Into Autumn

As the Wheel of the Year turns, so do the Wheels of our lives.  The western world has lost many of the celebrations of special milestones in our lives.  Beyond birthdays, there are the times when we reach a new phase in our life on earth.  Each new phase brings the culmination of experiences, learning, and impact that we have on others and others on us.  As we grow older, we gain insights and wisdom that can be of great value, not only only to ourselves, but also to others.

On September 13, I will be facilitating a Sophia Ceremony.  This ritual and liturgy will center on one beautiful woman's attainment of an age of wisdom.  In Wiccan traditions, this ceremony might be called a "Croning."  This is a celebration of the value of a woman as she embraces the attainment of the status of Elder.  It is a reflection on her spiritual path and growth; a recognition of what she has to offer the Universe during the next phase of her life. This private event is by invitation, hosted, organized, and planned by the individual to be honored with my guidance and assistance.

On the tail of this special ceremony comes the Second Harvest at Autumn Equinox.  The Wiccan name for this spoke on the Wheel is Mabon, named after a legendary Welsh character, Mabon ap Modron.  Some call this the Harvest Home.  It is a time of thanksgiving for and the sharing of the gifts of the earth given for our sustenance through the coming winter.  According to some sources, ancient Autumn Equinox celebrations were replaced by the celebration of Michaelmas, the feast day of the Archangel Michael, which is traditionally on September 29.

St. Brigid in the Desert will acknowledge the Mabon/Michaelmas holy days on Saturday, September 20th this year.  Time and place will be announced once schedules have been synchronized.  Watch for announcements here, on Facebook, and on the website!

Dragonkin by Walter Bruneel - This piece speaks of Sophia to me.