We stayed at a fabulous gay owned and operated Bed & Breakfast called Sweet Olive (www.sweetolive.com), just a short walk outside of the French Quarter. We got lots of time shopping the French Quarter. We visited all the local voodoo shops and museums (http://www.voodoomuseum.com/). We got to spend some time with John T. Martin, the reader at the museum and a Voodoo priest. He showed us his baby pythons, which were somewhat snuggly and sleepy, as one was shedding. He was a fun guy and very genuine in promoting Voodoo and the esoteric in general. And he’s a friend to Cabot Witches, which was a nice benefit. We also got to try out Esoterica’s (www.onewitch.com) new line of skin products and learn the secrets of making corpse water. Though I don’t think I’ll have the opportunity to try it, it’s always nice to hear new funky esoteric practices and revel in forbidden knowledge! We also spent a lot of time in the more touristy Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo and Reverend Zombie, but in some ways, when you look at them with a practitioner’s eye, there is more useful stuff there than you might think. I also found an amazing shop on Rampart St, Voodoo Spiritual Temple, that had a line of small Thelemic books. I’m in love with Nema’s The Priesthood: Parameters and Responsiblity. Must read for all HP/S in my opinion – Wicca/Witchcraft, Ceremonial or anything else. Very artistic, clear and inspiring. We visited St. Louis No 1. and over the week heard all sorts of conflicting information from seemingly reputable sources on whether that was really Marie Laveau’s tomb or not. We also made up Hoodoo names for each other and Steve got Papa Vaca, as he seemed to be in charge of the vacation details and I happily deferred to him.

Of course we ate well and had absinthe in the quarter which was fun for two of us. Lots of gelato and black russians at night, and several evenings of clubbing and gogo boys. We enjoyed the fabulous eye candy in the Quarter as only five gay men could, and wanted to take the FQ Mailman home with us. The dancing and gogo boys were fun, though one on the last night though I was his therapist and I was sympathetic until I realized that he didn’t really want any improvement, he just wanted to complain about his fellow dancers and lack of money, so I gave up after that. You don’t get more tips by complaining about how stingy people in the bar are being…! My traveling companions felt I pulled a “Julia Sugarbaker” if you know what I mean, as I gave him my expert advice on the matter in a very clear and direct way. I think I was very easy on him compared to Julia. R.I.P. Dixie Carter.

On Saturday night, we had the opportunity to go to a Voodoo ceremony with Sallie Ann Glassman (http://www.feyvodou.com) in a traditional Haitian style. Lots of song and dance. It was a ritual to honor Gede and very wonderful. While it was nice to be a guest, I realized that i don’t have the attention span for Haitian Voodoo. It was a “short” ceremony that night, which surprised me, as just when I thought they were ending, the dancing began! I loved the dancing, the blessings and the drawing of the veve’s in cornmeal. They always remind me of goetic seals or the sigils of planetary spirits, but more artistic and beautiful. Everyone was very welcoming, even the three dogs that happened to wander into the temple and celebrate with us. Sadly we did not make it to her botanica shop as it was closed when we could go.

We also were able to get last minute tickets for the very popular tours of Bloody Mary (http://www.bloodymarystours.com). I’ve been on a lot of Voodou & Cemetery Tours in NOLA, and some have been fun, most are okay, one was great and one was bad, and I realize the best ones have been by actual practitioners of Witchcraft, Voodoo, Hoodoo and the like. So when a friend recommended Mary, I got in touch and she graciously squeezed us in to the Monday tour. I loved how the whole night was a ritual, starting with Legba’s veve and a blessing, and how she feeds the spirits and uses oils with us. I found her attitude with the dead and otherworldly creatures very loving and respectful, very shamanic and partnering. We all felt and saw things while with her. And most importantly, she is a great story teller, bringing the figures to life and honoring them with her tellings… I highly recommend her tours.

We had lots of local color – the Queen of Burbon St, aka the Drag Queen of Burbon St., the Black Man with a Bucker who insists he was on Real World New Orleans (but I don’t remember him), the Soup Kitchen Hari Krishma Hat Guy, and the man with the bag who says he works at St. Louis Cemetery No 1 but doesn’t really. He gave us directions to desert places and acted as a little tour guide. We spent our last day in the Garden district antique stores, and right before we left, quite literally, I got to visit with Velvet Rieth of the Covenant of the Pentacle Wiccan Church (http://www.swampwitch.net). I’ll be back for her in October to speak at the now divided Goddess Con for the fall event! Can’t wait!

Blessed be,

Christopher

PSG – Pagan Summer Gathering – Church of All Words AUSTRALIA
Thurs 14 Jan – Sunday 17
Sunshine Coast, Queensland
http://www.caw.org.au/
Registration forms can be obtained from CAW Australia secretary Kerrieann at 0438155867.
Two workshops: The Three Rays of Witchcraft and Shamanic Witchcraft & the Shadow Self

The Gates of Witchcraft: Twelve Paths of Power, Trance and Gnosis
Day workshop
Tue 26th Jan
Brisbane
Traditionally witches use a variety of methods to enter trance or raise power. In the original Gardnerian Book of Shadows, Eight Paths of Power are listed. Modern witches explore all of these paths and more. Join us in a survey of the paths of power, including meditation, breath work, music, dance, isolation, intoxicants, sexuality, ordeals, location, timing, vestments and dreams. Through experimentation in class, experience the trance inducing and energy raising effects of several of these paths. $80. Contact hiphellenicwitch@hotmail.com to register.

Imbolc Celebration
January 30, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA

Sacred Space Conference
Feb. 18-21, 2010
Holiday Inn Timonium
9615 Deereco Road Timonium, MD 21093
410-560-1000
http://www.sacredspacefoundation.org/
Featured Presenters:Raven Grimassi & Stephanie Taylor, Christopher Penczak and Judika Illes

The Witch’s Coin Prosperity Magick
Free Book Signing and Lecture
March 5, 7 PM
TranZformation
8101 W. 123rd Street
Palos Park, IL 60464
(708)361-2080
Prosperity and money are the most requested goals of many beginning spell casters. Witches seek to live in balance and trust the Goddess and God to provide what is needed, but also must take an active role in creating our own success. Our philosophy is one of balance, harmony and FFFF – Flax, Flags, Fodder and Frigg, the essentials of life – Clothing, Home, Food and Love. Learn the differences between prosperity and abundance, and the flow of life. Understand the block we have to prosperity in each of the seven chakras. Explore how to attract these forces of prosperity into in a healthy, balanced way through rituals, meditations, charms, potions, spellcraft and goal setting.

The Goddess and the Cauldron
Day Long Workshop with Christopher Penczak
March 6, 10 AM – 6 PM, $65
TranZformation
8101 W. 123rd Street
Palos Park, IL 60464
(708)361-2080
In this day long intensive, delve deep into the mysteries of the cauldron, the sacred brew of Awen and the magick of the Ladies of the Lake. Through a study of Celtic myth, particularly the story of Ceridwen and Taliesin, we will look at the spiritual significance of the cauldron of the Goddess. She is the force of life, regeneration and true wisdom. She gives birth to the Child of Light that dwells in potential within us all. Through ritual we will align with the powers. Through visionary pathworking we will journey to the otherworld and directly experience the Mother and the Child. Discover the image of the cauldron and grail, as a five fold vessel of abundance, transformation, rebirth, inspiration and healing. Learn about Ceridwen’s origin as one of the first Ladies of the Lake and the evolution of the godform into Morgan of Avalon. Undergo the inner world initiation of the western island with the Great Mother. Ally yourself with the sacred herbs of knowledge and wisdom of the brew of Awen. Experience the transformation and challenge of the four elements and their animal totems. Dwell in the three great darkness of the hut, the womb and the sea. Become reborn as the Child of Light, flowing with the powers of inspiration, knowledge , poetry and wisdom. Through this work, forge the spiritual links to the past Cult of Taliesin and take up the mantle of bardic inspiration fulfilling your True Will in the world, shining like a star upon the Earth.
Sunday, March 7, 10 AM – 6 PM
Readings and Healing with Christopher Penczak
Christopher ministers through the use of magickal reading and healing session, drawing upon his years of experiences a high priest, healing facilitator and reader. Working with the Thoth deck for readings, he helps you focus on the life issues and decisions at hand. He is also available for personal healing sessions using shamanism, energy work, past life regression and personally guided meditation in hour sessions. Half Hour Reading: $55 Hour Healing $100.

