Summer Solstice 2009

Open Ways

Page 1 Summer Solstice 2009

Summer solstice 2009

PEn Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities

Issue 141 Free!

Open Ways


Open Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities

Issue 141—Summer Solstice Open Ways is published eight times a year, on the Quarters and Cross-Quarters, by The Nine Houses of Gaia, Inc. Circulation 3400+.

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Open Ways


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

Lughnasadh 2009 Fall Equinox 2009 Samhain 2009 Yule 2009 Brigid 2010 Spring Equinox 2010 Beltane 2010 Summer Solstice 2010

June 13 July 25 August 25 Oct. 25 Dec. 01 Jan 25 March 31 April 25

July 10 Sept. 1 Oct. 10 Dec. 1 Jan. 10 Sept. 1 April 10 June 1

Pagan Family Pik-nik

July 25, 2009 11:00am to dusk

Creston Park 4476 SE Powell blvd. Portland

Ritual at 2pm (Pagan standard time) Come display products and wears, flyers etc. Raffle donations for Fall Eq.

Come see old friends and make new ones. This is a great networking opportunity. Family friendly! We will have games, live music and prizes!

Bring information about your group or organization to share along with a potluck dish, games and musical instruments.

Table of Contents

4 - Ritual Celebrations, Community

events and Announcements

5 - The need for integration of Body,

Mind and Spirit by Silverstar Red Crow

6 - Summer Dawns on the Obamaverse:

Wiccan Priestess on Obama and the

Summer Solstice by Erick Peterson

7 - Festivals: when and contact info

8 - Midnight Wisdom - Back to the Be-

ginning by Victoria Ana. Lightfoot

9 - Laxmi at Fall Eq. Sari - Saree

by Ophio Kleitera

11 - Letters from the Community

12 - Summer Solstice: Season of the

Phoenix by Staci Elliott

13 - Untitled by Rev. Dr. Byron Warren

13 - What is Spiritual Anarchy?

14 - Advice from the Priesthood

by Sienna

15 - Ongoing Activities

16 - Saying God damn and Jesus Christ,

why? by AliZara

17 - Pagan Community Directory

20 - Summerstar registration

21 - SunFest registration

22 - NorthWest Fall Eq. registration

Artwork provided by Liz P.

Open Ways


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

June, 6 2009 Open Full Moon Ritual Starts at 6pm with

drumming afterword until 9pm. Held at Essential Elements

Herbal Apothecary, 3135 SE Hawthorne blvd. in Portland. All

full moon rituals are free but donations are gladly appreciated to

help offset costs. For more information call Essential Elements

at 503-231-2831 or Thuri at 503-956-7258 as well as email

[email protected].

June 20 2009 Summer Solstice Celebration for Women.

Journey Up the Pyramid of the Sun. Starts at 12:00 noon.

Meet at Michelle‘s Meadow, NW 53rd Drive, 1/2 Mile N of

Cornell Road. Call the SisterSpirit office for directions: 503-736

-3297.

June 21, 2009 Summer Solstice Gathering, 3-7pm. Join

TERRA for a family/dog friendly event at Ft. Steilacoom Park

in Lakewood. An awesome huge fenced off-leach dog park,

lake, trails and play equipment. Feast, play, get acquainted, and

enjoy the advent of summer. Location: 8714 Elwood Drive

SW in Lakewood. For info and directions http://

www.TERRAtacoma.org.

June21 2009 Open Summer Solstice/Alban Hefin Ritual,

3pm. Come and join us as we celebrate the sun at the peak his

power, as we turn the wheel of the year once again. Please bring

drums or other instruments. You are welcome to share a story,

poem etc. $5 donation for the food bank appreciated. Potluck

afterwards, so bring a dish to share. Location: 21803 NE Lucia

Falls Rd. in Yacolt. For info call 360-910-5960.

June 21 2009 Public MidSummer Ritual 5pm. This is a

potluck event and open to all. We will be gathering at 5pm for

crafts and other activities. Orientation will begin at 5:30pm and

call to circle at 5:55pm. Location: 108 Ave SE Kent. For direc-

t i o n s em a i l t im . h @ q . co m. W eb s i t e :

www.covenantofthebluemoon.org. Phone: 253-886-7797.

Tuesday June 9th - Inner Journeys 7pm

A journal writing circle for women. Bring your own journal or

come start a new one. Topic: Journal exercises to listen to listen to

the wisdom of (fourth) heart chakra, heal imbalances, connect with

and celebrate the power of love, unity, and compassion for others.

All women welcome. Held at the SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Bel-

mont # 102. Call 503-736-3297 for info. $5 + donation appreci-

ated.

Wednesday June 10th - Women‟s Healing Circle, 7pm. Topic: Healing with the properties of Air, astrological sign Gemini.

All women welcome. Held at the SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Bel-


ated.

Wednesday June 17th - Nature‟s Magick Group, 7:30pm. All women welcome. Held at the SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Bel-


ated.

Thursday June 18th - Dream Conversations, 7pm.

Come and share your dreams and insights with other women! All

women welcome. Held at the SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Belmont

# 102.. Call 503-736-3297 for info. $5 + donation appreciated.

Thursday June 25 - Women‟s Writers Group, 7pm

Held at the SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Belmont # 102.. Call 503-

736-3297 or email [email protected] for information. $5 +

donation appreciated.

Tuesday July 14 - Inner Journeys, 7pm.

A journal writing circle for women. Bring your journal or start a

new one. Topic: Journal exercises to listen to your (fifth) throat

chakra, heal imbalances, connect with and celebrate the power of

voice, story and creativity. All women welcome. Held at the Sister-

Spirit office, 3430 SE Belmont # 102. Call 503-736-3297 for infor-

mation. $5 + donation appreciated.

