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This Year's Theme: “Our Common Roots”
We
invite you to explore the traditions we feature by taking part in a
ritual or more.
This
year, we are thrilled to welcome for the first time, Elders of the Feri
tradition, Willow and Niklas. We hope that you will join us in welcoming
them as we explore the ways in which we are similar. You will have the
opportunity to attend rituals and workshops of the following traditions:
Feri, Asatru, Yoruba, Mayan way, Céilí Sídhe, Eclectic Wicca, Druidism,
Indigenous and more.
Our list of
presenters this year includes:
Joan
Goldberg
Storytelling for adults:
Over the past 36 years, I have been
doing performance work as a storyteller, focusing on the historical,
sociological and psychological underpinnings of folktales and myth. At
countless workshops and Elderhostels I have introduced such topics as
Warrior Anger and Inner Peace, Demeter: The Real Story, Cinderella: The
Real Story, The Inner Hero, and countless others. The venues have ranged
from prisons to Goddess Conferences, from convents to Chairs of Poetry
at various local colleges. My work has ranged from Toronto to Syracuse,
and all over New York State.
I enjoy the quirky humor of the old stories, which often mask their deep
wisdom, so that my presentations are full of fun as well as the deep
wisdom of our ancestors.
As a mask-maker, I am interested in the mask’s ability to both conceal
and reveal the true self. All my work uses non-traditional materials
such as stones, feathers, shells, bark, leaves and other natural
materials. My work has been exhibited in Western New York for years, and
they have homes in homes and offices both here and throughout the US. I
have also been doing workshops for Human Services Organizations, using
mask-making as a healing and expressive form.
1.
Mask-making workshop.
I have all the materials including mask forms. This workshop asks for $5
for materials (which are extensive).
2. The Story of Demeter
which we know comes out of the classical Greek, and therefore,
patriarchal period of Greece.. The Story I tell (with a mask), is culled
from fragments of much earlier songs and prayers, and is much more
powerful. (It lacks the seizure and rape of the Classical tale, for
instance, and is far more empowering).
3. Reclaiming the Image of the
Crone, a workshop which has
been presented for both Jungians and pagans, and everything in between.
Based on Barbara Walker’s The Crone: Woman of Wit and Wisdom, it
relieves us of the disturbing and damaging uses to which she has been
put.
Willow Moon
Willow Moon has been a
Feri initiate since 1980 and is also a 3° in the Gardnerian,
Alexandrian, Minoan, Hereditary and Traditional Craft. He is also a
Black Cord in the NROOGD Tradition. He studied Egyptian Dance/Tribal
Dance with various teachers and is also an initiate of the Odissi Temple
Dance Tradition of Orissa. As one of three members of the Feri Dance
Troupe “Painted Fan” together with Feri Grand Master Anaar and T. Thorn
Coyle, he brought his unique style of dance to the creation of new forms
in relating our Feri myths. Willow started learning herbal medicine from
his Grandmother, and he holds a Masters in Chinese
Herbalism.
Willow’s
workshops:
Divine Embodiment:
Feri Myth in Movement, Breath and Dance.
We will learn to
synchronize breath with movement and mind, in order to learn to
generate life force from our bodies, connecting us to the Gods through
Mythic Dance.
Plants, Potions, Philtres and
Preparations: The Practical Art of
Wortcunning
An
exploration of herbal remedies, the making of herbal preparations,
as well as the nature and potencies of herbs; talking and
praying with herbs; herbs as
familiars.
Niklas Gander
Niklas Gander's
Witchcraft odyssey began in 1968. He was
brought into English Traditional Wicca in 1987, and into the Feri
Tradition of Witchcraft in 1993. He is also a 3° in a Gay men’s
tradition of the Craft, the Minoan Brotherhood, as well as in the
Gardnerian, Alexandrian, Hereditary and Traditional Craft families. He
was affiliated with the Illuminates of Thanateros (IOT) in the early
1990s. Leading public ritual as a NROOGD Red Cord in the Berkeley coven
Black Oak was a rewarding public priesthood between 1987 and 1991. He is
an active Feri Elder, teaching Feri Witchcraft through Night Hares
Cuven, led together with his life-partner Willow Moon. His interest in
Craft magical lore led him to aquire a PhD in Scandinavian
Folklore.
Niklas’s
Workshops:
Introduction to the Feri
Tradition:
History,
Structure and World View.
