Issue:Samhain Date: 2006 Quarterly News

Editorial Charity Registration Update The last three months have been an extraordinary time. On 3 October TDN Committee met with two legal representatives Although here we are composing and publishing the Newsletter of the Charity Commission at their Liverpool Offi ce. As for Samhain, in the country of the country the only leaves that expected, no clear decision was reached at the meeting, however have turned and beginning to fall are the horse chestnuts, the it was possible to establish clearly which areas are causing poplars and the fi rst of the maple. Warm days may feel easier concern and thus delaying their approval of our application. It for those who fi nd the British winters a challenge, but many of was obvious that they have no frame of reference for as us are disturbed by it. Our rites over the calendrical Samhain, as a religious practice: we don’t neatly fi t into any of their boxes, this moon waxes and we light our bonfi res, will be very much an and established Common Law is mainly monotheistic. invocation to the frost gods, to those of winter, to come to cleanse TDN Committee had spent many weeks preparing the land, hardening the mud and killing back the growth. our case for the meeting, and it soon became clear that they With heavy messy growth still all around, the process had not. While we were ready with in-depth answers to all of autumn’s release, that allows us the quiet emptiness and dark their arguments, again and again they revealed lack of clarity of winter, is harder than usual. Yet Samhain’s chaos is certainly and direction, unable to explain their uncertainty. At times, we with us! Jamie Magpie Wiseman has resigned from the Learning almost felt sorry for them, they were clearly in such uncharted Pages, which will be taken on by myself and various assistants territory – and fl oundering. until a new full time co-ordinator comes on board. Susan Warren The meeting ended with us asserting our intention to is taking over co-ordination of the Sacred Sites project area, pursue registration, as a charitable organisation promoting the with ideas for an indepth study of deity and how we create religion of Druidry. We agreed to supply further information; sacred space. Susan hs also been redoing the Order of the Yew they agreed to look more closely at what we had supplied to webpages, clarifying the purpose of the Order as the heart of them at the meeting. We parted on good terms, both parties TDN. News on changes in the Forums and the website as a having learned much from the other. whole is also in this edition. The Mistletoe Foundation pages Phil Ryder have a new webmaster, Caerthan Wrack, and this we hope will TDN Committee stimulate a new burst of creativity in that direction. Samhain Sonnet With Angela Kestrel Grant stepping aside from much of her TDN work, including the Committee, we have a new And so the wheel returns to Samhain stark Committee team: as well as Phil Ryder, Susan Warren and A time of leaf-fall and the last descent myself, we welcome Mark Bish Rosher and Bill Oakwyse Of stick-tree landscape turned back to the dark Melnyk, bringing the team back up to fi ve. And warmer times recalled like sad Lament. We wish you each a little stillness through the chaos Lugh’s golden corpse seems frozen when above and change of Samhain, and a beautiful cold winter! And warmth has come indoors as death’s veil nears. Emma Bobcat Restall Orr A time to think of those now passed we loved TDN Head This is no time for falsely holding tears. New Website Migration Dates But after tears must come frivolity For we still live and Summer shall return The support team, led by Jamie Magpie Wiseman, have been So let there be misrule and anarchy working hard to set up a new system for our website and we are For this short time come let the bonfi res burn! almost ready to implement those changes. Each one of us returns to Ceridwen Although in the early days you will only notice minor For that is how we come to live again. changes, such as better menus, the change does mean that we will be in a really strong position to do some interesting things Cursuswalker in the future. At the same time it will also become much easier for those who are less technically minded to become actively Affi liated Groups and Groves involved in the growth and development of the website. In other This area continues to grow and offer inspiration to folk form words, making web pages will be a much simpler process! all around the world. We currently have 26 groves affi liated The transfer of the website from the old to the new will from Britain, and affi liations from Ireland, France, Netherlands take place over the weekend of 25 - 26 November. During this and Spain as well as 10 from the USA and 6 from Oceania. In weekend, project co-ordinators will be unable to edit their web addition to Groves, we have 6 Gorseddau and 7 Orders affi liated. pages, and website users may well fi nd a few technical hitches. Enquiries from Groves and individuals seeking to make contact By the Monday, we are confi dent that whole system will be with a local grove are received regularly and confi rm the thriving running smoothly. Thank you for your patience during this time worldwide diversity and community that is modern Druidry. of transition. There are plans in place to offer even more benefi ts for Once the changes have taken place, we’d be inter- affi liating. If you are interested, please contact