Open Ways

Samhain2009

samhain 2009

PEn Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities

Issue 144 Free!

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

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Open Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities

Issue 144—Samhain Open Ways is published eight times a year, on the Quarters and Cross-Quarters, by The Nine Houses of Gaia, Inc. Circulation 3400+.

Newsletter Staff Editor — Becca of the Dirty Hippies Distribution Team — Ellie, Rob, Dennis Webmaster: — Becca of the Dirty Hippies

Submissions Articles, letters, poetry, artwork, etc., are solicited from the community. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. E-mail or send self-addressed stamped envelope for Writers’ Guidelines. Type-written (single-sided) or word processed manuscripts are welcome, electronic submissions via e-mail preferred. Send submissions to:

Open Ways Editor NEW ADDRESS PO BOX 6283 Vancouver, WA 98668

NEW INFORMATION E-mail:

editor@ninehouses.org World Wide Web:

http://ninehouses.org Please do not send the only copy of your work! Manuscripts unaccompanied by a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope will not be returned. All submissions will be accepted at our discretion. Advertising Ads must be camera-ready. Payment must accompany ad. No credit card payments. Deadlines (page 3) apply. E-mailed ads and their payments must be received by the deadlines. No black backgrounds please! Email Editor for more info. Rates & Sizes (W x H) $15 for a business card size (3.5’ x 2”) $30 for quarter-page (3.5” x 4”) $60 for half page (7” x 4.5”) $120 for full page (7” x 9”) Discount for one-year, pre-paid ads.

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Subscriptions Subscriptions are $8 for one year or $16 for two years. (International subscriptions: Canada, $12/year; else-where, $16/year. U.S. funds only.) Please make checks or money orders payable to “Open Ways..” Sample copy $1.00. Please send request and payment to The Nine Houses of Gaia at the above address. Mission Statement The Nine Houses of Gaia is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1992 to sponsor the Northwest Fall Equinox Festival and publish Open Ways. Open Ways serves as an introduction to and an anchor for pagan communities in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest; a forum for the exchange of scholarly, practical, or experiential information, knowledge, and wisdom; a tool for instruction and communication; a “journal” of events, announcements, ideas, poetry, prose, illustration — anything of benefit or interest to pagans, wiccans, or other nature spiritualists. Copyright © 2008 All rights remain the property of contributing authors and artists. For reprint information, please contact Open Ways. Inquiries will be forwarded to appropriate parties. Statement of Confidentiality Open Ways honors the right to privacy. Information regarding our contributors or subscribers will not be made available under any circumstance. Our mailing list is not for sale or trade. Contributors are encour-aged to use pseudonyms.

Open Ways

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OPEN WAYS DEADLINES

This deadline schedule includes all articles, artwork, announcements, events and

Advertisements. Send everything to the Vancouver address for Open Ways on page

2 . Advertising rates are posted on the bottom of page 2.

Open Ways Issue Deadline Available

Samhain 2009 Yule 2009 Brigid 2011 Spring Equinox 2011 Beltane 2011 Summer Solstice 2011 Lughnasdah 2011 Fall Equinox 2011

September 10 November 10 December 10 February 10 March 10 May 1 June 10 August 1

October 10 December 1 January 10 March 1 April 10 June 1 July 10 September1

Table of Contents

4– Ritual Celebrations, Commu-

nity Events and Announcements

5– Editorial by You

7– October Moon by Staci Elliot

9– Subversive Wisdom: The Ways

of the Goddess Sophia

by Elizabeth Simson

11– Family Corner by Mindi

12– What does ―Reiki Mastery‖

Mean?

by Silverstar Red Crow

15– Autumn Muse

by Bonnie Barrigar

16– The Nature of Presences

by Ken Arthur

17– Sunfest 2010 by Isidora

18– That Invisible Path

by Mark Minor

19– Ongoing Activities

20– Death Star by Ansur

21– Pagan Community Directory

Cover Art Provided by Nicky

On October 17th, the Bards of Caer Pugetia will be hosting a competitive Eistedd-

fod as fund raiser to help pay for park fee's as well as the publication of our maga-

zine The Sound.

Here is the information:

October 17th, 2009

10:00am to 10:00pm

Body Song Community and Healing Center

943 N 89th St

Seattle, WA

The Bardic tradition as we know it today dates back to the 1800‘s. Historically, Bards

have been found in almost every culture around the World as symbols of fertility, enter-

tainers, news-bringers, and educators. Join us in celebrating this tradition by participating

in our first competitive Eisteddfod! There will be competitions in Poetry, Story Telling

and Music and a single 2009 Eisteddfod winner. There will be vending going on during

the competition. Come check out the amazing hand crafted items by local well known

artisans.

Sajy and his Dragons will be there, Uga Buga Pottery , Rare Earth Designs Orion

Lyonesse, and more!

Our judging panel includes:

Roger Fernandez from the United Indians of all Tribes Foundation, Clint McCune of

Twirl, Michael Magee of Poets West

More information and all registration forms can be found at

http://eisteddfod.caerpugetia.com

Open Ways

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FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS AND RITUAL CELEBRATIONS!!! All events on this page are FREE. Event hosts may accept a small donation.

Donations are optional and very much appreciated.

No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

To have your Events listed here, please make sure they fit these criteria:

1) It is offered at no charge.

2) It is within our geographical area, generally, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Western Montana, Northern Califor-

nia, Nevada, Southern BC and Alberta.

Ritual Celebrations Community Events and Announcements

The Oregon Department of Corrections is seeking circle leaders for

Pagan programs in prisons located in Pendleton, Umatilla, Baker

City, Ontario, Madras, and Lakeview. For those willing to com-

mute more than 75 miles each way, mileage reimbursement may

be available. The impact of volunteers in the lives of inmates is

great. Volunteers really do make a difference. For more informa-

tion please contact the ODOC Volunteer Program Representative

at 541-922-2089.

Wed. Oct 14 – Women’s Healing Circle, 7 pm. Topic: Healing

old wounds with the assistance of loved ones behind the veil. You

may bring items for the altar such as photos of your loved ones

who have passed and objects to honor or bless. All women wel-

come. SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Belmont #102. Call 503-736-

3297 for info. $5+ donation appreciated.

Thurs. Oct 15 – Dream Conversations. 7:00 pm. SisterSpirit Of-

fice, 3430 SE Belmont #102. All women welcome. Come share

your dreams and insights with other women! Call 503-736-3297

for info. $5+ donation appreciated

Wed. Oct 21– Nature’s Magick, 7:30 pm. Topic: Manifestation,

coming into being. SisterSpirit Office, 3430 SE Belmont #102.

All women welcome. Call 503-736-3297 for info. $5+ donation

appreciated.

Thurs. Oct 22 – Women Writers’ Group, 7 pm. SisterSpirit of-

fice, 3430 SE Belmont #102. All women welcome. $5+ dona-

tions appreciated. Call 503-736-3297 or email pat-

mac31@juno.com for information

Sat. Oct. 24 – Women’s Samhain Celebration at We‘Moon

land. Details to be announced. Call 503-736-3297 or watch our

webpage, www.sisterspirit-portland.com for info.

Women’s Samhain Celebration– Saturday October 24

2009 at We’Moon land.

Details to be announced. For info call 503-736-3297 or

www.sisterspiritportland.com.

Samhain Ritual– Saturday October 31 2009 7pm at Lib-

erty Hall 311 N Ivy St Portland, OR.

Please join us for a ritual confronting our fears/worries/

negativities. We will have simple supplies to create masks

representing our negativities to burn in ritual. Drum circle after

ritual so bring your drum, and a potluck dish to share. $5+

donation appreciated. For more info

www.spiralrhythms.org/MAGIC.html.

Public Samhain Ritual– Sunday November 1 2009 5pm

at 108th Ave SE in Kent, WA.

This is a potluck event and open to one and all. We will be

gathering for crafts at 5pm with circle called at 5:55pm. Bring

a potluck dish to share. Info at

www.covenantofthebluemoon.org or tim.h@q.com for

directions.

Open Samhain Ritual- Sunday November 1 2009 5pm at

The Wishing Well 13898 NE 28th St. Suite 104/105 in

Vancouver, WA.

Red Cedar Seed Group presents celebration of the final har-

vest. Stories, songs, and poetry to share are encouraged. Dona-

tions appreciated. For info call 360-910-5960.

Samhain Ritual at Sacred Wisdom Healing Center–

Monday November 2 2009 6pm at 136 Stewart Rd. Bldg.

1 Unit 1 in Pacific, WA.

This is an open ritual, all are welcome. For info or directions

go to www.sacredwisdomhealing.com.

Open Ways

Samhain2009

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"Drove all the way home From Fall EQ with a smile on my face."

Hope your NWFEF was that great, too!

NWFEF is uphill-both-ways @Queens Hillside! Stayed in the

cabin right next door to the lodge to be accessible...but erecting the

Mata KaliMandir, where other pujas were held, setting up the

cabin for sleep and such, onsite rehearsals, rituals, meals, the need

to dance all night @the fire... and naturally visiting, chatting, and

hugging with dear friends at what I consider my spiritual family

reunion, was a fun, fabulous, friendly, and full of uplifting energy

this year! No drama. Everyone was agreeable, accessible, forth-

coming, available, and doing their absolute best to make it a great

experience for all, who appeared engaged in devotion & sharing

the love.

Thank you Laxmi for your love & blessings. Thank you, Ganesh,

Durga, Devi, Parvati, and MahaKali! Thank you Becca and Si-

enna for your wanting to share your Goddess, Laxmi, with the

rest of us. Thank you Sienna for making it all flow so

well!!!!!!!!!!! And doing such an admirable job at singing the

Sanskrit names and mantras! Becca and Sienna, you rock! Si-

enna, your love for your friend Becca sings throughout this work.

But must say, the new date gives us amazing Full Moon light to

find our way from one area to another, especially since we are not

a village, but a series of villages. They say the number one thing to

get left behind for the lost and found: flashlights!

Rain happens, but it was warmer. Someone brought a canopy to

the fire for the temporary and intermittent showers! What a fabu-

lous idea, since drumming was only interrupted a few times.