Open Ways


THE NEED FOR INTEGRATION OF BODY,

MIND AND SPIRIT

By Silverstar Red Crow © 2007/2009

Integration between body, mind and soul is the ―consciousness

goal‖ for the Shaman before any specific magickal act is under-

taken, whether corporeal or otherworldly. Understanding Sha-

manism, not just as a specific spiritual calling (Called by the Spir-

its) or healing process, but as a worldview and way of life is daunt-

ing and demands an understanding of the ―Big Picture‖. Full-self

integration is the key to shifting perspective, vital for expanding

one‘s consciousness enough to see the domino effect of the acts

one employs, on any level, at any time. The Big Picture is found

in the details first, then the unfolding of the drama of each act of:

ACTION +.INTERACTION = REACTION.

We, as humans, do not have the luxury of viewing the Big Picture

without a steady, disciplined approach to practical life on this

planet. When the energy of the physical body is balanced with

clarity of mind, married with trust in divinity and of one‘s own

place in the Universe, integration occurs. This process does not

happen overnight. Spirit does intervene from time to time, but, it

isn‘t the general rule, not when it comes to discipline.

There are few short-cuts to integration. Discipline, through the

dedication of time and energy are necessary, on all levels, all of the

time. Personal physical awareness and the ability to stay in one‘s

body are necessary for having full access to a broad spectrum of

emotion. The ability to feel and express uncensored emotion, a

steeping stone in achieving emotional vulnerability, is an impor-

tant cornerstone of the practice of Indigenous Shamanism With-

out this skill, one is voicing someone else‘s work, channeling, or

going through the motions, while others are in the realm of play-

ing games or entertaining simple curiosities.

Physical fitness can never be ignored in the integration mix; it is a

must to be healthy enough to manufacture and store energy for

use on all levels. Without a well articulated body, many Shamanic

skills cannot be employed. This is a fact of life, one impossible to

ignore! Does a Shaman have to be the best vegetarian body

builder-triathelete at the optimum weight before skills are ob-

tained? NO! All human beings are works in process and are at

differing skill-levels in each area. Using what one already has to

the best of one‘s abilities, is the process in a nutshell. Meaning, a

seeker desiring mentorship in otherworld thought and travel,

needs to be aware and use every bit of one‘s physical body, em-

ploying the skills of feeling and intuiting it‘s function.

Being grossly unfit is a common pit-fall of the modern energy

worker. Often people ―weighed-down‖ emotionally, seek-out

belief structures involving ascension, personal spiritual flight and a

connection with an outer-space type of divinity. Many of these

individuals are completely separated from their first 3 Chakras,

blocking core emotion and ―gut‖ knowing, absolute skills for any

true Shamanic Practitioner. Without the gut, we lose our true place

in the Universe. Without place, the spiritual traveler is not

grounded; consequently, the practitioner‘s protection is not work-

ing efficiently.

STEP ONE: Get in your body and feel what‟s going on in

there: past and present.

Stop running away from your body! It is not less-than your

mind and soul. Your body is an equal partner; it must be so

to offer REAL experiences!

A seeker is often tested physically, emotionally and psychologi-

cally at the beginning of one‘s search for inner divinity. Some-

times the rumbles of change are so radical, especially when factor-

ing the trauma of war, for instance. In a violent fright or flight

situation, the individual is forced into Core Being change, in-

stantly. Illness and sudden tragic disability also work to shock the

individual into whole new perspectives. Near death experience is

another direct approach to profound changes in consciousness,

needed to catapult a seeker into the otherworld realities or Spirit

Realms. However, these instances and seeming tragedies cannot

be consciously facilitated in order to ―skip the hard work‖. One is

in the hands of the Spirit Realms now. To manipulate, fight in-

stead of flowing or freeze, are the worst signs of disrespect to the

Spirit Realms possible and stops many further steps to personal

evolution in this life.

Silverstar Red Crow is an Indigenous Shamanic Prac-titioner (Muscogee Creek, Blackfeet, Norwegian), art-ist and writer. You can view some of her artwork here:

http://tribes.tribe.net/silverstarsart ☻

Open Ways


Summer Dawns on the Obamaverse: Wiccan Priestess

on Barack Obama and the Summer Solstice By Erick Peterson

When Barack Obama took office in January, people

hoped for an era of better government, and Wiccans, in particular,

hoped that they would get a president that represented their values

more closely than America‘s outgoing leader. Now 6 months into

Obama‘s presidency, America still faces economic problems at

home and wars abroad. Environmental concerns have not van-

ished, and energy worries loom.

Concerned about the future, but still holding out hope,

Wiccans and other Earth-based religious practitioners (at least

those without clairvoyance) may wonder what will come. Will

the Summer Solstice bring an increase in male energy? How will

this affect our nation? And how well does Obama represent this

male energy?

There are many questions for us to ask, and there are few

who can authoritatively answer us. Fortunately, one person who

can answer these questions, author and Wiccan Priestess Kathleen

O‘Gaea, was available to speak with Open Ways.

O‘Gaea, who grew up in the Pacific Northwest, wrote the

book on Wiccan seasons, literally. Actually, she wrote two. She

penned Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Beltrane to Malbon and

Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Samhain to Ostara, as well as

other books on Wiccan families, practices, and a yet-to-be-

published account of her prison ministries. In addition, she is co-

founder of the Adventure Tradition, which she continues to de-

velop with her partner, Canyondancer.

Hardly unbiased, O‘Gaea says that she is a Democrat and

that she is a passionate Obama supporter, who switched alle-

giances from now-Secretary of State Hilary Clinton after the De-

mocratic primaries. She was enthusiastic about the Presidential

election results last fall and continues to be proud of her vote.

