And what collection of rituals would be complete without Scott Cunningham's excellent solitary rituals? Seriously, I love his work... and the reason for that is because sometimes, simple is best. And that is what the majority of his rituals are - simple.
You will need:
- A symbol of the season, such as a representation of a snowflake, a white flower, or perhaps some snow in a crystal container can be placed on the altar.
- An orange candle anointed with musk, cinnamon, frankincense, or rosemary oil, unlit, should also be there.
- Snow can be melted and used for water during Circle casting.
Arrange the altar, light the candles and censer, and cast the Circle of Stones.
Invoke the Goddess and god.
Say such words as the following:
This is the time of the feast of torches,
when every lamp blazes and shines
to welcome the rebirth of the god.
I celebrate the Goddess,
I celebrate the God;
All the Earth celebrates
Beneath its mantle of sleep.
Light the orange taper from the red candle on the altar (or at the Southern point of the circle). Slowly walk the circle clockwise, bearing the candle before you. Say theses or similar words:
All the land is wrapped in winter.
The air is chilled and
frost envelopes the Earth.
But Lord of the Sun,
Horned One of animals and wild places,
Unseen you have been reborn
of the gracious Mother Goddess,
Lady of all fertility.
Hail Great God!
Hail and welcome!
Stop before the altar, holding aloft the candle. Gaze at its flame. Visualize your life blossoming with creativity, with renewed energy and strength.