March 12-14
Dancing Moon Books & Gifts
Raleigh, NC
http://dancingmoonraleigh.com
Details TBA

Ostara Ritual Celebration
March 20, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA

Mystickal Voyage Weekend Event
Mystickal Voyage
8601 Walther Boulevard, Suite 103 Nottingham, Maryland 21236
410.663.8333 www.mystickalvoyage.com

Friday March 26, 2010
Meet & Greet, 5:30pm
Instant Magick Spellcrafting Workshop, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Registration Required, $30
Magick can be used anytime and anyplace, without the use of ritual tools. Instant Magick is an exploration and expansion of forms of internal, mental magick, to do spellcraft through intentions, magickal words, visualizations, evocations and direct energy work in non-traditional ways. Learn to creatively use your internal connection to the elements, chakras, planets, deities and spirits to fuel your magick and make changes in your life anywhere you are.

Saturday March 27, 2010
Meet & Greet and Book Signing, 10:00am – 12:30pm
Inner Temple of Witchcraft Workshop, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Registration Required, $65
The inner temple is a reflection of your own sense of self and spirituality. Use this place of personal power to seek guidance, work with spirits, heal, journey and transform. Through discussion, learn how to use the inner temple, and then through meditation, experience the inner temple for your own highest good.
Outer Temple of Witchcraft Workshop, 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Registration Required, $65
The outer temple of Witchcraft encourages you to bring the inner sacred space out through ritual and partnering with the natural world – from the four elements, plants and stones, to the embodiment of nature found in the divinities. Learn how to partner with the force of magick to bridge the gap from the inner temple to the outer temple, through this workshop and guided meditation.
Special discount: Register and attend both Inner & Outer Temple classes, your price is $100 total ($30 savings!)

Sunday March 28, 2010
Meet & Greet and Book Signing, 10:00am – 2:30pm
Ascension Magick Workshop, 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Registration Required, $30
Ascension Magick is a system of magickal practice for spiritual evolution, drawing from the wisdom of traditional western magick, Qabalah, Wicca and Shamanism, the traditions of Theosophy, lightwork and eastern spirituality. Together, we will explore the truths common to many of the world’s religions and magickal systems. Learn the meanings and origins of esoteric terms and traditions found in much of our modern metaphysical spirituality. Ascension Magick emphasizes a true partnership between those of us incarnated on Earth and those of our allies working in the spiritual realms to manifest a sustainable harmony here on Earth.

The Witch’s Coin
Friday April 9
Meet and Greet Book Signing at 6 PM
Class at 7-9:30 PM, $15
Books, Beans, and Candles MS
1620 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd S. Birmingham AL 35205
205-453-463 www.bookbeancandle.com
Prosperity and money are the most requested goals of many beginning spell casters. Witches seek to live in balance and trust the Goddess and God to provide what is needed, but also must take an active role in creating our own success. Our philosophy is one of balance, harmony and FFFF – Flax, Flags, Fodder and Frigg, the essentials of life – Clothing, Home, Food and Love. Learn the differences between prosperity and abundance, and the flow of life. Understand the block we have to prosperity in each of the seven chakras. Explore how to attract these forces of prosperity into in a healthy, balanced way through rituals, meditations, charms, potions, spellcraft and goal setting.

The Goddess of the Cauldron:
Mysteries of the Child of Light and Mother of Darkness
Saturday, April 10, 10 AM – 6 PM, $50
Books, Beans, and Candles MS
1620 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd S. Birmingham AL 35205
205-453-463 www.bookbeancandle.com
Sept 26, 10 AM 6 PM
In this day long intensive, delve deep into the mysteries of the cauldron, the sacred brew of Awen and the magick of the Ladies of the Lake. Through a study of Celtic myth, particularly the story of Ceridwen and Taliesin, we will look at the spiritual signifigence of the cauldron of the Goddess. She is the force of life, regeneration and true wisdom. She gives birth to the Child of Light that dwells in potential within us all. Through ritual we will align with the powers. Through visionary pathworking we will journey to the otherworld and directly experience the Mother and the Child.

* Discover the image of the cauldron and grail, as a five fold vessel of abundance, transformation, rebirth, inspiration and healing.
* Learn about Ceridwen’s origin as one of the first Ladies of the Lake and the evolution of the godform into Morgan of Avalon.
* Undergo the inner world initiation of the western island with the Great Mother.
* Ally yourself with the sacred herbs of knowledge and wisdom of the brew of Awen.
* Experience the transformation and challenge of the four elements and their animal totems.
* Dwell in the three great darkness of the hut, the womb and the sea.
* Become reborn as the Child of Light, flowing with the powers of inspiration, knowledge , poetry and wisdom.

Through this work, forge the spiritual links to the past Cult of Taliesin and take up the mantle of bardic inspiration fulfilling your True Will in the world, shining like a star upon the Earth.

Beltane Ritual Celebration
May 1, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA
May 14
Curious Goods Witchcraft Shop
415 Campbell Ave West Haven, CT 06516
(203)932-1193 http://members.aol.com/curiousgds/
Details TBA

Magick of the Angels and Archangels Intensive
Sunday, May 16, 10 AM – 3 PM, $50
Soul Journey
194 MAIN ST., BUTLER NJ 07405-1005
973/838-6564 http://www.souljourney.com
From the ancient lands and the first civilizations, mages, healers and seers have worked with the power of the angelic realm to bring transformation and healing. They act as divine messengers, architects and guides. Explore the history of angelic magick, from the more familiar Judeo-Christian forms of angels to their ancient pagan roots and similar beings found around the East and tribal cultures. Learn about the angelic orders from the Qabalistic tradition and the angelic choirs of the Christian tradition, two distinct systems of classifying angels. Use angelic seals, scripts and alphabets to enhance your connection to the angels. Specifically focus on making magick with the archangels of the Tree of Life, and those of the seven planets – Gabriel, Raphael, Haniel, Michael, Khamiel, Tzadkiel and Tzafkiel , and the angel of the hidden sphere, Uriel, and learn how to work with each through ritual and meditation to manifest change in your life and understand your own angelic nature and true purpose.

Shamballa Reiki
Weekend Intensive for Reiki Practitioners/Masters
May 29 & 30, 10 AM to 6 PM
Misty Meadows, 183 Wednesday Hill Rd, Lee, NH 03824 (603) 659-7211 www.mistymeadows.org
Shamballa is an expansion on the traditional system of Reiki, consciously and intuitively using 352 symbols connecting you to the Source. Shamballa encompasses the symbols from other healing systems, including Maha Karuna, Seichim and Terra-Mai . The diamond light energy of Shamballa focuses on personal initiation and spiritual growth. Increased healing energies are a natural part of this initiation. Shamballa helps you connect with the Ladies and Lords of Shamballa, the ascended masters, and specifically Saint Germain, to guide your healing work and aid in your ascension process. This Shamballa “update” designed specifically for Reiki practitioners will not focus on the traditional healing method of Reiki, but on your own spiritual development, including meditations on full DNA activation, mahatma activation, working with the masters and archangels, working with the rays of lights, higher self contact and light body activation. Shamballa will be explained in a down to earth manner, including both intuitive and historic information on Theosophy, Lightwork and Ascension and tips on how to integrate these spiritual practices into your daily life.

This will be Christopher’s last Shamballa Reiki weekend intensive for the foreseeable future as he focuses on other projects, so if you’ve been waiting to take this workshop, now is an excellent opportunity. 
 
Day One – Shamballa Practitioner Levels I and II – Traditional Reiki II prerequisite. $150
Day Two – Morning Level III – Shamballa Master Healer – Traditional Reiki Master (IIIa) and Shamballa I & II prerequisite. $75
Afternoon Level IV – Shamballa Master Teacher – Traditional Reiki Master/Teacher (IIIb) and Shamballa I-III prerequisite. $75

Litha Ritual Celebration
June 19, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft with Michelle Wright
Salem, NH
Details TBA

Wisteria Summer Solstice Festival
June 21-27
Details TBA

The Witch’s Coin: Prosperity and Money Magick
July 9, 7 PM, $25
Leapin’ Lizards, 449 Forest Ave., Portland, ME 207-221-2363 http://www.leapinlizards.biz/
Prosperity and money are the most requested goals of many beginning spell casters. Witches seek to live in balance and trust the Goddess and God to provide what is needed, but also must take an active role in creating our own success. Our philosophy is one of balance, harmony and FFFF – Flax, Flags, Fodder and Frigg, the essentials of life – Clothing, Home, Food and Love. Learn the differences between prosperity and abundance, and the flow of life. Understand the block we have to prosperity in each of the seven chakras. Explore how to attract these forces of prosperity into in a healthy, balanced way through rituals, meditations, charms, potions, spellcraft and goal setting.
Christopher will be available for personal readings (half hour), healings (one hour) and past life regressions (one hour) the afternoon of July 9th from 1-5 pm at $50-1/2 hour; $85-hour.