Dunno why folks want to play in the dance hall, (you can play

indoors all you like in PDX), when you have the wild and wide

openness, the Firelight at the fire pit, an amazing Full Moon, and

tall grand trees for companions... why would you not prefer to

play by the fire! Okay, so a few may need MoonScreen, but that's

okay. We understand. But by all means thank you to the musi-

cians that add to the greatness of festival, where would the danc-

ers be without the musicians! Thank you to all the folks who vol-

unteer to make Fall EQ happen!

And that means you Spyder, with registration...its not just about a

gal taking your payment... does anyone realize that you have to

inform the kitchen to add more food to the shopping and menu

planning? That the gate needs more tokens and registration pack-

ets, and cookies?! That the publisher needs to print another packet,

and someone needs to inform the printer another packet is

needed? That the ritual organizers needs to make arrangements

for another prop to be made? That the workshops planner needs

to recruit another workshop hostess/host? That another workshop

may need to be added and another space found for another work-

shop? That supplies would have to be made for each new person

registering? That the editor of Open Ways has to add a new ad-

dress to the list of folks who will be receiving Open Ways in their

mailbox for free for the following year? Really, who thinks about

anything beyond some one just taking their money!

WOW!!

Thank you Ellie, for organizing the kitchen, the food, the shop-

ping, the planning, from what to make, how to make so much of

it, making it, making sure there is someone to make it, to make

sure there is enough someone's to make it all, to set up the kitchen,

to cut and clean the veggies, to prepare, to serve, to clean up,

wash dishes and to do it all over again almost as soon as it is all

finished up! From the variety to the flavor to the serving with

pomp and circumstance, Ellie, you and your crew are awesome!

Asking your crew to dress and process! And giving the front table

to the resident deity, what a wonderful addition! The gate keepers,

they meet you and greet you with a hug and a handout and cook-

ies and keep us safe! Safety first team, and Medics on hand and at

the ready.

The folks who offer to help set up and decorate, did anyone count

how many times Fred climbed up and down a ladder, or how far

Damian peddled, or how many sheets Amethyst changed? And

please say that you noticed how even though folks may have

been really, really tired, or in the middle of a mishap or monkey

wrench, that they smiled at you anyway? And asked how they

might be of help?

Besides great fun and fond memories, we'll also receive a copy of

Open Ways in our mailbox for a full year. There were no gawk-

ers, no gate crashers, no uninvited or obnoxious drunks, no spring

break students looking for a party in the woods with a bonfire. No.

And thank the Gods. And thank 9 Houses.

THAT my friends is what we need to pay attention to, focus our

attention on, those good folks and the good things they do, things

we don't think about, the work it takes to make something big,

and something wonderful, happen.

To serve the Gods, and to serve the community. Mean well, act

right, do right. - Ophio Kleitera (Continues on page 6)

EDITORIAL: Letters from the community, the Editor and Opinions

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

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(Continued from page 5)

First off, on behalf of 9HOG‘S, I would like to thank all who

attended NWFEF this year. I think it has been better each and

every year. Thank you to everyone who helped out where

needed, to all of you for lending such beautiful and loving energy

and to all the hardworking folks who worked to make this an-

other great year. I for one left this years Fall Eq. feeling peaceful,

relaxed and recharged. I hope everyone had as great a time as I

had.

Now for some Open Ways business. We are in need of submis-

sions on any subject. I am continuing to make this paper a more

encompassing publication but cannot do that without your sub-

missions. So, send them in. Send your articles, stories, opinions

etc. This is your paper.

I have changed the deadlines for the submissions and distribution

so, take a look. I am hoping that they are more convenient for all.

There will now be a ‗Family Corner‘ section with activities to do

with the hopes of adding more in the future.

One last thing, if you move please send us your new address or

put in a change of address form. It cost a lot when we get returned

mail and you are not getting your Open Ways. Send any change

of address info to either of the PO Box address listed or to edi-

tor@ninehouses.org.

Love to all Becca, Editor, House of The Dirty Hippies

Dear Editor,

I am a nurse with over 23 years experience. I wonder how much

experience Sienna has with medications and why they are given?

Where did she get her information regarding her advice? "These

chemicals were designed to be a short-term crutch", a

CRUTCH??? Sienna has no idea what she is saying. You might

mention to her that some people have a chemical imbalance that's

why they need meds, not for a short-term crutch. "The counsel-

ors job is to get you beyond needing the meds", I have never

heard such bull in my life. There is nothing wrong with someone

on meds for depression, anxiety. If a person feels better on meds

there is nothing wrong with it. Who are you Sienna? Who are

you to judge? Sienna needs to let us all know her credentials for

giving medical advise. Where was she trained as a medical pro-

fessional? Did she go to Medical School? This article really

makes me sick. I can't believe Open Ways would publish this.

Sienna needs to apologize to all the people who feel better on

meds, there is nothing wrong with taking meds. NOTHING

WRONG!!!

Grant Tittsworth

Bend, OR

Dearest Community Members,

We of the Harvest Inn wish to express our gratitude to you – our

community, family and friends.

Year after year we come back into the Fall Equinox kitchen for

very different reasons. Some of us return because there is no feel-

ing in the world quite like donating your time to something you

believe in and love. Some of us return for the atmosphere of joy

and fun in the kitchen itself. Some of us return because we simply

love to cook for the people we care about. Regardless of our indi-

vidual reasons, we all come back every year for one all encompass-

ing reason – because of you.

Here are just a few ―shout outs‖ to some of the people that made

working in the kitchen this year a joy for us all:

To each of you who came in and did dishes – we could never

thank you enough! You kept the steam engine rolling by making

sure we had clean dishes to cook with and eat off of. Without you,

the kitchen would have come to a crashing halt. Thank you!

To each of you who took a moment to say thank you – We can‘t

begin to thank You enough. There are times when the kitchen gets

hot and stressful. In such times, we forget for a moment why we

have chosen this duty once more. Each time that happens, one of

you magical many comes in and takes a moment to remind

us. Thank you for being there to lift both our spirits, and the

kitchen, to a new level.

To each of you who took a moment to offer some constructive

criticism – thank you for making sure that positive forward pro-

gress happens in the kitchen and for being there to keep things in

perspective.

To each of our brothers and sisters who worked on the kitchen

crew with us this year – thank you! You make this job fun. We

couldn‘t imagine doing it without you and we can‘t wait to see you

again next year.

To each of you that took the extra time this year to prepare potluck

dishes in your own cabins – you were an unexpected and joyous

blessing. Your consideration, thoughtfulness and delicious food

inspired us. To give additional input/inspiration/feedback please

email: info@9houses.org.

(Continued on page 7)

Open Ways

Samhain2009

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October Moon

by Staci B. Elliott

www.elliottarts.com

Blood Moon, Falling Leaf Moon, Moon of the Changing Seasons,

Hunter‘s Moon. In her book, Full Moon Feast, Jessica Prentiss calls

October ―The time of year when blood was shed.‖ (FMF, 209) She

is writing about traditional Native American connections to the

Earth and Earth‘s seasonal harvests, and she talks about the hunters

and the farmers putting away meat for the winter. Z. Budhapest also

talks about October as a time when blood was shed—the time of the

Hungarian Revolution. The time of her painful rebirth from child-

hood innocence to adult awareness that she is responsible for choos-

ing how to live, and what risks she wants to take with her life. (The

Grandmother of Time, 212)

Whatever life we choose for ourselves, it is the process of taking

responsibility for our own well-being, our own outcomes, that fasci-

nates me. The challenge of acknowledging our autonomy, our indi-

vidual preferences and needs, and our personal responsibility for

getting those needs met, while simultaneously recognizing that we

affect and are affected by the world in which we live. We do not

find our understandings or make our decisions in a vacuum.

This awareness of the interconnection of all life has been expressed

in many languages, and at many times. For example, Bios was one

of two Greek words for life. It meant life that is contained, possibly

by a specific body or character. In other words, life that dies. Zoë, on

the other hand, also means life. Zoë is the thread of living energy that

runs through all bios-life, and is not broken when any one bios-life

ends. Clearly, the ancient Greeks—like the early Native Ameri-

cans—understood that being alive was not an isolated activity. The

Earth is larger than any one person, any one lifetime, any one type of

bios. And if we truly think in those terms—personal responsibility,

earth-wide zoë—then we recognize that our individual choices and

actions affect many generations-worth of bios lives. It is a very adult

understanding.

For me, this relates beautifully to the idea of Samhain, All Hallows

Eve, and the Day of the Dead. It is the question of what we leave

behind when we die. Do we leave the world a better place for our

having lived in it? And how do we each individually take responsi-

bility for our own happiness, for the risks we take, the decisions that

shape our way of being in the world? Samhain is a time for reflec-

tion; for looking back at the decisions (ours and our ancestors‘) that

shaped the world we live in today. And then using that knowledge

to make better decisions in the future. What can we still learn from

those who came before?

(Continued on page 10)

(Continued from page 6)

On that note, this year there will be comment and voting cards

available. In keeping with the ―Harvest‖ theme of next year, we

ask two things. Bring us your harvest vegetables, and/or your

best harvest dish, and the recipe for the potluck! Vegetables will

be utilized in ―impromptu‖ dishes as they were this year. All

potluck dishes will be clearly labeled and voted upon by our

community! Our wish is to provide a ―Best of‖ Recipe book, to

include the winning potluck dish.

To 9HOGS, thank you for putting on this amazing festival, giv-

ing all of us a place to put our love.

A special addition from the 9HOGGIES ―in the weeds‖ of the

kitchen staff:

We, the members of 9 Houses of Gaia would like to take this

opportunity to thank ALL participants of the NW Fall Equinox

Festival, and extend a very special thank you to all of the staff

and crews who contributed so fully, and gave so much of them-

selves to assure this festival ran as smooth as it possibly

could. Wood. Kitchen. Ritual. Truck. Gate. Attendees. Vol-

unteers. Vendors.

May the prosperity of Maha-Laxmi continue to rain upon you.

