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Samhain
October 31
Symbolism
 The dead are honored
End of summer
Time of the thin veil
Ruling time of the Crone aspect of the Goddess
For many this is the start of the New Year
Symbols
Colors are red and black
Pomegranates,pumpkins,apples,indian(decorative) corn,colorful gourds
Foods
Beets,turnips,apples,corn, nuts,gingerbread,cider,mulled wines, pumpkin dishes, and meat dishes
Ritual Actions
Scrying in smoke,candle flame or mirror
Calling departed ones
Leaving food outside after ritual
Candle in the window
Personal reflection
Excellent time for divinations
Feasts
Rituals
Leave a plate of food outside the home for the souls of the dead. (Salt,bread,pork,apples)
A candle placed the the window guides the souls of the dead to the lands of the eternal summer
Bury apples in hardpacked earth to feed the dead on their journey
Since this is the Time of the Thin Veil remember to welcome spirits of ancestors, loved ones, and family. Have a feast in their honor; set a place for them at your table. I do this myself. I draw a circle around my dinning table after it was all set up. I placed a small altar in the center with candles and decorative symbols. I then invite all my ancestors to join me. Being a solitary I eat alone in silence as I talk to my ancestors and welcome them with open arms. There is a great sense of warmth at the table. After dinner is finished I thank them for joining me. I open the circle and tell them that I would be going out for the evening and that the house is theirs for the evening. Note: You don't have to leave the house.
Feasts are also made in rememberance and as a affirmation of continuing life.
In celebration of the end of the Celtic year write on a piece of paper something you are releasing or putting to rest. (Note: Watch what phase the moon is in! You can use this same ritual to gain things such as doing New Year resolutions) Burn the piece of paper in the Samhain bonfire/campfire or at your personal altar in a censer or cauldron.
Samhain Recipes
Samhain Crafts and Rituals
Refrence:
Personal Experience
Pagan Ways by Gwydion O'Hara
Celtic Magic by DJ Conway
Wicca:Guide For Solitary Practioner by Scott Cunningham
Wheel Of The Year by Pauline Campanelli
Please vist my bestfriends Halloween pages
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