials, artwork, baking, etc. Then do what gives you pleasure. Take a luxurious bath, take a long walk, read a book, or write ...
