WiccaSources Blog

2007-11-12T18:32:00.000-08:00

Oak Trail Books Celebrates 12 Years

2007-06-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

Local Bookstore Celebrates 12 & Welcomes New Coffee ShopPalm Harbor, FL – Oak Trail Books, a metaphysical books and gift shoppe in Historic Downtown Palm Harbor, is celebrating 12 years of business this month. Original owners, Rick & Lesley Klein, continue to grow their vision of a place where patrons can find the information they seek to create better lives. The latest development in the short history of this unique bookstore (housed in a 100+ year-old historic building) is the addition of a new coffee & ice cream shoppe called The Witch’s Brew. This magickally-themed café features locally roasted coffee, all-natural locally-made ice cream (Old Meeting House Ice Cream) and “everything in between, ” including beer and wine. Co-owners Lesley Klein and Denise Karnes brainstormed this fun eclectic coffeehouse themed after Witchy paraphernalia. A “Wall of Best Witches” features famous film and TV witches like Samantha from Bewitched and Harry Potter. “Witchy” gifts like Witch Balls, Kitchen Witches, Witch’s Brew Candles, Brooms, and Flying Monkeys are for sale. Flying Monkeys are stuffed monkeys that when slingshot into a wall make a screaming sound. The space is decorated with floating witch hats and was painted by Co-owner Denise Karnes who transformed it into magical place. At the center of the room, a yellow brick road spirals out with signs that point to The Emerald City and Munchkinland. “There’s even a full moon with a witch silhouette flying across it that doubles as a night light” declares Co-owner Lesley Klein. “The space decorated itself, ” explains Ms. Karnes, “I paint intuitively… the space tells me what it wants… it all came together like “poof”!” “We pulled this together in 8 weeks, so it feels like it happened with a twitching of our noses and poof… The Witch’s Brew is here!" smiles Ms. Klein.“Laughter & good music is what we want to attract at our weekly Open Mic Nights on Thursdays from 7 – 10 pm, ” Klein continues. Live entertainment is featured on an open-air deck under the trees on Friday and Saturday evenings. FREE Wi-Fi Internet Access is also available for laptop users. The menu categories at The Witch’s Brew include: BREWS (coffees & teas) , POTIONS (smoothies, juices & soups) , EATS (salads, “sandwitches” & wraps) , TREATS (ice cream garnished with witch hats & other desserts) and SPIRITS (beer & wine) . Specialty wine drinks are offered with names like “Ruby Slippers”, “Goddess Cosmo” and “Midnight Margarita”. The mission statement of The Witch’s Brew is: To provide a welcoming place where patrons can nourish their bodies with wholesome foods & beverages prepared with good intentions and feed their spirits in a positive energy space where like-minded, positive people love to hang out.The Witch’s Brew and Oak Trail Books are located at 1219 Florida Avenue in Historic Downtown Palm Harbor (Pinellas County) . A 5-night stay in Maui, Hawaii will be given away on Sunday, June 24th as part of the festivities. The winner’s name will be provided at that time. To reach The Witch’s Brew, call 727-483-9210 or see www.thewitchsbrew.com ; to reach Oak Trail Books, call 727-785-1960 or see www.oaktrailbooks.com.# # #Website: http://thewitchsbrew.com/Telephone: (727) 785-483-9210To view ALL of my listings: Click HERE

4th of July Pagan Religious Rights Rally and Ritual

2007-06-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

Pagan religious rights advocates spent more than ten years in a struggle to achieve the Veterans’ Pentacle victory. As we celebrate, we must ponder our next move in the quest for religious freedom. The Veterans’ Pentacle is a wonderful victory, but the longer campaign for universal religious freedom continues. And so, what should our next steps be?We have seen how long it took to get the Pentacle. Surely we can manifest continued focus on Pagan religious rights issues, so that we don’t wait another ten years for our next victory. We need to voice a further agenda for Pagan religious rights now, while America still remembers that a department of the federal government stonewalled the Pentacle for political reasons. And we need to voice our demand for religious freedom publicly, and invite the media to attend as well.

Read the entire article by Caroline Kenner

A brief history of the easter bunny

2007-04-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE EASTER BUNNY

by: Max Burbank
Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Three days prior, Jesus had been fatally crucified, a day commemorated ironically by the Christian world as 'Good Friday'. Crucifixion is reported to be significantly more painful than a root canal and I would not be inclined to call any day in which I had a root canal 'good'. Perhaps the Church is thinking ahead, as the New Testament tells us that Jesus arose from the grave, appeared to his disciples and ultimately ascended to Heaven, which has always struck me as odd. I mean, why bother coming back to life if you only stick around for a day or so? It seems like a lot of work. In any case, it is this act that is celebrated by Christians every year on Easter Sunday.

Read the all story here, it is worth it!!

I laughed my way thru the all piece!
:D

Show You Care With Safer Choices for Valentine's Day

2007-02-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

Fragrances Hide Toxic Chemical IngredientsShow You Care With Safer Choices for Valentine's Day
WASHINGTON - February 9 - The perfume you give your Valentine may contain unwanted — and unlisted — ingredients: toxic chemicals. But this Valentine's Day you can show your loved ones you really care with safer choices from the researchers at Environmental Working Group.
"Most people buy cosmetic products without realizing that they aren't screened for safety and that the fragrances in them may contain any number of additional undisclosed and untested chemical ingredients, some of which may present serious health risks," said Jane Houlihan, vice president for research at EWG, creators of the popular Skin Deep website.
Most ingredients in personal care products are listed on the label. But due to a loophole in federal law, the ingredients in fragrances are not disclosed. This loophole can expose the public to chemicals that present serious health risks.
In 2002, EWG researchers found phthalates in 17 brand-name fragrance products tested, although phthalates were not listed on the label. Phthalates are linked to serious reproductive problems in studies of people and animals. Phthalates are common fragrance ingredients, but the consumer has no way to know which products they are in.
Because cosmetics companies won't tell you what's in the scents they sell you, Environmental Working Group researchers combed through thousands of Valentine's day gift ideas to bring you products that not only smell great, but that are also free of hidden, potentially hazardous fragrances.
The EWG list of Valentine's day gifts with no hidden fragrance ingredients is at http://www.ewg. org/issues/ cosmetics/ valentine/.
Every day, Americans apply personal care products containing an average of 126 different ingredients, to their bodies. These chemicals include carcinogens and reproductive toxins, as well as many compounds that have never been tested for safety. For more information on the safety of the products you use, go to EWG's online product safety guide at http://www.ewg. org/skindeep/.
Skin Deep, the world's most popular searchable database of personal care products, is a safety guide with in-depth information on nearly 15,000 products. Skin Deep provides safety ratings and brand-by-brand comparisons that can help consumers choose safer cosmetics, shampoos, sunscreens and other items, and guide companies to make their products safer.

Indians, Archaeologists Worry About Sale Of Sacred Site

2007-02-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

Who wants to buy a native Indian mound for $200,000?The South Florida Museum, which has placed the mound on sale, didn't have any interested parties yet Friday, officials said.But the fact that the 1-acre site is for sale has generated a great deal of interest from the American Indian Movement in Florida and a state archaeological group.They're extremely alarmed that the Pillsbury Temple Mound will be neglected - or desecrated.Already, at least one developer has inquired whether any structure can be built on the land. He has proposed a housing development surrounding the mound.The mound, near DeSoto National Memorial, is one of the last few remaining in the area.

Read all about it

It is me

2006-12-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

never wondered how I look??
here I am!!

Pagans In Iceland Object To Missionaries In Schools

2006-11-18T02:12:00.000-08:00

The Pagan Society in Iceland, Ásatrúarfélagid, has objected to the State Church offering school children social support in form of so-called “soul watch interviews.”The interviews are part of an initiative called Vinaleid (“Path of Friends”), which is open to all school-age children.The program enables students to visit the deacon in the local church to talk about their problems, and do not need allowance from parents to do so, as reported in Fréttabladid.

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NOVEMBER 24 IS BUY NOTHING DAY - NO PURCHASE NECESSARY

2006-11-18T02:04:00.000-08:00

THE ULTIMATE REFUND: On November 24th and 25th -- the busiest days in the American retail calendar and the unofficial start of the international Christmas-shopping season -- thousands of activists and concerned citizens in 65 countries will take a 24-hour consumer detox as part of the 14th annual Buy Nothing Day, a global phenomenon that originated in Vancouver, Canada.

From joining zombie marches through malls to organizing credit card cut-ups and shopoholic clinics, Buy Nothing Day activists aim to challenge themselves, their families and their friends to switch off from shopping and tune back into life for one day. Featured in recent years by the likes of CNN, Wired, the BBC, and the CBC, the global event is celebrated as a relaxed family holiday, as a non-commercial street party, or even as a politically charged public protest. Anyone can take part provided they spend a day without spending.

Reasons for participating in Buy Nothing Day are as varied as the people who choose to participate. Some see it as an escape from the marketing mind games and frantic consumer binge that has come to characterize the holiday season, and our culture in general. Others use it to expose the environmental and ethical consequences of overconsumption.

Two recent, high-profile disaster warnings outline the sudden urgency of our dilemma. First, in October, a global warming report by economist Sir Nicholas Stern predicted that climate change will lead to the most massive and widest-ranging market failure the world has ever seen. Soon after, a major study published in the journal Science forecast the near-total collapse of global fisheries within 40 years.

Kalle Lasn, co-founder of the Adbusters Media Foundation, which was responsible for turning Buy Nothing Day into an international annual event, said, "Our headlong plunge into ecological collapse requires a profound shift in the way we see things. Driving hybrid cars and limiting industrial emissions is great, but they are band-aid solutions if we don't address the core problem: we have to consume less. This is the message of Buy Nothing Day."