Psychic tools and techniques such as the
Pentacles of Iron and of Pearl, The Three Souls, their energies and
alignment, The Importance of being “Kala,”Spirits of the Tradition,
The Seven Guardians of the Tradition, and the Feri-identified Deities,
plotted along the lemniscus, or infinity glyph.
Swedish Folk Sorcery
(klokskap)
Swedish folk magic as a
tradition distinct from Asatru Reconstructionism. Many of its tools
and practices have much in common with what we understand as English
cunning craft. This lends credence to the English claim to the older
origins of modern Wicca. This will be a brief overview of the tools
and techniques of Swedish folk magic and healing, folk belief and
practice. We’ll be making some comparisons with English practice and
belief, to illustrate a wider European practice of folk
sorcery.
Willow & Niklas
A Feri Midsummer’s Dream
Rite. Bring your own
cups/goblets, potables and
edibles.
Prince Bamidele Bajowa and ODUA
DE
Born into the Royal House of Rebuja
Ruling Dynasty in Igbotako, Osooro, Ondo State, Nigeria, Bamidele
started drumming and dancing at an early age. Bamidele’s music embraces
traditional folk and contemporary gospel of the Yoruba people of western
Nigeria.
“My
traditional rhythms are set to sacred songs and chants in praises of the
Orishas (Orunmila, Ogun, Oya, Egungun, Yemoja and other Yoruba deities)
Playing Bata, Sakara, Gangan (Yoruba talking drums), Kpalongo, Djembe
drums. I perform with ODUA DE – Ensemble. The
group also performs contemporary gospel music in English and Yoruba.
Bamidele’s efforts in preserving Yoruba
heritage both in Africa and in the New World are being blessed with many
opportunities of travels amongst the Yoruba people in Nigeria, Trinidad
and Tobago. He uses music and storytelling to bring awareness to his
efforts in preserving Yoruba heritage and culture. As Ifa (Orunmila)
initiate Awo L’orisha (Shaman), Prince Bamidele divines with sixteen
cowries and palm nuts. He is also the custodian of his family’s
ancestral masked dancer Egungun Ayeloja from Igbotako,
Osooro, Ondo State, Nigeria. He is now sharing his
experiences in Canada through music, dance and spiritualism.
He has appeared at many Canadian festivals
including: Muhtadi International Drumming Festival (Toronto) Hillside
Festival (Guelph), Iriefest (Queens Park, Toronto), Spirit of the Earth
Festival (London), African World Festival (Detroit), International Drum
and Dance Festival (Mississauga) playing music and conducting workshops
on drumming and Yoruba spiritualism. He recently performed at the
Trinidad/Tobago International Drumming Festival, in Tobago.
Bamidele
is a resident of King township and is happy to be sharing his culture
through music in Canada http://www.princebamidelebajowa.ca
Exploring the ways of
Orisha
We will
explore the history, system of belief and spiritual ways of the Yoruba
peoples of western Nigeria and Benin, West Africa; The Yoruba deities,
their attributes, functions and powers. A Spiritual circle will
include incantations, prayers, drumming, chanting and songs to the
Orishas: ( Eshu, Orunmila (Ifa), Oshun, Yemoja (Olokun), Ogun, Shango,
Egungun) The use of Ifa Oracle (Yoruba system of divination) will also
be explored.
Yoruba Drum
Rhythms
Learn the
techniques involved in creating Yoruba drum rhythms. This Workshop is
designed as a drum circle. Different Yoruba rhythms and their use will
be explored including drum communication such as call and response and
drum language using Sakara, Bata, Djembe, and Kpalongo drums.
Egungun Drum/Dance
Circles
Egungun –
Yoruba ancestral masker is ushered into the circle with drums.
Blessings are received from the spirit world through the Egungun. This
ritual presentation involves incantations, prayers, songs, chants and
sacred dances.
Zsuzsa Namaste: The Firewalk
Zsuzsa will be offering The Firewalk, a truly
magical process that will change profoundly the way you see and
experience the elements.
Human beings
have discovered fire a very long time ago. Their relationship to
the fire developed as the years went by. Eventually they learned
to harness its power and use it to warm homes, cook food, forge tools,
fuel factories, cars and planes, clear land, and kill bacteria and
virus.
The way
indigenous cultures celebrate fire may be different. The way we
celebrate fire may be different. Yet, we can all agree, that fire
is one of the four elements, along with earth, air and water. The
elements can be harsh teachers and gentle nurturers. All cultures agree
that the elements are to be respected.