Your Harvest inn Kitchen Crew 2009

To whom it may concern,

Hey, my name is Chris, I‘m writing to you in hopes that you

can help me.. I was imprisoned for assault, and am scheduled

to be released sometime between now and the end of next year.

I cam across an issue of Open Ways, its issue 142. I‘m hoping

that you can put me in touch with others who have the same

interest, ‗Norse-Celtic‘. So are there any ‗Norse-Celtic clans that

you can put me in touch with?

Thank you, Chris

Anyone who may know of any groups that are along the lines

of what Chris is looking for can email me at edi-

tor@ninehouses.org. Also Chris, you may find what your look-

ing for in the back of the Open Ways in the Pagan Community

Directory. Thanks for writing. Becca, Editor

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

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OTHER WORLDS OF WONDER PROUDLY PRESENTS

Come and shop for all your holiday decorating and gift needs!

The ―OWOW YULE-NOT NEED TO GO ANY PLACE ELSE BAZAAR‖ is the ONLY

pagan oriented holiday bazaar in existence in the Portland Metro area! Come and support your

local pagan artisans!

Sunday November 22nd, 2009 from 10am -

6pm

Friendship Masonic Lodge at SE 57th and

Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon

Because the SEASON is the Reason

All proceeds will benefit Other Worlds of Wonder and the Purchase of Pagan Land.

Check our website for updates to the list of registered vendors! www.owow.org

Come Shop and Nosh with us! We look forward to seeing you!

Admission: $5 per person, free for those under 5. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Open Ways

Samhain2009

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Subversive Wisdom: The Ways of the Goddess

Sophia by Elizabeth Simson

As we look forward to Samhain and the cold dreaming days of

winter, it is a good time to reflect upon our ancestors and the wis-

dom they give us. Sophia, Goddess of Wisdom, can awaken us

to new wisdom within ourselves...and inspire us to challenge the

"conventional wisdom" of the society in which we live.

Sophia's name is the Greek word for wisdom. In some texts she

is described as a "personification of the wisdom of god", while

others recognize her as Lady Wisdom, a Goddess in her own

right. Within Hebrew scriptures she appears as Hokmah, or Di-

vine Wisdom, the "H" in the sacred name YHWH. In early

Gnostic myths, Sophia created the world and set the stars in their

place in the heavens. Eastern Orthodox Christians see Sophia as

manifested in the person of Mary, who they revere as Sophia-

Maria.

Sophia has been compared to Isis, Maat, Radha, and Sarasvati.

Like Aphrodite, her symbol or messenger is a dove. Sophia ap-

pears within Buddhism as Prajnaparamita, or the "Luminous

Mother of Perfect Wisdom." She is an enduring reality, the wis-

dom that makes possible the attainment of Buddhahood. While a

Buddha teaches for a lifetime, the teachings of Prajnaparamita

flow for all eternity (1).

What does Sophia look like? In the Hebrew Scriptures she ap-

pears the Queen of the Universe, with a throne in the clouds. The

book of Wisdom declares that "she is a reflection of eternal light"

more magnificent than the sun or stars. She is both the Divine‘s

Beloved Consort, playfully and joyfully present at creation, and

the power of creation itself - - the Source of all Life, ultimate wis-

dom and order.

Sophia‘s scriptures say that "though she is but one, she can do all

things, and while remaining in herself, she renews all things."

Although she is highest wisdom, Sophia is accessible to every-

one. In Proverbs, Sophia stands at the city gates, calling out to

anyone who will listen that her way is better than gold or silver,

for she "walks in the paths of justice" and brings prosperity and

goodness to those who follow her.

It may be startling to hear the words of a Goddess speaking out

from within Jewish and Christian scripture. But this is part of

Sophia's power. While fundamentalists try to explain her away as

just "poetic imagination," feminist thealogians recognize her as

more. Silva Schroer says that "Sophia in the book of wisdom is

Israel's god in the image of a woman and a goddess" (2).

Women and men within Christian churches have begun to

change the words of their rituals to praise Sophia, to imagine a

Divine reality outside the narrow confines of historical dogma (3).

Is this yet another patriarchal god trying to co-opt the power of the

Goddess? Or is it Sophia Goddess shining through, refusing to be

silenced? For many women, finding and claiming Sophia is the

first step toward defining spirituality on their own terms -- one that

reflects their female bodies, experiences, and understanding.

What does Sophia offer us as we enter the reflective nights of

winter? Lady Wisdom‘s gifts are many. She invites us to accept

instruction; to integrate mind with body; and to honor creative

and magickal paths.

Throughout the Hebrew scriptures, Sophia repeatedly calls out to

people to heed her advice. While her instructions initially seem

like harsh burdens, following her guidance brings joy, rest, and

peace. Sophia reminds us that while we might resist the demands

of our mentors, we do well to follow their guidance. It is natural

that learning and growing might feel uncomfortable or burden-

some at first. Yet discipline is needed not only for acquiring

knowledge but also for learning new skills.

For the wisdom of the Goddess goes far beyond mental knowl-

edge and encompasses technical and artistic skill, adeptness, and

will. Sophia's wisdom is not only in our minds but in our hearts,

bellies, and blood. Proverbs declares ―She is a Tree of Life to all

who embrace her...the one who finds her, finds life.‖ The vitality

of a tree reminds us of the vitality we long for in our physical bod-

ies, and of the need to integrate what we know with how we live.

Our physical bodies contain wisdom which can ground, support

and teach us if we honor them.

Finally, as one who creates and maintains life, Sophia's energy is

both nurturing and creative. Caitlin Matthews says that "the way

of Sophia is the way of personal experience," leading us into new

creative realms of vision and power (4). Sophia reminds us that

our creations serve not only our own needs, but give life and in-

spiration to others. In a culture that denies the creative, the

magickal, and the mystery, Sophia is a "way shower and com-

panion.‖ (Continued on page 10)

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

10

(Continued from page 9)

Listening to Sophia and learning her story is a powerful inspira-

tion. A wise goddess who subverts the destructive powers of pa-

triarchy that would swallow her, Sophia is an awesome example

of how the Old Ways survive and sustain us. Sophia, Goddess of

Wisdom, can give us courage and encouragement for the times

when our paths are marginalized, misrepresented and blocked.

Wise Sophia knows the Way of justice always prevails.

Blessed Be.

Elizabeth Simson is a poet, writer and seeker living in Portland,

Oregon. She will facilitate a workshop on Sophia as part of Sis-

terSpirit's "Wisdom's Feast: A Women's Spirituality Conference"

on November 21, 2009. Visit her web site at http://

www.seeingsophia.com.

References:

1. Miranda Eberle Shaw, Buddhist Goddesses of India, pp. 166-

172.

2. Silvia Schroer, Wisdom Has Built Her House: Studies on the

Figure of Sophia in the Bible, p. 110.

3. Susan Cole, Wisdom's Feast: Sophia in Study and Celebration.

4. Caitlin Matthews, Sophia: Goddess of Wisdom, Bride of God,

pp. 5-7.

(Continued from page 7)

Michele Morgan describes the October Moon as ―a time for transi-

tion, release, inner peace, past lives, and karmic comple-

tion.‖ (Simple Wicca, 71) Z. Budhapest writes that the message of

October is ―to let go, to clean, to remember.‖ (GofT, 199) These

two messages hold the key to a practical lesson I offer many

of my Healing Tarot and Life Coaching clients: It is important to

acknowledge where we came from. Our past, the people and

events that shaped us. We need to understand the messages and

wisdom that we have received—and continue to receive—from

these situations and relationships. But it is equally important to let

go. To release those old expectations and old ways of being.

Every day is an opportunity to transition out of old patterns and

beliefs, to wipe the slate clean, and to begin shaping our current life

and lifestyle based on our current realities. The rules we learned

from our parents, friends, even our favorite TV shows subcon-

sciously shape our choices. Rules like: only rednecks eat meat, art

is not a financially viable profession, don’t tell people how you

really feel because they’ll only reject you, a successful woman has

children and a career and still cooks dinner every night, the man

must be the primary bread-winner. Whatever those rules for living

were in your family, believing them may have helped you survive

and make sense of your childhood. They may even have given

you something to rebel against. But as adults, we have the opportu-

nity to make new rules that nourish and sustain the person we truly

are inside.

One of the rules I have intentionally formed as an adult is that I

cannot control how I feel, but I do get to choose how I react. Last

year I added It is okay to rest when I am tired to my list of rules for

getting through life. More recently, I realized that I had a rule in my

head saying that if the work I did was easy or natural for me to do, I

shouldn‘t get paid for doing it. So Money is a fair exchange for the

healing work I do made it onto the list. As I change my internal

beliefs about ―what is right,‖ I change my external reality of what is

possible.

October is a time of contemplation, a time to remember and also to

weigh our lives and the choices we‘ve made thus far. This is the

festival of silence. Of internal, rather than external exploration. It is

a time to acknowledge pain, loss, and suffering. It is the Blood

Moon. We honor what came before. We honor our ancestors. And

we let go. It is the Moon of Changing Seasons, so we prepare for

the transitions ahead; for death as well as for life. Release of pain,

awareness of living connection with all that is, opening to possibil-

ity. Zoë balancing Bios. We prepare for the wheel to turn yet

again, perhaps this time in our favor.

Open Ways

Samhain2009

11

Family Corner

by Mindi

New traditions are a fun way to celebrate a New Year. The

Internet is full of activities designed for a modern pagan family.

Here are just a few I found…

Make a witch's cord

Witch's cords are beautiful and make great decorations. The

Samhain witches cord should be an expression of what you

wish or hope for the New Year. Take three strands of ribbon or

silk cord in three different colors, each about three feet long.

Choose colors that symbolize your hopes for the New Year.

Fold one end down about five inches and tie together in a knot

to make a loop so the cord can be hung. Braid the strands to-

gether, reciting your wishes and hopes and tie at least three knots

on the tail. You can add anything you want to the cords - feath-

ers, stones, herbs, little toys, tokens in remembrance of a loved

one, etc.