According to O‘Gaea, the new president represents an opportu-

nity to heal our nation, both financially and psychologically. Fur-

thermore, she believes that the Summer Solstice will fit in with

this healing.

Open Ways (OW): What does the coming Summer

Solstice mean for male energy?

Ashleen Ogaea (AO): At the Summer Solstice, "male

energy" is peaking . . . but let's take a minute to think about what

"male energy" means. It's not just violence or chest-beating,

or hopping around like beer commercials. Male energy is about

manifestation, yes, but it's also about planning and reasoning and

considering consequences. It's the integration of those aspects, of

thought and action, that really characterizes sacred male energy.

OW: Does this particular Summer Solstice vary from

previous years?

AO: Well, every year is unique, of course, within the

larger context of the Wheel; but yes, I think this year is signifi-

cantly different. In the Northern Hemisphere, at least, we're look-

ing at a convergence of the year's zenith and our economy's nadir.

That produces a rare opportunity to make some important

changes, in our personal lives and in our civic life.

OW: What is the usefulness of male energy?

AO: Apart from the obvious? Changing light bulbs and

making babies, isn't that the joke? Male -- masculine, projective --

energy is what we use to make humanity's dreams come true.

Male energy -- and I'd really rather call it "projective" so that

there's no confusion about gender stereotypes -- is what spread

human tribes across the planet, and what's taking us into the uni-

verses, micro and quantum. It's the "engineering" impulse that so

perfectly complements the impulse to speculate.

OW: How could this projective male energy aid in heal-

ing our nation and our world?

AO: One way is to bring a willingness to experiment and

explore back into our lives, to lead us away from entrenched atti-

tudes that aren't in tune with any environment, natural or public.

OW: How does President Obama rate in terms of projec-

tive male energy?

AO: I think he's very impressive. He has plans, but they

are adaptable to changing circumstances. He's eloquent and easy

to understand; he's persuasive without coming off as a know-it-

all. He's an elegant Everyman, comfortable with all of us, and

respectful of everyone, no matter their background and present

circumstances. He's not easily distracted from his goals, and he's

not defensive -- he'll take the time to hear other people, and ex-

plain his own perspectives and decisions. So I'd rate him at least a

nine-and-a-half out of ten.

OW: How does he compare to his predecessor in this

respect? Is it fair to say that George W. Bush‘s machismo was

from an overabundance of male energy? And did this lead to

many of our nation‘s current problems?

AO: The way I understand "male energy" in this context,

no, I wouldn't say "W." is over-endowed. I think his problem was

immaturity and irresponsibility. In some ways his devotion to trust

and loyalty is charming, but it allowed him to be led by people

whose agendas he didn't fully understand, or think of questioning.

(Continued on page 7)

Open Ways


(Continued from page 6)

We've all heard the theories about his father-issues, and I tend

to think those are correct. But what his behavior in office demon-

strated was that he's shallow -- a cheerleader with no comprehen-

sion of the playbook. But yes, his presidency left us in a world of

hurt -- figuratively and literally.

OW: Polling indicates that Wiccans in particular got the

president that they wanted, even though Obama is an evangelical

Christian, not of their faith. Why are they so optimistic about the

new president?

AO: I don't see him as an evangelical Chritian! Canyon

dancer and I don't think Obama's politics are based on his under-

standing of the Bible, like, say, Mike Huckabee. I think he's a ra-

tional man -- there's that "male energy" again -- who respects and

understands the Constitution he's sworn to uphold, and who

would uphold it even if he weren't oath-bound.

OW: What is the ―Adventure Tradition‖?

AO: Adventure is a relatively new Tradition, but it fol-

lows old paths. It challenges strictly regulated experience and

"establishment" interpretations; it sets out from doctrine, conven-

tion, and ease to make camp in the woods beyond. Literally, as

often as we can! A principle business of the Triad is confronting

shadow guardians, reclaiming our personal power from igno-

rance, prejudice, and fear. Adventure Wicca's foundations are a

brave heart, a hospitable camp, and the urge -- no, the calling -- to

see what's around the next bend. We're a very in-person Triad,

focused on living mythically, and we're growing slowly and

steadily. Our newest priestesses, Ember and Aria, have just

formed a new coven, Foresight, and are trying to fit open-to-the-

public introductory classes into their schedule. (For more informa-

tion -- we have a couple of brochures -- people can send

a #10 SASE to P.O., Box 35962, Tucson, AZ, 85704; or e-mail

us at [email protected]. We're on line at

www.AdventureWicca.com -- with some current glitches, so be

patient; and my own website is www.AshleenOGaea.com.) ☻

Festivals: When and contact information

Spiral Rhythms Festival : Magick and music for Mother

Earth sponsored by MAGIC. Usually held on the first

weekend in June. Has not been held due to lack of funding.

Donations happily accepted. For info go to

www.spiralrhythms.org.

The Mother Earth Gathering : A ―Green Living‖

celebration - An earth awareness festival. Being held from

6/12/09 - 6/14/09. For info www.earthgatherings.org.

Pagan Campout :Being held from 6/19/09 - 6/21/09.

For info http://pagancampout.com.

SunFest : A summer solstice celebration sponsored by

OWOW. Being held from 6/25/09 - 6/28/09. For info

www.owow.org.

Summerstar pagan gathering : A starwood celebra-

tion. Being held from 7/16/09 - 7/19/09. For info

www.summerstar.org.

FaerieWords Festival : Celebrating music, art and

imagination inspired by the Realm of Faerie. Being held

from 7/31/09 - 8/2/09. For info www.faerieworlds.com.