Firewalking is
one way to celebrate the element of fire and its teaching. Fire
can teach us to take care of our physical needs, rationalized by our
mental mind. It stands to reason, that fire can teach us to heal
our emotional and spiritual selves.
Firewalking is
one of the world’s oldest and widely spread rituals. It is so
ancient that no one really knows where it began or why. Perhaps,
simultaneously across the globe, in the beginning of evolution, when
volcanoes still erupted, early man had to cross the cooling lava to get
to their hunting ground.
What we do know,
is that the ritual (the teaching of the fire) and the ceremony of
Firewalking, was passed down from generation to generation, according to
the natives’ oral history. Many indigenous cultures around the
world, independently of each other, celebrate the ritual of Firewalking
for a variety of reasons.
The Kung people,
bushmen of the Kalahari desert in Africa , light a fire and the dance
begins when healing of the community is needed. The most gifted
healers dance and walk, while the rest of the tribe sit around them in a
circle and make music and sing.
The
Anastenarides, an unorthodox Christian sect, in the Greek village of
Ayia Eleni , walk over and over across the burning coals until grey ash
remains, at every spring festival honoring Saint Constantine who walked
into a burning church to save its icons from the fire.
The head priests
in some Shinto Buddhist temples of Japan , prepare for a primarily
religious experience, conducting the ritual and ceremony for a specified
reason, by marking each step of the way as the fire is built, lit, and
prepared for walking. A prayer is offered for the greater good and
the walk begins with the highest order of priest first down to the
general public, anyone who chooses to walk.
Other cultures
with a Buddhist influence such as India , China , Tibet , Nepal , Sri
Lanka , and Brazil tend to follow the Japanese formality of Firewalking,
where the priests are definitely in charge of the event. The path
of the burning coals are straight, raked out and patted smooth for the
walk.
In Bali , the
firewalk is a coming-of-age ritual for seven year old girls. The
Hawaiian Kahunas dance on lave flows to demonstrate their power and the
healing of the community. Throughout Fiji people walk over heated stones
and is viewed as a special trait or power of the individual and their
own healing.
Benefits of Firewalking
Firewalking
teaches us about the infinite power of healing energies, the release
and letting go of our self imposed limitations that we place on
ourselves. It is method whereby all participants can manifest tangible
proof that they can overcome any obstacles and move forward more
effectively in their lives.
Firewalking is a practice experienced for
thousands of years to teach us to open our minds and our lives to
unlimited human potential and creative possibility. It further
illustrates the unified understanding that anything is possible as
long as we work together, respect ourselves and each other.
It teaches us
what is possible and can be a catalyst for personal
transformation,shows us a way to let go of fear, assumption and
negative judgment,presents us with the challenge of approaching life
with our minds open, so that we may broaden our understanding of
ourselves, each other and our planet. It asks us to pay attention to
our thoughts and responses at each step along the way so that we may
become more aware of the impact our choices have on ourselves and
others and gives us an opportunity to go beyond our self imposed
limitations. It reminds us that it is not necessary to walk on hot
coals in order to become aware of the teaching. What is
necessary is to be willing to take a risk and step into the
possibility that we are greater than we think we are. It aids us in
transforming our belief system and supports us in creating a more
effective way of dealing with life’s challenges and gives us an
opportunity to go beyond our self imposed limitations
!
The Firewalk
The Firewalk is a
six hour continuous evening workshop in paying attention to our
responses and thoughts each step of the way, where the individual will
become aware of their actions and make clear choices for
themselves. When we are willing to take a risk and step into the
possibility that each one of us has a definite impact upon the world,
we become responsible for ourselves and our actions. The
workshop offers solutions on how to approach life with mind wide open,
not in fear, assumption or judgment, rather in conscious choice so
that we can broaden our understanding of ourselves, each other and our
planet.
Zsuzsa has studied and worked with
Shamans from different cultures, including the Q'ero Elders of Peru,
the Shuar Medicine Men of Ecuador and the Ayahuascaro's of the Amazon,
exploring all realms of existence and the practical application of the
Shamanic way of life.
Recognizing
the interconnectedness of all things, she brings a unique and
comprehensive understanding of the self with honesty, integrity and
compassion. She nurtures self awareness, coming into harmony and
balance with respect and responsibility.
She has the
ability to move, inspire and support people at all levels by means of
demonstration or a course of action, developing rapport for trust,
building “win/win” teams and relationships while maintaining
confidentiality. She instructs people to persevere and take
manageable risks to initiate change as they confront the confusion and
frustration associated with integrating different views and approaches
with their own.
