The Center Spiral
Kansas City Witches Meetup Presents
Community Harvest
Summer Solstice 2017
Image Credit: Emily Gabbert
Welcome to The Center Spiral! This is the first issue of the magazine being sponsored and published by the Kansas City Witches Meetup. The idea started as a newsletter but soon blossomed into a quarterly magazine. The Center Spiral will be published every Solstice and Equinox, available for free online. Our magazine is built upon three pillars, the first of which is connection. We are a community of many spread out pieces and our ability to talk to each other and share information and events will make all of us better. Building a web of connection makes us a greater support for each other and helps us educate ourselves as well as those outside of our community. Which leads me to the next pillar of this magazine, education. I want to be able to help everyone learn something new with what we publish. I want to get articles from all corners of the community about whatever you have the ability to write about. Teach the rest of us what you know, and be open to new ideas and different perspectives. If all of us contribute, our collective knowledge grows and we can start to develop new ideas to share. The final pillar of The Center Spiral is Inspiration. As we make greater connections and learn about and from each other, we inspire each other. We inspire each other to create new things, such as art and writing. We inspire each other into new ideas to share and expand upon. We inspire each other to be better citizens and live better lives. Educate, Inspire, Connect is the motto of The Center Spiral. I hope to see these pillars manifest in this community and bring our spiral closer together. The theme of our first issue is Community Harvest. The idea behind this is to start with a guideline and an introduction to who is in our community and what we have to offer. While I know there are certainly some missing, I also know these are the best places to start. Harvest the fruits of your community.
Cover Image: Emily Gabbert Editing by: Marietta Williams
Emily Gabbert Editor
Letter from the Editor
Emily Gabbert has been a practicing witch and a follower of a Pagan path for nearly 20 years. She led a campus discussion group for alternative religions at MU, where she earned a degree in English and Religious Studies, and was tapped into a society recognizing women leaders for her efforts. She joined Kansas City Pagan Community in 2013, and has been a co-organizer for the Kansas City Witches Meetup since 2016. She is a baker by trade with an interest in all kinds of arts and crafts, and sometimes she writes.
Laurie Sherman (Urban Crone) has over 30 years of experience in Tarot and divination, Urban Witchcraft, Multicultural Folk Magic and Eclectic Paganism. Recipient of the 2014 KCPPD Community Service Award, she has been a teacher and organizer for the Pagan community for a number of years, including her work with the KC Metaphysical Fair, Kansas City Pagan Pride Day, and has been the Organizer of the Kansas City Witches Meetup since 2012. Laurie Sherman is also a mixed medium and pyrographic artist, as well as a writer.
The Center Spiral Staff
Mike Nichols is the author of The Witches' Sabbats and www.WitchesSabbats.com, both award-winning resources on Pagan holidays. Mike has been a featured speaker on National Public Radio, and local TV and radio programs. He taught classes in Witchcraft for twenty years continuously, beginning in 1970, and owned Kansas City's first occult bookstore, The Magick Lantern. A founding member of the Coven of New Gwynedd, Nichols was the first Wiccan representative on the Kansas City Interfaith Council.
Marietta Williams is the writer behind Witchy Words: A Witchcraft Blog, a popular online witchcraft resource, and the Circle Coordinator and founder of Circle of Fountains, a local Kansas City coven. A nontheistic witch with emphasis in spiritwork, shadow work and Hermeticism, she's partnered with Pagan Bloggers, Sabbat Box and Cratejoy among others and regularly volunteers as a photographer for the Kansas City pagan community. When not blogging, Marietta works as a professional caricaturist for the KC metro.
Kim Tarwater is a Christo-Pagan Witch, leads a local circle here in the Kansas City area, and is a Reiki Master Teacher in Seichim and Usui. She owns and operates Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio where she teaches, counsels, and give readings. She thrives on learning and experiencing all the magic this life has to offer, from cruising on her motorcycle while balancing her chakras to climbing the Qabala from Malkuth to Kether.
Letter from the Editor The Center Spiral Staff From the Stars Turn of the Wheel Luna's Lair KCWMU Logo Contest Winner Community Organizations Kansas City Witches Meetup Heartland Spiritual Alliance Gaia Community Locations Gaea Retreat Center Heart of the Dove KC Deity Cafe Practicing Groups Circle of Fountains Heart of the Bear Grove Mystic Trinity Gypsies Heena Lushede Coven Heimdall's Hearth Kondred Musecraft Pencraft Local Stores Aquarius Books Spectrum a new age shop Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio Into the Mystic Crescent Springs KC Conjure Mojo Mamas Herbal Alchemy In the Cards Crystal Corner Gifts of Gaia Festivals and Fairs Heartland Pagan Festival Pagan Pride Day KC Metaphysical Fair Gaea Goddess Gathering Holly Holly Holly Days Sale Psychical Research Society Out of the Cauldron Contemplative Crone Bookshelf Thank you!
Disclaimer:: All thoughts and opinions expressed in any article in this publication are expressly those of the author and the author only. They do not necessarily represent the thoughts and opinions of The Center Spiral Magazine or Staff.
Table of Contents
by: Kim Tarwater
From the Stars
June 21 - Litha/Midsummer, Sun enters Cancer Blessings brothers and sisters! June 23 - New Moon in Gemini. Being in close alignment to Mercury makes this a good time to chart out and make plans for those new ideas and how you will communicate them to others. July 3 - Earth at Aphelion July 4 - Happy Independence Day July 9 - Full Moon (Buck, Blessings, Hazel, Hayden, Summer, Thunder, Claiming, Worth, Mead, Horn) Crazy intense energy with this moon! This full moon will have the potential to cause serious problems, though being consciously aware of intense emotions may help you to avoid them. July 12 - Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower starts July 22 - Sun enters Leo. July 23 - New Moon in Cancer. This is a hot one! Use this time to look at ways to release all the built up active and highly sexual energies! July 24 - Mercury enters Rx zone at 11:15 a.m. July 29-30 - Delta Aquarids Meteor Showers peak! Aug 1 - Lammas/Lughnasadh Blessings brothers and sisters! Let the harvest season begin! Aug7 - Partial Lunar Eclipse at 2:21 p.m. & Full Moon (Sturgeon, Vine, Corn, Dog Days, Lightning, Dispute, Grain, Barley, Linx, Fruit) The full moon along with the eclipse makes for a perfect time of clearing out the emotional baggage. The August full moon is also a time for animal magick. Aug 21 - New Moon & Total Solar Eclipse at 2:25 p.m. This eclipse is being called The Great American Eclipse due to the fact that it will be visible in a path spanning all across the U.S. from east to west coast! With the new moon completely covering the sun, now would be a smart time to accomplish some midday shadow work. Aug 22 - Sun enters Virgo Sep 4 - Happy Labor Day! Sep 6 - Full Moon (Nut, Wine, Harvest, Ivy, Singing, Barley) The September full moon helps the harvest by providing more light at the right time than other moons do. The energies will be high in manifestation within the hearth and home. Sep 20 - New Moon. Now would be the time to start manifesting those blessings for the upcoming Fall Equinox! Sept22 - Mabon / Fall Equinox Blessings brothers and sisters! Retrogrades Mercury Enter Rx - July 24 at 11:15 a.m. Retro - Aug 12 at 8:56 p.m. Direct - Sept 5 at 7:21 a.m. Leaves Rx - Sep 19 at 12:01 p.m. *Avoid starting projects, buying new items and signing any legal contracts! Use this time to research, plan and prep for upcoming happenings. Jupiter Leave Rx - Sep 6 at 10:11 p.m. *Time to review your personal visions and your belief system. Saturn Direct - Aug 25 at 6:12 a.m. *Time to work on those long term goals. No need to be in a rush, just keep focused. Uranus Retro - Aug 2 at 10:23 p.m. *Look for ways to create more inner freedom for yourself. You may have some releasing work to do first.
