December 31, 2013

New Year's Blessings


Lawrence Durdin-Robertson wrote in his book, "Juno Covella" under Dec. 31st:
 
"Hestia, Vesta. Ever-living flame of the hearth.
Life is eternal, and manifests - by rebirth through, the Mothers.
Fires and candles re-lighted from past flame.
Life renewal."
 
Happy 2014 from the Fellowship of Isis Homepage Archive!
 
 
("The Fiery Mother" illustration by Olivia Robertson, 2005)

http://www.fellowshipofisis.com

December 29, 2013

The Dark Moons of Winter

 
Hear a short audio clip of Olivia Robertson during an FOI ritual:
 
(mp3/21 sec/85kb)

Transcript:
"The dark moons of winter bring initiation to the soul who would penetrate the Abyss, and so learn the occult knowledge of the Tree of Life, which bears the Spheres as its fruit - the Spheres of Being!"



(Photo of snowfall at the Foundation Center Castle, sent by Olivia many years ago. Audio and photo copyright reserved)

December 22, 2013

Winter Solstice Festival

 
WINTER SOLSTICE at FOUNDATION CENTRE
IRELAND 21.12.2013
By:  Minette Quick

The day of the Solstice dawned with the crash of thunder and lightning and downpours of rain…..

Then it cleared for several hours and reports were heard that the annual gathering at Newgrange in Co. Meath of those fortunate enough to have won tickets in the national draw to greet the long-awaited dawn were treated to the rare and magnificent sight of the light pouring down the central passage in which they stood right inside Ireland’s ancient and world-famous passage grave.

By the time our Fellowship members had gathered at the Castle later in the day, several further waves of wild, windy and wet weather had swept the country and there was certainly no possibility of processing round the grounds, so we entered the Temple of Isis by Persephone’s Shrine and Garden Gate and all Invocations were made at Brigid’s Well of Truth. The atmosphere shone most beautifully and Lady Olivia’s presence could be felt in her beloved Temple throughout the Ceremony which had been planned, coordinated and led by the Rev. Cait Branigan at the request of Olivia’s chosen successor Rev. Cressida Pryor, who of course lives in the United Kingdom. Most beautiful live harp music and song was interspersed by various members throughout our time together, which deepened and enhanced the sense of purity and harmony already present. Olivia would have loved this!

Gathered round the High Altar, we first received a most beautiful and encouraging Oracle from the Goddess of Wisdom, Sophia. Then several members stood forward to take the main parts of an insightful Mystery Play based on the story of Newgrange. Various ideas had been offered by members for inclusion, such as the clarity and brilliance of Arianrhod and the winter constellations, the opposing forces (i.e. the baddies, in Olivia’s traditional and much-beloved format for improvised drama); the Deity bringing the message of the Gods (Arianrhod), the message of Boand (the Modron/Mother) and Oenghus the younger, the Divine Child of Light (the Mabon) at this sacred time, and Oenghus the older, God of Love.

Much could be said of the wisdom offered by each but suffice it to say that the opposing and inner nature of the forces of the ‘baddie’ within us expressed as greed and selfishness, was met by the inspired words of the Goddess, seemingly stern and unbending at times but ultimately working through the cycles of the seasons of life to bring back harmony, the love of the Mother for all and the Birth of the Light and Inner Sun which lies within each one of us ready to burst into new life.

The remainder of this inspiring ceremony was focused on providing and encouraging everyone present to take this opportunity to contribute their personal memories of Olivia. Strands of many coloured wools had been given out to everyone and then collected and braided together as a symbol of the joining of our hearts into a beautiful rainbow rope to grace the High Altar as the stories were told. The fun, the wisdom, the astonishing foresight, the adventures, in short the real, irrepressible phenomenon of nature and the divine that was Olivia came forth in abundance!!! The winter’s cold was more than offset by the warmth of our hearts.

We all retired to Osborne’s famous ‘coaching inn’ in the Village afterwards for hot tea and our traditional informal time together and for many more happy memories of a great lady whom so many met and were inspired by during her long and fruitful life. Her influence will last in the lives of us all for many years yet.

