The Schedule for Merry Meet 2008:
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THURSDAY: Leadership Institute
A single track of workshops geared towards helping our community leaders be
better leaders.
Thursday's Workshops:
Intensive Healing with Vortices presented by Brook Still
9:00 - 1:00
As leaders we hold space for others to heal, to grow to afford each student the opportunity to step into their own power. In doing this, we can only hold space for the things we have cleared ourselves. In this workshop, you will find a powerful and nurturing space to help you heal so you can be of greater service to your covens. So the question is, are you ready to really let go of the past and journey into a space of profound healing?
If your answer is yes, then come and experience one of the most profound healings available today! Working on all levels of your body simultaneously, let go of what has been holding you back from experiencing divine love and true self-healing.
In this workshop we open a powerful vortex of healing through Mother and Father God directly linked with the Masters. Through guided meditation, music, energy and the shared knowledge from Avatar Derek O’Neill, you can truly know what it means to have the truth set you free!
Many who’ve attended Brook’s workshops have described the healing they’ve received in a few short hours as the equivalent to years of therapy. Get to your core issues easily, effortlessly and finally release them!
Rediscovering the Joy presented by Amber K & Azrael Arynn K
2:00 - 6:00
Remember how much FUN Witchcraft was, when you first started? Is it still that much fun, or have your obligations as a leader and elder crushed some of the joy from your spirituality? How can you recharge your batteries, relight your fire, recapture some of the wonder of those early days? We have a few answers, and you each have more--let's share.
Meeting Death, Grieving Loss presented by M. Macha Nightmare
6:00 - 8:00
A participatory discussion of our experiences with dying and death, our preparedness for our own deaths, and honoring our own grief. We will do inner work that can bring about surprising intimacy. Come with a willingness to allow your own vulnerability and to respect the vulnerability of others. Based on material from The Pagan Book of Living and Dying, this workshop is designed to do our own personal work.
Opening ritual during the evening.
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FRIDAY: Grand Council (the business meeting for CoG) begins, Merry Meet workshops, and vendors.
Friday's Workshops:
How to Write a Pathworking presented by Patty Gray of the Lady's Cauldron
9:00 - 10:30
A 'pathworking' is similar to a guided meditation. We'll cover the steps in writing your own pathworking, including research, description, touchstones, timing and follow-up. This technique can be used with any tradition to help you discover more about your deities or yourself. I will also lead the group through a pathworking and we'll discuss the results.
Are There Really Witches in Prison? presented by Malendia
9:00 - 10:30
How can COG members best address the growing population of Wiccans and Pagans who are in prison or have been released from prison? Three main action points will be discussed: written correspondence with inmates, working directly with incarcerated people, and receiving released inmates into the community.
Topics covered will include: statistical data on correctional populations, challenges specific and common to correctional populations, principles of restorative justice, constitutional rights of institutionalized persons, current issues in prison reform, and contemplative practices that have shown promise in rehabilitation and addiction treatment in correctional environments.
Talking About Being Pagan presented by Brian Lankford
10:45 - 11:45
The topic of religious beliefs comes up very often in casual discussions and if you actually tell the person you are Pagan, Wiccan, or some other path then the inevitable question which follows is — What’s that? This workshop explores ways of discussing being Pagan with the non-Pagan public in ways that will seem neither threatening nor proselytizing. We will explore some of the common questions asked by non-Pagans and ways of answering those questions. This workshop is for anyone who wants to talk about their faith in either individual or group settings.
A Wort-Cunner's Way presented by Raven Womack
10:45 - 11:45
Wort-cunning or herbal magick is a specialized art of the Craft. While many dabble with herbs and use them ritually or for spellcrafting, the wort-cunner’s magick and traditions are more plant-centric than many Pagans’. Come and discuss the theory, reality and philosophy of modern wort-cunning.
Introduction to Wheat Wheaving presented by William & Angela
1:30 - 3:30
This class focuses on beginning weaving techniques along with how to prepare straw for weaving, sources, and stories. In this class each student will make both weavings (a harvest knot & Bridget's Cross). All materials and supplies are provided. For an example of the project go to www.weaversharp.com.
Secrets of the Mexican Shamans presented by Brook Still
1:30 - 3:00
The Mexican shamans are masters in their awareness on how “the all affects the all”. Come join Brook and learn the Mayan secrets on utilizing energy that you didn’t even know you were wasting. Start working with the knowledge of creating a new perspective on how to use every iota of energy, every iota of light you extend to be of the highest benefit to yourself and others.