Lammas, Lughnasadh, August Eve; these are all names for the holiday celebrated on August first, about halfway between the Summer Solstice and Autumnal Equinox, and known as one of the four Great Sabbats, or fire festivals, in the Pagan Wheel of the Year. While the weather around here certainly does not show it, this is often understood to be the beginning of Autumn. Lammas is the festival of the first harvest. This is when the wheat harvest begins, hence the focus on bread for this celebration, and we start to get the first fruits of what was planted in the spring. Those first fruits are often considered sacred and given as an offering to the land or Gods. This is a time when we are finally able to enjoy and share our abundance leading to the harvest festivals and craft fairs that are common this time of year. It is also the perfect time to head to your local farmer’s market to look for the abundance of fruits and veggies available now. The best things to look for are sweet corn, squashes, beans, blackberries, apples, and a variety of tomatoes. Just because this festival is about harvesting food, doesn’t mean you can’t use the harvest theme in more modern ways. What projects have you started that you are finally seeing results from? What do you have in abundance in your life? Think on what you have that you can be thankful for and share those gifts with your family, your community, and those you want to build a greater connection with. Break bread with others, both literally and figuratively. This festival is also closely associated with the Irish god Lugh. He is a god of the sun, of skills, crafts, the arts, oaths, laws, and a warrior and king. The legend is that he hosted the Tailtean games at this time as funeral games for his foster mother, Tailtiu. Other agriculture and harvest deities, such as Demeter and John Barleycorn, are also appropriate now. Make your magical work about gratitude, abundance, prosperity, generosity and connectedness of a community or a family. You can make a corn dolly, a sun wheel, or bake some bread, . Take the time to visit an orchard or a sunflower field and revel in the abundance the earth continues to give us.
Lammas
Turn of the Wheel
by: Emily Gabbert
Image Credit: www.witchywords.com
by: Marietta Williams
Mabon
The autumnal equinox is a scientifically observable event in September when the equator passes through the center of the sun creating a nearly equal night and day. This year, the autumn equinox will fall on September 22nd (and specifically at 3:02 p.m. here in Kansas City). On the equinox, pagans and witches in the Northern Hemisphere will celebrate the middle harvest holiday of the Wheel of the Year, often called Mabon in many traditions. Considered the “Pagan Thanksgiving,” the fall equinox is a celebration of gratitude and balance. Festivities are marked with a large feast that includes seasonal dishes such as apples, blackberries, carrots, corn, grapes, pumpkins, and squash. Now is the perfect time to gather with friends and family to count your blessings and share in the plenty before we enter the darker half of the year. For your altar, symbols of the season are plentiful. Consider the changing fall leaves as your color inspiration, adding yellow, orange, red, and brown to your sacred space. Symbols of the harvest include all of the aforementioned seasonal fruits and vegetables along with tools like scythes and baskets. You may also choose to celebrate the equal night and day with symbols of balance, such as black and white candles or a set of scales. In terms of deity, many pagans celebrate Persephone and Demeter at this time. According to Greek lore, Persephone’s descent to the underworld causes Demeter such pain that vegetation begins to die and the world grows cold. For some pagans, this is the time the Goddess ages to a Crone. For others, this is the time the Sun God dies. Symbols of these deities can be added to altar and offerings given during ritual. Seasonal rituals focus spell work on balance, prosperity, gratitude, and blessings. Common seasonal herbs include acorn, grains, honeysuckle, milkweed, and tobacco while stones include amber, yellow agates, carnelian, and sapphire. Magic and crafts involving apples are encouraged, such as apple dolls or cutting an apple in half horizontally to see the five seeds creating a pentacle. Other ways to celebrate involve taking a walk at your local park and observing the changing colors of the leaves or making a list of all you’ve been grateful for this year. Visit an apple orchard, meditate on balance or donate to your local food drive; all of these are in the spirit of the autumn equinox!
Luna's Lair
Greetings everyone, my name is Luna and I want to welcome you to my Lair. Luna’s Lair is an advice column I am offering for the purpose of giving my personal knowledge and/or opinions on questions you would like to ask. I am a Christo-Pagan Witch and lead a local circle here in the Kansas City area. I am a Reiki Master Teacher in Seichim and Usui. I own and operate Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio where I teach, counsel, and give readings. I thrive on learning and experiencing all the magic this life has to offer, from cruising on my motorcycle while balancing my chakras to climbing the Qabala from Malkuth to Kether. Any questions welcome. I will say that my answers will be honest to my truths, loving from my heart, and straightforward from my personality; and that my opinion on a question will be just that, my opinion only. I will reply to all email questions, and will choose a few questions and answers for the quarterly Center Spiral publication. Send questions to asklunaslair@gmail.com. Blessed Be, Luna
with Kim Tarwater
Image Credit: Kim Tarwater
Your submission was chosen as the winner of the KCWMU logo contest!! Thank you to everyone who submitted a logo, we really appreciate all of your hard work and support.
Shelby Lynne Hawkins
Congratulations!!
KCWMU Logo Contest Winner
Eastern Edge Coffee Coven - 1st Tuesday The Eastern Edge Coffee Coven is one of KCWMU's free, local, social discussion groups. They meet in Independence, covering a wide range of topics, open discussions, and random activities. Eastern Edge Coffee Coven is open to anyone in the area, of any skill level, and following any path. Kansas Coffee Coven - 2nd Wednesday The Kansas Coffee Coven is one of KCWMU's free local informal discussion groups, meeting in Overland Park, Kansas. They seek to build community through guided discussions on a wide range of topics, usually centered on Pagan themes. The fun atmosphere of the Kansas Coffee Coven is open to anyone of any skill level, and follower of any path. Liberty Coffee Coven - 3rd Tuesday Liberty Coffee Coven meets once a month for some food, coffee, and a round table discussion of our topic for the month. We keep it pretty laid back and encourage good conversations and a good time whether we stay on topic or not. Join in the fun at the IHOP in Liberty, MO. Center City Coffee Coven - 3rd Wednesday Center City Coffee Coven is a place where we can get together to learn, laugh and make friends. My goal is to inform everyone as much as I can and for us to laugh as much as possible too. Newbie or Elder, come out and enjoy. See you there
The Kansas City Witches, Wiccans, Heathens and Pagans Meetup has been a part of the community since 2008, offering free public events open to people of all paths and experience levels. Our monthly Main Event, held on the 4th Wednesday of the month at Aquarius Books, features classes, workshops and lectures on a wide variety of subjects, taught by a variety of guest speakers from the community. KCWMU added Coffee Covens to our list of events in 2012, creating free social discussion group gatherings all over the Kansas City Metropolitan area, including Overland Park, Independence, Liberty, and the Downtown area. The Kansas City Witches, Wiccans, Heathens and Pagans Meetup will continue to offer free educational opportunities as well as chances for the members of the Pagan community to connect and grow in a positive direction. Main Event: 4th Wednesday For more information: https://www.facebook.com/KCWMUMeetup/ Check out The Kansas City Witches, Wiccans, Heathens and Pagans Meetup https://www.meetup.com/Kansas-City-Witches/
Community Organizations
Kansas City Witches Meetup
Contributed by: Laurie Sherman, Emily Gabbert, Jason Charleston
Gaia Community
by Sean Manning
Heartland Spiritual Alliance is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that has been serving the Pagan community in the Kansas City area since 1988. HSA and its members support many activities in the community, most notably the Heartland Pagan Festival, held every year over Memorial Day weekend at the Gaea Retreat Center, and Spirit Circle, a monthly meeting for workshops, discussions, teaching, and ritual. Spirit Circle meets on the Third Thursday of each month at 6:00pm at Aquarius and Vulcan’s Forge in Kansas City, and features presentations by members of the community that are eager to share their expertise and experience with others. Heartland Spiritual Alliance holds membership meetings on the second Sunday of each month from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, also Aquarius and Vulcan’s Forge in Kansas City. These meetings are open to the public, and allow members to organize and plan upcoming events. Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older who is willing to contribute a minimum of 20 hours at the festival and to help in related activities throughout the year. Visit kchsa.com for more information on how to join, or contact us at kchsapr@gmail.com.