Much happiness to everyone throughout the Fellowship at this special time, and every blessing for the coming New Year in 2014.

Minette Quick

Warm thanks to Minette for sharing her beautiful accounts with FOI members and gratitude to all members of the Circle of Brigid for continuing the tradition of the festivals at Clonegal Castle.


Events at Clonegal Castle

December 21, 2013

Shrine of Capricorn

 
Blessings of the Solstice and the Sun in Capricorn!  Please click on the link below to hear a historic audio clip of Olivia Robertson giving a meditation on the Window of Capricorn in the Zodiac Temple:
 
(mp3 file - 517 kb - 2:12 mins)
 
Audio transcript:
"We move towards the North, to the window of Capricorn.  It is mighty and vivid with colors that seem to be alive.  Above the window is the sign of Capricorn.  We see a stained-glass picture of a goat, with fish's tail, accompanied by a green man crowned with leaves, and a mermaid holding a cornucopia - every sort of good thing, fruit and wheat.  We like the green man too, with his comical expression, his golden halo and his antlers and his leaves. However, suddenly the wind blows the window open and we face the actual constellation of Capricorn in its spiritual form.. . The Magi of old called Capricorn "Altera Solis Porta", the starry gateway for souls to enter heaven.  Here we gaze at the stars and hope for a vision of the Earth Goddess, who is our Goddess of the Earth, Nerthus.  For we know that She is crowned with the stars, holds the earth in her hands and has the moon on Her brow and the sun as a robe.  We accept the gifts of earth - trees and flowers and animals and birds.  We adore Her and She is in all beings, as is Her green Consort.  We are whole.  May the blessings of the Goddess Nerthus bring you wisdom and peace, now and forever."
 
 
(Photo of an older version of the Shrine of Capricorn in the Castle Temple.  Womb/Grael Tapestry by Lisa Fonkert and the winged-Brigid figure was carved by David Durdin-Robertson. Photo and audio copyright reserved)
 
Archival Links:  Online Audio Gallery & FOI Ritual CDs


December 17, 2013

Castle Grounds


"The garden is counted to be the second oldest garden in Ireland.  The terraces were laid out by Alexander (ii) Durdin in about 1860.  Much of the wilderness was tilled, for root crops.  The terraces were dug down about 4 feet and the bank removed by the Rev. Lawrence Durdin-Robertson, who also filled in the path on the southeast side of the Castle and the path running from the house to the centre walk."

Quote from the booklet "Clonegal Castle," by Lawrence Durdin-Robertson.
 
 
(photo by Stacy S., copyright reserved)
 

December 15, 2013

Fortuna, Creation through the Goddess

 
Apologies for being a little behind in our bookstore announcements.  "Fortuna, Creation through the Goddess" has been available in paperback from Amazon since October.  Here how Olivia Robertson described this book in the introduction:
 
"The rites in this book are dedicated to the Goddess of Fate, Fortuna. They involve a three-fold woven plait derived from alchemy, myth and astrology. Each begins with an Oracle that presents the Theme. A Candidate who is represented in each Rite declares the Magical Intention. A succession of cards from the Marseille deck have to be interpreted during the twelve Rites, to give the Candidate a symbolic key. During the initiatory journey, the Candidate is faced with the robed Goddess of Wisdom, Themis, holding the scroll of Sybilline prophecies. During succeeding Rites, the Conjuror teaches control of the four elements of consciousness. The raising of the serpent Fire of Life within is demonstrated by La Force, a woman with lion emerging from her body. When the Candidate has ritually undergone the five-fold Initiation of hanging, death, the Angel, the Devil, Heavenly Lightning and The Judgement, the lunar, solar and starry spheres are experienced, culminating in a vision of the Cosmic Goddess of the Zodiac. Themis removes her veil and reveals herself as the naked Fortuna surrounded by the four Guardians of the zodiac. During each Rite, having interpreted Tarot symbolism, the Candidate is offered a Mystery drama, drawn from world mythology. Related to present-day events, the Candidate is introduced to the tragic King Oedipus as a modern atomic physicist. The cursed Ring of Norse myth represents a circle of volcanic eruptions: the antediluvian Cesara's ark becomes a modern seed-gathering spaceship. The third strand of this plait involves a series of magical journeys through the twelve zodiacal houses. The Temple of the Zodiac is visualised as etheric, and therefore nearest to our physical world. Through this Temple the Candidate experiences psychic, spiritual and divine spheres. Thus the macrocosm is revealed through creative imagination as the source of the microcosm. The incomprehensible magnificence of the stars offers infinite possibilities for our own gift of creation. Time and place become fluid, material for the cosmic artist, co-creating with the Deities. Even the physical earth can be changed for good. This realisation brings the candidate back to earthly tasks. A child's drawing of a tiger calls on us all to preserve tigers from extinction. A dream of an Arcadian tree reminds us to protect rain forests. Inspired by the Goddess of Fate, we know what to do."
 
