Procession
Casting of the Circle-
This is a pagan ritual, which involes the High Priestess cleansing and blessing the area, so that it becomes a sacred space for the ceremony. This is done by her walking clockwise in a circle 3 times, while carrying symbols of the elements, and then walking a 4th time, while drawing the circle with an athame or wand. This encloses the sacred space, and is rather like a magickal protective bubble, through which no negativity can penetrate, and also makes clear communication with the Divine possible.
Presentation to the Elements and Dieties -
The Elements of Air, Water, Fire, and Earth, and the God and Goddess are called to witness the ceremony and give their protection and blessings. This is done through words, as well as symbols (ie: calling water, and then pouring water on the ground).
Welcoming and Words to the Couple
The Lighting of the Unity Candle
The Exchange of Rings
The Exchange of Vows
The Binding
Uniting the Two Families and Family Blessing
Jumping the Besom (Broom)
Thanking the Elements and the Dieties
Closing of the Circle -
The High Priestess closes the circle by walking counterclockwise while drawing the line back up with the athame or wand. After this time the circle is opened, but never broken. The sacred space is taken down by doing this, and the area is no longer "off-limits" to everyone outside of the circle area.
This will end our special ceremony.
Special thanks to the families of the bride and groom.
Bride's Parents - Nancy and George Lohnes
Bride's Sibling - Robert James
Groom's Parents - Arthur and Marjory Goodman
Although Mom is gone, she is not forgotten.
Groom's Sibling - Butch Goodman, Donna Garrett, Gail Rowe, Murray Goodman, and George Goodman.