by Kimberly Reynolds-Gier
Gaia Community is a Pagan Unitarian Universalist congregation holding weekly Sunday services since 1997. We are a diverse group of seekers united by a reverence for Nature, a need for community and a profound curiosity about the world around us. Our practice is informed by many faith traditions, including Wicca, Druidry, Hellenismos, and others, and shaped by a commitment to social justice and environmentalism. We care for the earth, and each other, because our lives depend on it. Our Sunday services include rituals, discussions, classes, participatory workshops, and bardic circles. Each week's service is different, so we invite you to attend a few services to get a feel for our work. We also offer a weekly chant circle, a monthly craft group, and a monthly board game social in addition to other events. We are an open community, welcoming anyone who is interested in Pagan practices and supports our commitments to justice and celebration of each other's differences. Services are generally geared towards adults but we do provide inter-generational high holidays and separate programming for children and teens as needed. Drop by from 4-6 p.m. on Sunday at Heart of the Dove, 4327 Troost Ave, KCMO, and join us for our service. https://www.facebook.com/groups/GaiaCommunity/ www.gaiacommunity.org
Heartland Spiritual Alliance
Locations
Gaea Retreat Center
Heart of the Dove KC
by: Lyn Fifield
Established in 1992, Gaea Retreat Center is a 168 acre property in a rural setting within an hour's drive of the Kansas City metropolitan area.The primary goal of Gaea Retreat Center is to provide a private, natural retreat area for a variety of people of all spiritual traditions, and to promote a feeling of connection with the land and people on it. Gaea is owned and operated by Earth Rising, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3). Gaea includes a 12 acre lake with a sand swimming area. Many areas are available for tent camping and there are open areas for sports and other organized activities. Buildings include a large open pavilion with stage and folding chairs, an air-conditioned meeting hall, a dining hall and kitchen, and nine cabins. Flush toilet facilities and heated showers are available. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and one cabin, for special health needs, is air-conditioned. Gardens and secluded areas provide quiet places for meditation or simple relaxation There is plenty of wooded area to explore and hiking trails are maintained. We invite you to browse our website at www.gaearetreat.org or visit the Facebook page of Gaea Retreat Center. Our calendar and basic rules are listed on the website. Please access these before visiting so that you will be properly prepared, particularly if you’re visiting during an exclusive event. Hope to see you soon!
Heart of the Dove KC is a new Spiritual Health & Wellness Center in Kansas City where all are welcome. Our goal is to provide our community, teachers and practitioners with a friendly environment where services, classes, events and workshops can be offered. Heart of the Dove KC is a place where these experiences can help regenerate our mind, body & spirit and can be used as a means of enlightenment and awakening through conscious peaceful living. At HDKC, we have space ready to rent by the hour, day, week or month, including a space available for a Coffee/Tea/Juice Shop and a Book Nook/Gift Shop. HDKC is open to Chiropractics, Acupuncture, Massage, Energy Workers, Yoga, Dance, Arts, Music, Drumming, Tapping, Breathwork, Classes, Workshops, Events, Gatherings & more. Check out the Heart of the Dove KC page on Facebook for our schedule of events. HDKC is located at 4327 Troost Ave, KCMO 64110. If you, or anyone you know, is looking for a space to rent or to put in a Coffee Shop or Book Nook/Gift Shop please contact Lyn at 913-353-6203 or heartofthedovekc@gmail.com for an appointment to see the building and what we have to offer. We would love to have you join us and be a part of this amazing journey!
by: Cat Andrews
Demeter
Image Credit: https://tinyurl.com/y726vgv2
Deity Cafe
Demeter, the Greek Goddess of agriculture, presides over grain, fertility and the harvest, making her one of the principle Mother Goddesses in ancient Greek society. She is the daughter of Cronos and Rhea, and sister to Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, Hera and Hestia. Her symbols include the cornucopia, snake, pig, horse, torch and sheaves of grain. Demeter’s children were Persephone (by Zeus), Despoina and Arion (by Poseidon), and, Plutus and Philomelus (by Iasion). There is also minor evidence that she may be the mother of Eubuleus (possibly by Zeus), Chrysothemis (by Karmanor), and Amphitheus I (by Triptolemus). Demeter is primarily known for her part in the changing seasons. As the Goddess of fertility, it is her domain to bring forth life and abundance on the earth, which she did up to the point of losing her daughter Persephone. Legend says that Hades kidnapped Persephone and hid her in the underworld. Demeter became so distraught at losing her daughter that all she could think of was finding her. She no longer cared about the life of the earth and wandered aimlessly looking for her daughter. She arrived at Eleusis and, disguised as an old woman, cared for the only son of King Celeus and Metaneira. She became attached to the infant Triptolemus and set about to make him immortal by anointing him with ambrosia and putting him in the fire each night to burn away his mortality. Metaneira saw this and became alarmed for her son. Demeter then revealed herself and demanded a temple be built for her to reside in. The famine and drought became so dire that Zeus got involved and commanded Hades to return Persephone to her mother. Before doing so, Hades gave Persephone a pomegranate seed to eat which compelled her to return to the underworld for half of the year. The time of Persephone’s return to the underworld corresponds to the barren seasons of the year. Because of these cycles created by Demeter, she also founded the Eleusinian mysteries which were harvest festivals that morphed into secret, sacred rites. They were large festivals that were held every 5 years. While little is actually known about them, it is believed that the mysteries revolved around the return of the soul after death, mimicking the return of the grain every spring. What is known is that the symbols of the cult were ears of corn and a torch which symbolized Demeter’s search for Persephone and the return of the fertile season. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demeter https://www.greekmythology.com/Other_God s/Demeter/demeter.html https://www.britannica.com/topic/Demeter http://www.ancient.eu/Eleusis/
by: Cheryl Locke
Image from: https://tinyurl.com/ycm55j9n
John Barleycorn
John Barleycorn is not typically a character we think of when we think of a God. Technically, he is more of a character of myth and legend than deity, but if we consider what he represents and rules, I think we can see how “God” status can easily be bestowed upon the long suffering Barleycorn. The story of John Barleycorn comes from a song. Written records of this song date back to Elizabethan times, though it was likely sung long before that. Most variations we have today stem from the version published by Robert Burns in 1782. The story sung is that there were men who killed John Barleycorn, buried him, and then he rose again, after the rains. He was once again cut down at the knee, bound, and carted off to be ground between stones, beaten, hung upside down, and drowned. Then, they drank his blood and made merry. Now of course, John Barleycorn does not represent an actual person here, he represents the barley that was milled (between stones) and usually turned into beer or whiskey (drowning and drinking his blood). His death and burial at the beginning is the planting of the seed, and the cutting down is the harvest. This was a song about something that was, and still is, essential to the life of a community, the cycle of the