Maximum of 22 students. Please bring a pen and notepad.
Ethics Training as a Student Screening Tool presented by Catherine Duncan
4:00 - 5:30
With the popularization of our faith, it is ever more important to select ethical students. Ethics can be used as a screening tool to pick people for craft training, and as a diagnostic tool for established students. Ethics can be a controversial issue, but this class is less about specific ethos than their use as a diagnostic and screening tool.
Merry Mead Making Part 1 presented by John Morgenstern
4:00 - 4:45
Mead, or honey wine is so ancient a beverage that the linguistic root for mead, “Medhu” is the same in all Indo-/’European languages; hence it’s important role in many ritualistic practices throughout time.
Learn to start the brew in Part 1 (how to mix it and put into the carboy)
Merry Mead Making Part 2 presented by John Morgenstern
5:00 - 5:45
Learn to finish the bottling in Part 2. This will involve knowing when it is ready, and of course decanting it and probably will involve a taste test (so you know if it is young or not, how to adjust it if it is nasty etc.) In addition anyone doing ‘tasting’ will need to be over 21 so bring ID if you look young. :P
Mandated Reporting for Clergy presented by Catherine Duncan
7:15 - 8:30
A review of the pertinent laws requiring clergy to be mandated reporters for child abuse, and discussion of how to reconcile legal mandate within Wiccan principles. Presentation of how to recognize child abuse. (As this topic may be disturbing to some, recommend only clergy (priest/ess, HP/HPS) attend.)
Besom Brigade presented by M. Macha NightMare
7:15 - 8:30
Reclaim the stereotypical Witch, the hag with her pointy black hat. Join in the fun of learning synchronized broom twirling to silly songs and chants. The besom brigade is a real crowd-pleaser. Bring your witch’s hat, a lightweight broom, and a sense of the absurd. (Your treasured gnarled besom may make your spells more powerful, but for twirling try to find a slim aluminum-handled or silver-painted broom, often only $3.99 at Target. Avoid blistered hands and tired arms.)
Main Ritual with Sigrid and Robert of Bran Faol Reannag
9:00 pm
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SATURDAY: Grand Council, Merry Meet workshops, performances, book signing and vendors.
Saturday's Workshops:
Quantum Physics & Magical Theory presented by Fellowship of the Illumination Covenstead
9:00 - 10:30
Long has it been forseen a time where science and magic converge and a greater understanding of life, existence and reality is then unveiled before us. Quantum physics suggests such a possibility and with its introduction into the public arena new possibilities and understanding unfold before us. This workshop shall address the seven fundamental principles of quantum physics and how they correlate and impact magical theory.
Introduction to the Numerology of the Pythagoreans presented by Grace
9:00 - 10:30
What did Pythagoras actually teach about Numerology in the 6th Century BCE? The only written material we have is fragments of his teachings from some of his followers a couple of centuries later. Modern scholars have pulled this information together, translating it into English. Grace has been studying these works and has distilled the essence of Pythagorean thought about Numbers.
Come find out how the ancient Pythagoreans really viewed Numbers and discover an entirely different approach to these amazing little tools that we use so thoughtlessly as to assign sequential sequences of them to our homes, the districts of our cities, our communication devices, and even to each other.
Podcasting For Pagans presented by Peter Paddon
10:30 - 12:00
Ever wanted to be the Pagan Billy Graham? No, me neither, but podcasting (audio or video shows on the internet and iTunes) is an excellent tool for teaching, networking and outreach, and they provide a valuable service to your fellow Pagans. Learn how to find them, listen to them, and create them yourself.
Beaded Peyote-Stitch Bracelet presented by Carol Cunningham
10:30 - 12:00
Step into the wonderful world of seed beading! During this workshop, participants will make a beaded bracelet using the peyote stitch and learn how to read a peyote stitch graph. Due to a limited number of kits, the maximum number of participants is 25.
The World of Braiding presented by Phyllis Ukatu
1:30 - 3:00
This workshop aims to teach a few techniques of different braid patterns, as well as their effective uses, from utility purposes to more decorative. Beginners to moderately skilled braiders are welcome. We will be using synthetic kanekalon fibers and cotton/polyester yarn to create these pieces. Materials will be provided. We will cover the basic three strand braid, the Senegalese Twist (or Rope Braid), four strand braids (Prussian, Dereck or box and traditional), five strand braids and The Herringbone (or Fishtail) braid.