As Lasn suggests, Buy Nothing Day isn't just about changing your habits for one day. It's about starting a lasting lifestyle commitment to consuming less and producing less waste. With six billion people on the planet, the onus if on the most affluent - the upper 20% that consumes 80% of the world's resources - to begin setting the example.

For more information and media interviews contact
MEDIA LIASON: Laura FauthTELEPHONE NUMBER: 604-736-9401
EMAIL: media-pr@adbusters. org

U.S. Witches' Book Rocks Italy

2006-11-08T03:02:00.000-08:00

Appalaichan Witchcraft authors Lady Passion (Dixie Deerman) and *Diuvei (Steven Rasmussen) hadn't unpacked from their elaborate 12th annual public Witch Ritual attended by thousands on Christian-donated land this Halloween when they received a magical surprise in return -- Editoriale Gruppo Armenia of Milan has translated their The Goodly Spellbook: Olde Spells For Modern Problems into Italian and is selling it with a new cover under the title of Il Libro Degli Incantesimi (The Book of Incantations). "My bloodline's from Sicily, so this news is so full circle," beamed Lady Passion. "We knew The Goodly Spellbook has been selling well on Chinese web sites, and in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, but it's so great to see that our magical work is appreciated and spreading throughout Europe," *Diuvei added. Lady Passion, High Priestess, and *Diuvei, High Priest of Coven Oldenwilde in Asheville, did a booksigning tour throughout England this past June, and were extensively interviewed on London's BBC Radio (hear on their web site at: www.oldenwilde.org). The couple are currently planning a signing tour throughout Italy. Internatinally distributed by Barnes and Nobles, The Goodly Spellbook has received rave reviews from hardened industry insiders and renown Witchcraft authors alike. Il Libro Degli Incantesimi can be ordered by accessing: http://www.armenia.it/, then typing in the "autore" field atop the page: Lady Passion.

Wanna Save The World? Make Sure You Plant The Right Tree

2006-11-02T09:44:00.000-08:00

Problems like global warming are so overwhelming that most citizens feel there's nothing they can do to help. That's wrong.

If you want to help, scientists across the country are saying these days, plant a tree. Better yet, work with your city to improve its urban forest.But here's the hard part.

We've all known for years that trees are good for the environment, soaking up air pollutants and greenhouse gases, and a little shade in the middle of what scientists are calling urban heat islands can't hurt. However, not all trees are the same. They all help to clear the air, in varying degrees, but many also contribute to air pollution by emitting volatile organic compounds, such as isoprene, which help form ozone, a health hazard.
Syracuse researchers found that if they could replant their city with trees that are great at sequestering carbon compounds, especially carbon dioxide, they could increase the removal of carbon by more than 300 percent. But they also found that air quality would actually suffer from an increase in volatile compounds.So they looked at mixing the forest, emphasizing trees that are good performers when it comes to carbon sequestration and don't emit a lot of junk. They came up with a list of 31 species, including American basswood, dogwood, Eastern white pine, Eastern red cedar, gray birch, red maple and river birch.

That combination, they found, would increase carbon sequestration by 86 percent, and reduce the emission of volatile compounds by 88 percent.

Read the entire article

Conversations with God, The Movie

2006-10-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

Conversations with God, The Movie
The true story about the life of record-breaking New York Times bestselling author Neale Donald Walsch

Observations by Erik Karl Fulkerson

I am so glad I trusted my intuition. “This might be good,” was the subtle thought echoing in my mind as I watched the trailer. How many times have I not listen to the inner knowing, the subtle voice inside, my gut feeling, only to discover later despite any outward logic, my intuition turned out correct.
I needed to see this movie complete, and more than that, I wondered if my kids would enjoy watching the true story about Neale Donald Walsch. Now there would be a real test!
What a daunting task to tell the true story of how the magnificently sacred works of the Conversations With God books came to be written. What actor could possibly be able to play Neale Donald Walsch with believability?
Gratefully receiving an advance screener of the film I sat down to watch. As the ending credits rolled I said to myself, “We have a winner.”
I found it to be beautifully written, very well crafted, superbly directed. I give high praise and credit for the films success to actor Henry Czerny, playing the lead role as Neale. Having the distinct pleasure of spending time with Neale on a few occasions, I found Henry Czerny's portrayal tremendous in capturing the feeling, look, mannerism, intonation, and character of Neale Donald Walsch. Henry Czerny's masterful acting skill was pivotal in making the film great.
“There but for the grace of God, go I.” How many of us have said that to ourselves numerous times? I know I certainly have. How many of us have felt the fear of thinking we are just one paycheck away from being homeless as Neale once became? Too many times in my early corporate career did I feel such a fear. I believe this film will touch us all more deeply than we might first think; speaking to those fears prevalent in our lives all of us at some time have experienced.
Now for the Kid Test. Gather ye children did I, although it did take a little cajoling…well, bribery may be more accurate…which seem to persuade them to sit and watch. Their comments say it best, “That was really great.” “Did that really happen?” “I liked it. It was good.”
Perhaps a tougher test may be the older 18 to 25 demographic, with a couple of 14 year olds thrown into the mix. A few phone calls and couple of days later I had collected a half a dozen in this range. Much to my delight, and admittedly surprise, they also loved the film and found it inspiring, emotionally moving, and it prompted more questions about the real Neale and the Conversations With God books. A request I most joyfully fulfilled.
I feel this film may become another bridge for kids, teens, and adults to become more inspired about their spiritual life and their own private conversations with God.
I loved the movie, in particular Henry Czerny. The story is so well told and crafted by Eric Delabarre you are held intently till the very end, wanting more. Always a sign of a truly great film, and it could very well be another award winning film from Stephen Simon, his directing and production talent once again shining bright.
Don't miss this film, and if you desire like me, to see more films from the Spiritual Cinema genre, then it is vital you see this film in the theaters during its release. Go twice. Bring everyone you know. Tell everyone about it. Help carry the message to Hollywood the genre of Spiritual Cinema is real and supported.
The film will be released Friday, October 27th , to theaters around the country and November 10th in Canada. It is to these theaters where the support for a spiritual cinema film genre will be measured. If you want to see more of spiritual cinema in mainstream movie theaters, movies about heart and soul, then it is vital you go see Conversations With God, The Movie at one of these theaters. Look for a theater near you and watch the trailer at http://www.cwgthemovie.com .

From Pagans To Pumpkins

2006-10-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Halloween is an innocent time of year for children to dress up as pirates and princesses and coax treats from their neighbors under threat of tricks. Yet, some Evangelicals feel the festivities are a trap-door to Satan's playground."Halloween used to be called Samhain and is still celebrated as an ancient pagan festival of the dead by witches all over the world," writes William Schnoebelen in a creed for fundamentalist Chick Publications of Ontario, Calif."If you allow your children to participate in Halloween," he continues, "you are allowing them to play on 'the devil's turf,' and Satan will definitely press his home court advantage."Most of the eager ghosts and goblins who adorn their homes with plastic witches cauldrons and synthetic spider webs are unaware of the religious origin of the secular celebration held Oct. 31 and its ties to Christianity.

FDA Is Set To Approve Milk, Meat From Clones

2006-10-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

By Rick Weiss
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, October 17, 2006; Page A01

Three years after the Food and Drug Administration first hinted that it might permit the sale of milk and meat from cloned animals, prompting public reactions that ranged from curiosity to disgust, the agency is poised to endorse marketing of the mass-produced animals for public consumption.
The decision, expected by the end of this year, is based largely on new data indicating that milk and meat from cloned livestock and their offspring pose no unique risks to consumers.

"Our evaluation is that the food from cloned animals is as safe as the food we eat every day," said Stephen F. Sundlof, the FDA's chief of veterinary medicine, who has overseen the long-stalled risk assessment.

Farmers and companies that have been growing cloned barnyard animals from single cells in anticipation of a lucrative market say cloning will bring consumers a level of consistency and quality impossible to attain with conventional breeding, making perfectly marbled beef and reliably lean and tasty pork the norm on grocery shelves.

But groups opposed to the new technology, including a coalition of powerful food companies concerned that the public will reject Dolly-the-Lamb chops and clonal cream in their coffee, have not given up.

On Thursday, advocacy groups filed a petition asking the FDA to regulate cloned farm animals one type at a time, much as it regulates new drugs, a change that would drastically slow marketing approval. Some are also questioning the ethics of a technology that, while more efficient than it used to be, still poses risks for pregnant animals and their newborns.

"The government talks about being science-based, and that's great, but I think there is another pillar here: the question of whether we really want to do this," said Carol Tucker Foreman, director of food policy at the Consumer Federation of America.

That there is a debate at all about integrating clones into the food supply is evidence of the remarkable progress made since the 1996 birth of Dolly, the world's first mammalian clone, created from an udder cell of an anonymous ewe.

Scientists have now applied the technique successfully to cattle, horses, pigs, goats and other mammals. Each clone is a genetic replica of the animal that donated the cell from which it was grown.

Cloning could solve a number of long-standing farm problems. Many prize males are not recognized as such until long after they have been tamed by castration. With cloning, that lack of semen would not matter. Cloning also allows farmers to make many copies of exceptional milk producers; with natural breeding, cows have only one offspring per year, and half are males.
In the eyes of many in agriculture, cloning is simply the latest in a string of advances such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization that have given farmers better control over animal reproduction.