harvest and what came of it. While most modern people certainly do not see or participate in the planting, harvesting, and processing of barley or any other grains, and it certainly doesn’t happen with a scythe anymore (sadly), we can still take the themes and lessons of John Barleycorn to use in modern life. First is the idea of reaping what you sow. The same people that planted Barleycorn later cut him down and made amazing things of him. If you plant good things and tend to them well, you will harvest good things as they come to fruition. The other major theme of John Barleycorn is sacrifice. Barleycorn was sacrificed so that others could not only live, but live well. This is not to say that you must give of yourself to others without end. Sacrifice can be something you will gain from, and may help those around you, even if it doesn’t seem that way at first. If there is something you think you may need to sacrifice, look for ways you can benefit by letting go. John Barleycorn survives today as a symbol of the life and death cycle of the seasons, the idea of sacrifice, and of getting back what you put out. There is enjoyment in the sacrifice with alcohol, and sustenance with bread. See the cyclic nature of the seasons and life with John Barleycorn. https://www.thoughtco.com/the-legen d-of-john-barleycorn-2562157 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ba rleycorn http://clubs.tuck.dartmouth.edu/barle ycorn/who-is-john-barleycorn
Practicing Groups
Circle of Fountains
Circle of Fountains is an Independence, MO based non-denominational witchcraft circle open to all witchcraft practices regardless of religion or lack thereof. Formed on the Spring Equinox 2014, we laud differences in beliefs, emphasizing the wide variety of traditions as an integral part of community and togetherness. CF celebrates the Wheel of the Year and full moon esbats that further personal knowledge through advanced research while also engaging the community through public rituals and classes. As a circle of mutual leaders, responsibilities such as ritual leading and teaching are shared. Practicality and safety supersede all other aspects of our group and we expect that our members strive to bring about positive changes through self-exploration, fellowship, ritual and community involvement. CF believes that transparency essential in assisting those who do not have access to educational material or community, thus we photograph meetings and rituals to share with others. Potential members must be over 21 and open with their beliefs. Each November, CF takes applications for a 6 month Noviceship course covering basic witchcraft and culminating in a ritual the novice writes and leads. Novices who pass the 101 course can move to the 201 course which will take them through more advanced topics. Primary members are selected from those who successfully complete the 201 course, running through a short Primary member capstone before being inducted. Circle of Fountains can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CircleofFountains/ and the Circle Coordinator, Marietta, can be reached by e-mail at artist@mdartist.com.
In 2010, our founder, Angela Krout, was called to teach and, in 2016, a group of her students banded together to form Heart of the Bear Grove. We practice and teach our own brand of Paganism called “American Eclectic Paganism.” People are interested in it because we are a teaching organization and we teach real world paganism. We try to not borrow from the theologies or philosophies of Eastern culture and religion, so Karma has no place in our world. We also are non-dogmatic, so you won’t hear any of the ideas that you’re going to be punished if you’re bad. We do not believe in the threefold-law for that reason. That and we’re Pagan rather than Wiccan. We are open to new members and we have high expectations. From classwork to personal work to community service, we do a lot. We’re also very close knit. For that reason, we ask people who are interested to come to different events that we hold so that we can get to know them. If you would like to apply to study with us, you may email Angela “Mama Bear” Krout, our Grove Mother/High Priestess at angelamariekrout@gmail.com. She will fill you in on other requirements. We do have by-laws, an operating document and a code of conduct for our members. Those are part of an involved conversation we have with people up front before they decide to join our organization. Currently we are pursuing our 501c3R which would establish us as a church under both Federal and Missouri Law. We have big plans in the works and we can’t wait to share them!
Mystic Trinity Gypsies is a Circle of Christo-Pagan Witches located in the Kansas City, Missouri area. As a Circle, we find purpose in the development of mystical practices and theory within Christianity, including but not limited to Trinitarianism, Gnosticism, and Kabbalah. Our Circle is always open to other mystic seekers on this unique path. The belief in the Trinity in orthodox form or with a Divine Mother/Goddess is the core value we would ask for any dedicant who comes into the circle. During the foundational study period, which is broken into two levels, you would get to know us collectively and individually. We feel that this is a very important process for both the dedicant and the circle. There is no set time period for this and there are no contracts; dedicants are instead voted in. For more information contact Kim Tarwater (Luna) at 816-674-6302.
by: Angela Krout
Heart of the Bear Grove
Mystic Trinity Gypsies
Héena Lushede Coven, established October 23, is an eclectic group of Witches that study, practice and teach the Lushede Tradition of Wicca. We host public rituals for each Wiccan Sabbat and many other activities to promote community. Our goal is to provide a positive environment to learn about Wicca. Priestesses ordained by Héena perform rites of passages, the solemnization of marriages and dedications to those who wish to follow the Wiccan path. Our coven members devote hundreds of hours each year promoting and participating in various voluntary services in the Pagan community and beyond. In addition to hosting public sabbats, you will find us most often working behind the scenes at places like Kansas City Pagan Pride Day, Gaea Goddess Gathering, and others. You may even see us at protests defending our rights, fighting for equality and demanding the basic freedoms for those that are still denied and others take for granted, including traveling to Washington, D.C. in January to participate in the Women's March. The 18 hour trip from Kansas City, as well as marching and chanting with 2.6 million others, was an incredible experience for our coven. Héena Lushude Coven upholds and empowers each other and we hope that, through our efforts, we uphold and empower the community as well. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/408907429260957/
Héena Lushede Coven
by: Ripley Herndon