NorthWest Fall Equinox Festival : A celebration of

the harvest. Sponsored by The Nine Houses of Gaia

(9HOG‘s) Being held from 9/3/09 - 9/6/09. For info

www.ninehouses.org.

The Middle Earth Gathering : A Fall Equinox Cele-

bration. And earth awareness. Being held from 9/18/09 -

9/20/09. For info www.earthgathering.org. ☻

Available in Portland, OR 503-998-6616 Over twenty years of experience [email protected]

Open Ways


Midnight wisdom By Victoria Ana. Lightfoot [email protected] Article #1 Back To The Beginning Since the dawn of humankind we have looked to the stars with a sense of awe and humility. We have depended on our sense of stability in our little-known world over the many millennia, since the repetitive cycles of the heavens were our one constant in an unpredictable environment. It has only been in the last few hundred years that Astronomy and Astrology were not considered by educated individuals to go hand in hand. In the thousands of years prior, one learned in one science had to be learned in the other. They were the masters of their day. Their wisdom was sought out by the Kings/Queens, Pharaohs, and Caesars. Many of those listed in the historical chapters of phys-ics textbooks of academia today as prominent contributors of modern physics, were also prolific astrologers of their day. Among them are Johannes Kepler, famous mathematician and father of Kepler’s Law of Planetary Motion; Galilei Gali-leo, father of modern physics. Yet the university textbooks simply omit and ignore that part of their profound accomplishments as though they can be considered famed in one area, yet if acknowledged in the other it would discredit them. In fact, the textbooks usually mention astrology as a pseudo science in an at-tempt to insure that new physics students understand that they will be ridiculed by their scientific peers if they dare to ad-mit to subscribing in such nonsense, based not in fact, but in superstition. Things are changing. A new grand cycle is upon us. We literally stand on the precipice of THE AGE OF AQUAR-IUS. In the 1960’s the Fifth Dimension wrote and recorded a song that launched the beginning of what astrologers termed the ―fifty year orb‖ heralding the arrival of the AGE OF AQUARIUS. When there is an astrological aspect that is af-fecting the world as a long-term change on a global scale, the ORB OF INFLUENCE is wide. This differs from an astrologi-cal aspect that affects individuals or a shorter-term influence. Many of you are aware of the prophesies that have announced the year 2012 as the beginning of massive global changes. Ironically, this is also the year labeled in astrology as the first of the AGE OF AQUARIUS. Aquarius is ruled by the planet Uranus. This is the planet of sudden change and up-heaval that clears the way for a new structure signified by per-sonal understanding, independent thought, freedom, and

scientific advancement. This does not necessarily mean that it will coincide with personal ethics and strong social values. The AGE OF PISCES that is passing away was meant to teach our species that concept. We will have to see how we ultimately bear that responsibility. It may take us a couple hundred years and many global catastrophes to work the bugs out of the new system. The data that physical sci-ence is presenting us at this time indicates that these upheav-als of change are indeed upon us. I am an educated physicist, astronomer and astrolo-ger. My graduate work was done in the area of ar-chaeoastronomy: the study of the astronomy/astrology of an-cient cultures. My research work over the last four years, and currently, is the correlation or solar activity with global geo-physical events, such as earthquakes and volcanoes. I have chosen to write a series of articles because I am literally shocked at the indications of the data expected in solar activity over the next several years, with the apex and climax of solar storms happening throughout the year 2012. Now in the 21st Century, as never before in history, solar storms will affect our world on a global scale due to our recent dependence on technological resources like satellites that we need that orbit our planet, and the computer systems that run our societies. This is not simply dismissible as some ―coincidence‖ that bears no real resemblance to the astrological cycles we have been ―singing‖ about for fifty years. Nor is it a simple su-perstition that the year 2012 has been globally predicting for hundreds of years as a year of magnificent, if not catastrophic, global change. In the coming articles over the next year, I hope to bring you the scientific data as it is available so that those of you interested in astrology, Astronomy, and the correlation with world events can interpret for yourselves. astronomy, and the correlation with worlds astronomy, and the correlation with worlds events can interpret for yourselves. I have always stressed to my students to check their sources and use the finest data available in whatever way they may need to apply it. As a Wiccan/Pagan I have noticed that we may be lacking in someone presenting us with Questions from readers is strongly encouraged. It may take me a week to follow up on any inquiries or com-ments, but I will let you know as fast as possible that answers are on the way. These articles and current scientific data will be posted on the website: midnightwisdom.org Your readership and awareness to this critical current issue is greatly appreciated. ☻

Open Ways


Laxmi at Fall Eq Sari ~ Saree

by Ophio Kleitera

The sari is an artistically crafted unstitched length of fabric and the single foremost popular integral component for upper and lower portions of fe-male attire, and globally recognized as a distinct aspect of the history as well as rich cultural unity of Indian woman, – elite or tribe, urban or rural, rich or poor, young or old, professional or house-wife, literate or illiterate, whatever her caste or religion, or hierarchical status, as Buddhist monk, Jain female ascetic, Muslim, Hindu, or Christian nun, whether at home or at ritual in temple, cele-brating a birth or marriage or mourning a death, as hostess on an Indian aircraft or hosting a din-ner in a family dining hall, as an active politician, official, artist or any world forum, a sari is a woman’s personal style and essential wear, not something prescribed by a code or convention but by choice.

Contrary to tailor made and form fitting costumes, a sari allows the wearer to employ imaginative folding wrapping and draping styles to suit her fancy, and is unique in equally managing bulk or frailness, with an inherent grace and elegance, of divine drapery.

(Wear over a tube top, tank top, or cropped French cut T (choli), long half slip or even a pant.)

