Litha (Summer Solstice)
Fire Ritual
2004
Arranged by Julie Ryan-Sterling

Altar Supplies:
Summer flowers
Litha incense
God candle-oraoge
Goddess candle-green
Deity candles
Small cauldron
White candle
Cakes 8 wine
Honey
Milk

Cast circle: "The flow of time has returned us to the season of passion, will and strength. As the sun shines in its height of glory, this circle is complete."

All say: " Show us the beauty of life and the wonder of creation.

Call Quarters:
North: Light candle and say:
"Guardians of the North, powers of the earth, be with us in solid strength."

East: Light candle and say:
"Guardians of the East, powers of Air, be here with us on a summer breeze."

South: Light candle and say:
Guardians of the South, powers of fire, be here with us to warm our hearts."

West: Light candle and say:
Guardians of the West, powers of water, be with us here to stir our feelings."

Invocation to God and Goddess:
As the sun reaches it peak the God takes his place to usher in the time of harvest, along with the Goddess who is now with child.

"Great Sun God of warmth and light, bless us with your presence."
{light orange candle)
"Great Goddess of the Earth, bless us with your presence."
{light green candle)
All say: "We honor you Lord and Lady. Welcome!
The longest day of the year is a good time for reflection; take a moment to reflect, then jump the flame to purify and reenergize yourself.

{Leap or step over small white candle in cauldron}

Magickal Workings

Dedications

Cakes and Wine
" Lord and Lady, please bless this that we share."
{holding up cakes and wine}

"Dip your cake into the honey to be reminded of the sweetness of life."

Farewell to God and Goddess
"Father Sun, bright in the sky, thank you for aiding in this rite."
All: "Thank you and farewell."
{extinguish gold candle}

"Earth Mother of us all, thankyou for aiding in this rite."
All: "Thankyou and farewell.
{extinguish green candle}

Release Quarters
West: put out candle and say:
"Powers of the Westerly waters, thank you for your help here."

South: put out candle and say:
"Powers of the Southern flame, thankyou for your warm support"

East: put out candle and say:
Powers of the Eastern wind, thankyou for your calm breezes."

North: put out candle and say:
"Powers of the sturdy North, thank you for your steady aid."
"As we now close this Rite, think of the beauty of a summer day and the preciousness of life."
"The circle is now open; as always remaining unbroken."