Heimdall's Hearth is a Heathen organization. Some might call us a"kindred" but we are neither blood nor oath bound. We are brought together because of shared beliefs and worldview, and we gather to enrich our world, seeking shelter from chaotic forces in the worlds. We believe that we are called to our personal best and places of learning in our religion, and so we are more like a Kondred- people called to literacy and leadership. As members, we do not swear oaths to the Hearth, the Kondred or to anyone in the organization—not even to the Gods. We consider oaths a very rare, most serious and personal subject. Several of us have taken oaths to the Gods but that is the business of the individual, their ancestors and the Gods. The Kondred does not enforce such binding practices as a group. We reject feudal hierarchical structures; we have no Chieftain, no Gothar, and no one is above anyone else. Each person is expected to learn the Lore, the Traditions, the practices and rites; each man and woman is expected to become their own leader, gothi, gythia and/or volva. A part of our mission is to be a kindred generator. For inspiration and order we look to the culture, art and archeology of the Migration Period and Bronze Age of Germania, Scandinavia and Britain. We trust that the Norns have reserved in the Poetic and Prose Eddas all that we need to secure a firm spiritual foundation for an active relationship with our personal ancestors and our communal Gods; the Aesir and the Vanir. In place of oaths, we have a code of honor and beliefs. We have full members and members who are investigating the Ancient Custom (Forn Sedr) with us. We value scrutiny, openness and clarity... it is like "light through glass"; like light cast through rain; a fission that yields the beauty of Bifrost Bridge; the rainbow... this is what we expect, and find, in our faith yields. Our Hearth-Founder, Wolf Friedman, is held as "the First among Equals" and, as such, he has privilege to speak first and last in any debate and has the binding vote where ties occur in votes. In all other things, all are equals: in all rights and all responsibility, in all honors and in all duty. All members are nurtured to be fully self-actualized, self-reliant and self-sufficient individuals in a thriving “Gods-centered” community. For more information contact Wolf Friedman https://www.facebook.com/wolf.friedman
Heimdall's Hearth Kondred
by: Wolf Friedman
Musecraft
Featured Artist::
How did you get started in your work? Honestly, I am not sure. I cannot ever remember a time when I wasn’t sketching something, doodling on a piece of paper and whatnot. I took art classes in high school, but really it has been just trial and error over the years. Where do you pull inspiration from? My life and my spiritual path. To me, art is an external expression of our internal mechanisms. What mediums do you work in and why? I am one of those artists that hate art pencils, preferring a mechanical pencil and a good eraser. While I also work with some ink, acrylic paints, and colored pencils, my real love is pyrography. I love wood burning my sketches onto things. I love the feel of it, the way it looks like it was almost placed there by nature. It really is a great medium, but requires a lot of patience. What advice do you have for aspiring artists? Practice your craft as often as you can. Never be afraid to try a new medium. Understand that you will always be your own worst critic. Where do we go to find more of your work? I have started moving my artwork, as well as my poetry, to: www.facebook.com/thewildmysticsoul
Laurie Sherman
by: JS Groves
Pencraft
Mark of the Wolf
Crossing the threshold, the first thing that struck Margaret was the smell. The rich and pungent aroma rising off the complimentary coffee bar hit her immediately, cloyingly accompanied by the bowls of sugar and creamer. Another step inside brought a riot of other smells. Frankincense and myrrh, familiar and yet surprising in this context. Sulfur and patchouli, more expected. Bay and sage and a variety of kitchen-smells. Lavender and eucalyptus and jasmine. Dozens of smells she could not name: sweet and sour, musky and acrid; subtle and strong. She sneezed and coughed and tried to focus on her other senses. Gentle, almost hypnotic music filled the store. Airy women’s voices with Renaissance Festival accents. Meandering harps and flighty woodwinds and soft piano. Racks of incenses and herbs filled half of one long wall. A display rack of crystals made up the balance. The opposite wall was filled with books, punctuated by heathen statuary and more crystals. At the far back was a pair of doors – one with a keypad and one with a padlock – and a bulletin board. Margaret was surprised how mundane the place looked. The Midnight Candle was clean and well-lit, with an overall atmosphere of professionalism that surprised her. "Who’d have figured the witch-store had high tech security?" If the titles or and the statuary had been a little different, she wouldn’t have known that she wasn’t in a Christian bookstore. The comparison embarrassed her more than a little bit. Did Christianity look as crazy to outsiders as this looked to her? Jen looked as uncomfortable as she felt, but Amber was pawing gently through the New Arrivals section and Aaron was taking a moment to grab a few packets of herbs off a pegboard display before leading them down to the basement through the code-locked door. Who’d have figured the witch-store had high tech security? The stairs were well-lit, as well, and carpeted. In fact, the whole basement was more upscale than the store itself. The staircase led into a wide lounge area, with a door at either end, and a large white table in the middle. Piles of books occupied the table, around which sat four chairs. A pair of plush recliners sat under the stairs, an end table between them and to either side. The room was lit by a line of track lights along the far wall, and a golden chandelier provided a little bit of mood. Three of the walls were painted with window-scenes of a fantastic garden, full of flowers and orchards – greens and golds and reds and purples and blues and whites. Margaret took a moment to examine them while the others settled themselves at the table. Nestled in among the branches and flower beds were frolicking faeries and dragons, and the paintings were so well done that she almost had to touch the wall to see that there were not, in fact, actual window frames. “Wow,” she heard Aaron say. “Dominic’s been holding back on us. Look at all this stuff!”
JS Groves has been writing only slightly longer than he has been practicing witchcraft. A bench jeweler by day, he also has a degree in Classical Studies, a passion for photography, and serves his community by working with the Heartland Spiritual Alliance. He lives in Kansas City with his partner and their feline overlords. mundusoccultus.com jsgroves.com journeythroughtheobsidiandream.com
Local Stores
A recent ad we ran said, “8 out of 10 Pagan Gods Shop at Aquarius”. We are wondering who the other two Gods are and why we have not seen them. When it comes to 8 out of 10 Wiccans, Pagans, and others in the Greater Kansas City area, we know they are already shopping here. But, for the other 2 who do not know about Aquarius, here is some information. Aquarius was opened 25 years ago by the owner Barbara Criswell as a full line, bricks and mortar store in midtown Kansas City. When you come in, you will find New Age and occult books and all the supplies and tools you need for your spiritual and magickal practice. You can always count on help and information from our employees, Alex. John, Mark, John Mark, and (our newest employee) Wairimu. They will help you find just the stones, incense, oils, herbs, candles, and tools for your rituals and magickal work. Bring your questions and they will help with the answers you need. We are active in the community so you will see us at Heartland Pagan Festival, Pagan Picnic, and Pagan Pride Day, as well as in the store where we have book signings, workshops, classes, psychic fairs, and space for meetings. While we provide you with services and products, we remember our motto: We strive to create a better world, one conscious act at a time. Aquarius, 3936 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111 aquariusbooks@aol.com aquariusbooks.com 816-931-6303
by: Barbara Criswell
Aquarius Books
Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio
Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio is a local studio which focuses on the healing of the mind, body, and spirit. It is owned and operated by Kim Tarwater. Kim is a Reiki Master Teacher in Seichim and Usui and offers Sessions and Certification Classes for both. She also offers spiritual growth counseling, meditation sessions, readings, and metaphysical classes. You can pick up crystals, decks, incense, custom mixed oils, lotions, and other gifts at her studio. Contact Kim at 816-674-6302 for appointments. You can also go to her Facebook page Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio, to check out upcoming events. Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio is located in Raytown, MO.