 
All of the FOI Liturgy may always be read in full for free:  Online Liturgy
 
 
(All books are also being made available to obtain through local libraries.)

December 13, 2013

Fellowship of Isis Prayer


"We thank you our Holy Mother Isis
for your Love, Beauty and Truth,
which surround us now and evermore."



(Isis blessing plants carving by David Durdin-Robertson at the Castle Temple.  Photo by Minette Quick.)

More FOI Prayers

December 8, 2013

Upcoming memorials for Olivia Robertson

Homepage Archive: There are still several memorials for Olivia Robertson coming up, including those in Northern California, Chicago and London - more information at the link below. If you wish to have your event included, please contact us:
 

(Olivia walking the Castle grounds courtesy of Dennis Murphy, Logic Reality. Copyright reserved.)

December 5, 2013

Photo of Olivia


Olivia Robertson at the Castle gate.  This is a still photo from the previously posted dvd clip.  Our thanks to Dennis Murphy of Logic Reality for sharing this.

December 2, 2013

DVD Clip of Olivia Robertson

Our thanks to the producers of Olivia Robertson's DVD, Olivia, Priestess of Isis, for sharing this new video clip.  Dennis Murphy and Steven Jones write:  "This was the last time we filmed dear Olivia. The last look through the temple window." 

We will embed the video at a later time, when Blogger is more cooperative - in the meantime, you can go directly to the Youtube link:





(Olivia's video may be ordered from this link:  Logic Reality)

December 1, 2013

Oracle of Grainne


As we continue our work within the Fellowship of Isis community, we give a grateful and loving salute to the spirit of Olivia Robertson.  The FOI Oracle for this month is from the Goddess Grainne.  As far as we know, this has not be printed in any of the FOI Liturgy.  You can read and also hear an audio clip of this from a past ritual with  Lawrence Durdin-Robertson as the Priest Hierophant and Olivia Robertson as the Oracle at the following link:

 
 
 
(photo by Dennis Murphy, Logic Reality)

November 27, 2013

 
A small but historic photo, one of Olivia's favorites of she and her brother Lawrence Durdin-Robertson in the Temple sanctuary.  It was one of the first photos she shared online back in 1999.
 
 
 
(This photo has been enlarged and enhanced from the original.)

November 23, 2013

Minette Remembers Olivia Robertson

 
Minette Quick has kindly shared her experience of the day of Olivia's services, which we posted here:
 
Our sincere thanks to all who have been sending in their notices of their memorials and photos of Olivia. They are all welcomed at any time and included on our website.
 
 
(Olivia Robertson's desk in her drawing room at the Castle)

November 21, 2013

The Occult Experience Video Clip



We wanted to re-share this historic video with you. It is clip from the 1987 video, “The Occult Experience." The quality is not the best , but it is a lovely remembrance of Olivia Robertson and her brother Lawrence Durdin-Robertson. It shows them being interviewed, part of the Rebirth ritual and two FOI ordinations. (photos from this video are also included throughout our website, with permission)
 
 
 

November 20, 2013

Honoring Olivia Robertson


We join with members and friends worldwide honoring the great spirit of Olivia Robertson.  Blessings to all Aset Shemsu.