"Clones are just clones. They are not genetically engineered animals," said Barbara Glenn, chief of animal biotechnology at the Biotechnology Industry Organization.
complete story at: http://www.washingt onpost.com/ wp-dyn/content/ article/2006/ 10/16/AR20061016 01337.html

Children Singing Peace Around the World (CSPAW)

2006-10-19T02:45:00.000-07:00

Children Singing Peace Around the World is a living prayer to heal the Earth sung with heartfelt commitment by youth and elders around the globe. Originally composed on Mt. Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii, its message of Peace and Aloha radiates worldwide through CSPAW programs, recordings and sharing heart to heart.

Peace, Peace, Peace, Peace
We are children singing Peace

Peace with the Mother
Peace with the Father
Children singing Peace
Peace with our Sisters
Peace with our Brothers
Children Singing Peace

Peace, Peace, Peace, Peace
We are children singing Peace

Peace within brings
Peace without and
Peace all over the world.

Peace, Peace, Peace, Peace
We are children singing Peace.

If you wish to hear this in MP3 you can check their website ate www.childrensingingpeace.com

Ancient Stonehenge Houses Unearthed

2006-10-16T04:32:00.000-07:00

Nine Neolithic-era buildings have been excavated in the Stonehenge world heritage site, according to a report in the journal British Archaeology.The structures, which appear to have been homes, date to 2,600-2,500 B.C. and were contemporary with the earliest stone settings at the site's famous megalith. They are the first house-like structures discovered there.Julian Thomas, who worked on the project and is chair of the archaeology department at Manchester University in England, said Stonehenge could have been a key gathering place at the Neolithic era's version of a housing development.

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Free e-book on shamanism

2006-10-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

This is something I have received in the email today and would like to share:

"To help each of us on the journey, I gift each on the Holistic Community list with: One Free E-book copy of, “The Way of the Corporate Shaman.”This is a breakthrough book on integrating ancient wisdom and modern science to help us be more effective at transforming ourselves at work and in our communities. Now more then ever, this information is needed in the world. Read and Share….
To obtain your free copy, click on the following link:
http://corporateshamanway.com/pages/download.html
Print, binder, Enjoy! As you move through the book, note I also have free monthly conference calls on the material.
Email me to join in!
Now is the time…
Aho!
Bill Lion Hawk"

Samhain Recipes

2006-10-13T04:52:00.000-07:00

It is not early to start planning your samhain menu! I will be posting a few recipes hehe, here is the first one:

Pumpkin Muffins
1 c Unbleached Flour, Sifted
2 t Baking Powder
1/4 t Salt
1/4 t Ground Cinnamon
1/4 c Vegetable Shortening
2/3 c Sugar
1 ea Large Egg
1/2 c Canned, Mashed Pumpkin
2 T Milk

Sift together flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon; set aside. Cream together shortening and sugar in mixing bowl until light and fluffy, using electric mixer at medium speed. Beat in egg. Combine pumpkin and milk in small bowl. Add dry ingredients alternately with pumpkin mixture to creamed mixture, stirring well after each addition. Spoon batter into paper-lined 2 1/2-inch muffin-pan cups, filling 2/3rds full.

Bake in 350 degree F. oven 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot with butter and homemade jam.

2006-10-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

It is not about one running away from troubles of society to an empty cave in the forest to find enlightenment; but rather its about being an enlighten caveman in society, living the Eternal Wisdom of our loving heart cave found at the center of all beings.

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti-Durga
Das Heart's Wisdom recalled

Witches Weekly: Grimoire

2006-10-09T07:19:00.000-07:00

Q:Do you keep an equivalent of a book of shadows? What format do you keep it in? (digital, paper), how often do you use it, and is it categorized in any way?

A: I do not. Usually I post all the info at my website WiccaSources.

Number of books facing challenge drops to all-time low

2006-10-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

By The Associated Press 09.29.06
NEW YORK — The number of books threatened with removal from library shelves dropped last year to its lowest total on record, with 405 challenges reported to the American Library Association.
The ALA has been tracking efforts to pull texts since the early 1980s, when it helped found Banned Books Week as a celebration of free expression. The 25th annual "Banned Books" program is taking place this week, as libraries and bookstores highlight works that have been removed or faced removal.

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Mother Wants "Harry Potter" Books Removed

2006-10-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

Again and again, this all story around Harry Potter and how he corrupts little children into practicing Witchcraft. It is getting more and more ridiculous everytime. If you click the title of this post, it will take you to the WSBTV website, where you can read all about a mother who is trying to remove Harry Potters books out of her children´s school library!

Pagans Sue On Emblem For Graves

2006-10-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

Military veterans are entitled to have their headstones engraved by the government with a symbol of their religion. Families of the deceased may choose from emblems representing a variety of 18 Christian churches, a number of Buddhist sects, Judaism, Islam, Sikhism, Hinduism and atheism (represented by an atom with an A inside) — 38 religious symbols in all.

But not the Wiccan pentacle, which the Department of Veterans Affairs has neither approved nor disallowed despite various petitions over the last nine years.

Yesterday three Wiccan families and two Wiccan churches sued to force the department to include their symbol — a five-pointed star inside a circle — on the list of approved emblems.

Read the complete story

Darfur Genocide Video

2006-09-27T03:25:00.000-07:00

It is never enough to remind.............

Week to raise awareness about censorship

2006-09-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

Banned! Libraries focus on free speech
Week to raise awareness about censorship
Jim WilliamsThe Arizona RepublicSept. 25, 2006 12:00 AM

Michael Ging/TheArizona Republic
Lisa Gallegos, who works at the Tolleson Library, wraps crime tape around shelves of book titles that have been banned in the U.S.

Lisa Gallegos stretches yellow crime tape across a library bookshelf. Crime tape? Library? Looks can be deceiving.Gallegos, a library assistant at the Tolleson Library, helped create a display that brings attention to National Banned Books Week, which runs through Saturday. The American Library Association, which has been sponsoring the event nationally for 25 years, estimates that nearly 9,000 books have been banned or challenged in the past two decades. The group believes more than a book a day faces expulsion from free and open public access in schools and libraries.

Read the entire story!

Druid Accuses Oxford 'Grave Robbers'

2006-09-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Druid accuses Oxford 'grave robbers'
Sep 25 2006
Robin Turner, Western Mail

A WELSH druid spent the lightning-lashed weekend in a Gower cave to highlight his claim that academics from Oxford are "grave robbers".

Retired engineer Chris Warwick, who became a druid some years ago, wants an ancient skeleton known as the Red Lady of Paviland returned to its burial place in Gower's Paviland Cave.
Despite being uncovered on Gower, the remains have been on show at Oxford University's natural history museum for decades.

Read it all!

The Goddess Video

2006-09-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

I have received this link in an email today, I thought I might share it with you. It is a beautifull video by Burnt Page containing beautiful Goddess images and music by Delerium.

Check it Here !

Earth May Be At Warmest Point In 1 Million Years

2006-09-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

Earth may be close to the warmest it has been in the last million years, especially in the part of the Pacific Ocean where potentially violent El Nino weather patterns are born, climate scientists reported on Monday.This doesn't necessarily mean there will be more frequent El Ninos -- which can disrupt normal weather around the world -- but could well mean that these wild patterns will be stronger when they occur, said James Hansen of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York City.The El Nino phenomenon is an important factor in monitoring global warming, according to a paper by Hansen and colleagues published in the current Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.El Ninos can push temperatures higher than they might ordinarily be. This happened in 1998 when a so-called "super El Nino" helped heat the Earth to a record high.

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Happy Mabon!

2006-09-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

May you have a happy Mabon. I will take this special time to get to know my darkest side better, for this is the time when the days are short and the nights are long. Let us all meditate and learn from our darkest thoughts. Let us now enjoy the lessons form our Dark Mother while we await for the Sun God to rise again.

Unfinished Tolkien work to be published

2006-09-19T03:57:00.000-07:00

I could not believe when I read this news in yahoo!news today. I am such a fan of Tolkien and I must say his son, Chris, has won my admiration by putting together the giant Silmarillion. I cannot wait till nex Spring to read this new tale of the Middle Earth.

You can read the complete news here

Wiccans, others celebrate pagan pride

2006-09-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

By Elaine JarvikDeseret Morning News

MURRAY — Gretchen Faulk is, as she says, "not in the broom closet." This is a bit of pagan irony about witch stereotyping, but it's also the truth. Unlike some people who are witches, Faulk isn't afraid to be public about her beliefs.

Faulk is a Wiccan and founder of The Order of Our Lady of Salt, one of three Wiccan churches that participated in the fifth annual Pagan Pride Festival on Saturday at Murray Park. The festival drew Wiccans, druids, pre-Viking Asatrus and other groups that fall under the umbrella of pagan. It was cold and occasionally gloomy, but the atmosphere was cheerful as pagans held workshops on color divination, rune magic and shamanic healing. In the early afternoon, there was a Norse ritual led by Eagles Kindred of Utah and Hart's Hearth Clan.

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Witches Weekly Qs & As

2006-09-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

I have just joined the wicthes weekly Qs & As, so...I will start by answering the first question. Once a week they will send the members a new question and we will post the answers in our blogs.

Question:
What is one thing relating to your spiritual path that you’ve always wanted to do, but haven’t due to lack of money, time, etc. (Examples could be….creating your own altar room, going to visit a historical monument related to your spirituality, etc).

I have always wanted to spend a couple of days in the Findhorn Foundation, having a community living experience in such environment. I have also always wanted to visit the Monroe Institute for OBE research and visit the Dolphin Star Temple in California...

Those are the places where I would go and study at in order to improve my spiritual studies.

Traditions of Magic in Late Antiquity

2006-09-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Awsome online exhibition with text fragments, from the University of Michigan LibraryUniversity of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
DOO take a LoOk !!!