Spectrum a new age shop
Spectrum a New Age shop opened April 2016, with the primary goal of creating a safe place where the community may come together to share knowledge and fellowship. At Spectrum a new age shop you may experience acceptance, friendship, growth, wellness, and much more. We have many classes and workshops, including Kundalini Yoga, Art Classes, Spiritual Channellings, Sound Healing, Singing Bowls, Intuitive Readings, Psychic Development, Ceremony & Rituals, and many more subjects in the category of Metaphysics.. Spectrum a new age shop also has many items available for purchase for your Metaphysical practice including Himalayan salt lamps, wind chimes, Tarot & Oracle decks, crystals, gems, minerals, geodes, essential oils, herbs, resins, incense, jewelry, chakra items, candles, manifesting spray, lucky bamboo, tunics, skirts, pashminas, scarves, leather bound journals, statues (fantasy, Angel, Hindu, Egyptian, Buddhist, feng shui etc…), art work, banners, tapestries, singing bowls, Florida Waters & washes, runes, pendulums, books covering many Metaphysical subjects and more! Drop by Spectrum a new age shop anytime. You are always welcome. I look forward to meeting you. Spectrum a new age shop 7827 North Oak Traffic Way Kansas City, Missouri 64118 816-321-2658 www.spectrumreiki.com spectrum.newageshop@gmail.com
by: Eddie Smith
Into the Mystic
Hello, my name is Eddie and I run 'Into the Mystic', a little New Age shop at 5727 Johnson Drive in Mission, Kansas. The purpose and goal of the shop is to connect people to answers and direction on their unique life's journey. We offer several different types of classes as well as CBD oils, e-oils, crystals, books, incense, art, and altar supplies. There is drumming the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of every month; on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, we have Reiki; there are readers throughout the week; and a special event every Saturday in conjunction with the Mission market. We are open 7 days a week, 9-7 Monday-Saturday and Sundays 10-4. If you are looking for a class, supplies, or are wanting to hold a class, please call 913-766-9906. I really love having local artists of all types here, and proudly support them. It's all about local community here at Into the Mystic! I've lived in the area for over 22 years and consider this my home; and you as my neighbors, my friends, and my family. So come in and experience a new idea for a new you and a new tomorrow. https://www.facebook.com/intothemystic2016/
Crescent Springs
Crescent Springs is grateful and proud to have served the metaphysical communities and beyond for more than 19 years. Owners, Kat and Alison, welcome everyone from all spiritual paths. We are happy to assist by providing tools and guidance to help along the way. Located in the heart of Downtown Overland Park, we offer a wide variety of Tools for Enlightenment such as rocks, herbs, oils, incense, jewelry, candles, t-shirts, tarot, stone bead bracelets and more. If we don’t have something that you are looking for we will see if we can order it for you. We offer a wide variety of classes, sessions and other events on a regular basis, including Higher Self Alignment Temples, Stone Temples, Reiki Seichim, Crystal Healing. Readings and other sessions include Tarot, Akashic Records, Spiritual, Lenormand, Shamanic Alchemy, Reiki Seichim, Huna Kane, Astrology, Animal Communication and more. The Crescent Springs Newsletter is available by e-mail and on our Website. Like us on Facebook! Crescent Springs Tools for Enlightenment www.crescentsprings.net 913.341.2044 facebook.com/CrescentSprings
by: Sean Demory
From the first moment you step through the door, KC Conjure feels like magic. The bold KC CONJURE sign outside of the store at 1620 Locust is highlighted by Barbara, the six-foot tall poppet that’s KC Conjure’s unofficial mascot. The small storefront is filled with candles, curios and herbs. Statues and brightly-colored altars to the Lwa line the walls, inviting visitors to look and learn. The most rare and magickal element in the store, though, may be the store’s proprietor. Kansas City-native Mambo Julie Valdivia has owned and operated KC Conjure since 2013, when it was Good Luck KC Conjure in Old Westport. Her connection and service to the Lwa started before that, with her initiation into the La Source Ancienne Hounfo of New Orleans in 2010. Julie was initiated as a Manbo Asogwe, the highest level of the societe in 2016. Despite her breadth of knowledge, Mambo Julie is a bawdy, welcoming presence in the store. She is equally willing to share a joke with one of the store’s many regulars or help an interested newcomer learn the traditions of Vodou. KC Conjure provides a dizzying array of services, ranging from setting of lights and readings to blessings of businesses and individuals. Julie also serves as a sort of spiritual compounding pharmacist, giving guidance and providing supplies for practitioners who are performing their own workings one-on-one or through monthly get-togethers. KC Conjure’s tradition of community outreach will continue this summer, as members of the La Source Ancienne Hounfo will join Mambo Julie on July 7 or a vodou ceremony serving the Ogou. The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, July 7 at KC Conjure. Several visiting members of La Source Ancienne Hounfo will also offer Vodou head washings on Saturday, July 8 starting at 5 p.m. The visiting members will perform readings and exhibit artwork and magickal items on Friday and Saturday. For more information about the July events or KC Conjure, feel free to look for KC Conjure on Facebook, call the shop at 816.756.5551 or stop by if the spirit moves you. Summer hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
KC Conjure
Mojo Mamas
Herbal Alchemy
Herbal Alchemy is devoted to herbal well-being. We are passionate about natural approaches to maintaining good health. It is our goal to eventually provide a gathering place where businesses, civic groups, and individuals can meet and feel that they are embracing a healthier alternative through our products and services. We offer a variety of organic herbs which can be blended into delicious and soothing teas, as well as specialty accessories to prepare and serve your tea. We also offer custom made aromatherapy accessories, incenses, and hand-made soaps Formed as a limited liability company, Herbal Alchemy was the culmination of a lifelong interest in herbal well-being by owner Denise Donnelly-Neill. Having had a long-time enthusiasm for the practice of herbal remedies and healing, Denise saw a need in the community not only for personal herbal products but for a community meeting place as well. Out of that was born the concept for Herbal Alchemy Teahouse and More—a new take on the concept of herbal well-being. For more information, please go to www.herbalalchemyteahouse.webs.com
by: Denise Donnelly-Neill
Mojo Mamas is a collision of inspiration, support and feel-it-in-your-bones wisdom. What started as a small inspiration, fueled by tremendous support – messily hemmed into mornings, lunch-hours and weekends – has taken on a life of its own, and the tribe of spirited people that I’ve met through this business have quite literally changed my life. ‘Grateful’ simply doesn’t cut it. When I’m at the shop, I maintain an inventory of most all of your metaphysical needs. Candles, herbs, oils, incense, statuary, a small selection of books, tarot cards, fun things like horns and jewelry as well as much, much more. I think most people come in out of curiosity and stay for the community. It’s not unusual to have 4 or 5 people hanging out at the shop with me at any one time. Fair warning. We are not PC and we laugh, a lot. At a lot of things. The people who come in and laugh with us, they stay. We have built a large “Mojo Mamas family”. We have classes on Tuesday nights, and our shop schedule is posted on our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/IndependenceMojo 318 S Main St, Independence, Missouri 64050 Tuesday through Friday 11am-7pm Saturday from noon until 7pm.
The Fool is the beginning. The beginning of the deck, the Major Arcana, the idea that starts a project, a journey, a path of enlightenment. He is the conception of life, the acorn that holds the potential to become a mighty oak tree. The Fool is zero. The Fool is a young person, ready to go on a journey. He is full of optimism and hope, looking up to the sunny sky, carrying a white rose of innocence and a staff with a pouch holding the basic essentials for his journey. He is so optimistic and innocent he does not see the cliff right in front of him, despite the warnings of the dog. The Fool stands at the top of a mountain with the entire world ahead of him. When he steps off that cliff, he has made a decision, and started on a path, there is no going back. Until then, he has the potential to go anywhere. There is a bit of unpredictability as we don’t know where he will go, and he has a great deal of courage and bravado, but it is fragile, being the courage of naivete. He represents new beginnings and a fresh start, the potential for anything and everything. He is naive, joyous, and excited to meet the wonders of the world head on. by: Emily Gabbert
The Fool
In the Cards
Number: 0 Planet: Uranus Kabbalistic Path: Aleph Element: Air
Image from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fool_(Tarot_card)
Fire - Sun - Projective
Technically fossilized resin of the pine tree rather than a gemstone, amber carries many similar traits associated with pine, like strength and love. While it comes in a variety of colors including blue and green, it is most commonly a translucent, glowing yellow and orange. Because of its radiant color and warmth, amber is associated with the sun and fire. This makes it a projective stone even though its healing, caring nature connects it with feminine or receptive deities. While amber invokes the sun, its status as a fossil lends itself to ancestral and spirit work. This shows balance, making it especially pertinent to this time of year as it represents the waning sun moving into the darker months. Take note of any insects or creatures petrified in the amber as that can emphasize certain metaphysical qualities. Amber is often imitated in glass or plastic; genuine amber will be warm to the touch and smells sweet when heated rather than repugnant as plastic often does. by: Marietta Williams
Image created by Marietta Williams / Witchy Words
Healing - Love - Luck - Protection - Strength
END.
Crystal Corner
The Restorer Allheal, Amber Heal, Goat Weed, Klamath Weed The plant that speaks to Summer Solstice for me is St. John’s Wort. The plant takes its name from St. John the Baptist for it usually begins to bloom on his feast day, June 24th. One legend claims the plant grew from the blood of St. John when he was beheaded, and the red oil from its glands represents his blood. Wisewoman herbalist, Susun Weed, calls this plant St. Joan’s Wort because she believes that Joan knew much more about burning than John did. St. John’s/Joan’s is used in the treatment of burns. This plant is about the sun. Bringing sunshine into our daily lives. I find such joy from seeing the plant, collecting is bright flowers, making medicine and then using that medicine to bring comfort to myself and others. by: Kahla Wheeler-Rowan
Hypericum perforatum
“Vitality springing from deep roots.”