*************
FOI Memorial Ceremonies for Olivia

Dulce Domum - The Soul Returns Home Ceremony of the Fellowship of Isis

Biography of Olivia Robertson

November 19, 2013

Member photos of Olivia Robertson


Members have kindly been sending in their photos of Olivia Robertson, which we are including on this page of our photo gallery:


If you would like to share your photos as well, please email them to:  HomepageArchive@gmail.com

Our sincere thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts and memories of Olivia with us. May Isis bring comfort to all.



(photo of Olivia in New Orleans, copyright Rt. Rev. Cathryn Anne Rogers)

November 18, 2013

Fellowship of Isis: Dulce Domum Ritual


Since so many members are enacting the "Dulce Domum" ritual for Olivia Robertson, we are reminding you of the links to obtain it - both in html and printable pdf formats.

Here is what Olivia wrote about this rite: "My whole endeavour in our 'Dulce Domum' - Gentle Home - ceremony is to emphasise the continuance of the "dead" person in the next life, whatever their faith. It has been used and helps people to bear the fundamental attitude that soul and spirit are only functions of the brain and are no more - at death. Even witches when they honoured my brother's passing, only seemed to dwell on his living on in our memories! I think people are far less psychic these days owing to an over-emphasis on the left-material side of the brain, so atrophying the psychic senses. So I am proud that FOI has always emphasised that The Deities and the whole Company of Heaven are real and immortal. As Their offspring, we partake of this immortality, if only we claim Divine Mother (and Father). And our Spiritual Brothers and Sisters. I feel my role as Archpriestess is to affirm these truths in my own life." (personal correspondence, Jan. 2000)



All are also welcomed to add your memorial ceremonies to this page: Memorial Ceremonies for Olivia

November 16, 2013

Memorial Ceremonies for Olivia Robertson


Please see this page for announcements of the memorial ceremonies being held for Olivia Robertson.  More information will be added as it becomes available.  Feel free to let us know about your own gatherings if you wish them to be included.  Thank you and blessings of Isis to all.

 
 
 (photo of Olivia Robertson by Dennis Murphy, Logic Reality)

November 15, 2013

The Passing of Olivia Robertson

 
From the Rt. Rev. Caroline Wise in London: "Sad news for the Fellowship and the wider Goddess community in the world, Olivia passed away last night. It was peaceful and she had her family with her. Her family ask that the families privacy is respected at this time. Many blessings." (Nov. 15, 2013)
 
 
Please join us in lighting a candle at your altars and wishing Olivia a good journey as the loving wings of the Goddess Isis guide her.

Olivia Robertson's Biography 


The Soul Returns Home Ceremony of the Fellowship of Isis: Dulce Domum

 (photo of Olivia Robertson by Dennis Murphy, Logic Reality)

November 14, 2013

Olivia Painting


Below is a link to more photos of Olivia Robertson painting in her studio, as well as a clip from her DVD as she describes her current painting technique and how she envisions the energy bodies of the Deities:




(photo of Olivia by Dennis Murphy, all rights reserved)

November 12, 2013

Highlighted artwork

 
The Three Mothers
Painting in Clonegal Castle Temple by Olivia Robertson
 
 
 
More Goddess Art of Olivia Robertson:  Art Gallery

November 9, 2013

Attunement and Ancestors


As we join with members attuning to the energies of the international Fellowship of Isis in sending love and healing blessings to Olivia Robertson for her continued recovery, we also take a moment to honor the ancestors of the Durdin-Robertson family.  You may see some of the many family portraits on the walls of Clonegal Castle on this page:
 


(photo of Olivia holding picture of her mother, Nora Durdin-Robertson, by Dennis Murphy of Logic Reality.)

November 7, 2013

Lime Tree Avenue

Exiting Clonegal Castle driveway to town.