Astrology & Magick: Theory, Practice and Meditative Ritual
Weekend Intensive
July 10 – 11, 10 AM to 6 PM, $200
Leapin’ Lizards, 449 Forest Ave., Portland, ME 207-221-2363 http://www.leapinlizards.biz/
Experience a unique approach to astrology and magick in this intensive weekend. In the ancient world, astronomers, astrologers, magicians and priests were all one vocation, and the stars were looked to not just for insight and prediction, but as living spiritual forces active in our life. Visionary meditation, ritual and spellcraft where ways you could actively engage the forces of the heavens and work cooperatively with them in your life. The course will include an overview of the basic functions of astrology as taught through an astrological mandala, including the planets, signs, houses and aspects to better understand your own chart. The intellectual knowledge of astrology is creatively combined with magickal rituals to truly understand the stellar forces. No astrology or magickal experience is required, but this is an intensive course for those wanting to deeply explore the magick of astrology.

The Convocation of the Archangels, Faeries and Ancestors
Two Day Intensive, $200
July 24-25, 10 AM – 6 PM
Circles of Wisdom, 90 Main St, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 474-8010 www.circlesofwisdom.com
The veil between the world of spirits and the world humans is thinner than most think, and our spiritual allies seek to communicate with us and aid for not only our evolution, but for the betterment of all realms of existence. Learn about the three primary races – the angelic orders mediating divine will, the faery races of nature mediating
divine love and the flesh and blood races, particularly the spirits of animals and our own ancestors, mediating wisdom. Each is connected to the human realm and the human realm must learn how to connect them all. Commune with all three realms for your own personal evolution and the evolution of the planet. Explore the mystery of the Mighty Dead, the hidden company of enlightened ancestors or ascended masters we seek to follow. The intensive culminates in a ritual to invoke the primordial garden before time began, Eden, Avalon, the Zep Tepi, where all races lived as one.

Lammas Ritual Celebration
July 31, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA

Between the Worlds – Queer Men’s Festival
September 13-19
Southeastern Ohio
www.betweentheworlds.org

Mabon Ritual Celebration
September 18, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft with Michelle Wright
Salem, NH
Details TBA

The Three Rays of Witchcraft
October 6, 7 – 9:30 PM, $20
Circles of Wisdom, 90 Main St, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 474-8010 www.circlesofwisdom.com
Join us for an experiential workshop on the three primal powers that are the basis of creation and magick. Witches often see these powers as maiden, mother and crone. In Qabalistic magic, we have the three pillars of Mercy, Severity and Equilibrium. Druidic traditions look to three rays of inspiration, of Awen. Theosophists have the rays of
Power, Love and Intelligence. Older form of witchcraft look to the Oak, Ash and Thorn, as well as the Straight, Bent and Crooked lines. How can modern witches work with these three powers for magick, evolution and transformation? Explore new views of the three powers as a road to enlightenment, as they manifest in three races ñ Angels, Fey and the Hidden Company; three healers – Stones, Plants and Animals; and three threads of wisdom, personal revelation, ancestral teachings and the ordeal.

The Witch’s Coin Free Lecture and Book Signing
Friday, Oct 15, 2010 7 PM, Free
The Sanctuary in Carmel
97 Old Route 6, Carmel, NY 10512 845 225-3777 http://carmelsanctuary.com/
Prosperity and money are the most requested goals of many beginning spell casters. Witches seek to live in balance and trust the Goddess and God to provide what is needed, but also must take an active role in creating our own success. Our philosophy is one of balance, harmony and FFFF – Flax, Flags, Fodder and Frigg, the essentials of life – Clothing, Home, Food and Love. Learn the differences between prosperity and abundance, and how to harness the flow of life through meditations, introspection and ritual.

Shamanic Witchcraft
October 16, 2010 10-6 PM, $150
The Sanctuary in Carmel
97 Old Route 6, Carmel, NY 10512 845 225-3777 http://carmelsanctuary.com/
Explore the role of the witch and the shaman in tradition and modern culture. Both are walkers between the worlds, seers of spirits, medicine workers and community healers. Survey the history of European witchcraft, and how it’s practices echo those of native shamans, including the use of flying ointments, familiars, crossing the hedge, faery roads and the misconceptions of the Witch’s Sabbat as recorded by the witch trail inquisitors. Discuss modern core shamanic techniques and how they apply to contemporary witchcraft. Through drumming journey, unlock your power to explore the other worlds, to not only walk the crossroads of the witch, but eventually become the crossroads, an agent of magick and change in the world.

High Witchcraft and Ceremonial Magick Day Long Intensive
October 17, 2010 10- 6 PM, $150
The Sanctuary in Carmel
97 Old Route 6, Carmel, NY 10512 845 225-3777 http://carmelsanctuary.com/
The traditions of modern witchcraft and ceremonial magick share similar roots and influences, and many practitioners of magick work in both traditions. Explore the art and science of modern hermetic magick through the lens of witchcraft and paganism. The course will cover the shared practice of the four sacred tools of the pentacle, chalice, blade and wand. Climb the ten spheres of the Tree of Life, exploring the magickal correspondences of each through color, scent, angel, god, planet and pathworking. Understand the foundational rituals of ceremonial magick such as the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram. Class concludes with a group ritual in the tradition of High Witchcraft.

The Three Rays of Witchcraft BOOK SIGNING
Saturday October 22
6 PM Book SIGNING – FREE
7:00 PM Lecture
Misty Meadows, 183 Wednesday Hill Rd, Lee, NH 03824 (603) 659-7211 www.mistymeadows.org
Join us for an evening discussing Christopher Penczak’s latest release on the three primal powers that are the basis of creation and magick, The Three Rays of Witchcraft. Witches often see these powers as maiden, mother and crone. In Qabalistic magic, we have the three pillars of Mercy, Severity and Equilibrium. Druidic traditions look to three rays of inspiration, of Awen. Theosophists have the rays of Power, Love and Intelligence. Older form of witchcraft look to the Oak, Ash and Thorn, as well as the Straight, Bent and Crooked lines. How can modern witches work with these three powers for magick, evolution and transformation? Explore new views of the three powers as a road to enlightenment, as they manifest in three races – Angels, Fey and the Hidden Company; three healers – Stones, Plants and Animals; and three threads of wisdom, personal revelation, ancestral teachings and the ordeal.

Celebrate Samhain
Saturday October 23
http://www.celebratesamhain.com
Peterborough, NH
Christopher Penczak with the Temple of Witchcraft
Details TBA

The Three Rays of Witchcraft: Awen through Power, Love and Wisdom
Workshop and Book Sigining
October 28
6 – 7Pm Booking Signing and Meet & Greet – Free
7 –9:30 Pm Workshop, $20
Leapin’ Lizards, 449 Forest Ave., Portland, ME 207-221-2363 http://www.leapinlizards.biz/
Join us for an experimental workshop on the three primal powers that are the basis of creation and magick. Witches often see these powers as maiden, mother and crone. In Qabalistic magic, we have the three pillars of Mercy, Severity and Equilibrium. Druidic traditions look to three rays of inspiration, of Awen. Theosophists have the rays of Power, Love and Intelligence. Older form of witchcraft look to the Oak, Ash and Thorn, as well as the Straight, Bent and Crooked lines. How can modern witches work with these three powers for magick, evolution and transformation? Explore new views of the three powers as a road to enlightenment, as they manifest in three races ñ Angels, Fey and the Hidden Company; three healers – Stones, Plants and Animals; and three threads of wisdom, personal revelation, ancestral teachings and the ordeal.

Samhain Ritual Celebration
October 30, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA

The Magick of Alchemy
Nov 9, 16, 23, 7-9:30 PM, $70
Circles of Wisdom, 90 Main St, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 474-8010 www.circlesofwisdom.com
Alchemy is the art of transmutation, changing one substance to another, but it is also the art of refining your soul on the quest to enlightenment. Explore the mystical traditions of alchemy, dispelling the myths and misconceptions while learning how to apply alchemical wisdom to your daily life and spiritual practice. Topics include material on both spiritual and practical alchemy, including the history, basic concepts, the Emerald Tablet, the Greater and Lesser Philosopher Stones and the alchemical operations. Practical alchemy will include the creation powerful spygeric tinctures for healing and enlightenment using simple household tools.

