Starcrafts - The Witch's Circle

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The Witch's Circle
by Maria Kay Simms

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The Witch's Circle subtitled Rituals and Crafts of the Cosmic Muse, by Maria Kay Simms, Llewellyn Publications, 1996, now in its third printing, was first published in '94 under the name Circle of the Cosmic Muse. The title was changed to clarify the content with bookbuyers, but the text was only very slightly revised. The book contains all elements of Wiccan group practice–history, ethics, coven structure, creating sacred space, altars, spellwork, Craft names, robe-making, tools, how to find or form a circle (coven), chants and music, children in the Craft, and more. It contains complete rituals for every Full Moon and all eight Sabbats, plus special rituals such as wedding, funeral, wiccaning (blessing and naming of a child), house blessing, dedication and spin-off of a new circle. It's unique perspective comes from the author's long-established practice as an astrologer. Although all Wiccan ritual uses astrology in some form, here we have the subtle yet deft touch of a master astrologer who uses her astrological Craft as the basis for a creative approach to ritual design. One need not know astrology to participate in and enjoy her rituals, but one cannot help learning something about astrology, at least intuitively, in the process.

Here are some short excerpts from reviews:

…An excellent source of ideas, as well as a great read…Lady Mari has drawn on her extensive knowledge of astrology to create a balanced and intriguing system of rituals. Her unique look at the Wheel of the Year and her synthesis of the movement of the sun and moon through the signs of the zodiac, in my opinion, would be of interest to many pagans…this book goes way beyond "pop astrology." Within our rituals of worship, the system described here can help us the grow spiritually and attune to the cycles of Earth and the solar system….a wealth of ideas [that] would be an excellent addition to the library of any pagan, no matter what your astrological sign or tradition.

—Starcat, Earthtide Pagan Network News, Spring Equinox 2000

If you buy only one book on Wicca this year, this is the one to get! Far and away our favorite choice to become a classic and on everyone's must-have list.

—Symphony, Summer 1994

This must be the most complete handbook for pagans ever compiled…Not only is this the only book you may ever need on the topic, it's also high spirited, joyful and just plain fun.

—NAPRA Trade Journal, Summer 1994

This is one of the most important, instructive, revealing and practical books I have come across so far…Yes, this is an unusual book, a work that makes sense in every way of the word. Recommended, very much so!"

—Sally Miller, New Dimensions, June 1994

I like the author's candor. She states that she is well aware that some people will agree with her opinions and view-and others will not. And she says that's OK! She is a lady that is not threatened by variety and innovativeness. Good for her!

—The Rosegate Journal

…an excellent instruction book on theory, practice and details…For those who have followed Wicca or any earth-based religion for a long time, the addition of astrology adds a new dimension…a good addition to any Craft library.

—Mystic Messenger, Vol. II, Issue 4

…this was a great way to learn about Wicca. Simms is a thorough writer who truly teaches as she proceeds…if you wish to broaden your horizons, it is well worth your study.

—Marion March, Aspects Magazine

…characterized by honesty, mastery, common sense, tolerance and a complete freedom from pretension. As i read, i felt that i was getting to know the writer, and that i was enriched by knowing her. This book is a treasure.

—Maggie Mountain Lion, Enchante #19

…integrates astrology with Wiccan ritual practices…and don't let that "W" word faze you! This is in no way a "black," "weird," or "spooky" book except in the sense of it nudging us to deal with the emotional component of astrology and ritual rather than just the intellectual stuff we sometimes hide behind…Her synthesis of both disciplines makes it clear that they are indeed different dimensions of the same process. The material is sane, sensible, and geared to claiming our own inner power rather than manipulating our friends and/or foes…I enjoyed this book. Unless you're totally averse to ritual, I suspect you will, too.

—Donna Van Toen, The Mountain Astrologer, October 1994

THE CRAFT
Facts about The Craft
What are Wicca and Witchcraft?

The Wiccan Rede
& the Law of Three

The Pentagram

The Elements
Air | Fire | Water | Earth

Magical Moon
Maria Kay Simms' monthly column on
lunar and astrological events to
help you plan your magickal calendar.

Blessed Be

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