Have a special meal

Set an extra Ancestor Seat to your dinner table and let the chil-

dren decorate the chair. If your children are older, you could

hold a Dumb Supper, where dinner is served and eaten in com-

plete silence in honor of the Spirit. Be sure to give thanks. If your

children are younger, you could have them leave a plate outside

for wandering ghosts on Samhain (like leaving cookies for

Santa).

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/

pagan_parenting/111525/3 Retrieved from a Google search

September 18,2009.

“Experience all thoughts without acceptance or

rejection, without suppression or cultivation.

Good or bad do not exist beyond your mind.”

-Yeshetsogle, Dzogchen Priestess, Skydancer’

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

12

WHAT DOES “REIKI MASTERY” MEAN? by Silverstar Red Crow © 2007

Grand Master Mikao Usui formed the tradition called Reiki in the

late 19th and early 20th Century from his mother country of Ja-

pan. There are many debated histories of Usui‘s education and re-

discoveries. What is clear, when all the stories, legends and histo-

ries are studied, Usui, through his travels and scholarly pursuits,

discovered the magick of Vedic text and meditative techniques,

specifically Kundalini Yoga. He studied hard and eventually con-

nected his own dots, leading to the creation of an energy work

tradition he labeled Reiki.

The principles that dictate the positive and indestructible nature of

Reiki and the responsibility of each practitioner to serve the High-

est and Greatest Good Principle is reflected in his writings, par-

ticularly in his daily prayers.

Usui writes:

Just for today, do not anger.

Just for today, do not worry.

We shall count our blessings and honor our fathers and mothers,

our teachers and neighbors and honor our food.

Make an honest living.

Be kind to everything that has life.

KI means LIFE-FORCE, similar to CHI in Chinese. REI, as I

understand it, means to use or channel, to put to good use. When

put together, REI and KI, one is faced with the reality of Reiki: the

use of an agendaless Universal Life Force that seeks its own level,

as does Water, for the purpose of feeding the energy recipient

with usable fuel. This fuel can energize, foster healing and/or in-

spire balance based on the Karma of the recipient.

Reiki is, by its very nature, AGENDALESS. Meaning, this en-

ergy, when used purely, with respect and balance AS intent, can

only be given to a recipient with no strings attached. In other

words, a Reiki Practitioner cannot assume where, when or how

the Universal energy being channeled will be used by the recipi-

ent of said energy. In fact, if the human practitioner enters into a

state of arrogance and believes she/he KNOWS where, how and

why to direct the energy being channeled, the energy will simply

cease to flow or back-fire on the practitioner in the form of bodily

imbalance and/or fatigue. This a huge piece in the Reiki puzzle:

the practitioner and the recipient must enter into a similar state of

mind which allows a free-flow of energy. This leads to a natural

FILL, first for the practitioner. The fill of the practitioner over-

flows from her/his Crown Chakra and the overflow is then chan-

neled into the recipient, usually through her hands. The practitio-

ner never gives the core energy Itself, just the overflow. The re-

cipient fills just as if she was a glass of Water. When she is filled,

the energy will slow and refine and continue on the most subtle of

levels until the recipient is fully saturated.

Bottom line: there is no reward in Reiki for the practitioner, other

than the use of the Reiki Itself. This energy modality organically

seeks balance in all forms, on all levels, by Itself. To be a fully

effective Reiki Practitioner, one must discard any concept of

MINE, I DID, I HEALED, I AM THE BEST, in regards to

Reiki Itself. THE DIVINE IS THE BOSS AT ALL TIMES

AND DOES NOT REWARD THOSE WHO REWARD

THEMSELVES LIBERALLY THROUGH DELUSION

AND SELF-AGGRANDIZEMENT.

The last decade has been very telling in regards to degrees, labels

and personal responsibility in Reiki, as well as other healing mo-

dalities. There is a phenomenon endemic in modern Reiki belief

and practice; a process of whitewashing &/or deletion of any di-

vine being or principle. In Shamanism, this deletion of Godhead

importance is what divides indigenous and modern ―academic‖

practice. I realize that this is another article, but never-the-less a

fair parallel.

Watching the washing of ―God-Mind‖ from Reiki in the last dec-

ade, I have noticed an amazing happening which I can only de-

scribe as an over-simplification of concept, use and training. Try-

ing to make Reiki accessible and affordable to all, a wonderful

concept that I applaud in theory, a dumbing-down of Reiki has

occurred. Some intellectually-based metaphysical people and

many neo-Pagans feel Reiki is nonsense, that it can pollute or

contaminate their agenda-specific self-induced and manufactured

energy. Others not familiar with the rush relegate Reiki to faith-

healing, while one misguided fellow recently labeled Reiki and

the practice of Shamanism I teach as ―reverting to MUD-HUT

RELIGION‖.

So, what do we do, those of us who know the power and wonder

of Reiki, those of us who are stewards of closely guarded Reiki

Lineages, directly linked to Grand Master Usui himself? The

answer I have gleaned from years of energy work and metaphysi-

cal study and lifestyle is to go back to the basics, back to Kun-

dalini Yoga, back to Hatha Yoga, back to God-Mind! Put aside

the God-less, white-washed, , academic approach and immerse

yourself in the pure magick of the energy movement that is Reiki

and do it with zeal, integrity and above all else: GET OUT OF

YOUR OWN WAY! (Continued on Page 13)

Open Ways

Samhain2009

13

(Continued from page 12)

THE MIRACLES THAT HAPPEN WITH REIKI DO NOT

BELONG TO THE PRACTITIONER; THEY BELONG TO

THE UNIVERSAL GREATEST GOOD PRINCIPLE! THIS

ENERGY IS FREE AND SHOULD BE GIVEN THAT

WAY, PURELY AND SIMPLY. REIKI IS A GATEWAY

ENERGY MODALITY; USE IT ACCORDINGLY AND

OPEN THE DOOR! YOU WILL SOON DISCOVER REIKI

IS THE FIRST STEP IN YOUR PERSONAL SPIRITUAL

EVOLUTION, NOT THE PINNACLE! THE EGO CON-

TAMINATES REIKI; IT IS A DAILY BALANCING ACT

THE BEST OF HUMANS ARE CHALLENGED BY.

Western society is pre-occupied with entitlement, especially of the

spiritual variety. If academics who study anthropology travel to

Mongolia or Nepal once and upon their return, call themselves

Shamans, why can‘t all people, regardless of belief system or lack

there of, have Reiki? HUGE QUESTION and the answer is a

simple and enthusiastic YES! But at the same time, there needs to

be an adjustment in perspective. Yes, one can have and become

proficient in Reiki despite their religion, but without God-Mind,

well, that‘s shaky territory; for Reiki is a part of God-Mind, full

and empowering and the energy Itself demands focus, integrity

and FAITH! OK, I‘ll revert to my OLD axiom:

TRUST=FAITH=MAGICK=POWER=MANIFESTATION

I do not believe one can rise to Reiki without trust in divinity and

the realization each individual is just one small part of a whole

working entity. That reality is called GOD-MIND. Obviously

trust and faith are huge factors in the manifestation process, re-

gardless of name or lack of label given it.

Today, in almost every state of the union, you will find people

who call themselves Reiki Masters. Many offer seekers with little

or no spiritual, metaphysical or health related training the opportu-

nity to become a ―MASTER‖ in 3 easy Reiki Attunements. You

don‘t have to believe in anything or display a sense or need for

discipline; all one has to do is meet in an office or meeting room,

for an afternoon or evening, 3 times. I know of some who offer all

3 common levels of Reiki in one attunement; display the cash,

that‘s all that‘s needed. Some feel justified, because of conven-

ience, giving two levels of Reiki at one time, through one attune-

ment; every possible combination can be had, for a fee in this day

and age. So different from the days when the exchange of thou-

sands of dollars per attunement kept Reiki naturally regulated,

with a reasonably high level of clinical training, but I digress...

In my experience, Reiki mills do not work. I have tested the en-

ergy output of many practitioners who have received attunements

from people with little or no training or lineage, all in the name of

openness and freedom from dogma. I don‘t have lots of good

news for y‘all, in regards to their efficiency and skill.

Now we are in the realm of judgment and everybody starts to

wiggle in their seats, afraid of the next line… I will repeat and

quote myself, my favorite source:

JUDGMENT IS THE FIRST STEP IN CREATING DIS-

CERNMENT. DISCERNMENT IS THE ESSENTIAL COR-

NERSTONE OF SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT!

My daily Reiki blessing:

Bless yourself each and every day and night of your life.

Honor your Mother, your Father, your Ancestors always!

Bless your Guardians and your Guides, your teachers and helpers.

Embrace your employees and employers both; rise each day with

equality in your heart.

Be a responsible steward for yourself, your family, your commu-

nity, your planet.

Honor your drink each time you drink!

Honor your food each time you eat; for you are a temple of the

Living Divine.

When Spirit drinks we all drink!

When Spirit Eats we all Eat!

In You, through You and by You, we are You!

Blessed Be!

Learn and share Usui‘s daily Reiki blessing; share mine too if that

is your desire. Once you have internalized the importance of re-

sponsibility, create your own Reiki daily blessing and share it

every day and night of your life. In the process of caring, an open-

ing will occur, not always dramatically but always memorable.

This opening is the signal to put corporeal ego-based agendas

aside and rise to your innate power as a human: a giving and re-

ceiving piece of breathing Universal Life Force Energy.

The first years as a professional Reiki Practitioner and teacher flew

by; the 1990‘s were a blur of activity. Finally, after four years of

passing Reiki Attunements to Level 5, bringing dozens of seekers

and healthcare professionals to Reiki and training them suffi-

ciently, and after receiving over 33 attunements myself, and after

receiving over 33 attunements myself, I took the title of Reiki

Master. I felt queasy at first; four short years and I don such a title?

But, I knew I had to take the title so I would allow myself to rise to

it, be the best human I could be. I could only do that if I took my-

self out of my comfort zone and, wow, this is the hard part people,

stay out of it once extricated!