The Three Rays of Witchcraft: Awen through Power, Love and Wisdom
Friday, Nov 12, 7-9:30 PM, $30 (Discount if taking weekend workshop)
6 PM Free Book Signing and Meet and Greet
Pathways
11419 Concord Village Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63123 www.pathwaysstl.com/
Join us for an experimental workshop on the three primal powers that are the basis of creation and magick. Witches often see these powers as maiden, mother and crone. In Qabalistic magic, we have the three pillars of Mercy, Severity and Equilibrium. Druidic traditions look to three rays of inspiration, of Awen. Theosophists have the rays of Power, Love and Intelligence. Older form of witchcraft look to the Oak, Ash and Thorn, as well as the Straight, Bent and Crooked lines. How can modern witches work with these three powers for magick, evolution and transformation? Explore new views of the three powers as a road to enlightenment, as they manifest in three races ñ Angels, Fey and the Hidden Company; three healers – Stones, Plants and Animals; and three threads of wisdom, personal revelation, ancestral teachings and the ordeal.

Witchcraft III: The Temple of Shamanic Witchcraft
Saturday and Sunday, Nov 7-8, 10 AM- 6 PM. $195 (or $175 if you registering with full payment for both Friday Night and the Weekend Intensive)
Pathways
11419 Concord Village Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63123 www.pathwaysstl.com/
Witches are often known as “walkers between worlds” acting as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual, to bring healing and balance to both. Before you can heal others, you must embrace your own healing path. Reclaim the shamanic ancestry of the witch using both European and Native journeying techniques to travel the middle, upper and lower reams of the shaman’s world tree. Focusing on the element of water as the gateway to the spirit realm, learn to reflect on your inner emotions and dive deep to heal your past. Learn techniques to further your relationship with your shadow self. Topics include alignment with the three selves, spirit allies, working with the totem/fetch/familiar, animal and plant spirit medicine, past life healing, soul healing and communion with the Dark Goddess. The Temple of Shamanic Witchcraft is the required text book for the course. Though the previous Witchcraft I and II are recommended, they are not required prerequisites if you have previous witchcraft/magick experience. Please register in advance.

Yule Ritual Celebration
Dec 18, 7 PM
Temple of Witchcraft
Salem, NH
Details TBA

Happy New Year! At least happy secular New Year. I know many of us celebrate Samhain as the New Year, though I find myself taking the time between Samhain and Solstice and a little beyond as a time for regrouping, reviewing and planning my new year, setting new goals. I was recently reminded about the holiday season also being the time of the Saturnalia and the Lord of Misrule, where everything in the natural order goes topsy turvy and upside down for a time. I think that explains some of my life right now just after Solstice, or perhaps it’s the coming of Mercury retrograde. Either way it’s been a time of reflection and challenge and after speaking to some folks, I know I’m not alone. For those needing some help planning, I have below some excerpted advice from The Witch’s Coin, to give you focus to your intentions this year.

It’s been a while since I’ve written because I have been busy reviewing life, resting and setting new plans in motion. First, I’m proud to announce the formation of The Temple of Witchcraft as a charitable Church in the state of New Hampshire and currently seeking our Federal 501c3e status with the Federal Government. The plans have been long in the making and I’m very excited about the overall vision of our ministerial church, mystery school and seminary. We’ll be doing wheel of the year celebrations, rituals, workshops and special events throughout 2010. You can find out more about our vision at www.templeofwitchcraft.org and events I’ll be involved with are listed in my schedule below.

We have also set in motion plans for an independent production company, Copper Cauldron Publishing, to produce selected works with the intent to help support the Temple’s mission and eventual goal to produce a physical temple and retreat center. Copper Cauldron Publishing is dedicated to producing inspirational products of magick and art for the evolution of consciousness for individuals and the world. The vision of Copper Cauldron is drawn from myth of the Goddess Ceridwen, and her Cauldron of Inspiration. She brews a magick potion in it, and her servant imbibes three drops, transforming him into the great bard Taliesin. We too seek to craft tools of vision, poetry, knowledge and magick drawn from the Cauldron, including books, recordings, video, artwork and other media. The purpose of each is to initiate transformation from within to inspire the user to transform the world. The first release to this aim, expected in October, is The Three Rays of Witchcraft: Power, Love and Wisdom in the Garden of the Gods.

And the last of my truly exciting news is that I’m about to embark upon my first trip to Australia to attend the Pagan Summer Gathering of the Church of All Words. It will be my first time down under, and I’m excited at the opportunity to both travel, and commune with Mother Earth in a completely different way.

To better organize and reach out, this will be the last of my Yahoo Penczak-Mailing list announcements. I’ll be switching over to Constant Contact. If you’d like to continue to receive announcements and new updates, please visit http://tinyurl.com/penczakmailing and sign up for my Constant Contact List.

So enjoy The Magick of LIfe Planning below and check out my confirmed travel dates for 2010. I hope to see many of you on the road.

Blessed be,

Christopher Penczak
www.christopherpenczak.com
www.templeofwitchcraft.org

The Magick of Life Planning
Abbreviated Excerpt from The Witch’s Coin by Christopher Penczak
(Signed Copies available at www.christopherpenczak.com)

1. Start by crafting a mission statement for your life. If you had to articulate your overall purpose, what would it be? Think of it as the mission statement of your life’s business. You might have several smaller objectives in life, but the overall theme should be reflected in the mission statement. Magicians talk about knowing your “True Will” or Mystic Will and if you had to sum that up into a small statement with an overall theme, what would it be?

2. What are your goals? What benchmarks must you meet for you to be successful? Are your goals reasonable? What are the objective benchmarks that you use to measure your success? Make a list of your goals, like you did in the previous exercise. Include not just financial goals, but your personal, emotional and spiritual goals. They are all a part of your true will. Set benchmarks for those goals, so you know when you’ve reached them.

3. What are the departments for your life? Departments can include such non-business things as Home, Family and Rest, as well as your daily job and career ambitions. Anything that is important to you needs to have its own department, gaining a part of your intention. If you think you are automatically going to take time out to rest, build friendships and spend time with family, you might be wrong, particularly if you are focusing on your success. Make rest, magick, exercise and anything else you need to have a well balanced life a part of your business plans.

4. Make a list of your assets. What are the things you have that are a benefit for you? Include both material/financial assets and your personal, spiritual and artistic resources. Resources include anything that help you do what you want to do in the world, and are not always listed in terms of monetary worth.

5. Make a list of your detriments. What are the things you need to be successful in your life goals, but are lacking? Include not only financial issues, but personal, spiritual and emotional issues as well. Are there things you can do to improve, or to get help from those who have the resources you need?

6. What are your sources of income? Like the previous questions, income is anything of value that comes into your life business, not just financial income, though of course it includes the money you earn. What are the actions you take that you feel fill you up and rejuvenate you. What are the things you are excited to do?

7. What are your expenses? Like income, expenses go beyond money, and include not only bills and debts, but things that you dislike doing, or actions you take that you feel drain your personal resources. This can include any worries and fears that actively drain you, as well as imbalanced relationships that drain you.

With all of this information now before you, revise your goals. What things do you need to achieve to make your goals? How would you divide your goals in terms of a timeline? I make a list of one year goals that are more specific, with benchmarks, and then less formed three year goals, and then even less formed five year goals, marking general trends that I want to move towards. As you adapt your plan each year, you can adjust your goals and flesh out your benchmarks to make the plan sensible and successful for you.

To ritualize my life plan, I read it in the magick circle once I’ve created it, and revise it at least once every year, usually right after the “new year” of Samhain. I have my business plan goal list on my altar and read it as a part of my daily altar devotionals. I’ve fused the business sense of making a plan of action with the ritual action of sacred space and affirmations.

I’m writing to touch base with as many of the past graduates of any of the Witchcraft One through Five series of classes I’ve taught over the years to let you know of an exciting new development. While some of you have already been actively involved and others may have heard through my mailing lists or social networking announcements, we’ve begun the work on a Temple dedicated to Witchcraft and the teaching I’ve been sharing over the last ten years. It’s simply called the Temple of Witchcraft and its organized in three main sections: teaching those who seek the Mysteries, teaching those who want to train as Ministers, and aiding those who want to serve the community in some capacity. Each of the three sections is interwoven with, and supports the others. Our long term goals are to provide a physical temple, community center and retreat space while working towards the evolution of both our magickal community and individual selves. Our mission is to help support Witches to fulfill their True Will in service to the divine and the community. More information can be found at www.templeofwitchcraft.org.