"The trees forming the Front Avenue are mainly Lime trees with a few Sycamore; they were planted in 1680 from France. In 1933 Mr. Fitzpatrick, of the Forestry Department, included some of these for measurement. Two of them, on the right side, looking down from the castle were found to be 110 feet, the tallest recorded lime and sycamore in Ireland at that time." 

Quote from the book "Clonegal Castle" by Lawrence Durdin-Robertson



(photo sent by Stacy S., copyright reserved)

November 5, 2013

Book Highlight: Life in the Next World


This book is by the late Lawrence Durdin-Robertson, co-founder of the Fellowship of Isis.  The cover illustration is by Olivia Robertson.  You may read it in full at this link:

(opens a pdf file)
 
 

November 1, 2013

Fellowship of Isis Oracle: Brighid


This month's Oracle is from the Goddess Brighid.  You may read it by going here:

 
 
 
 
(Photo of Olivia by Dennis Murphy from the DVD "Olivia Robertson, Priestess of Isis." All rights reserved.)
 

October 31, 2013

Clonegal Castle Festival Postponement

Message sent to all global centers:

On behalf of the Circle of Brigid, I'm sorry to have to tell you that our planned Festival on Saturday 9th November has had to be postponed to a future date, as Lady Olivia who has been eagerly making arrangements for what was to be a very special event, to take place at Samhain, but relevant at all times, will not now be able to be with us for continued health reasons. This is a great pity but members of the Fellowship worldwide may still wish to tune in on Saturday 9th November, as she originally requested, in support of true Fellowship and wholeness and send her continued loving and healing blessings at this time.

It would be appreciated if members in Ireland could check with anyone they know had intended to be with us on the 9th that they have heard about this change, to save them travelling unnecessarily.

Minette Quick
(Hon. Sec. Circle of Brigid)




Our thanks to Minette and all the Circle of Brigid members for all they do.


(photo of Olivia Robertson in her drawing room, copyright Dennis Murphy of Logic Reality)

October 28, 2013

Historic photo

 
 Olivia writes in Panthea: "The period of Samhain, the 31st October to November 2nd, was used by the Magi of the Gaelic College of Wisdom for initiating candidates into their Mysteries. The chosen Candidate was conducted by the Hierophant through the Dolmen Gateway into the inner chamber of a tumulus. The Sacred Triad of Elders invoked the Presence of the Morrigan, Goddess of the Mysteries. The Candidate was then placed on a sarcophagus and the Maga Hierophant induced in him or her a cataleptic trance. In this death-like state the body was left for three days, guarded by a hound at the foot of the sarcophagus. While the Magi prayed, the soul of the Candidate was guided by a Spirit Guide into the very body of the earth, there to undergo a succession of ordeals.  If successful, the Candidate was then brought back to the surface of the earth and from thence ascended to the spheres of the Moon, Sun and Stars. The successful Candidate spent the winter with the Magi in their College, learning to use wisely the knowledge and powers acquired during the Initiation. On February the first, when pronounced acceptable, the new Maga or Magi was presented to the rejoicing people at the Dolmen Gate, wearing a copper crown or priestly headdress, and holding wand or staff. At this Festival of the Bride of Spring, Brighid, the new member of the College would give a Blessing to all beings, with upraised wand or staff."
 
 
Photo is of a past ritual at Clonegal Castle.  Olivia wrote about this:  "ghostly photo - Initiation of a Candidate".   Olivia and Lawrence Durdin-Robertson are on the far right, consulting the ritual script.

October 23, 2013

Fellowship of Isis audio: Portal of Scorpio


Please click on the link below to hear Olivia describing a meditation of the Portal of Scorpio as she takes on the role of Elaine of the Alchemical twins:

(mp3 / 5:00mins / 1.2mb)

Audio transcript:
"I approach the Western Portals of Scorpio. It looms high above me, supported by two pylons. The lintel is emblazoned by the figure of a golden hawk with outspread wings. On the left is a statue of Selket, the Scorpion Goddess. On the right is Sekhmet Herself. On Her lion’s head She bears the cobra Uachat-Buto and She holds the reed of sovereignty. I realise that when I pass through this gateway I can follow either the occult path of Selket with secret powers, or walk the straight-forward ways of Sekhmet. Lionesses are the huntresses. I follow Her right-hand path.
 