A Firewalker
with over fifteen years of experience, she shares the journey of the
Fire with individuals and groups to “cement” the possibility and
capability of achievement through unlimited human
potential.
Zsuzsa is the
owner of Desired Results.She is a facilitator of self esteem and
stress reduction workshops and a Firewalk Instructor, with a passion
for writing and poetry. She continues to reflect and listen to her
inner voice to create the possibility of her dream, which is "World
peace through loving ourselves, each other and our
planet."
What to bring
and details of the Firewalk
Bring an open
mind and big smile. This is a Six hour continuous event starting at
either 6pm to midnight or 7pm to 1am (check on site schedule) No
alcohol or recreational drugs the day of the Firewalk until its over
(be responsible, it is fire we are dealing with) Bring a comfortable
lawn chair or blanket to sit on for the first part of the workshop. In
case of light rain, bring an umbrella or rain poncho (yes, we do it in
the rain unless its torrential) Dress comfortably, remember bug spray
to keep those pesky mosquitoes away.
Catherine Starr
Catherine is an elder in several different traditions
and has been leading groups and performing public rituals for over 20
years. She is a former First Officer of Covenant of the Goddess, and is
the Canadian representative to the CoG Board. She represented CoG at the
Parliament of World Religions Conference in Cape Town, South Africa. She
continues interfaith work as the coordinator for the University of
Toronto Campus Chaplains Association as the Wiccan chaplain. As a
Founding Member of Magical Acts Ritual Theatre, her play, "Oracles from
the Living Tarot" has been performed annually since 1998.
NROOGD Tradition
Formed from a class project in 1968, NROOGD
has been doing public Sabbat rituals in the San Francisco Bay area
ever since. Many rituals have become powerful, yearly traditions such
as the May Day ‘Os and the Eleusynian Mysteries ritual every
September. In this workshop, Catherine will share information about
the history, the rituals, and some of her favorite experiences in
working this Tradition.
Oracles of the Living Tarot
Oracles of the Living Tarot is a ritual play
in which the cards of the Major Arcana are brought to life in order to
create a tarot reading for a community. This workshop will go over
some of the processes of creating this ritual theatre piece. It
includes a reading for our community that we will do with the
participants of this workshop.
Jason Mankey
Jason is a High Priest of Pan and a Disciple of
Dionysus who has been practicing his Craft for the last 15 years. Jason
is a recognized authority on the Horned God and has been a popular
figure at Pagan festivals across North America for the last nine years.
Whether initiating people into the infamous Morrison Clan or teaching
people about his beloved Pan, whatever Jason does is sure to be
educational and a heck of a lot of fun. Jason mixes humor with a
scholar's attention to detail in all of his many varied presentations.
He also has the best hair in at least Michigan, possibly the Midwest,
and maybe North America. You can visit him on the web at www.panmankey.com
"What We Really Know About
Druids"
Druids have been immortalized in the
writings of Julius Caesar and the music of Spinal Tap, but what do we
really know about them? Find out the truth about Druids, as Mankey
takes you on a trip through Celtic Mythology, and Greek and Roman
travel writers. Every piece of the ancient Druid puzzle will be
analyzed to provide you with the clearest picture yet of what we
really know about Druids. This workshop is a must for anyone
interested in Celtic Mythology or Druidism!
The Horned God
Few archetypes in modern Pagan practice are
as revered and as misunderstood as the Horned God. He’s a cultural
universal, but his message has changed over the last few centuries.
Come explore the history of the Horned God with us, see where he has
been and where he is going. We'll explore not only the generalized
Horned God archetype, but also look at him in some of his most well
known roles. From the Greek Pan to the Celtic Cernunnos to Kokopelli
of the American Southwest. We'll explore what has made the Horned God
a favorite in a multitude of Pagan pantheons.
Led Zeppelin and the Occul
Magickal and mysterious the band called Led
Zeppelin has been the subject of a great deal of speculation the past
three decades. From the start they were accussed of selling their
souls to the devil, and while that's probably not true, the band was
definitely involved in some occult and Pagan things. From song lyrics
to album covers to Jimmy Page's fascination with Aleister Crowley,
we'll take an indepth look at what made the Zeppelin soar. Jason has
worshipped at the altar of the Zeppelin since he was 18 years old and
he has no plans to quit now. Find out why Zeppelin has steered so many
people into modern Paganism.
