October 31st
As for the tradition of the sculpted pumpkins in which we place a candle, it comes from Scotland, where we believed that te hidious faces of the lanterns would scare away the spiteful spirits who tormented the living in this sacred night because they hadn't found their eternal rest. But that tradition is also alot more ancient then we believe, in another form, since in ancient Grece, ancient Egypte and ancient Rome, they used to place a lamp at the window of their houses to light the road and indicate to the souls of their dearly departed that they were welcome.
RITUAL
The first part of the modern ritual happens before midnight. We use this time to reflect on the past year and to bid it farewell. We remember beloved ones who have left us in the past years, emphasising on the death of the ending year. During this rite, we light only one candle and, if possible, we slowly let the fire in the fireplace die. If not, just let a couple leaves burn in your magick cauldron
When midnight rings, then light as many candles as possible and light the fire again - or burn another couple of leaves. It is also time to burn small pieces of paper on which you will have writen bad habbits you would like to get rid of. Then it's time to celebrate, to party and to welcome the new year with songs, laughters and games.
Needless to say that the moment between sunset and the twelve strikes of midnight is ideal for divination. All the "tools" - pendulum, tarot, cards, dices and ouija boards - beneficiate from higher powers. If you can't get in contact with the spirits of your loved ones, it is because some souls prefere to go on and do not feel the need to come back and contact us.
Finaly, if you are afraid to practice these rituals, do know that you can protect yourself from malovelent spirits by casting your circle properly. It will keep unwanted entities out and it wil prevent them from communicating with you.
THE GODS TO CELEBRATE OR INVOKE
Hecate: Grec goddesse of the moon, patron of witches and magicians.
Morrigan: Celtic goddesse of death.
Cernunnos: Celtic god of fertility.
Osiris: Egytian god of death.
HOW TO DECORATE YOUR ALTAR
A jack - o - lantern made out of a pumpkin; apples; candles representing ghosts, witches, black cats; pictures of deceased parents and friend; divination accessories, a crystal ball, tarot, pendulum,etc., will decorate your altar. The flowers should be chrysanthemum, fallen red leaves, nuts and pomegranate.
SYMBOLS AND CORRESPONDENCES
Incense: apple, cypress, sage, mint.
Trees: cypress.
Flowers: marigold, chrysanthemum.
Colours: orange, black.
Candles: orange, black.
Stones: obsidian, onyx, jet, agate, cornalin.
Planet: Pluto
Tarot card: Death.
Influence: make-over, meditation,communication with the dead.