Traditions of Magicin Late Antiquity

MIMI.hu occult encyclopedia online

2006-09-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

why have I never came accross this web site? It is amazing, a completely volunteer based occult encyclopedia...I think I might give it a try and volunteer to edit some of those categories. Check it out!

MIMI

Wake up bloggers to the Darfur crisis

2006-09-15T02:12:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting wake up call I have received from a mailing list I belong too.

"Wake up bloggers to the Darfur crisis
One way to get the slumbering masses thinking about the huge Darfur crisis is to wake up blog owners.Suggestion: go to Technorati and search Darfur -- it might help knock TV and pop celebs off the top searches. Ask your friends and email lists to do the same. Another method is to post information on your websites and blogs. Time is running out!Darfur news. Track new stories about Darfur – create an email alert. Darfur news by RSS.

Pip Wilson
Emerald Beach, NSW, Australia
Website: http://www.wilsonsa lmanac.com
Blog: http://wilsonsalman ac.blogspot. com

Light A Million Candles- STOP Internet Child Abuse

2006-09-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

The innocent victims of Internet child abuse cannot speak for themselves.
But you can.
With your help, we can eradicate this evil trade.
We do not need your money. We need you to light a candle of support <http://www.lightamillioncandles.com/>.
We're aiming to light at least One Million Candles by December 31, 2006.
This petition will be used to encourage governments, politicians, financial institutions, payment organisations, Internet service providers, technology companies and law enforcement agencies to eradicate the commercial viability of online child abuse.
They have the power to work together.
You have the power to get them to take action.
Please light your candle at lightamillioncandles.com <http://www.lightamillioncandles.com/> or send an email of support to light@lightamillioncandles.com.
Together, we can destroy the commercial viability of Internet child abuse sites that are destroying the lives of innocent children. Kindly forward this email to your friends, relatives and work colleagues so that they can light a candle

State Says Nevada Soldier's Plaque Can Include Wiccan Symbol

2006-09-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

The widow of a Nevada soldier killed in Afghanistan a year ago won state approval Wednesday to place a Wiccan religious symbol on his memorial plaque, something the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has refused to do."I'm just in shock," Roberta Stewart said from her home in Fernley, about 30 miles east of Reno.Sgt. Patrick Stewart, 34, was killed in Afghanistan last Sept. 25 when the Nevada Army National Guard helicopter he was in was shot down. He was a follower of the Wiccan religion, which the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs does not recognize and therefore prohibits on veterans' headstones in national cemeteries.The new development came Wednesday when state veterans officials said they had received a legal opinion from the Nevada Attorney General's Office that concluded federal officials have no authority over state veterans' cemeteries.

Read the entire story

Research Paper on Human Rights

2006-09-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

From : Guinevere

"I am an undergrad pursuing dual majors in religious studies and history. I graduate in December and I am taking a senior seminar human rights course. I am required to write a 15-20 page paper for this course about a human rights issue. I have decided to write about modern day religious persecution of pagans (or pagan groups) . I am looking for viable news sources, books, or articles about documented cases of modern day pagan religious persecution. I feel very strongly that I need to write this paper so that people will better understand the pagan community and what some of us have to go through. Any help would be much appreciated. Blessed be,
Guinivere
email: popkissme@yahoo.com"

Vatican exorcises Harry Potter!?

2006-09-12T03:38:00.000-07:00

Devil in the detail: Vatican exorcises Harry Potter
Linda Morris Religious Affairs WriterSeptember 1, 2006

THE Vatican has never been a fan of Harry Potter, but its chief exorcist has gone one step further and condemned J. K. Rowling's fictional boy wizard as downright evil.
"Behind Harry Potter hides the signature of the king of the darkness, the devil," says Father Gabriele Amorth, the Pope's "caster-out of demons".
The books contained numerous positive references to the satanic art, falsely drawing a distinction between black and white magic, he told the Daily Mail in London. In the same interview, Father Amorth said he was convinced that Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler were possessed by the devil.

Read the entire story

ACTION ALERT: Dominican Republic

2006-09-11T03:05:00.000-07:00

ACTION ALERT: Dominican Republic

Manati Park in the Dominican Republic (DR) is the worst captive dolphin swim program we have ever seen. It's the worst one on the planet. A great many dolphin have suffered and died there since it opened in 1995, exact number of dead dolphins is not known for obvious reasons.We finally have a chance to close this hell-hole once and for all.

We need your help to do it.In 2002 eight more dolphins were captured in the Dominican Republic to replace the ones that were dying on a regular basis at the amusement park. These eight were known as The Eight Dolphins of the Virgin Mary: http://dolphinproje ct.org/?pageid= 22282

Our colleague, Eva Schandl who first launched the campaign to close the park was there in 2005, she reports that only two dolphins were still alive at that time. The latest update is that these two survivors are now dead. In only four years, all eight are dead. Now Manati Park wants to get more dolphins from Cuba to replace them. Disposable dolphins for our disposable society.Good News and Bad News:
The bad news is that Manati Park has applied to import at least four more dolphins from Cuba. The good news is that Mr. Pax Puig the minister of environment in the DR has not approved the permit -- yet -- to import more dolphins from Cuba.
This is our chance to finally shut down Manati Park once and for all. Please write a short message to Ministry of Environment, Mr. Pax Puig. Tell him that you support his decision not to not allow the importation of anymore dolphins for Manati Park.Your message can be one sentence long. Please do it. You are the only hope.

Here's the address: Mr. Pax Puig: mortiz@medioambient e.gov.do

Thank you,
Richard O'Barry
Marine Mammal Specialist
One Voice-FranceMiami, Florida, USA OfficePhone 305-668
ricobarry@bellsouth.net
www.OneVoiceDolphinProject.com

Pagan Awareness

2006-09-11T02:48:00.000-07:00

From the Witches Vox
All practitioners of Earth religions, Wicca, Shamanism, Druidry etc, are being encouraged to wear a purple ribbon as a way of promoting religious tolerance and to potentially raise awareness: On Sept. 21st to 22nd all Witches are going to wear little purple ribbons so everyone will know Who Else is a witch/wiccan/pagan/.... But no one can do this if they don't know about it, so pass the word along! This message goes to all Witches, Wiccans, Pagans from all sorts of traditions.

We can make a day for Ourselves!! Actually, two days!!! You can buy a purple ribbon anywhere, Dollar store, wal-mart, shoppers drug mart, anywhere...Wear it in your Hair, or pin it up to your shirt. Make it public!!!

I am a Blogging Chick!

2006-09-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

Stop the Idaho Wolf Massacre

2006-09-06T02:09:00.000-07:00

Tell U.S. Fish and Wildlife to deny Idaho's request to kill 75% of the wolves in the Lolo District of Clearwater National Forest and in an area where they are now protected as an endangered species.

Sign the petition here

"The Wicker Man"- A Primer on Paganism

2006-09-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

Witch Movie Opens This Weekend: Know Before You Go

Article source: ABC NEWS

Sept. 1, 2006 — Nicholas Cage and Ellen Burstyn — some serious star power for the remake of an odd, cultish (figuratively and literally) low-budget '70s British horror film — but that is what's opening this weekend at theaters nationwide.

The rough plot of "The Wicker Man" is a very Christian policeman who investigates a missing girl on a very remote island.
The locals are very secretive, and practice a very twisted version of pagan rituals — and I don't want to give away the end of the film, but suffice it to say that the policeman is in for a surprise.

The movie plays on a tension between Christianity and Paganism, throws in some sexually provocative scenes and, voila, you've got a "classic." Pagan, in Latin, means from the country or rural citizen, so before you get the idea that it is all about animal sacrifice and devil worship, realize that most indigenous religions are by definition pagan — the word doesn't carry any of those stereotypes in its definition.

Read the Complete Story!

Freedom of Religion Means ALL Religions !

2006-09-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

Look at this resource, it is one of the most helpful pages around.

"This page is dedicated to the concept that Freedom of Religion Means ALL Religions. The material found here and on the carefully chosen linked pages will assist you and/or your attorney in most any case involving genuine religious discrimination against Wiccans/Pagans."

Visit Here

Some Day You May Be Harassed Because of Your Religion.

2006-09-05T07:02:00.000-07:00

Someday you may be fired from a job because someone doesn't like your religion. You may have co-workers who constantly harass you, or try to convert you to their religion. Perhaps a supervisor will express disapproval of your religion or make it clear to you that you would get better treatment if both of you shared the same faith.

If this or any other form of religiousdiscrimination or harassment ever happens to you, then you will be faced with a difficult set of decisions, starting with this: what do you want? Do you just want the harassment to stop? Do you want a transfer?

Read on!

Protest is Good for You

2006-09-05T02:54:00.000-07:00

Protest is Good for You
By Donna Henes, Urban Shaman*
I won't be made useless
I won't be idle with despair
—Jewel, from "Hands"
The media likes to portray peace, environment and human and animal rights protesters as a fringe element of whining malcontent sickos teetering on the margins of proper society. The truth is that those who step forward to speak their mind are happier and healthier folks than most.Protesting is not complaining nor is it sending out negative messages.
Pro means "for," "in favor of." Test means, "to speak," as in testify and testimony. So, protest actually means, "to speak for."
Protest is a completely positive endeavor.
Albert Einstein said, "The world is dangerous not because of those who do harm, but because of those who look at it without doing anything…Nothing that I can do will change the structure of the universe. But maybe by raising my voice I can help the greatest of all causes -- goodwill among men and peace on earth."