Every previous graduate of any one of the five levels are automatically “grandfathered” in as Honored Members (Witchcraft One through Four) or Ministerial Members (Witchcraft Five). This can be in the seven week, weekend, yearly or online formats. There are no membership fees or dues, as we raise funds on an event basis. The only thing you have to do to confirm your membership is to sign up with the Temple and we’ll confirm your graduation of one of the levels.

Confirming your membership does not obligate you in any way. It simply puts you in our database and mailing list, and keeps you informed of our activities both locally and nationally, making it easier if you should choose to be involved at some point, or simply want to attend events.

Please respond to this email by sending the following information to info@templeofwitchcraft.org :

Name:
Public Craft Name (if applicable):
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Did you graduate:
0 Witchcraft I Year: __________ 0 In Person 0 Online
0 Witchcraft II Year: __________ 0 In Person 0 Online
0 Witchcraft III Year: __________ 0 In Person 0 Online
0 Witchcraft IV Year: __________ 0 In Person 0 Online
0 Witchcraft V Year: __________ 0 In Person 0 Online

Do you have any special ministerial skills or services you offer to the public, such as healing? We plan on offering referrals of members when requested. If so, please list:

Review the Twelve Zodiac Ministry Groups at www.templeofwitchcraft.org and list any areas of service you might be interested in:

If we send out regular updates on our monthly Moon healing list, would you like to receive them?

Do you want to be involved in the leadership or foundational work to develop the Temple? The initial work is best done by people local to the NH/MA area. If so, list yes here:

Those who prefer to mail a hard copy of this information, can do so at

Christopher Penczak
C/o Temple of Witchcraft
PO Box 2252
Salem, NH 03079

We will be having special events for Temple members only and some for those actively involved in the leadership of the Temple. Generally most of our events are open to the public. Those who are not graduates of any of the five levels of Witchcraft classes can still join the Temple. Those who attend and register at three official Temple events can become General Members of the Temple.

If you have already received this email, or already registered at an event or through previous correspondence, please disregard. Please feel free to share with other graduates of the program with whom you correspond.

For those who are not graduates of the classes but seek to support and be involved in the Temple. Please visit us at www.templeofwitchcraft.org to learn more about our membership structure, events and online courses.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Blessed be,

Christopher Penczak

As we enter the season of the witch and classes, workshops and gatherings have begun, I realize I haven’t written in a little while and wanted to send out an update before Samhain is upon us. After many years of touring during the fall season, I’m ecstatic with my decision to stay in New England for October. I had just a quick two day jaunt to New Orleans to support the Witches of NOLA and I was taken care of splendidly, but now I’m back. I had fun drinking too much rum with fellow author Kristen Madden. Try walking a labyrinth then! But being home to explore the New England forests, despite the unusual snow showers, is wonderful.

We recently had our first fundraiser for The Temple of Witchcraft organization. It was a small, experimental workshop on the Mysteries of Merlin hosted by LIchenwood Herbals of N.H. Owner Christine Tolf was extremely generous with her time, energy and resources to host this event at Lichenwood. We had an excellent turn out and I got to unveil some new information and techniques based on my own personal work and research with the consciousness of Merlin. I’m sure it will end up in a book at some point, though don’t hold your breath yet. I like to research, experiment and teach something for a few years before I commit it to a book. If you would like more information on the Temple of Witchcraft and its evolving mission as a Mystery School, Seminary and Ministerial Church, please visit our new website, www.templeofwitchcraft.org. We are fundraising to eventually obtain property for a physical site for a community center, teaching space and temple for ritual. We plan on doing more classes, fundraiser workshops and even some auctions to rally funds. I’m sure more information will be forthcoming a things progress.

While a Merlin book won’t be out quite yet, I do, however, have a new offering for everyone. Late last month, my newest book, The Witch’s Coin, was released through Llewellyn Publications. It’s available at fine booksellers everywhere, as well as my own website, www.christopherpenczak.com. In these tough economic times, it’s a manual for transforming our relationship with money. It includes training in casting money and success spells with a materia magicka of herbs, stones, oils and other ingredients, but I’m particularly proud of the rituals, meditations and pagan philosophies to transform your understanding of prosperity, what it truly means to prosper from a witch’s perspective. The feedback I’ve gotten so far has been great and I’m excited to spread the word.

I have a few upcoming special holiday events for the Holiday Season that I’d like to tell you about:

Celebrate Samhain – I’ll be giving a lecture on the Witch’s Shield: Protection Magick and Psychic Self Defense at this amazingly great NH Event. It’s on Saturday, October 24th and joining me will be the Gypsy Nomads, Karagan, Jimahl di Fiosa, Kevin Ross Emery, Lyrion Ap Tower, Dawn Hunt and many more. There will be lectures, vendors and performances. It’s at the Peterborough Unitarian Universalist Church, 25 Main Street, Peterborough, NH. Visit www.CelebrateSamhain.com for more info.

Samhain Ritual for the Temple of Witchcraft in association with The Lap of the Goddess – After some confusion about the date (I do apologize) we’ll be celebrating FRIDAY, October 30, at the Masonic Hall in Cambridge, MA at 7 PM. Be prepared for a wonderful, intense and unusual ritual, where we shall use ecastatic dance to descend to the underworld and commune with the ancestors of blood and spirit. Dancing is not mandatory for the ritual. Come in your ritual best and decorated for the holiday, and please, no gory Halloween costumes, but attire appropriate for ritual.

I’m also just about to close registration for the online year long Witchcraft I apprenticeship. If you are interested in joining us, please email me for an application ASAP. I still don’t have exact details on my Australia trip, but as soon as I do they will be posted. I do know I’ll be at the Pagan Summer Gathering, among others. So please check back if you are living in Australia. I’d love to see you. More info on all of my events can be found below or on my schedule for my website.

Lastly, as the Pokeberries turn almost black where I am living and I spent part of my Saturday making Pokeberry Ink, also known as Witch’s Ink, I wanted to leave you with a recipe.

Witch’s Poke Berry Ink
Ripe Poke Berries
Alcohol(80 PRoof or higher)
Gum Arabic
Small Quartz Crystal

Pick enough ripe poke berries to get a small bottle of juice. If you use a blender or food processor to liquify, make sure you quickly rinse out the materials. Poke is consider poisonous by many and it stains things quite easily. Strain through a strainer or coffee filter to separate the seeds and pulp from the dark magenta juice. You can tell ripe poke because the green berries have turned a deep purple, almost black, and the stems leading to them are a bright magenta. While sea salt or ammonia can be used as a fixative and preservative for the ink, but I prefer a simple 80 proof or higher alcohol. I mix equal parts berry juice to alcohol. Gum Arabic powder is mixed to thicken the ink, which should be shaken up every time you use it. I’ve heard of adding the ashes of a sacred fire to it instead, though I haven’t tried it. The quartz crystal can be charged with energy of manifestation, further charging the ink. I like to do this near the New or Full Moon, as those are powerful times for me. You can even divide your ink into a Pokeberry Ink for Waxing Moon magick and another made during the Waning Moon for Waning spells. Poke ink will fade with time, so it’s best to use it for spells, rather than journals or letters, though some documents from both the Revolution and Civil Wars appear to have used a fermeted Pokeberry ink recipe. One of its nicknames is Inkberry. I’ve found a metal nib pen used for an inkwell is best, though some cut feathers, particularly turkey feathers, at a sharp angle to make a pen nib.

I hope you enjoy and get time to get outside into the autumn colors.

Blessed be,

Christopher
www.christopherpenczak.com
www.templeofwitchcraft.org

The Mysteries of Shamanic Witchcraft Series: Dream Magick
Tuesday Oct 20, 7-9:30 PM, $25
Myths & Maidens 189 Kelley Street, Manchester, NH 03102
(603) 867-8465 http://www.mythsandmaidens.com/
Learn the techniques of magical dream work and how it applies in the context of shamanic witchcraft. Work on techniques for remembering and programming your dreams, interpreting their individual meanings, receiving higher guidance, prophetic dreams, lucid dreaming and dream travel. Learn about charms, rituals and meditations to help you maintain an active, healthy dream life. Learn the techniques of magical dream work. Work on techniques for remembering and programming your dreams, interpreting their individual meanings, receiving higher guidance, prophetic dreams, lucid dreaming and dream travel. Learn about charms, rituals and meditations to help you maintain an active, healthy dream life.

