Temple of the Dark Moon
FULL MOON GATHERINGS REPORT
March 2004
Once in the month,
and better it be when the Moon is full ...
The first Full Moon Gathering organised by the Temple of the Dark Moon took place on 6 March 2004 at Grange Beach, Adelaide. Twelve people, some new to Paganism and some not so new, including one interstate visitor, braved the windy conditions and the cooling temperatures to attend.
Despite spending the afternoon constructing some format in which to run these Gatherings, from the onset it seemed to took on a life of its own - providing me with many lessons:
- Lesson 1 - what looks good on paper does not necessary work in the sand.
- Lesson 2 - the new agey welcoming song sung at a psychic development course I once attended does not have the same appeal some six years later.
While a formalised circle casting was omitted, the Elemental quarters were invoked before energy was raised while singing the Goddess chant and performing a spiral dance.
- Lesson 3 - if the direction of the spiral dance should change, at least warn participants otherwise they will greet the sand face first.
Behind the clouds the beautiful Moon could be seen and every now and then she would give us a glimpse of her brilliant light. With this imagery, we visualised drawing the Moon's rays down into ourselves during which time I read the "Orphic Hymn to the Moon" and Doreen's Valiente's "Invocation to the Moon Goddess". Some were moved to share the visions they had received which was followed by singing "We all come from the Goddess" then each person gave thanks for their experiences (and some challenges) over the last month.
Another chant was offered up before we gathered in a close circle for a final power raising. Finally the Elemental quarters were thanked and dismissed as the brilliant Moon disappeared behind the ever-increasing cloud. With one final song, we then departed to the warmer surrounds of the local pub for a well-earned hot chocolate (or something stronger).
While reflecting over something a tad stronger than a hot chocolate, I was ecstatic of how out of total chaos, something fantastic had just occurred. Everyone had enjoyed themselves - from the novices right through to the more experienced - with comments circulating about what the next Gathering could consist of. A dream became a reality and I would like to thank all those who attended as well as the beautiful Goddess of the Moon herself, for making it possible.
Until next month - lunar blessings, Frances
Dates for the next Full Moon Gatherings