A new study by John Drury, professor of social psychology at the University of Sussex in England, shows that it is good for you to protest. Even though protesters may be depressed about the state of the world, their physical and mental ailments improve dramatically as a result of taking part in a group effort for change and the betterment of conditions.
Involvement in social causes and participation in political demonstrations banishes sensations of isolation, discouragement and impotence and replaces them with an exhilarating awareness of connectedness, well-being and empowerment.
When people participate in large-scale protests they get swept up in a communal mood of optimism that feeds their feelings of hope. They believe that their actions can help to change the course of history.
"Collective action can therefore be a life-changing, uplifting and life-enhancing experience," concludes Drury.
A small body of determined spirits
fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission
can alter the course of history. —Mahatma Gandhi

So let's get out there this crucial week and shout out our disapproval of the deadly policies of this administration. Let us project, instead, our own healthy, positive vision of the possibility of peace, justice, and the true American Way. And may we each manifest this vision in the purity of our thoughts, words, and deeds every minute of every single day.
Join us in spirit and support from where ever you are.
With utmost blessings of Peace,Mama Donna*

(c) Permission is granted to copy, reproduce, re-print or promulgate in any manner this copyrighted material so long as correct attribution and contact information is included.
*******************************

Donna Henes, Urban Shaman, is a contemporary ceremonialist specializing in multi-cultural ritual celebration of the cycles of the seasons and the seasons of our lives.
She is the author of The Queen of My Self, The Moon Watcher's Companion, Celestially Auspicious Occasions, and Dressing Our Wounds In Warm Clothes, as well as the CD, Reverence To Her: Mythology, The Matriarchy & Me. She is also the editor and publisher of the highly acclaimed quarterly journal, Always In
Email: CityShaman@aol.com
http://www.DonnaHenes.net
http://www.TheQueenofMySelf.com

UN embassadors email address list

2006-09-05T02:09:00.000-07:00

As an activist, I find the information very usefull. Please feel free to share this United Nations Embassadors email list

US: usa@un.int
Australia australia@un.int
Austria austria@un.int
Canada canada@un.int
Denmark nycmis@um.dk
Finland sanomat.yke@formin.fi
Germany germany@un.int
Greece greece@un.int
Iceland thorsteinn.ingolfsson@utn.stjr.is
Italy italy@un.int
Japan mission@un-japan.org
Luxembourg luxun@undp.org
Poland polun@undp.org
Portugal portugal@un.int
South Africa sacg@southafrica-newyork.net
Spain spain@un.int
Sweden sweden@un.int
Switzerland Vertretung-UN@nyc.rep.admin.ch
Turkey turkey@un.int
Ukraine mail@uamission.org

You Have A Pagan Student In Your School

2006-09-05T02:08:00.000-07:00

You Have A Pagan Student In Your School
A Guide For Educators

A student in your school practices a religion with which you may not be familiar. This leaflet is simply to give you information you may need to understand the different experiences this student may share with you, and answer any questions you might have.

What is a Pagan student likely to practice and believe?
Because Pagans generally follow a non-credal, non-dogmatic spirituality, there may be even more variants between Pagan religious beliefs than there are between denominations of Christianity. The most commonly practiced types of Paganism are Wicca, Asatru, Druidry, or simply Paganism, just as a Christian can be Catholic, Presbyterian, or simply Christian. All of these are somewhat different from each other.

Because of this, the following statements may not be true for every Pagan you encounter. However, there are some practices that are generally common among Pagans; the student or his parents will tell you if their practices differ significantly from the following:

A Pagan student will celebrate a nature-based, polytheistic religion
A Pagan student will honor Divinity as both God and Goddess, sometimes with a feminist emphasis on the Goddess. One effect of this is that the student is likely to treat gender equality as an assumption. .....

Read the entire article, by Cecylyna Dewr

Christianity, Jesus and the Pagan Connection

2006-09-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

Christianity, Jesus and the Pagan Connection

by Ellen LloydAuthor of Voices from Legendary Times

For www.ufoarea.com

Did Christianity arise from ancient mystery Pagan religions? Did the early Roman Church deliberately adopt a vast number of Pagan rites, festivals, and beliefs? If this was the case, what motivated the priests to copy specific aspects of Pagan mythology? What is the connection between Jesus and certain Pagan gods? Is it possible that Christianity and Paganism have more in common than our Christian authorities are willing to admit?

A majority of us associate Paganism with idol worship, blood sacrifices, and witchcraft. We were taught to believe that Pagans are primitive people, who in some way worship the devil. So, how can a pure, sacred, and unique religion as Christianity be based on such occult concepts? Surely, this assumption can only be dismissed as absurd.

To write off something as "impossible" is an easy and quick process. Still, before we reject the Christian/Pagan connection, we should first ask ourselves a couple of questions. Could it perhaps be that we have a totally wrong and twisted image of old traditional Paganism? Were the mystery religions maybe more spiritually developed than we realize? What was the true reason for painting followers of the mystery religions in such black colors?

Read the entire article

Call for Submissions from the Dragon Clan Circle

2006-08-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Proclaimed by: Dragon Clan Circle
Proclaimed from: Mitchell, Indiana

Proclaimation...

As most of us know, Laughter is sometimes the best medicine and the best magic!!! Have you ever done something in ritual or during a spell, that you thought was just hilarious or amusing? Did you ever tell someone about that time you accidentally set fire to the altar? What about the time you thrust your athame to the sky to only hit the ceiling fan? I am collecting these stories, whether they were something you did, or something a friend or loved one told you about, or you witnessed.
Please forward all submissions to me atsubmissions@dragonclancircle.com
Please include your name and contact information.
Blessed Be
Lady Breanna WinDancer
Website: http://www.dragonclancircle.com

'The witch-hunter' - Officer to root out child abuse

2006-08-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

23 August 2006

NEWHAM is to get an officer dedicated to rooting out child abuse linked with 'possession' and 'witchcraft'.He or she will be one of eight community partnership advisers who will work in eight boroughs across London co-ordinated by the London Child Protection Committee. Newham Council is currently recruiting for the post.The move follows on from the findings of a Department for Education and Skills report.

Full Story

Spices and Herbs Encyclopedia

2006-08-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

I have found a very interesting encyclopedia, which you can visit for free, includes information on spices and herbs. Here´s an example of what you can find there:

Allspice

General Description:Allspice is the dried, unripe berry of Pimenta dioica, an evergreen tree in the myrtle family. After drying, the berries are small, dark brown balls just a little larger than peppercorns.

Geographical Sources:Allspice comes from Jamaica, Mexico, and Honduras.
Traditional Ethnic UsesAllspice is used in Jamaican jerk seasoning and in Jamaican soups, stews, and curries. It also is used in pickling spice, spiced tea mixes, cakes, cookies, and pies. Food producers use it in ketchup, pickles, and sausages. ...etc etc etc... check ou the website for mote info on several other herbs and spices ;)

Herbal Encyclopedia

Don't Let Congress Block Your Email

2006-08-12T05:32:00.000-07:00

Online petitions are a main means for us to communicate with our government about the level of quality and safety that we expect in our products.
Among other things, public outcry has brought about food and drug labeling, product testing, and full disclosure laws. But last month, Congressional offices began adopting new software that blocks the delivery of bulk email, significantly compromising our ability as consumers to have our voices heard.

Take action to say NO.
This technology, called logic puzzles, requires you to answer a question such as "What does 1+1 equal?" before submitting a comment to your representative. What this means: only those constituents who go directly to the lawmaker's own website can send them a message. Those of us sending our comments through a non-profit or an online community, such as the petitionsite, may be blocked.

Since the average person doesn't have the money or power to lobby Congress with their issues, the Internet has served as a tool to open up communication between millions of Americans and their elected representatives. Don't let Congress diminish this democratic means of communication.

Is it not one of our most basic rights to ask that our government hold private industry accountable for the products they produce? And if we choose to do so on behalf of a larger movement, why should Congress feel they have a right to ignore our dissent?

Stop Congress from taking away your two most fundamental rights: the right to petition and the right to organize. Join Care2, Consumer's Union, and a wide array of other non-profit organizations in fighting to make it easier, not harder for you to hold your elected representatives accountable.
Go to: http://go.care2.com/e/Lz./OM/E2gY Thanks for taking action today.

Lauren Alvarez Care2 and ThePetitionSite Team

Virtual March to Stop Global Warming

2006-08-08T11:34:00.000-07:00

"The Stop Global Warming Virtual March is a non-political effort bringing Americans together to declare that global warming is here now and it’s time to act."

To join this virtual march and learn many ways you can improve your lifestyle, while making a difference in our Mother Earth´s wellbeing, join the virtual march

Five Things We Can All Do

-Join StopGlobalWarming.org. Together our voices will be heard!
-Spread the word, share the learning. Send this link to family, friends, and colleagues. Share why this is so important.
-Change begins at home. (See the list home-related Action Items)
-Put the heat on your elected officials.
-The power of the pocketbook.

Listen to pagan interviews

2006-08-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have received this link from Lady Passion, High Priestess from the Coven Oldenwilde. She informed me that their interviews with the BBC London and WPVM Asheville can be listened to at www.oldenwilde.org.

Medical Emergency!

2006-08-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

Medical Emergency!
The Religious Right’s Campaign To Interfere In Your Health
Care Decisions

Religious groups that oppose reproductive freedom and access to contraceptives are
increasingly pressuring the medical community to bow to their demands. This FAQ produced by Americans United for Separation of Church and State examines some of the issues raised by thiscampaign and how they might affect your life.