Celebrate Samhain, NH
October 24
http://www.celebratesamhain.com
Peterborough, NH
The Witch’s Shield: Protection Magick and Psychic Self Defense
Explore the techniques of psychic self defense and the rituals of protection magick. Learn how to protect and balance yourself and home. Discuss potential psychic dangers, drains and trauma from other people, your environment, and yourself. Understand how to counteract these dangers and create new healthy habits that will protect your energy. Create energetic protection shields through meditation and ritual. Explore your relationship with your guardian spirits, angels, deities and totem animals. Work with protective crystals, herbs and symbols to make protection amulets. Explore the concepts of curse breaking, the evil eye, bindings and bottle spells. Learn energy cleansing techniques to create a balanced, sacred environment to promote health and well being. Grounded in a philosophy of spirituality and self empowerment, based on the book, The Witch’s Shield, by Christopher Penczak

The Mysteries of Shamanic Witchcraft Series: The Shadow Self
Tuesday Oct 27, 7-9:30 PM, $25
Myths & Maidens 189 Kelley Street, Manchester, NH 03102
(603) 867-8465 http://www.mythsandmaidens.com/
The tradition of witchcraft and its deities are associated with the depths of the underworld and the darkness of the soul, though we act as the luminaries and torch bearers in the dark. Modern witches on the path are asked to explore their own shadow self, their own repressed thoughts, feelings and images. Instead of trying to vanquish the shadow, a task that is never successful, we are asked to integrate the shadow self into a healthy relationship and find it as a source of strength and comfort. Explore the workings of the shadow self, how to ‘distill” it into manifestation and how to heal the relationship and partner with it as a spirit ally through the lens of the shamanic traditions of witchcraft.

Samhain: The Feast of the Dead
Friday, Oct 30
7- 9 PM
Cambridge Masonic Building 1950 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140.
Lap of the Goddess Productions. Write lapofthegoddess@hotmail.com to register.
The blood of our ancestors flows freely in our veins, bringing both blessings and burdens. The stars of our spirit family flow in our souls, bringing guidance and connection. At this time of Scorpionic energies, the veil between the worlds is thinnest, and we commune with the ancestors, spirits and gods more clearly. Traditionally on this Celtic new year, the third harvest and fire festival, we make peace with those who have gone before us, receiving wisdom from the ancestors, redeeming them while honoring the gods of the underworld. During this intense ritual, work with the powers of the otherworld through ritual, dance and visionary journey. You are welcome to bring a memento or photograph of an ancestor, blood relative, spiritual relative or other deceased person you love or admire, for the ancestor altar. All faiths and traditions welcome. Sliding scale of $15-$25.

Witchcraft I: Building the Inner Temple Year Online Apprenticeship
Nov 2009 – Nov 2010
An online version of the Inner Temple year long apprenticeship, available for the first time. Experience direct tutoring in the practice of modern witchcraft through self directed study, online discussion, supplementary online material and homework assignments. Topics include the history and role of the witch, magickal ethics, trance inducing techniques, instant magick, magickal theory, energy manipulation, protection magick, psychic self defense, psychic development, aura gazing, aura cleansing, chakra balancing, psychic healing, spirit guide contact, past life exploration, shamanic journey and building your personal place of power, your inner temple or soul shrine. Develop a solid personal practice in the internal arts of witchcraft. Use “instant” meditative magick to transform your inner and outer life. Unlike many basic 101 courses, Witchcraft I provides a deep foundation for all magickal and spiritual studies, rather than a quick spell book and rituals. For those desiring to meditate, develop psychic skills and start the path of the witch. A foundation piece to further training in the five level Temple of Witchcraft tradition. This year long course fuses material from The Inner Temple of Witchcraft text (required reading) with previous unreleased rituals and rites. The Inner Temple CD Companion is also required for the online class. Students are expected to complete required homework assignments. Please register in advance. Payment $300.

The Witch’s Coin: Prosperity and Money Magick
Friday, Nov 6, 7-9:30 PM, $30 (Discount if taking weekend workshop)
6 PM Free Book Signing and Meet and Greet
Pathways
11419 Concord Village Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63123 www.pathwaysstl.com/
Prosperity and money are the most requested goals of many beginning spell casters. Witches seek to live in balance and trust the Goddess and God to provide what is needed, but also must take an active role in creating our own success. Our philosophy is one of balance, harmony and FFFF – Flax, Flags, Fodder and Frigg, the essentials of life – Clothing, Home, Food and Love. Learn the differences between prosperity and abundance, and the flow of life. Understand the block we have to prosperity in each of the seven chakras. Explore how to attract these forces of prosperity into in a healthy, balanced way through rituals, meditations, charms, potions, spellcraft and goal setting.

Witchcraft II
Saturday and Sunday, Nov 7-8, 10 AM- 6 PM. $195 (or $175 if you registering with full payment for both Friday Night and the Weekend Intensive)
Pathways
11419 Concord Village Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63123 www.pathwaysstl.com/
Witchcraft II involves training in the role of the priestess and priest of witchcraft. Learn all the tools you will need to understand and conduct your own magick circle rituals, moon circles and wheel of the year holiday celebrations. Explore the realm of the Goddess and God through world mythology, the four elements, sacred space, meditation and altar building. Work the craft of the witch through natural magick and spell work, including herbs, crystals, potions, charms, talismans, candles and symbols. Start a divination skill such as crystal scrying. Cast spells for protection, prosperity, love and happiness. Over this year you will be challenged to experience many forms of magick and nature based mysticism, in group settings and on your own. Claim your ability to manifest change and sacredness in your life, flowing with the cycles and seasons of the Earth, Moon and Sun. The Outer Temple of Witchcraft (Llewellyn) is required manual for the class, which should be read prior to the workshop.

Crystal Power: Stone Magick, Healing and Mysteries – Day Intensive
Saturday, Nov 14, 10 AM – 6 PM, $95
Circles of Wisdom, 90 Main St, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 474-8010 www.circlesofwisdom.com
Wise ones of both the ancient and the modern worlds look to the power encoded in colorful stones and minerals. These crystals have been used in amulets and talismans, jewelry and as birthstones, carried to draw blessings and good fortune, or avert harm and illness. Healers use the stones upon the body, in crystal grids and in gem elixirs to promote health and stimulate the life force. Mystics commune with the stones to understanding their timeless wisdom and mystery through meditation and ceremony. Explore all these facets of crystal work, including choosing, cleansing, programming and using stones for personal and planetary intentions. Learn to explore the stones intuitively and intellectually, using experimentation and an understanding of magickal correspondences. Beginners and more experienced practitioners welcomed.

Witchcraft II: Building the Outer Temple of Witchcraft
12 Wednesdays, 7- 10 PM
Nov 18, Dec 16, Jan 20, Feb 17, March 17, April 14, May 19, June 16, July14, Aug 18, Sept 8 (tent), Oct 20 Graduation Nov 20.
Salem, NH
Witchcraft II involves training in the role of the priestess and priest of witchcraft. Learn all the tools you will need to understand and conduct your own magick circle rituals, moon circles and wheel of the year holiday celebrations. Explore the realm of the Goddess and God through world mythology, the four elements, sacred space, meditation and altar building. Work the craft of the witch through natural magick and spell work, including herbs, crystals, potions, charms, talismans, candles and symbols. Start a divination skill such as crystal scrying. Cast spells for protection, prosperity, love and happiness. Over this year you will be challenged to experience many forms of magick and nature based mysticism, in group settings and on your own. Claim your ability to manifest change and sacredness in your life, flowing with the cycles and seasons of the Earth, Moon and Sun. The Outer Temple of Witchcraft (Llewellyn) is required manual for the class, which should be read prior to the workshop. Payment by Sept $300. By Oct $325. By Nov $375. Payment plan options available. Please inquire.