me through the ested to hear your comments. Let us know at the offi ce, or on offi ce or on [email protected]. [email protected]. Christine Vixen Cleere David Orr Groves and Affi liate Groups on the Web Co-ordinator Web Manager All Change at the Forum The Order of the Yew at Kingley Vale Jamie Magpie Wiseman together with Rhapsody Earth have Eight members of the Order of the Yew gathered at Kingley Vale resigned from their positions on the Forum Team; they feel in September for ritual under the ancient yews of the valley. they need to pour their creative energy into other areas of their Many other members joined us in spirit and the time Druidry, especially in their local area. We’d like to express our spent together was rich with inspiration and sharing for all who thanks for their past contribution and commitment and wish them gathered. With time spent in private meditation and communion well in their future endeavours. As a result, the Network has an with the trees and spirits of the forest, there was also opportunity opportunity to review the running of the Forums as a whole. for individuals to affirm their commitment and service to the Druidry - each in their own way, seeking inspiration from the The Forums have been an important part of the Druid Network, gods and spirits of the place. providing a community for those who feel comfortable on the For those who haven’t been, Kingley Vale is a web and also for those who do not have not have the opportu- profoundly beautiful, powerful place. It is the largest ancient nity to be a part of a local grove, gorsedd or other Druid group. Yew woodland in Europe, just near Chichester. However, there have been an increasing number of complaints Well worth a special trip. concerning voices within the Forum Community that are louder, Susan Warren more aggressive, less accepting or respectful than is honourable. Administrator for the Order of the Yew While this is not an uncommon situation within group environ- ments, it is not acceptable. This is not simply about working Reviews to ensure we have an organization that is supportive and where The Celtic Oracle members engage with each other with respect, interest, com- Published by Lo Scarabeo, Invented by Giordano Berti passion and honour, but is a desire to be a better expression of ISBN 0-7387-1016-4 : US price $12.95 / UK around £6.97 Druidry as a whole. We are thus taking this opportunity to see if it might be Publisher: The Celtic Oracle explores Celtic magic and this possible to adjust the tone of the Forums as a whole. We do not fascinating culture, in particular the ancient of Ireland and want to stifle debate in any way, and moderation or guardianship the islands. Inspired by Celtic legend, this larger-than-average of the space will still be gentle. However, the code of honour that deck bears symbols and icons significant to their unique history. holds the Druid Network’s aims in place will be more promi- nent. It is our vision that members of the Network should engage Review by Trish: This deck has 22 tall slim cards. They are not with each other, with respect for each other’s views, respect for too big and clumsy, even for folk like me they are easy to shuffle! the tradition in its diversity, and ensuring that each person is a The cards are based on the Taliesin poem ‘Cad Goddeau’ (The sound representative of Druidry through their expression of that Battle of the Trees). I am no expert on the works of Taliesin honour. but enjoy and use Ogham sticks for divination. Berti uses the 13 trees described in the classic Taliesin poem, plus mistletoe. If you haven’t visited the forums, or haven’t been there for a Also included are cards showing the eight Celtic festivals of the while, we would encourage you to visit, add your energies to the year The images spoke and sang to me after only using them mix. The Forum can only ever be the collective of its members. for a short while. As each day passed the deck became more a As part of the change we are introducing new guidelines that part of me with quite powerful messages. There’s a little book will be published in the Forum. If you are unsure of anything with simple explanations for each card, but as with any stones having read these, then contact Phil on forums@druidnetwork. bones and staves our own imagination and journeys are the best org and he’ll be happy to help. translators. These are lovely cards, uncomplicated and beautiful. I liked them very much. In terms of responsibilities, the initial changes are these: David Orr, currently Web Manager of TDN as a whole, Bonewits’s Essential Guide to Druidism will take over the role of Forums Administrator. This job is about what goes on behind the scenes. It includes all the techni- Printed by Citadel Press : ISBN 0-8065-2710-2 cal aspects of the Forum. Phil Ryder, who was Head Forums Guardian, will take Review by Louise: This book might be of interest to people who over the role of Forums Coordinator. This role is about what like their Druidry prescriptive, existing as a series of scripted, happens on the forums as the members engage with them. It in- religious festivals ~ or to those who are want to read an account cludes the responsibility of ensuring that the forums are a good of what has been written about the history of and their reflection of the ethos of TDN and working with the Guardian practices. The book explores the nonsense that has been written team to ensure this is maintained. about Druids