The Myth of Jim Morrison
Since the late 1960's many in the Pagan
community have been captivated the lead singer of The Doors: Jim
Morrison. What is about it Jim that has made him such a beloved and
mysterious figure? We'll explore his interests in Native American
Shamanism and Greek Mythology, and look at his foray into Witchcraft.
We'll explore the circumstances of his death, and the rumors that he's
still alive. If you like your Paganism mixed with a dash of rock and
roll you'll love this workshop.
Pan: The God of All
In Greek, the word "Pan" translates to
"everything" or "all". Find out just how important Pan was to the
ancient Greeks in this exciting new workshop. We'll trace the history
of Pan from his humble beginnings in the mountains of Arcadia to his
rise into the pantheon of the ancient Greeks to his re-emergence in
the 19th century. We'll explore how Pan was worshipped and perceived
in the ancient world and why he might be even more important today.
Laurie (a.k.a. "Herb Walker")
Laurie has led Herb Walks and Talks from Starwood to
Kaleidoscoope, after being inspired by the Wic-Can Fest walks Nick
Morcinek of Faunus Herbs led in the 'eighties. She has studied with
Susun Weed in Ontario and New York, having been initiated by her as a
Green Witch. Laurie is a certified Vinyasa Flow Yoga and "Centergy"
Instructor and also teaches electic tribal "Belly Fit" Dance in the
Cannington area, as well as continuing her career as a teaching and
exhibiting artist. She loves to pass on all the knowledge she can gather
to her extended Pagan family at the Festivals! Don't be shy to ask her
for guidance on the Green Healing Path.
Herb Walk #1
Edible and Medicinal Herbs (Meet at the
Dining Hall and continue down the main road).
This is an easy walk, starting by the Dining
Hall where we can find dozens of useful plants within a few yards. We
will continue down the road to the swamp to identify meadowland herbs
and useful wetland plants. Find out what you can do with
cattails
Herb Walk #2: "Up the Hill" Walk.
The environment above the main site is very
different from the lowland meadows. Come and see what the woodlands
have to offer in terms of healing and ritual herbs. This is a
challenging hike with hills and cliffs involved, so wear appropriate
footwear.
"Herbal Dream Pillows"
A "Hands-On" (and sitting down) workshop
where we will experiment with some of the different herbs used to
induce sleep and dream states, their combinations, and learn an easy
way to make a dream pillow or pocket to insert in your pillowcase to
bring about the desired effects. Don't worry if you don't sew - there
is always "Jiffy Sew" or hot glue to help! If you have a special piece
of fabric you want to work with, bring it, otherwise we will have lots
of different swatches to choose from.
Castalia
Castalia has
been part of pagan community for thirty years. She has studied
everything from Astrology to Anthropology with gusto and delight, and
has training and initiation into different forms of witchcraft and
ceremonial magic. She has been teaching publicly and privately since
1990. She often tours different parts of the continent celebrating her
musical arts and her seminars which are based on private research as
well as experience being in community for nearly a lifetime.
www.castaliamusic.ca
"Being a newbie...the ups and downs of
entering the pagan world."
In
this seminar, we will examine the ways in which people are attracted
to paganism or magic and how they become part of community. A wide
range of experience will be drawn upon, and the seminar will include a
discussion of the experiences people are having or have had in
entering both the online and the in person world of paganism.
Group member or Solitaire: the upsides and
the downsides
People who wish to develop their skills and
their experience of worship or connection with the divine join groups
or study alone.There are books as well as online or mailed courses
that allow people to practice alone. There are also many types of
groups. We will examine the advantages and disadvantages of each
approach.
Reynard Lohleit
Reynard will
teach us all about edible miracle health-bringer mushrooms as well as
take us on a mushroom discovery walk.
Brian Walsh
Brian has been actively interested in
Paganism for 28 years and a priest in the Céilí Sídhe tradition of
Celtic Paganism since 1990. He holds a B.A. in Celtic Studies and
Religious Studies from the University of Toronto, as well as an M.Phil.
from the University of Wales. His book, The Secret Commonwealth and the
Fairy Belief Complex (2002) was based on his Masters thesis
on fairy beliefs and Second Sight in Early Modern Scotland.
Within the community he strive to emphasis
a personal, intimate, and joyful relationship with the deities,
ancestors and spirits of nature in the Living World; preferring to
emphasize magical Religion over superficially religious Magic. He also
feels it is important to have a good grasp of religious history of one’s
faith, acknowledging the collective wisdom and insight of who and what
has come before us, as well as the differences that make each deity and
each culture distinct and valuable.