Image from:: https://tinyurl.com/ydy5pby7
Always consult a Doctor or Pharmacist before ingesting herbal supplements.
St. John's Wort
Protect from evil eye
Gifts of Gaia
Heartland Pagan Festival
by: Laurie Sherman
by: Sean Manning
Kansas City Pagan Pride Day is a local event that happens each Fall as part of a worldwide effort to bring Pagan communities together in celebration and community service. Pagan Pride is a one day event for promoting connection in local pagan communities, pride in our identities as Pagans, and education about various Pagan paths and ideas for anyone coming to the festival. While most Pagan Pride festivals generally have a public ritual, Kansas City’s typically has three throughout the day, performed by different local covens and groves. Every event also includes a food drive, Kansas City’s benefiting Harvesters. Pagan Pride day in Kansas City features vendors from local businesses, information booths for a variety of local pagan and metaphysical organizations, a kid’s entertainment area, and often local Tarot and Oracle readers. There are a variety workshops throughout the day, as well as musicians and other performers for entertainment. The festival also holds a silent auction that raises money for a local charity. Kansas City Pagan Pride includes a Community Service Award, given to someone, locally nominated and voted upon, who has given outstanding service to the local community. The 2017 Kansas City Pagan Pride Day festival will be held on September 10 at Merriam Marketplace in Merriam, KS. For more information please visit http://www.kcppd.com/ or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KCPPD/.
In the mid-80’s, there were no Pagan festivals anywhere near the Kansas City area. A small group of interested folks organized the first Heartland Pagan Festival in 1986. After another successful festival the following year, the Heartland Spiritual Alliance was founded to help organize and manage the development of the festival. In 1992, Heartland found a permanent home at the Gaea Retreat Center near McLouth, Kansas, a peaceful nature retreat that hosts many other events and festivals and is open for camping throughout the year. Heartland Pagan Festival is now one of the largest Pagan festivals in the Greater Kansas City Area. Held over five days during Memorial Day weekend every May, Heartland features notable guest speakers, high energy musical performances, numerous community run workshops and presentations, ritual activities, merchants, and nightly bonfires. Festival attendees can participate as much (or as little) as they like, whether they wish to engage is as many activities as possible or enjoy their time swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing with friends. Heartland provides a unique space for members of the Pagan community to connect and share memorable experiences with each other. Visit kchsa.com for more information on upcoming festivals, or contact us at kchsapr@gmail.com.
Festivals and Fairs
Pagan Pride Day
by: Sylvia Vallatton
KC Metaphysical is local organization that runs events in the Kansas City area. The main event we organize is the KC Metaphysical Fair. This is a larger metaphysical/psychic fair that is held three times a year in Overland Park, KS. Our fairs offer a variety of readers including mediums, tarot, animal psychics, astrologers, numerologists, energy work, and more. There are several stone and jewelry vendors to explore, books, tarot, magical tools (wands, staves, etc), candles, artwork, aura photos, herbs & health, statuary, and so much more. Approximately 45 vendors & readers total. Our organization started in 2010 and with support & love from the community it has grown. We have also organized events such as a conference style Pagan/Metaphysical/Spiritual event, an herbal festival, Metaphysical business networking events and smaller reader style fairs.Quality of our readers and vendors set us apart. Thus, most readers are “vetted”. KC Metaphysical strives to be an all-inclusive community metaphysical event. All spiritualities are welcome to come learn, heal & enjoy. We offer workshops every hour, each day. There are always door prizes each hour and other ways to be entered to win other prize packages. Our fairs are in March, July and November. Our next fair is July 7, 8, & 9 at the Abdallah Shrine Center at 5300 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS. For more info visit our website at www.kcmetaphysical.com and check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kcmetaphysical for the newest news and contests!
KC Metaphysical Fair
Gaea Goddess Gathering
by Conswelia McCourt
Gaea Goddess Gathering (GGG) is a festival for all women. Started in 1997, the festival is a four-day women’s spiritual and educational event focusing on the celebration of the Goddess in every woman. This year’s theme “Through the Strength of the Mother We Rise” will be the festival’s 21st consecutive event. Featured speakers at this year’s festival will be Dr. Tamara Agha-Jaffar, professor and author of Women and Goddesses in Myth and Sacred Text, and Hillary Shields, co-founder of Indivisible KC. In addition to the featured speakers, GGG host multiple workshops and social activities including a talent show and concert featuring Jorian Oxygen. In addition to the wonderful workshops and social events, GGG is the only festival for women in the area that has Rites of Passage for Maiden, Mother, and Crone. As a girl transitions from young girl to young Maiden, we invite the women of the festival to join us in providing words of love and guidance. As a Maiden becomes a Mother, we bring together other women to embrace the joy and trials that come with this new stage of our lives. Finally, we celebrate women who grace us with their experience and wisdom through our Croning ceremony. Gaea Goddess Gathering will be held this year on Thursday, September 14th through Sunday, September 17th at Gaea Center Retreat. For more information, find our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/gaeagoddessgathering or our website at: www.gaeagoddessgathering.org
The Psychical Research Society was founded in 1971. Led by Dr. Lee Randall, PRS is a group of metaphysically minded individuals who want to share their thoughts, interests, and insights with others.This non-profit organization offers programs throughout the year on a wide variety of topics. We are always looking for people wanting to share their insight on the metaphysical world. PRS will once again celebrate their Fall Psychic Fair held October 20th-22nd this year. This is the oldest and largest fair held in the Kansas City area on the metaphysical. We’ve moved to a new location: The Kansas City National Guard Armory located in Kansas City, Kansas. The fair is three days for one price which includes free lectures. If you are interested in becoming a member, please visit our website at www.prskc.org for more information. We also offer a free membership for working as a volunteer at our fair. Working a single shift of 4 hours yields a 6 month membership and working 8 hours spread over the three day period would give you a year membership! It’s a worthwhile endeavor. We hope to talk with you soon!
Holly Holly Holly Days Sale
by: Conswelia McCourt
Psychical Research Society
Holly Holly Holly Days Craft and Art Sale (HHH) is a professional holiday venue for women crafters to share their wares with the local community, to assist in raising funds for Gaea Goddess Gathering and local families in need. This event has been held the first weekend of December every year for over 30 years. This year the event will be held again at the Ararat Shrine, 5100 Ararat Dr., Kansas City, MO 64129, Dec. 2nd and 3rd. Doors open at 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. HHH is free and open to the public! HHH is a wonderful opportunity to purchase holiday gifts for all those you love, and support women artists and crafters, local families, and a local women’s festival. Artists and crafters interested in vending at this event can contact HHH staff at HHH@gaeagoddessgathering.org.
by: Roberta Hustead
by: Kolika Kirk
~ 1 1/2 cups masa/fine cornmeal/cornflour ~ 1/2 cup polenta/grits ~ 2 oz (1/2 a stick) butter(you can also do coconut oil), warmed and soft, but not quite melted ~ 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed tight ~ 1/2 cup granulated sugar ~ 1 egg ~ Zest and juice of 3 limes(or lemons) The juice should equal 1/4 cup. If you don't have enough, just add a little water...it'll be fine ~ 1/2 tsp baking powder ~ 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Practice good mise en place by gathering all of your ingredients first, then preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Combine all of the dry ingredients. Whip the butter in the bowl of your standing mixer with the paddle attachment, or with a wooden spoon if you don't have a standing mixer. Combine the sugars and add to the bowl, and beat until light and very fluffy. Add in the zest of your limes, now, too. Scrape down the bowl and add the egg, beating well until combined. Make sure your egg is completely incorporated before adding the dry ingredients. Add the dry stuff about 1/3 at a time, then mix to combine. Add your citrus juice, which should have equaled about 1/4 cup of liquid. This will create a very moist cookie dough. Scoop and drop onto prepared sheet pans. There are many ways you can finish this cookie. For example, you could drop the unbaked balls of batter into a bowl of granulated sugar, roll it around, and bake it like that to create a crackly sugar crust. You could also press a fork into each dough drop criss-cross style for a nice look. This recipe is EXTREMELY versatile and you can do many things with it to change the flavor without really ruining it. Bake in the oven for about 9 minutes, then check for doneness. You might need more or less time, depending on your oven and the humidity in the area. Let these cookies cool COMPLETELY, as they are very crumbly when warm and will fall apart. Happy baking and happy eating!
