|
The Crystal Well was a Pagan newsletter, begun in 1965, that evolved into a respectable quarterly magazine by the time it ceased publication in the mid-1970’s. While the magazine reflected, and in many ways helped to define, NeoPagan culture and tradition of that era, the rituals published in it were the most popular feature. Ed Fitch, involved with the magazine from its inception, has gathered together a collection of Crystal Well rites and rituals for virtually any Wiccan occasion, from Dedicating an Infant to Rites for the Dead and everything in between. This book serves as an introduction to modern Pagan lore and to both seasonal and personal celebrations. While the rituals were designed to be performed in a group, the material is easily adapted to solitary practice. Described are rites and festivals for each season, various lunar rituals, earth magic, including an American Indian (sic) prelude, magical dances, candle spells, guided meditations and assorted rites of passage. Considered a “classic primer” by some, this book reflects the era in which it was created, both by its approach to its subject matter and by its overblown and intrusive graphics and illustrations. Still, there is a lot here of value to contemporary readers interested in basic NeoPagan information and ritual guidelines.
|
Magical
Rites from the Crystal Well