As an ordinarily untailored length, a sari can be expensive or economical, printed or plain, fine or coarse, hand-woven or machine-made, cotton, silk, or synthetic textile, it is truly a large canvas that may portray narratives, myths, customs, themes or specific motifs and unlimited variety of colors, shades, blends, textures and details, or not, which reflect tastes of a person, a people, a land, and nowadays even the artistic expression of a designer.

Even with regional varieties of wrapping and fold-ing, the sari is fast emerging as one of the lead-ing fashion-costumes not only on runways, but

also in the personal closets of women across the world.

As gift, to a deity as part of ritual offering, ex-presses devotion, to a mother, reverence and gratitude, to a wife or close friend, intimacy and love, to a daughter, affection and concern, to a house maid or domestic servant, generosity and satisfaction.

from: http://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/sari

Also : http://www.sarisafari.com/howtowear.html Offers several variations on how to wrap and wear a sari/saree and mentions ―book Saris: An illustrated Guide to the Indian Art of Draping” with 80+ different draping styles! ☻

Pictures of draping directions on following

page.

Open Ways


After you have put on the blouse and the slip; by your left hand at first Now gather the plain portion by making pleats with the tuck in the plain horizontal end of the sari in the slip and turn it around help of your right hand and tuck top of this gathering your waist line using your hand for your convenience. in the slip.

Turn sari around your waist and pass underneath the left arm. Finally, you can hold it in your left hand or rest it on your left shoulder. If you desire to give it per manent restive a safety pin or broach pinned to your blouse will do.

Open Ways


Letters from the community

Dear Editor,

Thanks for another fine issue. I'm writing to add to your list of Queens and Kings. As I recall after Kris & Willy Two Feathers, and before Kelly and Scott there was Miria & Joe. I remember Miria choosing Joe by being blindfolded and feeling all over the prospective Kings. It was one of my favorite ways. (smile)

To add to the list I enclose a list of our Queens and Kings that stem from the same tree. We are some-times referred to as 'the Southern Beltane'.

So, starting from the bottom up we have the same Queens and Kings. Then we branched off after Terry and Ezra. Our first were:

Queens Kings

CeeCee Samuel (this was at the same time as NoNo and Mark)

Lucy Dane (Rose/Keith)

Ara Curtis (Katerra/Eryn Dreamweaver)

Aurora Tiny (Autumn/Toni)

Ember Bill (Gypsy/Feathers)

Jean James (Laura/Jamie)

Char Bryan (our current reigning couple before most current Southern Beltane).

Ogg Jen, newly crowned King and Queen

Thanks for giving us a view of our history.

Love & Bright Blessings,

Cleda

Dear Editor, I extend my sincere thanks to King Brian & Queen Jen of OWOW ….. The spring time CLEANSING

was truly invigorating! It poured like a typhoon as their reign came to an end. To the cherished women of OWOW…You are Ladies who know how to mix things up with the joy of sisterhood, empowerment, forgiveness, creativity and above all UNITY through LAUGHTER! To the past Queen’s, cherished May Ma’s your insight warms our souls! It was a blessing to experience the Queen’s retreat/women’s gather-ing… something new and unexpected with the Bel-tane traditions. Only one Brother of the Tribe showed up upon chrome stead, with chivalrous intent to make sure we were safe. I believe he was conned by his love into chopping wood to insure a delightful camp-fire later that night. He was thanked & kissed, and left us to our adventure by the river… We’ve got this. We were safe within our own skins. There were no locals to trouble us; there were no rangers to check our camp passes. We were safe amongst the sister-hood. Each and everyone there played a magical and significant roll in the memories that manifested…Each and everyone of us was blessed by the friend-ships that will continue to grow.

Much love and empowerment,

From she who is ever vigil,

Sasquatch ~ of the foothills of the Cascades

My sincere thanks,

Leanna McDowell

Mountain Home Biological

Warehouse – Catalog Department Manager ☻

Open Ways


Summer Solstice: Season of the Phoenix --by Staci Elliott www.elliottarts.com/tarot

Summer is the season of abundance. The land flows with milk and honey, and probably cherry tomatoes and blueberries and faerie frolics, too. The Summer Sol-stice itself is the longest day of the year—the Sun nurtures living to the fullest through gardening, swimming, camping, laughing, climbing trees, eating fresh produce, drying clean clothes out-of-doors, and hosting community parties on the back porch. Other names for this celebration include Mid-summer’s Eve, and Litha. Summer is also the season of healing. Many of our most sacred herbs are harvested, and our most energetic gatherings celebrated in the height of summer. This is the time of fulfillment—we see the movement and growth of the dreams we planted in the Spring. We understand how best to nurture positive outcomes and how to support the harvest we hope to reap in the Fall. The Goddess Nemesis is also known as Fate, or Fortuna. In earlier depictions of the Tarot, She was seen holding all four elements—all four Minor Arcana Suits of Tarot—in her hands—a cup, an apple wand, the wheel, and the sword. (Walker. The Woman’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, p 980.) She is the goddess of Harvest, Outcomes and Direction, represented by the Cornucopia of Abundance and the Wheel of Chance, and embodied in the rudders of ocean-faring ships. She is the courage to change, to risk, and to take steps toward right-living, even when we cannot see exactly where those steps will lead us. She is the movement toward balance. When I give a Tarot Reading, I put one card in each of the four directions. Each card is a representation of an element, a time of year, a time of day, a location on the Eternal Wheel, and an aspect of our life journey. The Southern card represents both Summer, and High Noon. It is the fullest, hottest time. The time of Fire, of Courage, and of Action. This card represents both movement and awareness. Through it we learn how our unique voice is perceived by others with whom we are in contact. It is the melding of the social and the spiritual—of wisdom and in-tuition. It is a time of building, growing, and forging connec-tions. It is the tipping point in the process of change.