Gluten Free Cornmeal Cookies
Out of the Cauldron
Photo by Kolika Kirk
Slowly melt down shea butter in pan on stove. Remove from heat and let cool down some. Whip eggs well, stirring deosil (clockwise), and add to shea butter. Add essential oils and contents of E capsules (squeeze out the oil). Stir ingredients deosil to manifest growth, health, and shine. (I verbalize what I want to manifest while stirring). Apply to hair starting at scalp. Massage gently into scalp and work shea butter treatment throughout the rest of hair. Wrap hair in shower cap or plastic bag and relax for 20 to 30 minutes. (Great time to meditate or read a good article in your favorite magazine). Wash and rinse hair as usual. (I do this in the evenings so I can comb out my hair under the moon. I have a spell I verbalize as I comb. Get creative and write one up!!! You will be amazed at the results!) NOTE: Stirring deosil is for bringing about growth, health and shine. You can also stir this widdershin for the reversing of any damage done to your hair. Verbalize what you want removed or taken away. This is one of my favorite personal magickal recipes. I have been using it for several years. I encourage you to be creative with it by adding your own words of manifestation. It works!
~ 1 to 2 eggs (depending on hair length) ~ ¼ to ½ cup unrefined Shea Butter (depending on hair length) ~ 3 to 4 drops pure essential frankincense oil ~ 1 to 2 drops pure essential myrrh oil ~ 2 vitamin E capsules
Kissed with Magic Hair Treatment
Image from: https://tinyurl.com/y7g42q53
Written by Laurie Sherman, The Contemplative Crone comes from over 30 years of experience in Divination, Urban Witchcraft, Multicultural Folk Magic and Eclectic Paganism. Each quarterly column will offer information or advice on everything from divination to path work, ritual practices to spellwork, as well as navigating the social aspects of Pagan living, and living as an open Witch in the mundane world.
Witchcraft and the Information Age Before the internet, finding information on practicing authentic Witchcraft was challenging. With luck, you could find a book with a list of good references in the back, or get a mail order catalog from a publisher, and slowly build a reference library. Being a Witch meant countless hours of pouring through books, sifting contradictory information, hoping to find something valuable. There were no guarantees in any book, and even a known author did not guarantee a spell or ritual would work, or was safe. For many who started practicing before the internet, like myself, this was how we entered the craft, not with a click, but with the turn of the page, determined to find what we were looking for to build our path. We now live in a click and paste, internet existence. It now takes no time at all to find any spell with a simple Google search. There are countless pages and people sharing spells and random information on Facebook and the rest of the web without any thought of responsibility for what they are putting out, or even the safety of those who find it with the notion of using it. With the creation E-books and self-publishing, it is now possible for anyone to print anything, anywhere, regardless of whether it is true, functional, or safe. Because of this, here are a few tips for wading through all the Witchcraft that is now readily available on the world wide web. "Being a Witch meant countless hours of pouring through books, sifting contradictory information, hoping to find something valuable." 1) Nobody is golden (not even me). It does not matter if it came from Scott Cunningham or someone hands it to you, claiming to be a 7th generation Caster, initiated on their Grandmother’s kitchen table. If you didn’t write it, or directly witness the spell/ritual being done successfully, it is not to be taken as a functional spell or ritual. Everyone makes mistakes. Someone may have jotted the spell down to be looked over later, never getting back to it. The person who typed or edited an author’s work could have misread something. There are authors who intentionally included false spells or ambiguous information in their work. Nobody is Golden. "Craft a path you understand fully and can be proud of as your own creation." 2) There are no 100% reliable webpages or Facebook groups/pages. We are added to a group or have pages recommended to us because someone runs it who is friends of some 8th degree Jedi Wizard. There is nothing wrong with belonging to a group or liking a page. While there are some people and groups who are experienced, intelligent and responsible enough to think about what they post, not all pages are like that. There are people who claim to have experience who do nothing but copy and paste what they find on Google as their own work, without understanding what they are posting. Furthermore, you have people who post things that are dangerous without any warnings or cares as to the safety of others. There is simply no such thing as a 100% reliable webpage or Facebook group/page. 3) QUESTION EVERYTHING. It doesn’t matter where you found it, whether in the book of a well-known, well-respected author, a web page/group, your Grandmother’s sock drawer or on the bathroom wall at your favorite book shop, question it. Never take anything, no matter how old or awesome it may seem, at face value. It never hurts to give anything a second look, yet it may hurt a whole lot more if you don’t. Question Everything. Witchcraft was never meant to be taken at face value, handed over with the click of a link, turn of a page. It is meant to be a slow, experiential learning process where you examine everything before you incorporate it into your craft. While technology has made available more information than ever before, it also brings with it things that may not necessarily be functional, or even worse, dangerous. There is a great deal of responsibility that comes with being a Witch. Some do not understand this, or do not care. It is up to you, for your own safety and peace of mind, to not take anything at face value. Put your own energy, your own words into your craft, not only so your spell/ritual is functional, but so you craft a path you understand fully and can be proud of as your own creation. It’s a lot of work in this world of fast answers and fast food, but I promise, in the end, it really is worth it. Blessings, Laurie Sherman
with Laurie Sherman
Contemplative Crone
Mabon: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Autumn Equinox by Diana Rajchel Click here to purchase.
Bookshelf
Lughnasadh: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for Lammas by Melanie Marquis Click here to purchase.
St John's Wort WiseWomanTradition Click here to watch on Youtube.
Witchy Words: August Eve Rituals
Demeter and Persephone (Greek Myths) by Hugh Lupton and Daniel Morden Click here to purchase.
Wanna B. Gourmande Click here for more recipes.
Witchy Words: Fall Equinox Rituals
The Tarot Workbook: A Step by Step Guid to Discovering the Wisdom of the Cards by Neville Drury Click here to purchase.
Wicca Calendar Google Play App Click here to download.
PrairieWise Herb School Materia Medica 2017 Edited and Revised by Kahla Rowan-Wheeler Click here for more info
Amber: Window to the Past by David A. Grimaldi Click here to purchase.
ThoughtCo: John Barleycorn
Thank you!! We appreciate the support of all of those contributing articles, images, creative works, time, editing, advertising, sharing, and moral support while we put together the first edition of our magazine. Please take our survey and let us know how we can improve for the next issue! The Center Spiral Survey thecenterspiral@gmail.com thecenterspiral.blogspot.com facebook.com/thecenterspiral An extra special Thank You to The Center Spiral staff. This would not have happened without the help of all of you. You are all an amazing inspiration and team of support and integral in making this become a reality and continue to grow. Thank you. -Emily Gabbert