(Continued on page 14)

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

14

(Continued from page 13)

All those years later, I look back now and I applaud my conserva-

tive approach to Reiki labels. It has made me a better and stronger

teacher, as well as practitioner; thank the Gods!

Living with lineage is a huge part of my life; Shamanically, ge-

netically and with Reiki. My acceptance of a lineage so close to

the Grand Master himself, demanded I gain clarity of what my

responsibility was in this special, risky mix of faith and power.

Lineage taught me to put my energy and the energy given freely

by the Universe to good use each and every time I feed or am fed,

to be unafraid to sit in my power, all the while surrendering to a

force unbelievably stronger than my Actualized Self. THIS

TAUGHT ME TO NEVER TAKE CREDIT FOR MIRA-

CLES!!!! It also taught me that arrogance and doubt are the same

stumbling block, both born of low self-esteem. Effective and

grounded Reiki practice is a special mix of action and surrender

called BALANCE.

THE BASICS WHEN RECEIVING REIKI:

One is not called a Reiki Master until she/he has all 7 Attunements

of Reiki 4. This means attunements and clearing periods of the

following:

REIKI ONE, ONE‘S SPIRITUAL PLACE IN THE UNI-

VERSE IN 4 EQUAL PARTS:

REIKI ONE, EARTH ELEMENT:

One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, AIR ELEMENT:

One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, FIRE ELEMENT:

One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, WATER ELEMENT:

One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI TWO, EMOTIONAL AND LONG-DISTANCE

WORK:

One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI THREE, PHYSICAL PLACE IN THE UNIVERSE,

DIAGNOSTIC WORK:

One attunement and a 365 day Clearing Period.

Once the practitioner receives the Reiki Four Attunement, at or

near the 366th day after Reiki 3, she/he is, if cleared by one‘s Mas-

ter (entirely based on the Master‘s test of energy level and profi-

ciency. The Master is the responsible steward for the lineage she/

he carries and must be convinced the power of Reiki is optimum

in order to move to the next level of training), the practitioner is

allowed to pass attunements immediately up to level 3. Reiki 4

Attunements must wait an additional 365 days because it takes the

entire time period for the level of Reiki 4 to come to full measure;

only then is the process complete!

I have facilitated many Reiki 3 Attunements, dozens, perhaps a

couple of hundred even; but only a handful of Reiki 4. This is

when the going gets rough, because the practitioner has to be on

guard every moment, to keep the ego in check at this stage. Delu-

sion gets easier, not harder, that‘s the trap of metaphysical work.

One can lose sight of one‘s real talent or lack there of seemingly

instantly; fine lines, people! THIS IS THE HARDEST STEP

BECAUSE TRUE REIKI MASTERY IS NOT A CON-

STANT. IT BREATHES, MOVES AND THE BEST AND

HIGHEST MOMENTS OCCUR ONLY WITH THE TO-

TAL INTEGRATION OF BODY, MIND AND SOUL,

WITHOUT ARROGANCE AND EGO, BUT WITH LOTS

OF PRIDE AND POWER. This line is so fine; it is the most dan-

gerous of traps!

This is LINEAGE; you must realize what you are working for! In

spirituality, integration and balance is key, there is no reward for

half measures. In today‘s educational system, a pass is 70% and is

ok and called acceptable; ―good enough‖. Karmically, however,

70% is wasted energy whirl-pooling on itself, stuck and unable to

grow.

Another Silverstar clue: when I feel vested in someone, I prefer to

give a Double Attunement, meaning one attunement given by 2

Masters. This can be done at any level, but preferably with the 3rd

level Attunement. One Master opens the 7 Main Chakras, while

the other opens the remaining 15, creating a united and active

Kundalini. Instead of the usual 7 opened Chakras of the recipient

during attunement passing, there are 22 opened Chakras, fully

awake and receptive. With this method, the attunement is taken

and seeded on all 3 levels of consciousness: BODY, MIND

AND SOUL! That‘s the difference between heart-centered Reiki

training and ―a mill‖: ACTUALIZED POWER!

Open Ways

Samhain2009

15

Autumn Muse by Bonnie Barrigar

Please publish my short story, Autumn Muse‖. My Wiccan

friends read it and enjoyed it. They also told me about your

magazine, ―Open Ways‖, and suggested that I send this story to

you. Although I am not really Wiccan myself, I have a great deal

of respect for and fascination with this history-rich nature religion.

I believe that my story shows this., along with memories of my

youth in the Canadian North and my love of the seasons.

Bonnie,

Thank you for your submission. It is always an honor to receive a

story as personal as yours. It was so fun to read.

Becca, Editor

I grew up in the Canadian Mountains and I grew up with

Dolly. Dolly was a decade older then me, but she was, neverthe-

less, my soul mate. Tall and lovely, with sparkling brown eyes

and jetty long hair, she shared with me a love of the beauties of

nature that were all around us and a keen sense of adventure. She

knew the old secrets, taught to her by Canadian Native Sha-

manesses, and she taught me the true meaning of ―balance in all

things‖.

To get me in better touch with this meaning she would

lead me up in the mountain paths which lay up above her home

and my parents, home, for she lived in her own house on my par-

ent‘s property. These dusty paths would grow narrower and nar-

rower and steeper and steeper as I would follow her long-legged

strides up to the summits of the Rocky Mountains. When we

reached the summits, we would stand on tip-toe on the mountain

ledges, stretching out our arms and calling out to the rarified sky

and the eagles that circled even higher. I never stumbled, Dolly

taught me how to pay attention and shift my weight so I could

join her in skipping from rock to rock at the mountains‘ stony

heights. Often we would stop to enjoy the view, or an apple, or a

kiss for we had a budding lesbian affair.

By showing me how balance worked in negoti-

ating the mountain ravines, my beloved friend taught me of men-

tal, spiritual, and emotional balance as well.

―Always eat in small amounts, study, but rest when you

need it, and be generous with one thing, which is love.‖ Dolly

would tell me in her smoky, honeyed voice as we would rest on

the mountaintop admiring the legions of pines and gushing

streams below us.

―Dolly?‖ I once asked, ―How am I to know how much is

enough of something in all cases?‖

―Honey, listen to your soul. You‘ve got a good one.‖ She

reassured me as her dark eyes looked into my green ones with a

gaze that was loving and soul deep. For Dolly is French with

some Native Canadian blood and I am Celtic.

Our mountain walks were never more beautiful than in

the season when summer was just about ready to take on the first

blush of autumn. Here and there would be a leaf turned red or

yellow and birds would be massing in fields and in trees as though

they were discussing drills for their flights to the southlands. This

would be mid-August, as autumn and winter come quickly to

these far northern climes, and already one would feel a sharp

crispness in the morning air.

It was also the peak of the harvest time. The field that my

parents shared with Dolly spanned over 200 acres and was burst-

ing with everything that the near-arctic climate allowed us to

grow. There were lines of towering corn stalks, nests of potatoes,

row after row of tomatoes, and all kinds of beans and peas. Pump-

kins, gourds, and squash bumped along on tumbling vines. There

were beets, carrots, rutabagas, and cabbage.

Just to the back of my large brown farmhouse and en-

closed in a grotto of stones, some piled in the shape of pillars, was

the family herb and flower garden. Here Dolly put her knowledge

of medicinal herbs together with my mother, Maxine‘s, knowl-

edge of flowering plants. Here fenugreek and basil flourished with

roses and sweet-scented evening stock.

Late august days can be dry, hot, and dusty,

even in that part of Canada. But Dolly and I would feel cool and

refreshed in that herb-flower garden. There was just something

about the combination of herbal and flower scents that made one

feel calm and balanced.

On one such day, as Dolly and I tended the herb-flower

garden and picked off some of the herbs for drying, we noticed

how especially ―in-tune‖ everything felt.

―Dolly,‖ I said wistfully, ―Isn‘t it nice how all the plants in

here harmonize? They seem to compliment each other even

though many of them are so different.‖

―Of course they harmonize.‖ Said Dolly with an under-

tone of gentle pride and wisdom. ―We planted this with the ideals

of perfect balance in mind.‖

―Balance. Just like those rocks over there.‖ I said pointing

dreamily at the biggest stone pillar which was right over the rose-

mary plant.

―And just like us.‖ Said Dolly as she gave me a sweet

kiss there in the fragrant seclusion of our private paradise.

Finis

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

16

THE NATURE OF PRESENCES

by Ken Arthur

We live on a unique planet that is quite suited to nurture and pre-

serve advanced life forms. These extraordinary ―coincidences‖

are:

1. The proper distance for the sun which keeps us in a respectable

temperature zone—relative to the other planets in our solar sys-

tem. This temperature also allows water to exist in useful forms.

2. A magnetic field that shields us from the solar wind and flares.

Mars has no such field—it is too small and although life may exist

on it, it is likely not very highly developed.

3. A moon that orbits us thereby stirring up the atmosphere and

oceans. Otherwise, our air and water would become stagnant.

For many of us, these important factors are proof that a creative

deity or deities exist. For others, it is only proof that we are just the

products of an unusual but totally natural happenstance.

Then, there is the division between the ―Known‖—as defined and

discovered by science, and the ―Unknown‖—based on beliefs,

feelings, and for many of us an instant of epiphany—that ―aha‖

moment when we reach a sudden inspired moment of clarity. In

the realm of the Unknown, we seem to share our world with semi

-human and/or non-human entities—ghosts, spirits, angels, de-

mons, fairies, deities and etc. Of such beings, the advanced

―natural‖ ones are especially interesting.

If you live in the city or the suburbs, step outside and listen. You

will hear a buzz of activity—the hum of traffic, perhaps voices

from TVs and radios, and likely the barking of dogs. There is

nothing wrong with this overall background sound; it is the drone

of human activity. But it masks other, more natural sounds just as

the lights of cities mask all but the brightest of stars.

In true wilderness, in the absence of the sounds of civilization and

our lights that obscure many of the sky‘s celestial objects, there

exist ―things‖ (patterns) that are ancient, more powerful, some-

times more beautiful, and sometimes frightening . These are ―The

Presences‖ that haunt our subconscious minds and underlie our

physical world. We sometimes find them in our dreams or inside

our sacred circles when we are beyond normal space and time.