Witchcraft II: Building the Outer Temple of Witchcraft
Online Apprenticeship – Nov 2009 – Nov 2010
Witchcraft II involves training in the role of the priestess and priest of witchcraft. Learn all the tools you will need to understand and conduct your own magick circle rituals, moon circles and wheel of the year holiday celebrations. Explore the realm of the Goddess and God through world mythology, the four elements, sacred space, meditation and altar building. Work the craft of the witch through natural magick and spell work, including herbs, crystals, potions, charms, talismans, candles and symbols. Start a divination skill such as crystal scrying. Cast spells for protection, prosperity, love and happiness. Over this year you will be challenged to experience many forms of magick and nature based mysticism, in group settings and on your own. Claim your ability to manifest change and sacredness in your life, flowing with the cycles and seasons of the Earth, Moon and Sun. Experience direct tutoring in the practice of modern witchcraft through self directed study, online discussion, audio recordings, supplementary online material and homework. This year long course fuses material from The Outer Temple of Witchcraft text (required reading) with previous unreleased rituals and rites. The Outer Temple CD Companion is also required for the online class. Students are expected to complete required homework assignments. Please register in advance. Payment $300.

Reiki Master Teacher Certification Program
December 5, 2009, 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Salem, NH
Certified advanced class to be an independent Reiki Master. Receive your master-teacher initiation into the healing arts of Reiki. In this course learn the master symbols in both the Usui and Tibetan traditions, the microcosmic orbit, violet breath, to teach, pass practitioner and healing attunements and psychic surgery techniques. Come into your own power and style as a healing facilitator. All attendants must submit an application indicating independent study and be approved prior to the class. Independent study includes guidance and support through this preparation process. Call for application. Must have completed and approved application prior to class. $600.

The Gifts of the Goddess: The Thirteen Powers of the Witch
Saturday, Dec 12, 7-9:30 PM
The Cat, The Crow and the Crown
63R Pickering Wharf, Salem, Massachusetts (978) 744-6274
www.lauriecabot.com
The Gospel of Aradia proclaims the witch is blessed with thirteen powers setting her or him apart from most people. These powers are simply magickal and psychic skills that we have a natural talent for, or learn to develop on the path of magick, yet few explore them directly in practical training. Together we shall explore the classic powers of blessings & cursing, bringing forth beauty, understanding secret signs, communing with animals, banishing, healing, love, good fortune, spirit communication, revealing treasure, weather magick, transformation and hearing the Voice of the Wind. Learn valuable insights on how to work each of the powers.

Yule: The Winter Solstice
Dec 19, 7- 9 PM
Cambridge Masonic Building 1950 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140.
Lap of the Goddess Productions. Write lapofthegoddess@hotmail.com to register.
The light flows through our souls and through our blood, renewed as the sun begins its waxing cycle at the Winter Solstice. Here we celebrate the Child of Light, both in the heavens and in our hearts, as we seek to hold the promise of renewal and hope in our hearts and minds. Aid us in birthing the Child of Light into the worlds as we start the journey into the next year. Witness the passing of power between the two halves of the God. The Oak King takes his mantle again as the Child of Light as the Horned Hunter and Holly King withdraws his dark power from the world. During this ritual, work with the powers of heavenly light within the world, through ceremony, journey, song and dance. All faiths and traditions welcome.

I’m doing two very special events this fall, fundraisers for two different pagan organizations. The first is in September, in Salem, MA for the PWP, or Project Witch’s Protection. It’s a witchcraft civil rights organization founded by Laurie Cabot to help educate the public and government about Witchcraft, Wicca and Paganism, and the rights of practitioners. It’s a special workshop on the mysteries of the Cauldron, followed by the Cabot Mabon ritual that I will be leading. We plant to feature three oracular priestesses, invoked with three dark goddesses of the Celtic Tradition.

The second fundraiser is for my very own Temple of Witchcraft. We have recently incorporated the Temple of Witchcraft in N.H. and are seeking out our federal nonprofit status with the intention to create a community center, sanctuary and space for the Mystery School and Seminary. Look for more announcements about the Temple soon, but for now, we are kicking things off with a fundraiser for the Temple featuring the magick and mystery of Merlin, with a day long workshop in Barsntead, NH at the lovely Lichenwood Herbals.

Full Info is below. If you have any further questions, email me at Info@christopherpenczak.com.

Blessed be,

Christopher Penczak

The Goddess of the Cauldron:
Mysteries of the Child of Light and Mother of Darkness
A Fundraiser for Project Witches Protection (PWP)
Saturday, Sept 26, 1 PM to approximately 5 PM
The Moose Lodge, 50 Grove Street, Salem, MA
Suggested Donation: $75 which includes evening Mabon Ritual. For more information, call 978 744-6274

In this day long intensive, delve deep into the mysteries of the cauldron, the sacred brew of Awen and the magick of the Ladies of the Lake. Through a study of Celtic myth, particularly the story of Ceridwen and Taliesin, we will look at the spiritual significance of the cauldron of the Goddess. She is the force of life, regeneration and true wisdom. She gives birth to the Child of Light that dwells in potential within us all. Through ritual we will align with the powers. Through visionary pathworking we will journey to the otherworld and directly experience the Mother and the Child.

* Discover the image of the cauldron and grail, as a five fold vessel of abundance, transformation, rebirth, inspiration and healing.
* Learn about Ceridwen’s origin as one of the first Ladies of the Lake and the evolution of the godform into Morgan of Avalon.
* Undergo the inner world initiation of the western island with the Great Mother.
* Ally yourself with the sacred herbs of knowledge and wisdom of the brew of Awen.
* Experience the transformation and challenge of the four elements and their animal totems.
* Dwell in the three great darkness of the hut, the womb and the sea.
* Become reborn as the Child of Light, flowing with the powers of inspiration, knowledge , poetry and wisdom.

Through this work, forge the spiritual links to the past Cult of Taliesin and take up the mantle of bardic inspiration fulfilling your True Will in the world, shining like a star upon the Earth.

Mabon Ritual
Sept 26, 7:00 PM – Midnight
The Moose Lodge, 50 Grove Street, Salem, MA
Suggested Donation: $15. Free if you attending the afternoon workshop with a $75 donation. For more information, call 978 744-6274
Join us in a celebration of the Child of Light as he is lost in and returned from the Otherworld. Modron, the Great Mother seeks out Mabon the Child, who descends down into the Underworld as the seasons begin to wither. Like King Arthur, venture into the real m of spirit to seek the child. Consult with the Wise Oracles, speaking to the gods through the Priestesses and Priests of the Cauldron. In visionary journey, consult with the animal allies. Descend through the seven otherworldly caers, the sacred castles, and find the Child of Light, the Cauldron of Transformation and the Fruit of Immortality.

The Mysteries of Merlin: Working with the Magus of Albion
Sunday, Oct 18 10 AM – 6 PM
A Fund Raiser for the Temple of Witchcraft
Suggested Donation, $75
Lichenwood Herbals
12 Old Canaan Road Barrington, New Hampshire 03825
http://www.lichenwood.com – christine@lichenwood.com
603-664-3393 Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm
Merlin is one of the most recognized figures of Western Myth, the teacher and magician to King Arthur’s Court. His presence looms over the mysteries of magick and the intersection of British Paganism and Christianity. Wise One, Druid, Prophet, Madman and Priest of the Old Ways, he still guides us into the mysteries of the land, the dragon kings, sovereignty, the sword, grail and stone, Avalon and the Goddess. He is the Priest and Guardian of the Albion and the British Mysteries that have greatly influenced modern paganism, magick and witchcraft. Through ritual and visionary journey, contact the Order of Merlins guiding this Age, and forge a connection to their power and wisdom.

* Learn about the historic Merlins in Arthurian Lore – prophetic child, wild man & mentor
* Explore modern Merlin lore from Ceremonial Magick, Theosophy and Popular Culture
* Discover the connections between Taliesin/Ceridwen and Merlin/Morgan.
* Perform Ritual to Align with the energy of Merlin
* Meditate on the Divine Birth of Merlin, whose father was a deity, demon or faery
* Work with the King’s Tower and the Power of the Red and White Dragons
* Meet with the Order of Merlins who guide this Mysteries of this Age
* Encounter the Faery Ladies of the Fortunate Isles, Allies to the Order of Merlins
* Travel to Merlin’s Enclosure ñ The Tree, the Crystal Cave or the Tomb
* Experience the Prophecies of Merlin and how they apply to use today

Through a dual approach of historic research and direct experience work with this living, powerful figure of myth and magick for yourself, for your people and for the benefit of the world.

For those in the Boston area seeking rideshare information, ride shares will be coordinated through Barbara Farrow who can be contacted at gypsywitchbarbara@yahoo.com.