In Tarot, the Sun card is 19. The Medicine Woman Tarot Deck calls this card ―Rebirth— The turning toward life that has been made by your individual consciousness.‖ (Bridges. The Medicine Woman Inner Guide Book, p 120.) The Summer Solstice celebrates the Sun, and the turning of the eternal wheel of life. I see it as a time of faith, a time of hope, and a time of charity not only toward oth-ers, but also toward ourselves, and the land that supports us so abundantly at this time of year. How are your actions and your voice affecting your community? What steps can you take now, while living is relatively easy, to build up resources for yourself, your neighborhood, your planet? It is Summer Solstice—a cele-bration of courageous living, a fiery testament to the bounty of our Mother Earth and Father Sun. Solstice is the turning point—a boundary between dreams and realities. A mo-ment of change. A time when we experience the most intense illumination of possibility, knowing that tomorrow there will be a little less. And like all boundaries, it attracts the magic of change, of opportunity and wild unpredictabil-ity. It draws on a strength outside our own. It carries with it the possibility of creating a new life for ourselves from the burned ashes of the old. I have always felt overwhelmed by the abundance of life on a hot summer day. The smell of baking leaves and baking berries, the drone of lively insects going about their business, the splash and yell of children releasing their vital energy into the air and the water and the earth, under the fire of a summer sun. Today, the Earth is burst-ing with possibilities for experiencing Joy. All you have to do is participate. ☻

13th Annual Tarot Retreat

Earth Heaven Retreat – Yachats, OR

July 25 & 26

(541) 547-5123

[email protected]

www.TarotCounseling.org

Open Ways


Untitled

by Rev. Dr. Byron Warren

Believe what you want. I believe that a spell is nothing

more then the wish, all else is/are only props. The props defi-

nitely help with the needed belief that the wish/spell will come

to pass. They help me, anyway.

Now, add to my belief the astounding things our scien-

tists are finding and proving with quantum physics. Omigod-

pun intended. ☺

We are all one thing, not just us, the whole universe.

(Everything is nothing but consciousness.) There is no place

where we end and everything else begins. We and everything

are physically connected. Everything is entangled together.

One logical way to put it, but not the only way is: be-

fore the "big bang" all there was God, therefore, after the "big

bang" all there is God. Yes, the whole universe is "God". You,

me, that rock over there, everything. All is divine.

Okay, death .... when the body stops working, support-

ing our consciousness, quantum energy dissipates away from

the body, remains the same, in a dreamlike state and goes some-

where. Kewl eh? Explains a lot.

Also we create our own reality and we are physically

addicted to our emotions, the second with only our intention

(sometimes utmost intention) we can change.

Okay, since we are all entangled, all part of the same

one thing and you are seriously supposed to love yourself first

would it not be best for ourselves to love others and not judge?

Should not we always do the right thing for the best future for

all of us?

I believe this, and do my best to live accordingly. Life

would be best for everyone if everyone did too. Blessed Be!

Sources and recommendations:

"What The Bleep"

"Down The Rabbit Hole"

www.bleep.com ☻

What is Spiritual Anarchy? Taken from a post on Tribe by Ophio K.

“Spiritual Anarchy: Spiritual does NOT equal “religious”

Anarchy does NOT equal “chaos”

Spiritual Anarchy is a philosophy of life where all people

are free to choose their own lives and more importantly protect the

freedom of others to do the same..

That means non-interference with anyone else‘s life or

lifestyle. To each his own. Live and let live. Peace and absolute

Freedom for all people.

Not because a god in the sky tells you to, not because some

governmental body forces you to.

Just because it is the only way to achieve true peace.

Coming soon [email protected]‖

Spiritual Anarchy in its true form is a beautiful, and wonderful ex-

perience that allows each of us to be true to ourselves and others.

Becca Editor of Open Ways ☻

Open Ways


Advice from the Priesthood By Sienna This column is intended to be a format for the general Pagan population to ask anonymous questions regarding anything to do with the pagan lifestyle, from spiritual Earth worship to living in our modern-day society. Questions are answered from the philoso-phical standpoint of ―Harm none, Do as Ye Will.‖ If you have questions for us, please write to [email protected], or send a letter to the editor of this paper. All questions shall remain anonymous.

Dear Sienna; I hear a lot that there are several people in the community that offer Wicca 101 classes. I feel like there is a lot of pres-sure in the pagan community to take these classes. I have had several friends that have taken them and shared with me the lessons and what the instructor would like the stu-dents to know. I do not mean to sound like I know every-thing because that is most certainly not the case. However I do have quite a bit of knowledge in area's said instructors teach and have come to believe that it wouldn't be that beneficial for me. Is there some secret to these classes that no one is telling me? Do I have to take one or two of them to truly be considered a pagan/wiccan community member? I would like to learn more about specific things, but that shouldn't require me to go through a class only to brush on the topic I want to learn more about, right? Shouldn't I be seeking community members that have in depth knowledge of the "Lesson" I am choosing to learn and ask if they would be willing to tutor or guide me? Acid Rush Dear Acid Rush: Classes in Wicca are like classes in anything else--the more you learn, the more you know. However, just as a good chess player can gain tips if he or she takes a chess class, someone practicing at your level could probably gain a few tips if you took a class. However, you don't need to take the class to play chess, nor to practice Wicca. The people around you who are pressuring you to take classes are misunderstanding the purpose of the classes. There are different ways to learn the same thing, and some people cannot learn from books and must have lec-tures or hands-on materials to make it take root in their brain. Because there are these different ways to learn, it is a good thing that the classes are out there. But truly, if you

are best at learning from books, then any class you take will be unnecessary, and probably more expensive than buying a book on the same subject. The "secret" that you might not be getting about Wicca 101 classes is the bonding that takes place between students. A Wicca 101 class is like a bunch of college roommates, military barracks, or summer camp students. Time spent together in energetically intense situations creates a bond unlike any other, and wicca classmates will always have that bond between them. Perhaps it is this reason that the people around you are pressuring you to join a class? Either way, don't take a class because someone else rec-ommends it; take it because you feel called to study under that teacher for that subject. Inside of you is the right path, and you'll know it when it calls to you. Nobody else can tell you what that path is, all they can do is tell you what has worked for them. The rest is up to you. ☻