He currently works as a
spiritual care provider at a major Toronto hospital, and as a Pagan
(Celtic and Reconstructionist) chaplain at the University of
Toronto. Also, as a licensed Wedding Officiant, he is able to
perform legal weddings in the province of Ontario. For more
information go to www.newtara.org
Into the Valley
Story telling was not just an amusing
past-time to our ancestors. Sacred stories were powerful, holding the
power to bless and transform.
In this workshop we will briefly review the
role of sacred stories in the traditional Celtic culture; hear a tale
or two; then use a folktale as guided meditation or
'path-working'. Come discover the powerful, passionate, and
sometimes playful, power of myth.
Introduction to Vedic Magical
Chant
Why do people chant 'OM'? What is 'OM',
anyway? What other sounds are part of Vedic mantra magic and why would
a modern pagan care? Come explore these questions, and
the powerful seed syllables that go into the are of mantra yoga,
the harnessing of sacred names, words, and sounds. We will also
explore how some modern pagans have experimented with seed
syllables for western cultures in an effort to gain deeper
attunement with the gods or certain powers.
Pan-Indo-European Foundations of Celtic Religion
"Too often we short change our pagan ancestors, preferring to seek
wisdom in the exotic East. In this presentation we will explore sone
links between Celtic and Vedic religion; comparing unfamiliar
indigenous concepts with familiar ones from far away. Come discover
Celtic understandings akin to dharma, karma, ishtadevata (patron) and
more. We even have words for them! We will also look at the Celtic
cosmology and revisit the importance of stories and stories of
importance. "
Donata Ahern MSW, CHT.
Integrated Intuitive Counselor,
is
an Alexandrian and Gardnerian HPS and a Druid in OBOD. She is an
apprenticed shaman in the Huichol and Inka lineages and is a priestess
of the Mayan Temple of the Deer, Reiki III Master, member of the Grey
Council and faculty of the Grey School of Wizardry. Member Seneca Wolf
Clan Teaching Lodge, Native American Council of Monarch Bear Foundation,
American Society of Dowsers. Workshop presenter since 1990 in U.S. and
Canada; key note speaker at Druidcon ’05 in Glasgow. She recently
published "The Medicine Wheel: Path of the
Heart and is completing Sacred Energy
Within and Without"
(www.Donata.ChrysalisHeartCenter.com)
Teachings of the Maya Temple of the
Deer
You will be guided on a Shamanic journey to
the Child’s Fire, at the Center of the Medicine Wheel. This is your
Fire and your Center. Here you will learn the teachings of the Mayan
Temple of the Deer. Jaguar is the Guardian of the Center. If you do
not have Honesty, Humility, and a sense of Honor in your heart, Jaguar
will eat it. You will walk on paths of Light that begin at the Child’s
Fire and connect to all beings and qualities on the web of life.
Center is also the place of the Sacred Tree that connects the Upper
and Lower Worlds with the Middle World of normal consciousness and
that gives you access to these Worlds.
Child's fire workshop
A sacred fire burns within you. This is the
fire of your Spirit. Your Sacred Child lives at this fire, which is
the Child’s Fire. This Sacred Child is your intuitive self, the
dreamer and visionary, deeper than your literal linear mind. Learn to
care for your Child and your Sacred Fire through simple meditation and
ceremony. One of the ancient teachings of the Americas is, “Protect
the children”. Your own Sacred Child is one of these children. How
well do you care for your Child and tend your fire? Discover this
meaningful connection. Learn a simple daily exercise to connect with
your inner Fire and energize it with the
Sun.
Rikki LaCoste
RIKKI has been a
musician and a composer since his choir school days as a boy.
Rikki has also practiced Ceremonial Magick for over 15 years, and is a
III° member of a contemporary Templar Order. As a composer and
engineer, he is the creator of a “magickal musick” project called
Panthea. As a Magician and musician, he has endeavoured to share
the fruits of his journeys with others through various workshops,
storytelling, and ritual.
Banishing ritual Workshop
With RIKKI LACOSTE. A Banishing Ritual
is the primary and most essential ritual to prelude and conclude all
other ritual and ceremony. This workshop will illustrate and
take you through a comprehensive understanding of the components and
functions of such an important and essential ritual.
Patakin: Drum tales from around the
world
With RIKKI LACOSTE. Patakín, pronounced
pah-tah-KEEN, is an Afro-Cuban word meaning “story” or
“legend.” Ancient stories in which the drum plays a prominent
role are more common than most people realize. Every culture has a
drum tradition. Bring your drums and other instruments and experience
the myths and legends from cultures around the world, and learn and
play the traditional rhythms from the individual cultures from which
the tales come.