and their practices through history and highlights the mistakes other authors have made. If your Druidry is Phil will be responsible for a new team of Forums Guardians/ grounded in current relationship rather than history, you might Moderators. We are looking for a team of five Forums Guardians, find the majority of the book boring and rather silly! I found the including Phil, and would be happy to receive applications. historical analysis and tone of the book simplistic and poorly Those taking on the role need to have been members of the researched. Network and regular Forum users for at least one year. If you see Druidry as fluid and changeable because Please send your application together with your nature is not static you might not enjoy the book. However, it personal vision of how you feel you could contribute to is an interesting perspective. And one positive and important offi[email protected] aspect of the book is where he explains how modern Druids Phil Ryder should be politically, environmentally and socially active, thus Forums Coordinator making Druidry and his ethics relevant to today. 2 Native Americans and Druids Samhain Love When you focus on the similariies between pagan cultures Wrapped in a woollen blanket I sit and watch instead of their differences, it is surprising how well they can As lithe limbs of mist crawl through the land blend. Strangling the dawn in a lovers embrace. An event on the Isle of Wight at the end of September In her ice like eyes her passion does stir clearly demonstrated to those taking part how natural, powerful She loves the luminescent god of her sleepy days, and joyful such a joining of spiritual paths can be. She traces her finger along the light of his horizon Elder Chuck Derby (Running Elk) flew in specially from Teasing him with her cold touch. Pipestone, Minnesota, for this teaching and healing weekend He knows that worms play amongst her toes, her skull. and joined Wight Druids to create an opening ritual in which a She is old and experienced as time itself, Native American pipe ceremony was woven into a Druid rite in She is haggard and mysterious, a delightful oak grove at the plush hotel venue. As beautiful as the Northern Lights. In jointly putting together the rite over the previous Her shrivelled up breasts once heavy with milk couple of months, the wealth of commonality between the As the trees were once heavy with leaves cultures quickly became apparent, as well as a strong sense of Press against the ragged breathing of his firm chest. the many things shared by all peoples of faith. She brings peace, a mirror, she is his truth The beauty of this simple act of sharing in mutual She knows her lord as he knows his lady respect and honour brought home to many of us the immense She is his death, his clarity, his host depth of native traditions and just how important it is they are He finds solace in the darkness preserved from those who would destroy them, whether by Of her tomb like womb. ethnic cleansing or mockery. With lips worn with age she caresses As Chuck said so fittingly in his Dakota salutation: Kisses his supple smooth skin Mitakuye owasin - We are all related. She relishes in his beauty and youth Maurice Blue Bower So opposing to her own. Sacred Sites : The Isle of Wight Her dried poisoned tongue Delves deep into hot moist life North American Wheels of the Year Her skeletal fingers tangle in his tendrils of soft gold Passionate struggle. In North America we are slowly beginning a discussion and Arching spines twisting into the night a project on how we experience the Wheel of the Year in our Needing each moment localized regions. A real question for Druids who live outside Life in death of Britain is how do we honor the Land of our chosen tradition Death in life. and at the same time honor the Land in which we live and move The last leaf falls, the trees are left grieving and have our being? A single tear falls, she is losing her sunshine We are, in a way, a Druid diaspora. Our relationship What was green becomes white with the Three Kindreds -- Ancestors, Earth Spirits, Goddesses What was day becomes night. & Gods -- demands a larger three-fold vision. We must look at With his final breath frost covers the window all Three in terms of Blood, Tradition, and Land. Keeping me safe from their fateful tryst. Then, too, how do we relate to a turning of the seasons He has planted his seed. that is not the same as it is in central Britain? For most of us, for In my hearth I see a hint of his rebirth example, the traditional Imbolc and Lughnasadh come too early. But for now I will wait out the cold. One way to work with this is to look at how our Ancestors of I look as the sunset is swallowed by nightfall the Land have seen the turning of the year. In the Northeastern The lady of death has claimed her throne. Woodlands region, we have begun exploring the cycle of festivals I whisper farewell to the last rays of light. developed by the Iroquois Confederacy. The wind begins keening It is a life situation fraught with desire and confusion. She laments her loss, her victory We do not live on the Land of our Ancestors of Blood or Tradition, Winter has consumed the sun. yet we do not share the Tradition or Blood of our Ancestors of Place. As this year turns through Samhain, we begin to explore Catriona this dilemma, and invite participation of sisters and brothers throughout the Network. The Lammas Games and OakWyse This year’s Lammas Games and