Limited to 25 participants.
The Evil Eye: Folk Magic of the Silk Road presented by Tandemonium
1:30 - 3:00
Join us for a presentation about the Evil Eye in Central Asian cultures, what it is, causes, and how to protect against it. Presentation will include a slide show, display of Central Asian costumes, jewelry and charms and a shamanic healing dance.
Clay Meditation presented by Foster & Sheri Holt
1:30 - 3:30
Inspired by the famous psychologist Carl Jung's work, this is a meditation using clay sculpting to connect with one's subconscious mind and the universe. It is a great tool for self-discovery. All materials are supplied.
No late admittance.
Commerce Magick in the Ancient World presented by Tony Mierzwicki
3:15 - 4:45
A brief overview of techniques used by shopkeepers in the ancient world so as to increase and maintain their profits. These techniques are readily applicable for cultivating and optimizing a successful contemporary business. If time and circumstances permit, a short invocation to Hermes, will be included so as to illustrate a technique used to bring customers into a shop. Participants wishing to put commerce magick into practice are encouraged to obtain a small statue of Hermes or Mercury. The Hermes invocation, if performed, can be used to charge this statue.
Mystical Secrets of Music presented by Hobbyhorse
3:15 - 4:45
Everyone is moved by music, but do you know the deeper, spiritual reasons why? This interactive, fun and informative workshop will introduce you to the esoteric meaning of sound and music. It is open to both musicians and non-musicians. Learn about the music of the spheres, the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras, how to use toning to stimulate your chakras, and how to invoke the four elements on one of the oldest instruments: the frame drum. Learn how you, the cosmos, and the awesome power of music are all connected.
Beginning Bellydance presented by Lauren Mazzeo
4:15 - 5:45
An entry into the world of bellydance. Get in touch with your inner goddess! Class will include a warm up and cool down along with basic bellydance movements. Please wear comfortable clothing, and a hip scarf if desired.
A Wort-Cunner's Way presented by Raven Womack
5:00 - 6:00
Wort-cunning or herbal magick is a specialized art of the Craft. While many dabble with herbs and use them ritually or for spellcrafting, the wort-cunner’s magick and traditions are more plant-centric than many Pagans’. Come and discuss the theory, reality and philosophy of modern wort-cunning.
Shielding presented by Estara T'shirai
5:00 - 6:00
Shielding is a basic yet sometimes misunderstood practice. Come and explore some of the various uses and techniques available. This talk is based on Estara's "Shielding" class at the online Grey School of Wizardry.
Book-signing!
7:00 - 7:45
Want to meet your favorite author? Either bring your own copy (or purchase one at MerryMeet) and have a chance to chat with some of your favorite pagan authors including;
* Amber K -- author of True Magick, Covencraft, Ritualcraft (with Azrael Arynn K) and more!
* Azrael Arynn K -- author of Heart of Tarot, Candlemas (both with Amber K) and more!
* Bryan Lankford -- author of Wicca Demystified
* M. Macha Nightmare -- author of The Pagan Book of Living and Dying (with Starhawk et al), Witchcraft and the Web, and Pagan Pride
* Peter Paddon -- author of The Book of the Veil, and Through the Veil, editor of The Crooked Path and director (and star) of the Craftwise spellcrafting series on DVD
* Raven Womack -- author of The Raven's Flight Book of Incense, Oils, Potions and Brews
* Tony Mierzwicki -- author of Graecco-Egyptian Magick
Mythology Show performed by Hobbyhorse
8:00 - 8:45
Ancient Mythology comes alive with an entertaining mix of original songs by folk/rock duo Hobbyhorse. Annie’s poetic lyrics and Phil’s intricate guitar work will enchant you and transport you directly into the symbolic world of myth. Their songs are inspired by stories from around the world about the Gods and Goddesses, and timeless themes such as creation, love and loss, renewal, and the end of time.
Masquerade Ball "Come as your Favorite Fae!" with DJ MistressPrime
8:45 - ?
Cash bar will be available.
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SUNDAY: Possible continuation of Grand Council if business was not completed by end of day on Saturday.
Closing ritual, end of Merry Meet 2008.