They are perhaps best detected as feelings—usually of awe—but

occasionally they inspire us with a feeling of fear or make us un-

comfortable.

My son and I backpacked, hiked, mountain climbed, were cross-

country skiers and spelunkers. In the solitude of the wild places,

away from the buzz of human concerns, we detected ―the oth-

ers‖—personalities of nature. The longer you spend in wilder-

nesses, the easier it is to ―feel‖ the ambience of ―other‖ entities.

A trail leading to the ocean in southern Oregon (Bandon State

Park) bisects a stunted dark forest. Entering this area gives one the

sudden feeling that the sun has just dimmed and that you are not

welcome there. A friend called this, ―the place of the dark

elves‖—who apparently don‘t like us. By contrast, far away from

any trails, scrambling through the underbrush in Washington‘s

rain forest, we once heard the welcoming laughter of small tin-

kling voices--Fairies?

But there are bigger, greater entities than these. In the darkness of

the Jefferson Wilderness Area, we were awakened by a giant

―unheard voice‖ drawing us out of our tent to witness an unob-

structed view of the Milky Way—a breathtaking sight like I had

not seen it since I was a child when camping with my father. At

the same time, far away, beyond hearing, a lightning storm on the

other side of the mountain randomly threw its giant shadow

across us.

In the rank and file of The Presences, some seem to be confined to

a specific locality—these are The Spiritus Loci, usually occupying

a specific geological area. They can be friendly but are more typi-

cally neutral or negative. Then there is The Great Presence, often

best detected away from civilization when one is contemplating a

beautiful sunset that illuminates puffy clouds with gold linings as a

gentle breeze whispers not quite understood secrets in your ears.

At such profound moments, even atheists have been known to

remark, ―Maybe there is a God…‖

Some folks seem to detect the Major Presence as a sound—but it

is not typically an actually ‗heard‘ sound. It is more like a sound

heard in one‘s mind. It was described and named in the TV series

―Roar‖, a voice that echoes through every living creatures and is

the power of life—since that is the way it appears to some. Scien-

tifically, The Presence has been discovered in the synchronicities

of Nature, such as the Fibonacci Numbers—leading to The

Golden Ratio, and the Mandelbrot Set, sometimes called ―the

thumbprint of God‖, that calculates fractals. A newer, more mod-

ern formula, expressed as the ―Six Degrees of Separation‖ theory

defines Hubs of the naturally occurring networks found in asso-

ciations of people, the Internet, and even in animal and vegetable

cell-structure.

The Shinto word ―Kami‖ although hard for our Western minds to

understand depicts the invisible, sacred quality that causes us to

(Continued on page 17)

Open Ways

Samhain2009

17

respond with awe and wonder to the mysterious and spiritual. It

somewhat relates to spirits residing in natural phenomena or people

with extraordinary qualities. We can feel this quality but not com-

pletely express it. It involves intuitive knowing while being unable to

say why we know.

How can one completely define that which cannot be totally defined?

While it is wonderful to observe the soul inspiring beauty of Nature,

the seemingly always loving character of deities may be a mistake.

Situations can swiftly turn ominous. The setting sun can suddenly be

obscured as the puffy clouds turn into thunder heads and a lazy

breeze can turn into a force that knocks down trees. Earthquakes,

hurricanes, tornadoes and tsunamis kill tens of thousands of people at

a time. In the USA alone, according to some argued statistics 60-70

people per year are killed by lightning—while estimated hundreds

more are injured. Every year, an average of over 200 people on earth

are attacked and eaten by wild animals! Over 200,000 people were

killed by tsunamis in 2004. Perhaps this is how the concepts of good

deities and bad deities came about. But perhaps we should admit we

don‘t fully understand our deities. It has even been suggested in some

philosophies that deities are neutral. Then again, if we do reincarnate

and come back to finish our work on earth, then dying in a storm may

just be part of the learning process…

Whether the Soul of Nature is uncovered on an intuitive level or

mathematically calculated, to deny its real existence is futile. Addi-

tionally, there are always more, ever greater truths to discover.

Bibliography:

Smithsonian, July 2009: ‗Keeping Company‘ -- by Barbara Ehren-

reich, pages 19-22

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsunami_2004

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference --

by Malcolm Gladwell (pub. Little Brown 2000).

The Fractal Geometry of Nature -- by Benoit B. Mandelbrot--New

York: W. H. Freeman and Co., 1982

The ―Small World Experiment‖ of Stanley Milgram, 1967 (Six De-

grees of Separation)

DVD: Fractals: The Colors of Infinity -- by Gaiam

DVD Set: Roar: TV Series (1997) Starring: Heath Ledger, John

Saint Ryan; Director: Jeffery Levy, (Available from Amazon)

Sunfest 2010

by Isidora

Greetings all!

This is Isidora Forrest. I am pleased and excited to let everyone

know that next year‘s OWOW SunFest XXII will be devoted to

Isis the Radiant Goddess.

This is an invitation for those of you who feel called to Isis to join

us in creating this festival. We are gathering a group of women

and men who will commit themselves to ritual training in honor

of Isis throughout this coming Winter and Spring….and who

will then serve as Her priestesses and priests during SunFest

XXII. I especially invite men who are called to Isis. I know there

are a lot of you‘re out there because I hear from you all the time.

On the other hand, if you prefer not to do the ritual end of things,

but would like to serve the Beautiful, Magical One in another

way, we most definitely will need help of a crafty nature. We are

doing no less than raising a temple of Isis on the SunFest site.

There will be gold, there will be an inner sanctum, it will be oh-so

-Egyptian. And we oh-so need your help.

If you‘re interested in ritual, please contact me at isi-

dora.forrest@gmail.com

If you‘re interested in the temple building, please contact Michael

Agee at

Lysios@spiritone.com

Questions welcomed!

Under Her Wings,

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

18

That Invisible Path

by Mark Miner

Dear Editor,

I found your magazine in the library and was pleased with some

of your stories and features. I was ―chomping‖ at the bit to get this

out and found it liberating to tell my story. Regardless of if you

print this or not, I felt complete in writing this. Thank you for tak-

ing the time to read and consider this.

Growing up, my family was not really into any religion or faith.

For a short amount of time, my mother sent us to a Baptist church

when I was in grade school. But that quickly ended, and we never

went back.

Mark,

Thank you so much for this touching and genuine story of your

journey. I know this will help so many people who may be strug-

gling along their own spiritual path. Blessed Be Becca, Editor.

It wasn‘t until I was in my early twenties did I seek out any guid-

ance from anything spiritual. I went to a Pentecostal church with

my adopted brother and we both liked it. The services were lively

and energetic. But with some Christian time under my belt, I

started to realize that the judgmental nature of the believers was

getting to be too much for me. But I forged on and furthered my

education in the Christian faith, never giving up hope. I eventually

became a Reverend and started preaching at churches.

I was a ―no-holds-barred‖ preacher. Telling it like it was, and not

allowing any contradictions in my words and walk to affect me in

my faith. It became apparent after some months that I was not

welcomed at most of the churches I preached at because of this.

Eventually I started losing focus, because I had no further inspira-

tion in the Christian faith. I found it to be a mirage in comparison

to what I wanted in my heart.

Then one day I found a new friend and eventually this friend told

me that she was Wiccan. My first instinct was to revert back to

my Christian faith and judge her to be a devil worshiper. But as

she explained further, my mind began to open to the idea of her

beliefs. Simply because most of what she talked about was what I

already believed in, even before I was a Christian.

I always knew that there was a ―higher power‖ somewhere, and

that we were somehow all connected in some way. I also had the

sense that it was wrong to have pre-conceived ideas of other peo-

ple or the fact that it was wrong to judge others. My friend told me

about her freedom and her openness and that she was at peace

within herself and with everything around her. I admired and en-

vied her.

After that I was sitting on my porch one night enjoying a cup of

coffee and watching the sunset, when it came to me …. So what

if I believed what was in my heart? What if I were to explore dif-

ferent faiths and see what fit me most? Was there really a place of

torture that would take me if I didn‘t conform to a certain stereo-

type in religion?

And then all walls broke down inside of myself. I felt a serious

weight lift off of me, and for once in my life I felt completely free.

My soul felt light and nearly wanted to fly.

The following day I went over to my friend‘s house and asked for

some advice on how to approach the Wiccan faith. She gave me

some books and talked with me about her experiences. After

some time, I was hooked.

For once in my life I felt at one with everything, I felt defined and

free to express myself in worship. And in my life, my spirituality

seemed to make sense in every way that spirituality in myself

could ever feel.

Now, I don‘t care what people think of me when I answer that I

am Wiccan. I don‘t feel that I have to defend myself or make up

lies to please them.

I have been a Wiccan for over five years now and have grown in

leaps and bounds. I am in a place in my life right now where eve-

ryone doesn‘t judge me for what I believe in or for how I dress or

live my life. There is complete acceptance.

I wanted to share this with everyone, whether you are in the Wic-

can faith already or even if you‘re not. My intention is not to

―convert‖ or to persuade anyone, each has their own path. I just

wanted to share my struggle and release in finding who I was in

the spiritual realm. My path started out narrow until it ended up

not being a path at all, but simply a never-ending world with no

boundaries or restrictions.

I still believe in God, only now I have completed the ―circle‖ and

accepted the Goddess as well. This has, and always did, make

sense to me. So it just seems natural now. And I wouldn‘t change

a thing. I feel totally at peace and always carry the sense that I‘m

home. Peace be

Open Ways

Samhain2009

19

8 Times a year, each Sabbath —

Mystic Art Gathering & Information Cir-

cle (MAGIC) holds a public ritual and

ceremony for the Solstices, Equinoxes, and

cross-quarters in between. Typically in

Vancouver or North Portland. These gath-

erings are free to the public, although a

donation can will be passed. Families with

kids are welcome. Held on the closest Sat-

urday to the actual Sabbath, 7pm. Loca-

tions announced in advance if possible.

Call 360-693-7349 or see our listing in the

community directory under MAGIC as

well as on MySpace.