I’ve been busy arranging all sorts of media for the fall season and my forthcoming release The Witch’s Coin. We are quickly approaching the Season of the Witch. Here are some things to look out for:

The Dark Side of Fey
I’ll be on the The Dark Side of Fey podcast. Fey and I met while I was at the Spirits of the Earth Festival in Canada. We got along famously and had a blast when together, and I think that comes through in the very casual interview. I look forward to being on again. You can find more info here at http://darklyfey.com or http://darklyfey.libsyn.com.

Sunday September 13
On Septmeber 13, I have not one, but two online radio show interviews. Its turned into my radio day, as they are both lives shows and it was one of the few Sundays I’m home.

The first, at 4 PM, is Witchtalk with Karagan. You can find more info at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/witchtalk/2009/09/13/The-Temple-of-Witchcraft–an-interview-with-Christopher-Penczak

Ill also be appearing on Hex Education with Christian Day and Lori Bruno at 10:45 or so . You can find info on http://www.blogtalkradio.com/HexEducation/2009/09/14/Special-Guest-Christopher-Penczak

I believe you can call into both shows, so please do. I’m sure they will be two very different and interesting interviews.

I’ve recently been on Blogtalk radio and the archived show can be found at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Dina-Vessi/2009/07/02/The-Way-of-the-Mystic

Hope you enjoy.

Blessed be,

Christopher

Chrysalis Moon was a great festival despite microbursts and tornados in the county. We were not hit specifically by a tornado on the fest site as far as I know, but during a storm where tornados were sighted, our camp mostly blew away. It was a first for me. I kind of forgot I was in Indiana on Friday night. In most festivals, if there is a storm, you just hunker down where you are and ride it out. Not so in Indiana, because there could be tornados. My tent collapsed on me, waking me, and then sprung back up. So I thought no big deal until I heard one of my hosts, Marcus F. Griffen aka Lord Foxglove aka Foxy, yell at me to get in the van. He wasn’t sure if I was in my tent or still at the fire. I was in the van and there was a moment I wondered if it would tip, as it lifted up to one side…. I still don’t think I realized how bad it was. My open suit case was in a pop up changing tent, as we didn’t expect this weather, and much of it blew away. Thanks to Fox we recovered all of it, including some priceless things like my drum and my bog oak wand. Most importantly my notebook, with notes and ideas and classes was recovered thanks to Fox. He and I along with a lot of others went around the camp during one of the lulls to help folks out and make sure no one needed medical attention. It was weirdly fun. Nice to know in a crisis situation I can keep a level head for the most part. Fox let me and his lovely wife Becca sleep in the bed in the van while he caught some Z’s in the front and we continued onward from there. I was quite relieved to have a hotel Saturday night to dry my clothes, shave, take a long bath and get ready for my flight on Sunday. Fox and Becca took excellent care of me and were great fun. There were many festival organizers that also took great care of me to make sure I was doing well, including Dave and Gail, with help from Jan as well. Thank you all.

While the storm was a dominate theme at the end, the start of the festival was quite lovely and mellow. I had a pretty relaxed schedule and got to hang out and visit with people and make new friends. Our camp area was great, filled with lots of cool people. I particularly enjoyed spending time with Tim and Tina, friends of Fox and Becca and evidently I had met Tim before at the International New Age Trade Show when Fox and I were last there together in Denver, but INATS is a whirlwind, and that salient details escaped my memory. I’m glad we got to reconnect at Chrysalis, as we had some great conversations, particularly on the nature of teaching students, coven structure and the use of the Qabalah n the Craft. It was great. Tim and I got into a brotherly teasing back and forth that made it seem like we knew each other for many years, or perhaps lifetimes. I spent some time hanging out at the fire with folks, though dancing was not what I had hoped for. Perhaps it picked up when I was in the hotel. Sometimes I think my quiet nature around the fire, just sitting and talking tends to make things quiet. I noticed that a bit at Spirits of the Earth, though that was before the feathered boa came out and wheel chair racing. Sadly, the feather boa was the one real victim of the storm at Chrysalis Moon. It didn’t make it.

I made some new friends at Chrysalis Moon, including Dragon Bob, who is an amazing man of many talents, but was there to entertain the children with puppet shows, Lisa, Mike, the Foo Tribe, Tim aka Will and family and members of the local OTO lodge, who put on excellent workshops and rituals. They were a high light of the festival for me and I’m sad that I didn’t get to them all.

I don’t have another camping festival until I go to Between the Worlds in Ohio this September, then I think I’m done camping for the foreseeable future. If you have any gay/bi/queer boys who plan to attend, tell them to get on it, as registration closes soon. I am really saying no to a lot of invites in 2010 as I need some time home to work on home base projects – new books, new classes, the temple. So I might not be out as much as I have been. For those of my friends Down Under, I’m planning a tour in Australia if all goes well. Be on the look out for plans in January. That’s my last really big event and then I start winding down to perhaps only traveling every 6-8 weeks. Haha. That’s cutting down for me.

When I think of Pagan Values, the whole cultural concept of Family Values, i.e. what is normally accepted as Christian Family Values immediately springs to mind. Pagans often define themselves in the negative, in terms of what we are not, when compared to the dominant culture, and usually against a Christian backdrop. I find myself in classes often making analogies for theological points in Paganism/Wicca/Witchcraft in terms of what is different from Christianity, as its a base line that most people can understand. So when pondering this blog, I think many people would expect me to talk about some sort of Pagan “moral” value, perhaps regarding sexuality, healing or service. Yet the more I reflected, the less I headed in that direction, looking more to the “values” found in Nature and the Universe, and the theme I came up with is Timing.

Timing doesn’t seem like a value at all, does it? Is it a skill? You either have good timing or you don’t. When I think of timing, I guess i first think of music. Not many people know my degree is in music. I have a Bachelor’s Degree of Vocal Performance believe it or not. So as a musician, timing is critical. Though as a vocal major with a love of cheesy Broadway musicals, we liked to set the tempo and change it at will, which tends to drive conductors and band mates alike crazy. So timing can be fluid and flexible. Timing can be applied to life in general – being in the right place and the right time. But how is it a “value” and what about it is particularly Pagan?

I value a sense of timing, and it’s not only being a musician, but being a Witch that helps me appreciate timing. Ritual is an art form, and one must have proper timing in ritual. A dynamic tension can be created in good ritual, just like in good music, and one who knows how to exploit that tension, with proper timing, creates the difference between a moving experience and a dud. One can open the door to gnosis and the other to boredom. This aesthetic can apply from the solitary ritual to the large gathering. I value the power and effect of ritual timing.

In the science of ritual, timing is not an aesthetic, but a pattern around which to plan your workings. We time our rituals to the phases of the Sun, Moon and astrological alignments. We look at different days of the week and hours of the day being influenced by the planets. The zodiac signs influence the mood and energy of any day. The ancient pagans saw the science of astrolgoical timing as critical in terms of planting crops, laying the foundation of buildings, crowning kings and starting any project, for the energy at the start of anything will influence it, just as the energy from our birth influences us as documented in the birthchart.

But my true thought about the value of timing comes from valuing the cycles and season, each in the turn and allowing that same interplay of time and space in your own life. While I tend to be focused to accomplish goals, I value the inherent wisdom in letting every seed in our life sprout as needed, it its own time and in its own way. And sometimes that means being ok with the seeds that don’t sprout. Nothing can be rushed, and often you are pleasantly surprised. I have had some literal seeds in the garden sprout that I planted last year and assumed they were done. And in my personal life, I’ve had a lot of projects going on at once – personal, spiritual, business, theological – and a few that I just wish would be done and set, so I could go onto the next thing. Yet I’ve gotten some great feedback and support that I would have missed if I pushed through in my more usual manner, and didn’t let things grow out organically, naturally, rather than forced. Timing has been the key.

Though we love the warmth and the green, its the periods of darkness and cold that make us appreciate it. Likewise, you have to be able to know when something is ending. To be able to let go and know when something, or someone’s time is over. New cycles will be begin, but if we hold onto the old and stagnant, we have no room for new blessings and miss what is all around us. How many times have we held onto old relationships, jobs, identities, well past their time, and lived to regret it. Often the wheel of the universe forces us to let go, but if we were more in tune, we would shift with the turning of the wheel, rather than have our hand forced. I’ve held on and been forced, and now I try to listen to the song of the universe, to know my place within it, and know when to speed up, when to slow down, when to be loud and when to work softly, but it takes an awareness of the cosmic music. I’m constantly listening so I can be in time with the cosmos.

So while i value many things about being a Pagan, I think in the moment I value our teachings on timing the most right now.

Special thanks for Adam Sartwell and S. Rune Emerson for reminding me about pagan values month.