Q. In what ways have conservative religious groups been pressuring the medical community?
A. Two major campaigns are under way. Religious groups that oppose artificial contraceptives and
reproductive freedom are pressuring states to adopt “conscience clauses” that would allow
pharmacists and other medical professionals to refuse to provide medications and procedures they
say contradict their religious beliefs. At the same time, an increasing number of secular hospitals are
merging with Catholic and other religious hospitals. When this happens, church doctrine is often
imposed on the secular hospital, and certain services are lost.

Q. What’s wrong with “conscience clauses”?
A. A “conscience clause” gives a medical professional a legal right to deny a patient legal
medications or services. For example, some pharmacists have refused, on the basis of religious
belief, to fill birth-control prescriptions and won’t refer patients who want them to another
pharmacy. An individual’s access to legal medication should not be held hostage to someone else’s religious beliefs.
No one is forced to work in the medical profession. A pharmacist who does not want to fill
certain doctor-prescribed medicines should probably find another line of work.

The complete article can be obtained as abrocuhre at the Americans United website, visit this link .

Americans United is now officially representing Circle Sanctuary

2006-08-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

Americans United Presses VA For Right Of Wiccans To Use Pentacle Symbol At Military Memorials

Americans United for Separation of Church and State is stepping up its effort to persuade the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to approve a Wiccan symbol for headstones, plaques and other memorials of deceased veterans.

Americans United is now officially representing Circle Sanctuary, one of America's oldest Wiccan churches, and church member, Roberta Stewart, a Nevada woman whose husband, Sgt. Patrick Stewart, died in combat in Afghanistan on Sept. 25, 2005. Sgt. Stewart's helicopter was shot down by the Taliban during Operation Enduring Freedom. Circle Sanctuary, headquartered near Barneveld, Wisc., has church members throughout the United States and elsewhere.

Circle Sanctuary and Roberta Stewart seek to have the Wiccan emblem of belief, the pentacle, included on the government-issued memorial plaque honoring Sgt. Stewart. His plaque is to go on the Wall of Heroes at the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery near Fernley, Nev.

Read the entire story

Eco-Spiritual/Wiccan/Pagan Practitioners Study Survey

2006-08-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

A sociological study is currently being conducted to gather information about end-of-life preferences for those who follow Wiccan, Pagan and Nature Spirituality religious paths. This study was crafted by Rev. Nora Cedarwind-Young, a minister doing advanced studies with Circle Sanctuary, and Dr. Marilyn Stoner, Ph.D, RN.

This survey is 41 questions, and will take up to 90 minutes to complete.

The survey is anonymous, and the analyzed results will be submitted for publication in nursing journals focused on end-of-life care.

If you have any questions about the survey or the study, or wish to receive a paper copy of the survey, please contact Dr. Stoner at 909.856.8166 or email at research@nursestoner.com

Please strongly consider taking this survey: your participation is valuable in providing hospice workers and nurses with information about our customs and preferences.

This survey is 41 questions, and will take up to 90 minutes to complete.

The survey is anonymous, and the analyzed results will be submitted for publication in nursing journals focused on end-of-life care.

If you have any questions about the survey or the study, or wish to receive a paper copy of the survey, please contact Dr. Stoner at 909.856.8166 or email at research@nursestoner.com

Please strongly consider taking this survey: your participation is valuable in providing hospice workers and nurses with information about our customs and preferences.

Visit this link to participate in the survey

The US Bill of Rights

2006-08-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

As a Pagan activist it is important to know your rights.
I will post the US Bill of Rights and in the future will try to post the same information to other countries. Please forward to anyone you find appropriate.

First Amendment:Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Second Amendment:A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed

Third Amendment:No soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

Fourth Amendment:The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Fifth Amendment:No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.

Sixth Amendment:In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defence.

Seventh Amendment:In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

Eighth Amendment:Excessive bail shall not be required nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Ninth Amendment:The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

Tenth Amendment:The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

Witchcraft ban ends in Zimbabwe

2006-08-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

Witchcraft ban ends in Zimbabwe
By Steve Vickers BBC, Harare

"Traditional healers will only be prosecuted if they cause harmZimbabwe has lifted a ban on the practice of witchcraft, repealing legislation dating back to colonial rule.
From July the government acknowledges that supernatural powers exist - but prohibits the use of magic to cause someone harm.

In 1899, colonial settlers made it a crime to accuse someone of being a witch or wizard - wary of the witch hunts in Europe a few centuries earlier which saw many people burned at the stake after such accusations..." Read the Entire Story

16th century Benin mask(© British Museum)

Volunteer Staff Needed for Festival

2006-08-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Proclaimed by: Coven of the Crossroads - Lyn Nitz, HPP -

from: Tinley Park, Illinois

Proclaimation...

Autumnal Greetings Everyone!There is just over a month to Wild Magick Gathering 2006 at Lothlorien Nature Sanctuary in Needmore Indiana, and with the Grapes ripening on the Vine so is the need for Volunteer Staff for Festival!There are many positions open with little or no prior experience. Volunteering is a Great way to attend the Festival and meet new people.Shifts are usually 4-5 hours long per day, so it gives you plenty of time to attend the many Rituals, Drum Circles, Workshops or just walk the trails and relax.Wild Magick Gathering starts September 14 and runs through September 17.
Check your calendars and come play with the Elves under the Trees of Lothlorien!
Green Blessings
Fimbrethel Entwife
Eldar Steward
Lothlorien Nature Sanctuary
Elvin H.O.M.E., Inc.
Needmore Indiana
Website: http://www.elvinhome.org

Call for help by Roberta Stewart

2006-07-31T03:46:00.000-07:00

Sgt. Patrick & Roberta Stewart at their Handfasting

Roberta Stewart needs help with VA pentacle case

PLEASE FORWARD WIDELY: I was wondering if all of you could assist me?? I will be retaining counsel by Monday and then the press release will go out. I am asking if everyone could please provide me with copies of any letters of response from the VA, Congressman and Congresswomen, Senators, Governors. etc.

I would also like to know of any communication and the names of people who you have spoken to any and all public officials regarding the quest. This is very important as I am working other avenues to get the pentacle approved. So all your information would be greatly appreciated. You can email L iberty@circlesanctuary.orgwith any letters or Fax the letter to Circle Sanctuary at 608-924-5961.

Also you can email names of any public official you have spoken to regarding the quest over the last nine years. You can also email me with the information as I would like to keep track of it as well as Lady Liberty.
PLEASE I NEED YOUR HELP WITH THIS MATTER AND I NEED THE INFORMATION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
Again I thank you all for the efforts and support in this matter.
Many Blessings.
Roberta Stewart

Why you Should Become a Pagan Activist

2006-07-31T03:45:00.000-07:00

Why You Should Become a Pagan Activist

-Because you can (and should) help co-creating our world

-Because Pagans have been misunderstood for too long and it is time to clarify things once and for all. Paganism has been overly mystified over the years and when things finally seem to begin getting brighter, another mischievous issue rises. You owe it to yourself and to everyone who has ever suffered from someone else’s ignorance. You owe it to your children, if you mean to raise educated children so they can chose their religion in an educated way.

- Because tomorrow, you might be the one to need help and support. We give and we take.
- Because Mother Earth needs you and as a Pagan, you feel connected with Earth’s energies and have learned that without them you would be severed from one of the most significant tenets of your beliefs. Your Mother is worth fighting for.
- Because as a Pagan, you are an ecological and active human being, well aware of your responsibilities .It is one of the major Pagan beliefs that we get what we give; with that belief we learn that we can act in our surroundings and cause great impact in the outer world; with this power great responsibility arises.
- Because if you will not do it, none else will.
- Because there can never be enough of us. The time is now…- Because Pagans are peaceful but also strong and active; we won’t let our future in no one’s hands

How to Write Powerful Letters to Government Leaders

2006-07-31T02:08:00.000-07:00

The Pagan Institute has developed a program named Write On!.
In this program they incite Pagan activist form the USA to use their freedom of speech and write letters to the Media and the Government in order to make an active voice in the USA politics.

As they say it: "Use your own Magical power as a voter and a citizen of the United States of America by writing to your elected officials. "

In this page you will find information on how to write powerful letters to the members of the government and to the media. You will also find information on how to contact the white house and a list of the addresses for all senators of all American states as well as a list of the UN ambassadors. If you know anyone who would be interested in this list, please pass it on.

Lady Liberty League

2006-07-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

One of the most powerful Pagan activism resources is the Lady Liberty League. Founded and directed by Selena Fox, it exists as a part of the Circle Sanctuary Network. Among other activities they are interested in promoting news about religious freedom cases, including legal ones. They publish such cases both on and off-line, thru their website and their paper magazine, the Circle Magazine.

They offer legal and moral assistance and they have been highly involved in the latest mainstream Pagan legal fight, relating to the former US army veteran whose wife was forbidden to engrave a Pentacle in his memorial plaque.You can and should support his cause and help Lady Liberty League in this fight by visiting the resources they have put together for that purpose.

CNN broadcasts the Pentacle Quest by Veteran´s Widow

2006-07-28T04:25:00.000-07:00

The media has been offering a great amount of coverage to this issue, especially to the fact that the US military does not allow for Wiccan and Pagan Symbols in Military Graves.

The Government allows religious symbols such as the Christians Cross the Jewish Star of David and the Islamic Crescent, but not the Pentagrams or any other Pagan Symbols.
This is an old debate in which Pagan Activist from all over the world have been involved with.
The famous phrase of the USA president Jorge W. Bush in June 1999 to the ABCNews: "I don't think that witchcraft is a religion. I wish the military would rethink this decision,” reveals the spirit of the government .