SisterSpirit Women’s Harvest Celebra-tion “Reclaiming the Wisdom of the An-cients” July 31- August 2, 2009 We’Moon Land in Estacada, OR Come together for three days and two nights of rus-tic camping, community building, workshops and relaxation on beautiful We’Moon Land Community in Estacada, OR. Cost is $55 for women, no charge for children under 12. Some scholarships or work-trade opportunities available. Please contact Laughingbird at 503-875-5248 or [email protected] for registration forms. Registration must be received and paid in full by July 25, 2009.

Open Ways


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.

Full moon rituals - open

On the Saturday night closest to the full

moon, starting at 6pm with drumming

afterword until 9pm. OFMs are held at

Essential Elements Herbal Apothecary,

3135 SE Hawthorne blvd. in Portland. For

upcoming dates look in the free ritual cele-

brations and announcements. All full

moon rituals are free but donations are

gladly appreciated to help offset costs. For

more information call Essential Elements

at 503-231-2831 or Thuri at 503-956-7258

as well as email [email protected].

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. held at Crystal Temple 7275 Rich-

mond 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

ONGOING ACTIVITIES

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.

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

[email protected].

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.

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 [email protected].

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

[email protected].

Drum circle

Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesday. Lets ex-

plore rhythms and escape reality in a sacred

temple. Bring an instrument if you have

one, if not we can share. Held at Crystal

Temple 7275 N Richmond. For more info

503-249-0303 or [email protected].

THURSDAYS

Open Meditation

Held every Thursday and Sunday from 12

-2 pm. Open meditation at Crystal Temple

7275 N Richmond. For info 503-249-0303

or [email protected].

(Continued on page 16)

Open Ways


(Continued from page 15)

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.renegadeerose.org. ☻

The Northwest Fall Equinox Festival Moon Temple of Parvati

will be a sacred space set aside for Meditation, Divina-tion of all sorts, and Dreaming. The Moon Priestesses are looking for Diviners to read within the Temple.

If you are interested in reading as a service to the Gods and the community, please contact the Moon Priest-ess, Luna @ 360-576-5315. Please tell her what type of

divination you will be doing and what times you would prefer to work. Space is limited.

Saying God damn and Jesus Christ, why?

by AliZara

My family and people that I love ask me, ―Why do you

take the Christian God and Jesus Christ‘s name in vain?‖.

My first response is habit. I tell them I have used these words for a

very long time.

They are very annoyed with these words I speak. They

have asked ―Why do you curse the Christian God you once

believed in?. My defense back was, and currently is habit. I am not

cursing ―God‖, it is just a word. I have been asked, ―Why do you

curse the Christian God rather than the Gods and Goddess you

believe now?‖ What a good question and that has me thinking.

I try hard to follow: harm none and do as you will‖. I have

harmed a lot of people including myself using these words. I

never want to disrespect someone‘s beliefs, especially those I love.

If I expect them to respect the choices I have made, then I need to

respect theirs and any I come in contact with.

These words do not bother everyone. I am sure those who

use them do not realize the affect these words have on others. I

myself fall victim to these habits. However, I will try very hard not

to use these words or words like them. I wish to harm none.

I have not heard other God‘s names used in vain, such as

―Buddha damn‖ or ― Oden be damned‖ or any other higher

power. I myself do not damn any of the God‘s or Goddess ‗I

have learned about and continue to discover.

Here is something to think about. Be mindful of those

around you no matter what your belief is. You may be offending

someone and not even knowing it.

Love and Light!

Open Ways


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 [email protected].

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.

[email protected] 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-

[email protected].

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.

[email protected]

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. [email protected]

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-

[email protected].

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 [email protected]

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-

[email protected].

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)

[email protected].

Ile LaiLai NEW

A contemplative ifa-centered spiritual

community offering spiritual consultations,

divination, and Orisa and Ifa initiations to

Open Ways


sincere seekers in the Pacific Northwest.

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

[email protected].

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 [email protected] 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 [email protected].

North American Council of Witches

A non-profit organization. Primary goal is

protection under the First Amendment of

the US Constitution; secondary, lobby--

ing for common power, strength in num-

bers. Request membership and general

information at [email protected]

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

[email protected].

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 —

[email protected]

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 [email protected].

Red Cedar Grove

The Vancouver grove is accepting new

members. We are a Celtic group that enjoys

fun, spirituality and fellowship as we move

through the wheel of the year. We have

many years of experience between our five

founding members and meet twice a

month for ritual and tutorial. Come and

grow with us under the Spirit filled Red

Cedar. For information contact Serena at

[email protected] or Macha at 360-936-

3833 or [email protected].

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 [email protected].

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 -

[email protected].

Seattle Goddess Group (Cont. next page)

Open Ways


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-

[email protected].

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-

[email protected].

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-

[email protected] 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-

[email protected].

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-

[email protected].

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

[email protected] 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.