Amethyst Lodge
(Fest AA Gathering)
This is an informal gathering for those of us
who have a difficult time at fests around the copious amounts
recreational substances that are characteristically found in such
abundance at pagan festivals. You are welcome to hang out with us if
you want some positive support, on-site temporary sponsorship, or
simply want to get some things off your chest, or just feel like hanging
out with people like you. You're not alone, and we hope you'll
come.
The actual site for the meeting, the presenter,
and attendees will NOT be listed or posted, and should then be kept to
ourselves after the daily meetings. It will be as
completely anonymous as possible. Every day at 7pm, we will meet
at a specific location. If you would like to join us, please ask
Admin, and please feel free to pass the word around by discreet
word-of-mouth. A concept we haven't explored for a long while at our
festival, we feel there may be a need that can be fulfilled between
community members....so let's give it a shot, and don't be afraid to
come to Fest. We've got your back!
Elizabeth Copeland
Elizabeth is a
professional performing artist with over 25 years experience. She
has; toured with Second City doing improv comedy, sung & danced at
the Charlottetown Festival, played the witch in 'Hansel & Gretel'
with the Honolulu Symphony & performed in 'The Luminous Dark' at the
Algonquin Theatre. Elizabeth works extensively as a voice coach
for singers, actors & professional speakers & has taught in such
places as the Transformational Arts College. Mind Heart Connection &
through Creative Voiceworks. She lives in Burks Falls with her
musician husband Glenn, & 2 cats. Most importantly, Elizabeth
believes in the power of expression to change lives. Her work
speaks of that belief. Elizabeth@songcycles.com
Reclaim your Voice using Song - a
Playshop
For as long as we have been on the planet, we
have been singing. This sensuous experience can open us in ways
nothing else can. If you think you can't sing, but want to -
please join us. If you want your speaking voice to soar - please
come join in. If you have been silenced, the world of song calls
to you. Come and sing.
Elizabeth in Concert
'Elizabeth sings from the depth of her soul'
(Mark Victor
Hansen - Chicken Soup for the Soul)
Charmaine
Workshop
Leader - coil (aka
Charmaine) is a Priestess of the Spiral Grove, VA and has expereinced
many forms of loss in this life time. She brings an open heart to all
she does; Thanks to Trish and Treena for the inspiration for this
workshop
Loss and grieving on the spiritual
path
Explore the
effects, and possibly the reasons, so many are experiencing so much
loss and grief. Discuss methods for dealing. Participants are welcome
to share their experiences, if they choose.
Bonnie Coursolle
Bonnie is on the road to discovering the
spiritual path that is right for her. Along the way, her interest in
prayer & meditation beads and how they can be incorporated into
any spiritual practice was brought to light. Her company, Jasper Moon,
makes and sells a variety of bead sets, along with jewelry, dowsing
& divination products, tree of life pendants, pewter cloak clasps
and other miscellaneous items. You can find her at a diverse mix of
eclectic events across Ontario, including music festivals, pagan
retreats, medieval faires & craft shows or online at www.jasper-moon.ca.
Design Your Own Pagan Prayer
Beads
Beads have been employed as instruments of
prayer & meditation in most spiritual traditions for centuries.
Prayer beads have a variety of forms and meanings, but the basic
purpose is the same: to assist the worshipper in reciting and counting
specific prayers or incantations, for spell casting, or to help focus
concentration during meditation. Learn about the difference in
stringing materials, where to find beads & charms and how to put
it all together to create a special set of prayer beads to enhance
your daily devotions. Please be advised that we will not actually be
making a set of prayer beads at this workshop but you will get lots of
practical tips and ideas to help you design a set of prayer beads to
reflect your own personal practice or purpose through symbolism,
colour & material.
Time: 1 hour
Franco Minatel and Lupa Bardy
Breaking the Chains that Bind You
Ritual.
How many times have you been told
you can’t do something or that you’ll never amount to something? Has
it been a parent, a teacher or yourself? What are the road blocks that
have held you back and prevented you from moving forward? This ritual
is to help you move forward in achieving your goals. But keep in mind,
in order to win the lottery - you need to buy a ticket!