SUNDAYS

Non-denominational Sunday service

Integrate light into your being. Come to

receive blessings and an uplifting spiritual

Reading to empower and enlighten your

soul. After the service has ended there is a

guided meditation to bring prosperity into

your life. Held at Crystal Temple 7275

Richmond Ave. For info call 503-249-

0303 or by web at crystaltemple.org.

1st Sunday Sare-apy.

Always the first Sunday (no Sare-apy in

August). Join us each first Sunday of the

month. Activities include silent meditation,

discussion of healing techniques, individual

and group healing sessions and introduc-

tion to healing arts practitioners. Everyone

is welcome, this is a wonderful opportunity

for healing– receiving and giving, and for

making new alliances. Held at Hands of

Freedom Healing 8725 NE Broadway,

Portland OR 97220 from 1-4pm. Dona-

tions appreciated.

1st Sunday Movie Night Featuring a movie or documentary which

cultivates spiritual growth.. Held at Crystal

ONGOING ACTIVITIES

Temple 7275 Richmond Ave. For info call

503-249-0303 or by web at crystaltem-

ple.org.

TUESDAYS

Open Reiki and healing circle

Circle held on the 1rst Tuesday of the

month from 9-11am. Held at the Celtic

Circle 3717 NW 25th St. Redmond, OR.

For info call 541-504-4627 or by email

pepsi@bendcable.com.

Witches meetup

A social event held on the 4th Tuesday of

every month. At 7PM. We have no set

agenda or format, just talk and have fun.

Held at the Guiding Tree 4831 SE Divi-

sion Street . For more info http://

www.pagan.meetup.com.

Green Tara Sadhana Meditation

Held every Tuesday at 7pm. Green Tara

manifests the female energy of transcen-

dent wisdom and enlightened compassion-

ate activity. Prostrations, mandala offering

and hand madras are taught with this prac-

tice. The practice of Green Tara helps to

overcome fear and anxiety, and also devel-

ops qualities of love, compassion, wisdom

and protection on the path of enlighten-

ment. Held at The Drukpa Mila Center

872 Belmont St. Salem, OR. Info at

www.drukpamilacenter.com.

WEDNESDAYS

Witches Meetup

A social event held on the 1rst Wed. of

every month at 7PM. We have no set

agenda or format, just talk and have fun.

We are a friendly, non-cliquish bunch who

have been meeting for over five years.

Held at the Irishtown Pub, 11600 NE Mill

Plain Blvd. Vancouver WA.

Monthly Pagan Meetup

A social event held on the 2nd Wed of

every month at 7PM. We just get together

to talk and have fun. Held at Old Town

Pizza (between 2nd and 3rd on NW

Davis). For more info go to http://

www.paganmeetup.com.

Monthly Pagan Meetup

A social event held on the 2nd Wed of

every month at 7PM. We just get together

to talk and have fun. Held at Old Town

Pizza (between 2nd and 3rd on NW

Davis). For more info go to http://

www.paganmeetup.com.

Reiki Share Circle

Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesdays at Sell-

wood Spirit Feathers, 7704 SE 13th. For

info call 503-230-0249. All are welcome!

Tarot night

Every 1rst Wednesday. Bring your cards,

practice readings, become more familiar

with your card and discuss Tarot with other

readers. Held at Crystal Temple, 7525 N

Richmond. For info cal 503-249-0303 or

on the web at info@crystaltemple.org.

Reiki Circle

Every 2nd Wednesday come and receive

healing and develop your skills in a sacred

temple surrounded by light beings. Held at

Crystal Temple, 7275 N Richmond. For

info 503-249-0303 or on the web at

info@crystaltemple.org.

Drum circle

Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesday at 7pm.

Lets explore rhythms and escape reality in

a sacred temple. A joyous monthly, multi-

cultural spiritual experience. Using sacred

phrases drawn from the worlds many

(Continued on page 20)

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

20

(Continued from page 19)

religious traditions, with live music and simple devotional move-

ment. Bring an instrument if you have one, if not we can share.

Held at Crystal Temple 7275 N Richmond. For more info

info@crystaltemple.org.

Chenrrezid Sadhana Meditation

Every Wednesday at 7pm. The Buddha of compassion, known

as Chenrezig, manifests as enlightened compassionate activity.

This meditation practice is taught and practiced, using short sad-

hana practice. By learning about the nature of compassion and

learning his mantra ―Om Mani Padme Hum‖, we can actually

become aware of increasing compassion in our own lives. Held

at The Drukpa Mila Center, 872 Belmont St. SE Salem, OR.

Info at www.drukpamilacenter.com

THURSDAYS

Open Meditation

Held every Thursday and Sunday from 12-2 pm. Open medita-

tion at Crystal Temple 7275 N Richmond. For info 503-249-

0303 or info@crystaltemple.org.

Morris Dancing

Every Thursday join Renegade Rose Morris Dancers, a group

of Portland men and women who perform ancient English folk

dances on May Day and other community events. We‘ll teach

you dances. For info call Lev at 971-570-3388 or on the web at

www.renegaderose.com ☺

Death Star

By Ansur

O‘ Dark star of death

Singing of the end

Radiating coldness

Sucking life out of the light

O‘ Power than none can resist

Frightening those who are weak

And those who do not understand

You are but a minor moment

In our infinite eternities

Soon forgotten

When we are free to invoke

The fire of the wheel of Life

And our being illuminates you

With the complexity of our rebirth

If the doors of perception were cleansed,

Everything would appear … As it is, infinite.

—- Blake

Open Ways

Samhain2009

21

Pagan Community Directory Listing various kinds of resources for the Pagan Community, including circles (both open and closed), church groups, meeting

places, study groups, and event organizers. Please, no retail outlets. A listing here does not necessarily mean a specific group can or

will help you. To be included in this directory, please send information (limit 50 words which includes name and contact

information) to Open Ways, PO Box 6283 Vancouver, WA 98668; or email editor@9houses.org.

12 Steps Pagan Style

I am a clean Pagan offering support to as-

sist those on the clean path in Wicca and

Paganism. I have 17 years of recovery. I

am willing to give assistance, support and

counsel to those who are concerned with

these issues.

midnight_crow@hotmail.com or

http://spiralrhythms.org/p12.

ADF Druids of Portland NEW

Our study group meets on the last Friday

of every month and up to 8 times a year for

Public Ritual. Affiliated with ADF (Ar

nDraoicht Fein), adf.org. We are in pursuit

of authentic scholarship and modern prac-

tices. See our website atpdx-druids.org.

Announcement Board & Community

Directory The Web

―Because folks don't have time to check

every website or subject line for current

events. Come see what your missing.‖

Post: Rituals, classes, workshops …..

http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/The-

Web

The altar of Epona and Herne Healing

Ministry ATC

Our vision is to create a well trained, com-

passionate Priesthood to serve the Pagan

Community. We have an online commu-

nity, monthly distance healing and prayer

request list, and provide free healing to vets

and their families. For more info altar-

epona-herne@yahoo.com.

The Ancient and Honorable Order of

the Sacred Oaks

A Druidic order in the Arthurian/Celtic

tradition, chartering groves meeting estab-

lished criteria and dedicated to authentic

Druidic principles and traditions. For those

who aspire to the excellence of Druidry,

Inc. in OR and 501(c)3. 503-235-5774

www.sacred-oak-grove.org.

Aquarian Tabernacle Church

Serving the PNW since 1979. An interfaith

church of Wicca and Earth Religions rec-

ognized and accredited worldwide. All

welcome at Open Circles near Seattle at

NM & FM. Info and schedule : 360-793

-1945, classes : 425-821-7246, Pagan

Youth Group: Spiral Scouts Interna-

tional.360-793-9427.

www.spiralscouts.org

Brotherhood of the Wooden Chalice

We are a group of eclectic Wiccans housed

in Oregon State Penitentiary. We gather

once per moon for study, ritual, and mutual

support. We have a priest but could use

volunteers and donations.

khabir.taylor@verizon.net

Cedar Mountain Coven

We are an eclectic Celtic coven, with some

Native American influences. We meet for

Sabbaths, Esbats, laughter and support

throughout the Portland/Vancouver area.

Closed to new members Samhain to Bel-

tane, we do keep a waiting list for anyone

interested. cedarmountain@gmail.com

Www.cedarmountaincoven.com.

Coven Caer Wy’east

A traditional Gardnerian Coven, sponsors a

non-oath bound, British Traditional Wic-

can Outer Court for seekers of traditional

training.. We prefer to work with seekers

30 years or older. New training cycles usu-

ally begin each spring. usually begin each

spring. For more info contact Steward

Creace 503-622-1381 or stew-

ard_creace@msm.com.

The Earth Gatherings

An eclectic spiritual group with frequent

get - togethers to discuss various spiritual

paths. Sponsors of The Mother Earth Gath-

ering and The Middle Earth Gathering

(June and September), Earth Awareness

Festivals, honoring diversity and creating

balance between wilderness and civiliza-

tion. 503-503-1415 bladu@hotmail.com

Www.earthgatherings.org PO Box

19655 Portland, OR 97280.

Forces of Nature Metaphysical and

Spiritual Center NEW

Celebration and cultural preservation of

Africana spirituality in the Pacific North-

west! We offer events and a online e-list of

events related to Africana spirituality in the

greater Seattle area. To join visit http://

groups.google.com/forces-of-nature-

metaphysical-and-spiritual-center?

hl=en.

For Info www.fonspiritualcenter.org , or

call 206-781-3565 or ser-

vices@fonspiritualcenter.org.

The Hermetic Fellowship

Exploring Western Esoteric Tradition:

Ancient Mysteries, Wicca/NeoPaganism,

Qubalah, Rosicrucianism, Alchemy,

Gnosticism, Theurgy and Grail Quest.

Meets monthly, 3rd Thursday. Informal

presentations, open discussion, rituals and

workshops occasionally. 1st semester of

2009, special focus on Hermeticism. For

more info call 503-255-7910 or by web

(preferred) www.hemeticfellowship.org

miforrest@hermeticfellowship.org.