Eisteddfod, held on Saturday North America Members Coordinator 5 August, raised enough to donate £3000 to our three chosen Groves Grove Day charities, TreeAid, Dr Hadwen Trust and Flexicare, giving an extra £100 to a local wildlife rescue charity who brought a little The date of the next Groves Grove Day has been booked for grounded housemartin to the event, where he was released - by Saturday 14 April 2007. This is an event open to those who run being hurled up into the skies. The Spear of Lugh was won by or attend TDN affiliated Groves, or who are interested in start- satirist Paul Mitchell, who went on to entertain the gathering in ing a Grove. We meet in the West Midland, sharing support and the evening: he’s now booked for the Druid Camp in July 2007. laughter, good food and ritual. Thank you so much to all who gave their best, ensuring If you are interested, get in touch. the event was a success. Morgan Adams Rob Wilson Groves Community Co-ordinator Lammas Games Co-ordinator 3 Events The Alban Arthan Midwinter Rite of the Gorsedd of Bards of Cor Gawr () The Gorsedd of Rhiannon and the White Horse Sunday 17 December, 4 pm Sunday 5 November, noon Stonehenge, Wiltshire The White Horse at Uffington The midwinter gathering will be from 4:30pm-6:30pm. It We meet in the main car park at the White Horse and proceed is suggested that those with tickets gather from 4pm in the down to the Manger where the Gorsedd will be held. There’s a Stonehenge car park. Please bring your tickets with you as you bit of a test of stamina to even reach the ritual area! (For those will need the pass to enter the car park. The car park must be who are unable to manage the climb we’ll lay on cars to ferry cleared by 7pm. you to the gate at the bottom of the Manger.) Tickets are now on sale to all from 1 November. Please The format will be very much the BDO/TDN style order early to avoid disappointment. Tickets only available in of Gorsedd with Bardic initiation and handfastings offered if advance, price £2 each: all monies not used to cover expenses required. go to the TDN Tree Planting and Conservation Fund. FFI, contact Kestrel : [email protected] or Please send £2 per ticket (max 6 per request), and a 07790 661245 stamped self addressed envelope (or IRCs) to: The Gorsedd of Bards of Caer Abiri Sue Bouvier, 186 Swievelands Road, Saturday 11 November, noon Biggin Hill, , Wiltshire Kent TN16 3QS. Mustering at noon outside teh Stones Cafe, Avebury, Wiltshire, Please make cheques out to ‘The Druid Network’. For information before proceeding to the Guardian’s Stone. This is a free and on ticket availability, contact: corgawr-tickets@druidnetwork. open rite that welcomes you, whatever your path or affiliation, org or see the webpage on http://druidnetwork.org/sacredsites/ to join us in kindling the flame of inspiriation that burns at the stonehenge/corgawr. heart of this temple. Gorsedd rites were performed here for many years by Bobcat and Greywolf and we continue to honour that The Gorsedd of Bards of Caer Abiri tradition with reverence. Saturday 10 February, noon You are invited to bring offerings and prayers to the Avebury, Wiltshire Guardian/Goddess of the Stones, and make your own dedications FFI on this Imbolc gathering, please contact Morgan on: to the ancestral spirits of this powerful place. Suggested items [email protected] or 0121 476 0662. are flowers, fruit, grain, crafts, things of beauty and bread and mead to share. You may display your Bardic talents with songs, stories, music or whatever other performance art inspires you. The Morning Rain 6:50am Bardic Initiations and Rites of Passage are also celebrated at the Here comes the rain, Gorsedd. Creeping up, snapping wet fingers, FFI contact Morgan: [email protected] or Rushing running in front of the breeze, 0121 476 0662 Filling the gutters, the scuppers the dark places. Anderida Gorsedd - Winter Solstice Ritual Dark morning, Tapping the hollow features of our faces, Sunday 17 December, 1.30 for 2 pm Our black reflection in black obsidian jewels, The Long Man of Wilmington, Sussex They roll down the window pane. The Anderida Gorsedd is a Druid group, facilitated by Damh the Bard and Cerri Lee, that has been holding regular open rituals at Here come the rain, the Long Man of Wilmington since Spring Equinox 2000. Dripping in the darkness, All are invited, no matter what tradition, to gather Bending the willow weeping, together at the Long Man of Wilmington to celebrate the Crying into the soft grass, turning of the season with ceremony, rites of passage, and open Keening into the mud, Eisteddfod (Bardic performances). So bring flowers of the Drilling the roof of my soul. season, story, song and musical instruments. All the family are welcome. Afterwards, we often retire to the Giants Rest pub for Wet slapping goodness on my skin, a cozy pint! Numbers vary, but the average turnout is been about Splashing my naked pink toes, 55-85 people, all from many different traditions and paths. We In the puddles of her eyes, meet in the Long Man car park at 1.30pm to begin our walk up A tree sighs to the hill figure at 2pm. Here come the rain FFI, please contact Damh or Cerri : 07747 011515 Overflowing or email: [email protected]. The Anderida Here comes the rain sobbing Gorsedd website can be found at: www.BardicArts.com. There goes the rain.

Trish Fraser

The Druid Network PO Box 3533, Whichford, Shipston on Stour, Warwickshire CV36 5YB, England http://druidnetwork.org