SAMHAIN FESTIVAL REPORT
FOUNDATION CENTRE - IRELAND
November 6, 2021
By: Sarah Nolan
Our group of twelve met in the courtyard and made our way with drumming and chanting to the Rose Garden where Rosa Mundi was lovingly invoked. Although our group was small, it was not lacking in enthusiasm for participation in ceremony!
Then onto the Grove under bracken-coloured leaves awaiting the frost to set their spirits free, invoking the Druid Clan of Dana and onto the Priory where the Noble Order of Tara was invoked, where two swans were seen flying over in keeping with our mystery play! We paused to invoke Persephone before admission to the Temple was sought and the bell was rung.
At the well, an Oracle from Brighid was read by the presiding Priestess from Olivia's, "Communion with the World of Spirits" from 'Panthea'. The Priesthood invoked Deity and blessings were distributed from Brighid's Well. Making way to the High Altar where a fellow sister was in trance and brought forth a powerful Oracle from Yemaya: don't be afraid to surrender - you are not giving up, but making way for Love to come in! Why do we want to hurt ourselves by polluting the waters, the origin from which we came.
We were then lulled into peace and calm from our harpist. A Priestess sang her own composition, a promise kept about a raven and the white bones! Before being led gently into meditation to the Cave of the Mothers to Sile na Gig, taking time in the silent space to allow the incubation of dreams. Another original poem about Samhain was recited, while two Priestesses gave a strong portrayal of The Children of Lir. Another priestess sang sweetly of Samhain. Remembering our Ancestors where names were recalled and raising energy by chanting. Love and Healing was sent to those in Spirit and those in need of healing.
After farewell to Deity, we gathered in the courtyard for tea and cake where the castle animals 'tricked and treated' for some cake around the yard! Blessings to all who came and took part! And to those who are not able to attend at the moment for one reason or another, you were all in our thoughts and prayers!!
Our next ceremony for Yule will be at the different time of 12 mid-day on 18th December, 2021.
