Summer Solstice ~ June 21st.

(A Victorian Grimoire ~ Patricia Telesco ~ Llewellyn Publications 1996 ~ PPS 47-49)


Corresponding to St. Peter and Paul day on the Christian calendar, Summer Solstice (or Midsummer or Litha as it is sometimes called) is the longest day of the year. Now is when the powers of Light are invoked; The God/dess dances high in the sky and beckons us to join her. It is an excellent time to work magicks involving protection, strength, energy and clear sight ~ for the light has come to banish any shadows in your life.


          Invocation


Fireflies and summer sun,

In circles round we become as one.

Singing songs at magicks hour

We bring the winds and timeless power.

Turning inward, hand to hand

We dance the hearth to heal our land.

Standing silent beneath the sky

We catch the fire from out Gods eye.

Swaying breathless besides the sea

We call the Goddess, So Mote It Be!


A drum is a wonderful accompaniment to this invocation. A circle dance, moving sunward, can also be done while it is chanted.


          Prayer


Summer sun with warmth do shine,

Greet the moon and fill the pines,

Sing your tune to wondering eyes,

Touch the flames with Mustard~gold

Healing fires our hands unfold,

Upon this pyre, Her story is told.


          

 

 

 

 

 

Activities


The cauldron, which held fire for Beltaine, now holds water with which to bless the coven. Traditionally, a heather branch is used. It is believed that walking naked in a garden on Litha night issues fertility although I suspect the gentleman peering nearby is more responsible than any magick might be.

Now is the season to harvest your magickal herbs, know the gentleness of the summer breezes, and bring wisdom to your life through meditation. Toward these ends, a blue stone called lapis lazuli may be passed among your members to help increase psychic energy.


            Tools and Ritual Components


Incense

Fennel, lemon verbena, and orange for fertility, romance, and love. Clover, marjoram, and chamomile are also excellent additions.

 

 

Ritual Soap

Lavender, which may also be used to asperse the circle. Using lavender will bring stability, purity, protection, and growing awareness.

 

 

Anointing Oil

Heather, for greater understanding or self and a reconnection to the Universe.

 

 

Ritual Cup

A pinch of mugwort and cinquefoil added to rose petal liquor makes a lovely drink for protection and awareness. As an alternative make use of those pesky dandelions and put together a lovely wine to use next year.

 

 

Altar Decorations

Elder, thorn, yellow and gold flowers on the altar, and perhaps, red, orange and yellow balloons for the outer circle. A red~orange stone called carnelian can be added to the sanctuary to bring you into harmony with the suns energy.

 

 

Clothing

Simply because of the weather, this is the best time of the year for sky ~ clad rituals. If you prefer to be robed, wear the colors of the sun, and join in its radiance.

 

 

Cakes

Since just about every type of fruit is now available, instead of cakes why not have a fruit salad? Share with your group what each fruit represents so they may internalize the magick.