trystinn | A Shabbos for Witches & Pagans

Traditionally, the lighting of Shabbos candles is made some moments before dark on Friday to mark the beginning of the Jewish Shabbos. As this is a practical experience, as well as spiritual one, it makes sense to continue this beautiful tradition. Begin by collecting your candles (one for each person you would like blessed), let the candles be for this purpose only, and placing a charity box somewhere it may remain until completion of Havdalah. This is an excellent time to remind folks of the coven kitty, if appropriate, or a suitable charity that has been agreed upon. Being mindful of the needs of others and the blessings we have been given is a wonderful way to begin by offering what we can to those who need our support.

"In many jewish households, women cover their heads with a scarf and men with the yarmulke. If your ritual robe or cloak has a hood, raise it now. Be mindful of the spirit of community and family, what Jews call Shekinah - the spirit of people.

Begin by first lighting a candle for yourself, because you have been blessed. It is only by first taking care of yourself may you take care of others. Be thankful for your Creation and those who have aided in your growth, be it spiritual or material.
* If you have a partner, light a candle for the one who has chosen to walk life's path with you.
* If you are without partner, light a candle for the one who has yet to walk with you. (i.e. leave room for the future in your blessings!)
* Light candles for each of your children and/or furchildren. If you are pregnant or have lost a child, you may light a candle for their tender spirit(s), as well.

Additional options:
* Light a candle for the children in your life who you teach and guide as a wise one in their lives
* Light a candle for those who need light and guidance, those in need and those who suffer in these violent times
* Light a candle for those with whom you are in conflict, that they may be guided by the light of peace
* Light a candle for the Beloved Dead, who are ever watchful and await the thinning of the Veil to be with you once again
* Light a candle for the Mighty Ones, who are ever with us
* Light a candle for the Goddess, who through Her Descent, challenged Death
* Light a candle for the God, who loves the Goddess and welcomes All into His embrace

Hold your hands above, but slightly behind the candle flames and draw their light to you eyes, covering them at the last. Take a moment in recognition of the Dark and the Immutable Void, the Womb within which the first spark of Light began. When ready, you may offer a prayer of your own in whispered tones. Take this time to center yourself, connect with the divine and prepare for the coming event. Take your time, it does not exist here. You may then recite a joined prayer or something more universal as "Blessed be the Goddess, blessed be the God". Join hands with those who have joined you or if alone, lower your hands to your waist and hold them open palms to the flame. A song or chant such as "We all come from the Goddess" that all may join in would do well. The idea is to connect, by whatever means.

Open your eyes. If others are present, look them in the eyes and thank them now for coming and being a part of your chosen family and community. Share hugs and kisses, if you will.

by Tirgereh, 2006

May be shared with credit given."