Ostara (spring equinox) occurs when there are equal amounts of day and night. It is a fertility festival celebrating the fertility of the Goddess. The world around us is blooming and coming to life after the hibernation of Winter.

The Lord and Lady begin their courtship on this day. He begins to woo Her for His wife.

Many of the customs of Easter came from the traditions of Ostara. Ostara eggs and rabbits symbolize fertility.

March 21st

Flowers should be laid on the altar, placed around the circle and strew on the ground. (If no fresh flowers available use something in representation of them ex: spring colored pieces of paper). The cauldron can be filled with water and flowers, and buds and blossoms may be worn as well. A small potted plant should be placed on the altar.

Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, cast the circle, and invoke the Goddess and God.

Stand before the altar and look upon the plant as you say:

Mother Earth, you have freed yourself from the icy prison of winter.
Now is the greening, when the fragrance of flowers drifts on the breeze.
This is the beginning.
Life renews itself by Your magick.
Sky Father stretches and rises, eager in His youth, and bursting with the promise of summer.

Touch the plant. Connect with its energies and through it, all nature. Travel inside its leaves and stems through your visualization -- from the center of your consciousness out through your arm and fingers into the plant itself. Explore its inner nature; sense the miraculous processes of life at work within it.

After a time, still touching the plant, say:

I walk the earth in friendship, not in dominance. Mother Earth and Father Sky, instill within me through this plant a warmth for all living things. Teach me to revere the Earth and all its treasures. May I never forget.

Standing in front of the altar, hold up a candle. Look at its flame. Visualize yourself blossoming with creativity, with renewed energy and strength.

Meditate upon the changing of the seasons. Feel the rousing of energies around you in the Earth.

Celebrate the Simple Feast, then release the Circle.
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