Cannaid
Cannaid is of Anishnabe (Ojibway) and
Irish descent and shares ancestry with the members of Chippewas of
Georgina Island First Nation. She is a member of the Marten Clan and
has lived in Simcoe County for 34 years. She carries a passion for
sharing Anishnabe life teachings and supporting community while walking
her path with gentleness and humour. The teachings of kindness and
humility are very important to her and she endeavors to live her life in
a positive way honouring the Seven Grandfathers and lifelong learning.
The Good Red Road
This workshop will be an
informational session introducing several foundational and primary
philosophies of the Anishnabe (Ojibway) Medicine Wheel. Examination of
holism, traditional medicines, relationship, seasonal activities and
special ceremonies as they relate to the local Anishnabe traditional
peoples will be offered.
Appliqué Beadwork
Learn to create beautiful appliqué
beadwork. Many pieces created will carry spiritual significance and
can act as helpers on your path. The possibilities are endless and
the technique will be yours to take home to apply to your journey.
Materials will be provided with relaxed instruction so please bring
your patience, creativity and humour as we bring colour to the
pictures of your imagination.
(This workshop is limited to 12
participants aged 16 years and over. )
Hetoreyn
Hetoreyn was born in England
and came to live in Canada in September 2008. He enjoys playing the
concert flute, djemba and piano, and has been composing own orchestral
music since he was 16. Hetoreyn has published several fantasy / ambient
albums that stem from an exploration of Elven music. Hetoreyns two 'Elven
Moods' CDs present musical pieces designed to let the listener engage
themselves in the world of Faery and Elfkind. In addition to his
symphonic projects Hetoreyn also provides music for independent films.
Since 2003 he has been a regular visitor to Wiccanfest where he
supported a number of musicians with the flute or on the keyboard, and
played in group concerts. Hetoreyn is looking forward to giving his
first flute concert at this years fest and will give an insight in
Elfkind and Otherkin. You can find out more about his music at
www.hetoreyn.com.
Michael Moon
Michael is an award winning
international recording artist, composer, and performer of healing and
transformational music. With 5 CD’s ranging from psychedelic pagan rock,
to deep sound meditations Michael’s music takes the listener on a unique
journey. Michael Moon also works as a sound therapist and astrological
counselor. As an astrologer he regularly works for large corporations as
well as private consultations.
www.thetempleofsound.com
Concert Saturday June 26
Michael Moon and friends Howl in
the full moonlight with mystical songs of Faerie and Pagan Rock and
Roll. Come ready to dance and fly to other realms while we harmonize
the powerful eclipse energies.
Workshop
Learn the astrology of Saturday's
lunar eclipse and how it may effect you and the world at this powerful
time in history. Bring a copy of your astrology chart if you have it
available.
Christin
Dennis
Christin has been facilitating
sweat lodges for 8 years and apprenticed for 14 years with various
elders and shamans. Christin continues his shamanic studies and shares
his journey when asked. Journey into the Inipi and explore your inner
sanctum with the Grand Fathers and Grand Mothers.
AndolfR
AndolfR has been deeply involved in the North American pagan and heathen
community for over twenty years. He is a member of the board of
directors of Wic-Can Fest, Harvestfest, and Ethos as well as serving on
the board of the American Vinland Association. He is an Elder in the
Ásatrú faith and a past High Redesman of the Ring of Troth. He is also
a key organizer and board member of SiMuCOR (Simcoe Muskoka Coalition of
Old Religions). Andy holds several advanced academic degrees including
Bachelor and Master’s degrees in both History and Environmental Science.
Alfdis
Alfdis is an
Ásatrú
Gyðia
(priestess) who has been involved in the Pagan and Heathen communities
in both the Montreal and Barrie regions for over 15 years. She is a key
organizer and board member of SiMuCOR (Simcoe Muskoka Coalition of Old
Religions), the Ethos gathering, and the Barrie Pagan Pub Moot. She is
also a founding member of the Wayfarers’ Kindred and currently serves as
its first priestess. Alfdis holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science
(Anthropology) form the University of Montreal.
Ásatrú
Blót
Icelandic Ásatrú is the dominant
religious expression of the Germanic branch of the Northern
Tradition. The Old Norse word “blót” – meaning “to blood” or “to
sacrifice” – is the most common term used to describe one of the three
principal forms of ritual commonly encountered in Ásatrú. Those
interested in participating in an authentic Ásatrú blót are invited to
join AndolfR and Alfdis in our Midsummer celebration. Come dressed in
bright Midsummer colours and bring a drinking vessel.
Be advised: alcohol will be
consumed throughout the ritual – so adults only please.
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