Recently, with the case of Roberta Stewart, a widow of a Pagan soldier killed in combat, who is fighting to have a Pentacle included on her husband’s government-issued memorial plaque, has received a big coverage form the media and has caught the attention of the CNN, who is broadcasting the information all over the world.
I suggest, for more information on this case, that you visit this witchvox article .

Roberta Stewart and Selena Fox walk together in Washington, DC (from CNN's American Morning).

If you want to help Roberta Stewart and other Pagan widows in the same situation and be an active part to help the Pentacle being added to the NCA list, I encourage you to get in contact with Lady Liberty League via email (liberty@circlesanctuary.org) or fax (608 924 5961). They are very proactive and fighting openly in this specific case.

Two new free e-books for download

2006-07-28T03:37:00.000-07:00

The following books are offered as a free download by the Goat and Candle Press. Enjoy!

Essentials of Successful Magick: The Truth Revealed
Quill Mastercraft
Foreword by Lon Milo DuQuette!
ISBN 0-9758528-3-3 Available now as a FREE E-BOOK DOWNLOAD!

The Companion Volume to Out of His Time...
Quill’s Own Story and Writings...
Embrace the Lightning: The Life and Insight of a Rogue Mage
ISBN 0-9758528-2-5 Available now as a FREE E-BOOK DOWNLOAD!

Earth Activist Training

2006-07-28T02:49:00.000-07:00

f you decide you want to take further steps and become a part of the growing group of Pagan activists, you should visit EAT

"Earth Activist Training blends a full permaculture certification course with Earth-based spirituality, practical political effectiveness, and nature awareness."

With classes taught by the well known Pagan activists StarHawk, Penny Livingstone, Charles Williams and Erik Olsen, they offer Classes in the USA and Europe. They do have a selection process, you should learn all about it at their website.

"EAT includes a rigorous 72-hour permaculture design course—participants receive a certificate on completion."

A Call to Action!

2006-07-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

The Sacred Earth Alliance is building and promoting a directory of useful contacts related to Pagan activism and the fight for religious freedom. Their directory contains lawyers, police officers, army members, mainstream media contacts, psychologists and counsellors among others. I encourage you to visit and distribute this list to everyone you know, which may find it useful.

Distribute it to Pagan publishers, to media contacts you might have, groves and covens, organizations, new age stores and other individuals you believe might benefit from this list.

This is a call to unite and help the fight.
Please visit and distribute the list located here
Also if you believe you have useful information to add to this list and/or would like to be listed has an activist please fill in the questionnaire

SUPPORT THE SEA!

You might also want to visit ERA ( Earth Religions Assistance) , I will write more about them in a further article, for now, just add them to your list of awsome resources to visit in order to obtain contacts and Pagan activism information.As they state "Many Earth Religionists (Pagans, Wiccans, Shamans, mystics, etc.) have suffered job, housing, and other discrimination because of their beliefs and practices. Some have lost custody of their children after their beliefs, religion and rituals were misrepresented in court. Others have had suffered police harassment, vandalism, unfair licensing requirements, and other forms of discrimination" and that was why they decided be active members of the community. Contribute!

SUPPORT ERA!

First Ever Woman to be elected Archdruid

2006-07-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

Important proclammation, liking with Witchvox.com

"Proclaimed by: DruidEire
Proclaimed from: Kilkenny, Ireland

The First Ever Woman in History is elected Archdruid of Tara.

On Wednesday last, 19th July 2006, Lady Druid Gina McGarry was declared elected by Returning Officer Gabriel Murray of Kilkenny City, Ireland.

So for the first time in the history of Ireland, after a gruelling national election, Gina was officially endorsed and declared Archdruid of Tara.

Gina, from Southern California USA is years living in Ireland. Of Irish parentage/ancestry, She originally came to ireland to train as a Druid.

And now she is elected this week as Archdruid of Tara by all of Ireland's Druids!

This is a first. And this is a great breakthrough for women in what up-to-now has been a male bastion - Irish Druidry.

Gina succeeds Archdruid Michael McGrath, Chief of the Order of Druids in Ireland, as Archdruid of Tara. Archdruid McGrath still remains on at his post as Archdruid of Ireland and Chief of the ODI.

email Archdruid Gina McGarry: brighid9@iolfree.ie

Archdruid McGarth: DruidEire@cablenet.ie"

Making an active voice in the Pagan Community!

2006-07-27T02:14:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take this Blog to a new dimension. I have been watching out for Pagan activism sites and I have found that we lack something here. I decided to make a difference and I am welcoming any help I might have. I want to be an active voice in the Pagan Community and so I am sharing with you what I want to make of this project. Here follows my Press Release and I hope to attract like-minded people with it. I will be publishing the first interview the published Pagan author Grey Cat next week. I will also be publishing, from now on, news related to religious freedom and help spread the world and clarify about what Paganism is really about.

Contact: Vera Oak
+351914510206
faeryuniverse@yahoo.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pagans of the World Unite for Freedom of Speech

Virtual World –July 26, 2006 –WiccaSources Blog incites all Pagans from around the world to unite for freedom of speech. The virtual gathering place counts with the presence of mainstream Pagan writers in direct interview in support for the Pagan Community.

For years suffering the stigmata of a dark and occult religion, Paganism has now a new voice speaking in behalf of religious freedom. Being a gathering place for freethinking individuals the WiccaSources Blog incites all Pagans to unite in this virtual gathering place.
Uniting mainstream authors in direct interview and Pagan artists from all trades, the weblog re-connects Pagans with their kindred spirits in the search for mutual support.

Trying to shed some light in this growingly popular religious belief, the blog will feature author interviews, book reviews, notices and proclamations of interest to the Pagan community as well as provide a fertile ground to open discussion.

WiccaSources Blog welcomes individuals from every religious background to join and participate the debate; being a proclamation of freedom, this virtual meeting point also aspires to be a source for clarification.

As a peaceful and giving community, the earth based religion followers pretend to instruct the world about their beliefs and proclaim their long-lost right to be considered equals to other religious practitioners.

For more information about this project or interviews with project mentors visit http://wicca-sources.blogspot.com/ or contact Vera Oak to the following email faeryuniverse@yahoo.com

The WiccaSources Blog is a sister project to The Pagan Review. Its founders and editors work in the publishing medium and have a personal interest in Pagan oriented publications. Their work for the past five years has been to support Pagan artists and give their work more visibility.

###

Jung´s Personality Test

2006-07-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

I have always admired Jung and his work, him being a studend of Gnose and all, I really love his work . I recently Stumbled upon one of his personality tests on the Internet and decided to take it. It was quite accurate; it turns out that I have a "Journalist Type" personality. Go on, take the test, try it yourself:

http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

The Difficult Life of an Incense Maker

2006-07-24T03:13:00.000-07:00

This morning I am really mad! I just found out this awesome new incense recipe and was ready to roll a new batch of incense. I was only waiting for the sandalwood to arrive – I mail order it from the U.K. most of the time- and when it finally arrived, I started preparing my working table, measured the aromatics, the binder, the liquid; everything was just perfect. So…I added the base (the red sandalwood was the chosen base for this recipe) and let the sticks dry. I have waited four days for the incense to dry and this mourning I got up all excited to light my new incense sticks.

To my surprise, the incense smelled like….NOTHING! It turns out the sandalwood is of the poorest quality and it messed out the entire recipe. I am sooo mad, I can’t even write straight. Do you imagine how frustrating it is to spend the all week anxiously waiting for your new incense recipe to dry and the finding out you have just spent some big bucks in the poorest quality sandalwood ever? I should learn not to mail order my incense making supplies but in my country it’s the only possible way to find all the materials I need. I am off to work now and try to forget about this incident. BB.

Herbal Secrets- the Chamomile Flower

2006-07-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

With an increasingly demanding society and the lack of sufficient responses from the medical health sector to deal with the “new” diseases- stress, depression- human kind started to turn its attention to the ancient medicine.
For example, who have never asked for a chamomile flower tea in stressful situations?
Well know for it’s relaxing and calming properties, the chamomile flower- also known as matricaria recutita or chamomilla- is a popular natural soothing herb. And this article its all about it.

With the increasing popularity of natural medicine, the health care market has grown to include natural treatments in its remedies lists. All around us we see natural health care products displayed and announced -even in traditional medical pharmacies.
Don’t misunderstand me! I think that is great. I am a great fan of traditional medicine myself, and a good chamomile flower tea is all that I could ask for at the end of a stressful day. As a Wiccan, I have a strong relation with herbs and nature and I would rather opt for something natural than chemical.

But relaxing you is not all the beautiful yellow chamomile plant can do; it is also well known for soothing headaches, a rebel stomach, a sensible skin and, when dried, those flowers also make a gorgeous potpourri.

If you are looking to use the chamomile flower to help you relax, you will find there are many offers in the market to your needs- you will find capsules, essential oils, dried chamomile flower leaves and petals (whole or powdered), ready-made teas, floral waters, pills and even sleeping pillows- those are little gaze pillows filled with the dried chamomile flower.
You can easily find these products in specialty shops and don’t forget to look online- you will be amazed of the quantity and the quality of products available in the Internet. Many online Wiccan stores sell herbal products, that is one place to look at!

For the gardening enthusiasts, the chamomile plant is a very pleasant one to add to your garden- it will ad colour and aroma to your green space and, whenever you feel like a hot chamomile flower tea, you will have it at hand, anytime.
The chamomile flower can be consumed dried or fresh, depending on your specific needs and tastes great both ways. Every Pagan has it in him/her to appreciate outdoors time, if you have the means, you will enjoy the adventure of gardening.