Ile LaiLai NEW

A contemplative ifa-centered spiritual

community offering spiritual consultations,

divination, and Orisa and Ifa initiations to

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

22

sincere seekers in the Pacific Northwest.

www.ilelailai.org or 206-761-3565 or

iya@ileailai.org.

Indigo Lights Circle online teen group

A place for uniquely gifted teens to cele-

brate and explore the gifts the :Lord and

Lady granted us with. Site address:

www.geocities.com/jinksjustjinks/

M.A.G.I.C.

A Vancouver/Portland based group that

holds four gatherings a year, teaches

classes in metaphysics, and provides or-

daining of clergy, and sponsors the Spiral

Rhythms Festival. Call 360-693-7349

Email sienna@spiralrhythms.org and

Www.spiralrhythms.org/magic for

more information.

Nine Houses of Gaia (9HOG’S)

A non-profit organization incorporated to

facilitate networking among pagans in the

Pacific Northwest. Sponsors of Open

Ways Newsletter as well as Northwest

Fall Equinox Festival. The NWFEF cele-

brates the great harvest, begun at Lammus

and ending at Samhain. Contact info for

Open Ways editor@9houses.org.

North American Council of Witches

A non-profit organization. Primary goal is

protection under the First Amendment of

the US Constitution; secondary, lobbying

for common power, strength in numbers.

Request membership and general infor-

mation at NACW@hotmail.com or call

503-228-2192.

Officers of Avalon, Inc

A non-profit benevolent organization

representing Wiccans and other Pagans

who work as police officers and other

professionals in the emergency services.

Membership dues $25/yr for full mem-

bers $15/yr for associate members. News-

letter The Dispatch. Registration forms

available at www.officersofavalon.com.

PO Box 22 Baraboo, WI 53913-0022.

Other Worlds of Wonder (OWOW)

We have gathered around a central pur-

pose, the purchase of land for the local

Pagan community. We honor all positive

traditions, and celebrate diversity at our

festival, Sunfest. Contact info as follows:

14308 SE River Rd. Milwaukie, OR

97267. http://www.owow.org or email

owoworg@gmail.com.

Pacific NW Pagans Yahoo Group An online community for Pagans in the

Pacific Northwest, including Oregon,

Washington, Idaho, Alaska and British

Columbia. When posting announcements

for events in this group, please be sure

t h e y ' r e i n P N W . h t t p : / /

groups.yahoo.com/group/pnwpagans.

PACT

A democratic, eclectic teaching/training

coven in three parts: A semi-private outer

circle - by invitation only, two inner-core

circles for PACT initiated. Lessons, de-

grees, and clergy training by PACT univer-

sity. For info and a waiting list: email —

lordansurpact@yahoo.com

PDX Pagan Tribe

This tribe is for heathens, pagans and free

thinking individuals residing in or around

Portland, OR, or other metro areas who

want to communicate with other like

minded folk. Please no political rants, there

are other tribes for that. A person has to

sign up with Tribe.net for free in order to

join this tribe. The tribe is moderated in

order to keep out hate mongers and spam-

mers. Web address - http://

tribes.tribe.net/pdxpagans.Portland

Polyamory Circle A gathering for folks exploring options

beyond monogamy. Discussions include

open relationships, extended families, and

intentional communities. Everyone inter-

ested is welcome to join us. For information

and location Laury 503-285-4848.

Red Cedar Circle (Church of Si. Si. Wiss)

Northwest Coast Medicine Johnny Moses

teachings to all. Portland/Vancouver area

meetings. For information and location call

503-245-5660 or rlouis@hctc.com.

Red Cedar Grove, O.B.O.D.

We are a Celtic group in Vancouver affili-

ated with the Order of Bards, Ovates, and

Druids that enjoy a fun, spirituality and fel-

lowship as we move through the Wheel of

the year. We meet about twice a month for a

Sabbat ritual and a tutorial. Come and grow

with us under the Spirit Filled Red Cedar.

Serena at serena@aberle.net or Tursa-

chan at tursachan@comcast,net or 360-

608-5458.

Sacred Oak Grove

A Druid Grove in the Arthurian/Celtic-

Wiccan tradition. For those seeking a true

Druidic path of knowledge, truth, justice,

spiritual fellowship, and community service.

Esbats, Sabbaths and tutorials. Members

commit to both group and individual studies

for spiritual growth. Now offering an outer

circle. For information call 503-235-5774

or oakgrove@teleport.com.

The Saint James Project

A Shamanic Arm of the Red Witch Tradi-

tion. Includes Indigenous Shamanic train-

ing, pilgrimages and extensive herstory/

history from the first century CE to the pre-

sent. Prerequisite: Reiki 3 and 3 years

magickal hands-on experience. Meets at

Toad House in McMinnville Oregon.

7 6 y 0 C o n t a c t i n f o w o r l d -

tree1@verizon.net.

Seattle Goddess Group

(Continued on next page)

Open Ways

Samhain2009

23

A new site dedicated to worship of the

Seattle based deity (As first seen in the

―Summer of 2008 art book) ―Let your love

grow‖ is her prayer. http://

g ro u p s . y a h o o . co m / g ro u p s /

seattle.godess/ or SeattleGod-

dess@yahoogroups.com.

Shadowluz

Eclectic coven that emphasizes increasing

the power of the individual through

strength of our Gestalt, focusing on diver-

sity in beliefs and the practice of Magick.

Members range from Portland to Hood

River and Mt. Hood. Please send letter of

intent to HPS Belle Evergreen at belleev-

ergreen@yahoo.com.

Silver Birch Grove, Order of the Sacred

Oaks

If the bardic arts call to you, and your love

of the Goddess and God speaks to you

through Celtic and Arthurian-based my-

thology and lore, come walk our Pagan

path with us as we renew our grove. Now

in Vancouver, WA. Contact silver-

birchgrove@hotmail.com or (503) 235-

5774 or (360) 936-1035.

Silver Star Circle

A Celtic Pagan circle meeting for Sabbats,

full and new moons, weekly class and

more. Located in Battle Ground Addi-

tional. Info: email slvrstarcir-

cle@yahoo.com.

SisterSpirit

Women's spirituality organization honor-

ing the Divine Feminine and celebrating

the Goddess in all Her forms. Featuring on

-going classes, circles, workshops and one

monthly ritual. Presenters of the annual

PaganFaire. Contact information as fol-

lows: PO Box 9246 Portland, OR

97207. 503-736-3297.

www.paganfaire.com. sister-

spirit.portland@gmail.com.

www.teleport.com/sisterspirit

Sophia Sanctuary Women’s Temple

We are a circle of women committed to

healing, education ritual and service.

(HERS) We celebrate the eight holy days

of the wheel: Solstices and Equinoxes are

for all genders and families; Cross quarters

are for womyn only. For information:

http://www.sophiasancuary.org or

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/

SophiaSancuary.

The Sorcerers Guild

Dedicated to the enhancement of Magickal

work within its membership. Public meet-

up at the Dancing Beans 1615 SE 12th

Ave Portland, OR held monthly. Email

thebinder7@yahoo.com for date and

time. For more information: http://

s o r c e r e r s g u i l d . t r i b e . n e t http:www.sorcerersguild.com, or

http://groups.myspace.com/

sorceryguild.

Spellbound teen online group

An online community for teen Pagans and

Wiccans. Our goal is to offer personal

pages, forums, articles, links, and other

ways of interacting with teens who have

similar interests in Paganism and Wicca.

S i t e a d d r e s s : h t t p : / /

spellboundtpn.ning.com.

Peace Garden

Peace Garden open from dawn to dusk for

quiet prayer and meditation. 20‘ lavender

peace pole, erected in 2002, PEACE writ-

ten in thirteen languages. Hard working

garden volunteers always needed. Hard

working garden volunteers always needed.

Write for information. Location: McMinn-

v i l l e O R . w w w . t o a dh o u s e -

peacegarden.org. http://tribes.tribe.net/

t o a d l o v e r s . . d a r g o n -

fly5555@verizon.net.

(WICCA)

A women‘s church dedicated to the God-

dess in Her many forms. Groups, newslet-

ter, retreats, rituals and classes. Contact

info: PO Box 5296 Eugene OR 97405

www.wiccawomen.org, 541-485-3654

Email: normahp@iglide.net.

Women of African Ceremony

We are women who honor the earth and

our African heritage through ceremony

and ritual. We meet monthly. Location is

Portland, OR. 503-238-1151

Women of the Goddess

Women of the Goddess is a Pagan com-

munity in the Dianic tradition. Member-

ship is open to women over 18 years old of

good intent who sincerely subscribe to our

purpose. Location Seattle, WA. Contacts:

janicevc@seanet.com or 206-322-2436.

World Tree Prayer Network

Prayer and emergency energy work at no

fee; serving the internet since1994. Post

your own requests. Have permission of the

energy recipient first; then, include full

name, age, basic location including city,

state and country along with basic prob-

lem. PRAY FOR PEACE!

h t t p : / / t r i b e s . t r i b e . n e t /

worldtreeprayernetwork

The Well of Diancecht

Provides free sacred energy healing to vet-

erans, active duty military and their fami-

lies. We also list practitioners offering slid-

ing scale services to service members, vet-

erans and their families. Info at well of di-

ancecht@yahoo.com or altarepona-

hrne@yahoo.com

Witches of Westwick Paranormal Soci-

ety NEW

Centered in the beautiful foothills of the

Columbia River Gorge. Specializing in

Esoteric research and Theology. Dedicated

to tribal rites of passage as well as the Ma-

jor and Minor Pagan Holidays & Festivals.

We love to explore the enchanted as well

as the chilling. Contact Leanna at devasde-

light@yahoo.com or 541-490-5718 .

Open Ways

Samhain 2009

24

The Nine Houses of Gaia

Open Ways

PO Box 14415

Portland, OR 97293-0415

Address Service Requested

NONPROFIT ORG

US POSTAGE PAID

VANCOUVER WA

PERMIT NO. 86

Proceeds from the

Northwest Fall Equinox

Festival go to producing

Open Ways

Thank you for your support!