Toad House and 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-

ville OR. Www.toadhouse-

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

toadlovers. Director: Silver Red Crow

[email protected].

(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: [email protected].

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:

[email protected] 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-

[email protected] or altarepona-

[email protected]

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-

[email protected] or 541-490-5718 .

Open Ways


Open Ways


Open Ways


The Nine Houses of Gaia Presents:

The Twenty-Sixth Annual Northwest Fall Equinox Festival September 3-6, 2009

General Information

REGISTRATION: Space is limited! Your BEST CHANCE TO ATTEND FESTIVAL is to REGISTER EARLY, by

sending a fully paid registration to the address listed. COMPLETED REGISTRATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED NO

LATER THAN MIDNIGHT, SATURDAY 8/16/09! If we are full when we receive your registration, we will return your

check with a letter of apology, hoping to see you next year. THIS IS THE ONLY WAY TO KNOW IF WE ARE ACTU-

ALLY FULL! PLEASE DO NOT BELIEVE RUMORS, as only the registrar will know that information, and even she

won‟t know the exact status at every moment. If you are accepted, a confirmation email will be sent (NEW!) (or postcard will

be mailed if no email provided) to the Main Registrant soon after receiving the registration. A detailed Festival Program will

be mailed to that same registrant a couple weeks before the Festival.

CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS/EXCHANGE POLICIES: ANY and ALL CHANGES to your registration must be

made through the Registration Goddess! If you need to cancel part or all of your registration, we will issue refunds. Registra-

tions are NOT exchangeable at the gate! Please contact the registrar about ANY changes or questions immediately, and abso-

lutely no later than midnight Monday, 8/25/09 by email, [email protected] or mail, PO Box 14415, Portland, OR 97293.

WORKSHOPS: Please let us know if you would like to conduct a workshop or mini-ritual by attaching a separate, brief de-

scription and appropriate age recommendation with your registration. Impromptu workshops are welcome, but advance

notice will get you into the Festival Program!

VENDORS: Please fill out the space provided on the Registration Form. Be descriptive, as vendors will be listed in the Festi-

val Program! The vending fee is $35.

VOLUNTEERING: We expect the community to help before, during and after the festival. If you are interested in helping

with festival preparations prior to the festival, please contact us via email (above) or PO Box. Everyone will be asked on site to

contribute at least two hours to help with the many tasks, such as ritual site preparation, clean-up, firewood hauling and espe-

cially in the kitchen!

CHILDREN‟S ACTIVITIES: There will be rituals, workshops, and other fun activities for children. Parents are asked to

help out with these events. Ideas and suggestions are welcomed. There will be no child care service provided. Parents are re-

sponsible for making any child care arrangements.

LOCATION: Rustic wooded campsite in the mountains, approximately 1½ hours from Portland. (Specific site information

available only to registrants). Cabins available (sleep 4-8: be prepared to share) with tenting permitted. A few wheelchair ac-

cessible accommodations available. No RV hookup, and space limited to only a few RVs. PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED!

Please do not ask for special exceptions!

PARKING: Due to new site rules, virtually all vehicles are required to park offsite. After unloading your vehicle, you will need

to return to the gate, drive to the offsite parking area, and as quickly as we can we will shuttle you back to the site. On Sunday,

we will shuttle you back to your car so you can return to the site and load your gear. We have been assured that the offsite lot is

secure and patrolled. No RVs permitted onsite! The only exceptions to the parking rule are vendors (1 vehicle per booth) –

please email [email protected] if you are one of these exceptions – bear in mind that space is very limited. And, as always,

we encourage you to carpool to the Festival.

Open Ways


Twenty-Sixth Annual Northwest Fall Equinox Festival

September 3-6, 2009

Registration Form

REGISTRATION FEES: 16 years and older $ 120

(INCLUDES ALL MEALS*) 12-15 years $ 60

4-11 years $ 30

0-3 years $ 0

ADDITIONAL DONATIONS ARE WELCOMED & APPRECIATED!

*MEALS: Our Kitchen staff will provide 8 delicious meals, Thursday dinner through Sunday breakfast, in the dining hall. For our Friday

evening potluck. we will provide at least one vegetarian and one meat dish. Please participate in the spirit of harvest by bringing Friday din-

ner potluck food to share (to serve 6-8 people). Beverages, fruit, and other treats will be available throughout festival.

Only the Main Registrant will receive a confirmation email (or card), a Festival Program, and a one-year subscription to Open Ways.

Please fill out separate registrations for adults with different addresses who wish to receive these.

REGISTRANT(S) (Include age if 0-15) Registration Fee Arriving

You: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

Vending? If so .....................................add $35 vending fee $_____________

Name: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

Name: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

Name: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

Name: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

Name: __________________________________________ $_____________ Th_____ Fri______

TOTAL $_____________ Check # _________

Please make payment IN FULL to „Northwest Fall Equinox Festival‟ and mail it to Nine Houses of Gaia, P.O. Box 14415,

Portland, OR 97293-0415. An email (or card if no email provided) will be sent confirming registration ONLY with full pay-

ment.

Please list any food allergies:_________________________________________________________________

Do you need to park on-site due to a medical condition? ____ If so, please state why (subject to verification):

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Vendor Name______________________________________________________________________________

MAILING LABEL - your confirmation card (if no

email provided), Festival Program, and Open Ways

will be sent here:

ELECTRONIC CONTACT - for email confirmation

and in case we need to reach you quickly about your regis-

tration:

Name: ________________________________________

Address:________________________________________

________________________________________

Day Phone: ______________________________

Night Phone: ______________________________

Email: ____________________________________

Open Ways


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!

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Summer Solstice 2009

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