Cosmetic wise, this flower is also known to produce effective moisturising creams and oils, being widely used by this industry.
As far as the laws and regulations go, chamomile flower usage has been approved for internal and external use – especially in bacterial skin infections. There aren’t any known side effects or contraindications, nor is chamomile dangerous to consume during pregnancy. With that said, go enjoy the beauties Mother Nature put in this planet for us to experience bliss and respect. Blessed Be and always remember the Wiccan Rede; it is valid not only when working with humans but also with plants ;)

More Gemstone Info?

2006-07-20T04:09:00.000-07:00

I have plenty of articles about gemstones and I am looking for your feeback as to you want me to keep posting the magical properties of gemstones? I will be looking forward to hearing your comments.

Oh, I shall post an original article on chamomile tea in the future, also :)

Wiccan E-Zine asking for submissions!

2006-07-20T04:04:00.000-07:00

I saw this post at Witchvox and decided to share with you, I am sure you will want to participate. Come one youg wiccans, this is all about you ;)

If you're between the ages of 13 and 24 we'd love to hear your voice in the next edition of Copper Moon E-zine (www.Copper-Moon.com) . This online magazine has been created for young adult Wiccans, Witches and Pagans. Includes eye-opening Interviews, Articles, Book Reviews and more! Geared towards both male and female practitioners, we are seeking new submissions for the next edition. All submissions must be written by you --- not copied or "borrowed."Specifically, we would like . . . Original Articles: how-to, personal commentary, reflections on Wicca, Witchcraft, or Paganism. Express your opinion on hot topics floating around the Wiccan/Pagan community or share a unique viewpoint.Our next issue is for LughnasadaThe deadline for submissions is July 25th 2006The issue will be published on August 15th!After editing your piece just drop it in the body of an e-mail or as a wordpad attachment and e-mail it to: TWNSubmit@yahoo.com. Remember to include the title of your piece, your craft name (or writing name) and e-mail address so readers may send feedback. You may also include a brief bio if you'd like. Copper Moon e-zine is special because it is written by young adults like you.
We love having your work showcased.
Thanks for considering us
www.Copper-Moon.com
Sincerely, ~ Gwinevere Rain & RedRaven Editors and Owners of Copper Moon

Lughnassad is coming!

2006-07-19T03:02:00.000-07:00

Lughnassad, the next big Sabbat is coming. What will do you to honour the Gods in this day? I will write a few toughts on this Sabbat bellow. Enjoy!

Lughnassad (August 1)
One of the Greater Sabbats, also known as Lammas or the Feast of Bread. This holiday marks the time of the first harvest. The sun loses its strength and the nights grow longer. The God is dying, and yet lives on inside the Goddess as her child. The God is now seen in the seed, in the grain, and is remembered and honored with the first loaves of bread.

Pagan Review

2006-07-17T06:28:00.000-07:00

I also run this website Pagan Review

We review spiritual books and produce author interviews. We are always looking for submissions and volunteers to help reviewing our books.

The Wiccan Rede

2006-07-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

The Wiccan Rede

The Central belief in Wicca, the Wiccan Rede is the oldest of known ethics although it hasn't always been called anything more than common sense. The most common phrasing of The Rede is "An' it harm none, do as you will," Which is often reduced to "Harm none." In Universal Eclectic Wicca we also have an expanded reading of the Rede which is especially helpful when describing it to people who believe in commandments and long lists of rules. It states: "If an action will cause harm, physically, emotionally, or mentally, to another person or one's Self, refrain from doing it. Strive to always be helpful and never willingly cause strife or harm to befall someone. Weigh your actions against each other, would you wish your actions taken against you? Take no action you would not wish to receive."There are several poems also called "The Wiccan Rede" but it is still only the eight little word "An it harm none, do as ye will."

This article is from copyrighted material by KaatrynMacMorgan,CUEW homepage,http://www.cuew.org

What is Wicca

2006-07-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

What is Wicca: "What is Wicca?"

Check this out, it will help you understand better what Wicca is all about.

The Magickal Properties of Gemstones- Part Two

2006-07-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

The Magickal Properties of Gemstones- Part Two

This information was gathered at my website and you can read the complete article there:
http://www.wiccasources.netfirms.com

Angelite Description: Beautiful Light Blue

Calming, stabilize emotions and ease anxiety and stress. Use for creative work, psychic ability, public speaking, and helping oneself to become more assertive. Reduce anger, aid in self-forgiveness, and gain spiritual protection. Angelite has also been used for working with angels and for sending telepathic messages to people and pets.

Apatite
Description: Neon Teal - Semi Translucent

(Beautiful !) Excellent for all forms of Psychism and Spirituality. Beautifully calming effect. Will facilitate results in magickal workings and help/develop humanitarian goals. Can create a very deep state of meditaion. Perfect representation for the Water element. If one is translucent enough - it may also be used for a unique experience in divination.

Aphrodite
Named for the Goddess, this pink stone is useful in love magick. Helps to open up the heart chakra and allow you to receive love, while at the same time increasing your ability to give love. Useful in magick designed to help draw true love and find your soul mate. Aphrodite is also useful in promoting fidelity and trust in an established relationship.

Aquamarine
Description: Translucent to transparent light sea blue / green

Enhances the utilization of psychic powers and makes the mind more alert. Excellent for cleansing and purifying. Aquamarine can be used in rituals to ensure good health. It soothes and calms emotional problems and promotes peace, happiness, and joy as it halts fear. Stone of the Sea Goddesses, Psychism, Courage.

Aragonite
Excellent for centering, and communicating with higher plains. Exquiste for healing, and can be used on ALL chakra points at once.

Avalonite
A blue-violet stone which is a form of chalcedony. Due to its color, avalonite is useful in calming and soothing, aiding meditation and visualization, and promoting a sense of security for the user. Also useful in aiding psychic awareness and delving into the mythical past and collective consciousness.

Aventurine - green
Description: Green with many silver speckles

This is an excellent good luck stone. It is useful in spells involving money, gambling, and business success. Can calm troubled emotions and speed general healing. This stone increases perception and intelligence while it stimulates creativity. Silver specks enhance the powers of the stone

Aventurine - red
Description: Maroon/purple with silvery speckles

Excellent courage promotion, lends energy to body, draws luck in love.

Aventurine - blue
Description: Blue with some silvery speckles

Reduces negative emotions, purification, peace, when held - reduces pain.

Aventurine - peach/orange
Description: faded Orange/Peach w/ some silvery speckles

Good luck stone, personal power, self worth, attracts success to owner.

Aventurine - silver
Description: Grey/Silver with silvery speckles

Increase to magickal power, emotional, moon Energy, success

Aventurine - black
Description: Black with silvery speckles
Control, power, grounding, Magickal invisibility.

Azurite
A dark blue stone which can heal emotional trauma, confusion, blocks, and negativity. This stone is also useful in working with spirit guides, animal guides, and the Goddess. It is also said to increase psychic healing ability and aid in visualization.

Barite
This interesting stone is peach and black. It is helpful in rituals and spells designed to clear obstacles in one's life path. Using barite helps to conserve energy, and so is helpful for those who have immune problems or who are excessively anxious or stressed. Helps to promote a balanced energy flow in the user.

Beryl
Description: Various colors - usually translucent or cloudy
Psychism, Healing, Love, Energy, anti- gossip. Can help locate lost items - hold in hand and visualize lost item. Often carried to win arguements or debates. Exchanged between lovers. Can help increase purity and cleansing.

Black Onyx
Great for defense against negativity. Can be used to reduce sexual desires. Onyx is an extremely potent protective stone, and is widely known for its ability to protect against psychic attacks and hexes.

as seen on

The Magickal Properties of Gemstones

2006-07-17T04:44:00.000-07:00

The Magickal Properties of Gemstones

Agate - general
Description: Red / orange / brown / black with patterns, stripes, and/or banding

Good for general protection and very effective for protecting children. Helps in healing - especially blood disorders, skin and intestines. Increases Strength, restores bodily energy, increases courage, and tends to promote longevity. Removes envious thoughts and spite, while easing stressful situations. Agates, especially banded, are good for meditation. Carried while gardening, this stone increases plants’ fertility and health.

Amazonite
Description: Hot green with grey / white markings

Attracts money and luck. Great for gambling ! Good for increasing concentration, completing projects, expanding emotional expression to promote healing. Turns emotional grief into creativity.

Amber
Description: Usually Golden, but may also be red, creamy, black. Translucent, trasparent, cloudy.

Excellent for use in rituals for enhancing your beauty and attractiveness. Helps to attract love and stimulates happiness and pleasure. Amber is used as both a good luck and protective amulet, and is extremely protective against negative magick which has been directed against you. When placed on the altar, it can increase the effectiveness of your spells. Amber is said to increase strength while relieving or curing health conditions. Amber is also very useful in protecting children.

Amegreen
Description: Pale Purple Amethyst and Pale Green Quartz Together

Very powerful at drawing money - especially in business and/or investment.Wonderful for calming and soothing along with calming fears and reducing stress. Look for this stone to help increase "luck" and can add a little energy to magickal powers.

Amethyst
Description: Translucent purple with white / clear chevron pattern

A must-have in the Magick realm ! Helps to calm fears and reduce stress. Dispels both doubts and negativity while it relieves depression. Promotes good judgement and induces vivid dreams. Amethyst increases mental powers, which makes it incredibly useful in psychism. Also draws pure and true emotional love.

Ametrine
Description: Translucent purple Amethyst and Golden Citrine Together

A powerful and BEAUTIFUL stone ! Removes negativity and can help you reach higher states of meditation more quickly. Excellent for astral travel. Increases magickal powers greatly. Helps to access "higher knowledge". Balances energies (male/female and more) and can create a path toward the "ultimate state of perfection".