CIRCLE CASTING

The circle of a witch is a place were Ritual and magical workings take place. The concept of using a circle(actually more like a sphere of energy and power) came from Ceremonial Magicians who used a triple circle to protect themselves from what he or she raised up.
The circle defines the ritual area, holds personal power, shuts out distracting energies, and basically creates the proper atmosphere for the rite. When the circle is cast correctly, the rites can begin. And if you cast it right, you will know because you will be able to sense the boundary of the circle, and the air inside will become hot and sticky. You will know when it has been properly cast.

CASTING THE CIRCLE

Mark the four directions of the elements with something which is sacred to them:

North: pentacle, a bowl of salt, or an object from the Earth
East: burning incense, a feather, or an object that represents Air
South: a red candle, an oil lamp, a lava rock, or an objects that represents Fire.
West: a cup or bowl of water, a sea shell, or any object that represents Water

Light the candles at each of the four quarters.
Build up energy within & create the circle by walking around it, seperate the air three times with the Athame or your staff , releasing your energy & saying:

Sprinkle salt & water around the circle. Call upon the Elements to protect the circle; do this in each direction:

"O Spirit of the West, Ancient one of Water, I call you to attend this circle. Charge this by Your powers."

Now you can do your ritual or what ever you want to do.

TO OPEN THE CIRCLE

To leave the circle for any reason after the circle has been cast, requires a doorway to be "cut" into it. This is done with the Athame. Visualize a doorway being cut and the energy being absorbed into the handle of the knife. To reform the seal, release the energy and reseal along the same cut.

TO DISPERSE THE CIRCLE

Face North with the wand held the same as the calling of the elements and say:

"O Spirit of the North, Ancient one of Earth. Thank you for your presence on this night. Go in Power."

"O Spirit of the East, Ancient one of Air. Thank you for your presence on this night. Go in Power."

"O Spirit of the South, Ancient one of Fire. Thank you for your presence on this night. Go in Power."

"O Spirit of the West, Ancient one of Water. Thank you for your presence on this night. Go in Power."

Repeat for each element. Now, take the Athame and pierce the sphere at waist level and move clockwise around the circle. Feel the energy being pulled back into the knife and handle. When you come back to the North, the circle is no more.