"I find myself just where I dream of in Ancient Egypt! This is an oasis with soaring palm trees and every sort of luxuriant vegetation. No, I'm not in Ancient Egypt, but a copy of Ancient Egypt in the New World. Abundance brings good to everybody. I seat myself under a palm tree along with many well-dressed people of various nationalities, but obviously well-off. I am praising the richness of nature here, but people are laughing at me. They say it's not like Egypt, a desert, as it is.  This oasis is entirely artificial, the water being piped here at great expense. This is by nature temperate desert with no rainfall.
 
"Then a quiet young man sees my concern and tells me that he is making for a dedicated group near who are digging for a spring to discover - he said they are being helped by a wonderful water-diviner. Will I join them? So I rise and follow him and find a group of workers digging on what looks like dry sand and rock under the directions of a man with a pair of large spectacles.
 
"At first I do what they tell me - at first. But suddenly I find myself taking the lead – they are going nowhere! I consult the water-diviner and find a new spot. I dig and on my own I find a crevasse in the rock-face beneath the sand, pull away, and water gushes forth!
 
"I feel in ecstasy, I've never been so proud and happy. Soon groups of people are joining us and they congratulate me on what I've done and I'm just a newcomer.  And they all begin digging. This spring I found is mighty and pure, good water. I've done the right action at the right time, for the land was threatened by drought. But oh, what elation - now I know my life's work, so they tell me.  I've come here - I've been chosen.
 
"But what is this agonizing pain that shoots through my left foot? I am poisoned. I scream. Someone says I've been bitten by a scorpion. I feel angry to be so helpless.  Somebody is trying to help me and I console myself by the thought that now the work will carry on to create an oasis that will bring water to hundreds of people and animals and stop us using up Nature's water, in the wrong way. Yet I feel a stab of fear. I've started all this, but do these people have the right ideas? What are their motives? This digging is getting out of hand. I can no longer control it, as I lie in pain. I call to Sekhmet for help. And then I hear these words as deep as flowing waters:   
 
'My daughter, rivalry poisons the waters of life, which is for all. More cruel than the scorpion’s sting is concealed jealousy disguised as high-mindedness! Share not only the water you have found, but also the glory of the finding of it.'
 
"I see it all. I lie back on the sand under a palm-tree and I leave the work now to others and I enjoy the sun speckling my body through the palm-leaves. And my hands are stroking the sun-warmed mane of a mighty, contented Lioness. As I try to see Her I come back to all. . . so content."

 
(Golden Eyes, Black Night: painting by Olivia Robertson, copyright reserved.)
 
Archival Link:  Audio Gallery

Shrine of Scorpio


The Shrine of Scorpio is located in the Well Chapel of Brighid at Clonegal Castle.  The back panel is by William Morris and the altar cloth shows the FOI Cosmic Web of the Universe.



(Photo copyright P. Cummins, with our thanks.)

Archival link:  Other Zodiac Altars

October 22, 2013

Fellowship of Isis Global Ritual


 
Olivia Robertson announces a world-wide Fellowship of Isis ritual to take place on November 9th, 2013.

You may read the rite at the link below, as well as print out a pdf copy for your own ritual use.  
 
(Photo of Olivia Robertson with FOI members enacting a ritual in the Old Mill Theater, Clonegal Castle. Copyright Dennis Murphy of Logic Reality)

October 18, 2013

Full Moon - Lunar Eclipse


In honor of the full moon and penumbral lunar eclipse, here is "The Triple Moon Goddess, Ngame", illustration by Olivia Robertson.  Listen also to Olivia in this archived recording:

Land of the White Lady
(mp3 /1 min./257kb)

Audio transcript:
"Over a wooded valley, in the fork of the Macha, the frenzied crow, the third aspect of the Goddess Morrigan, where the Slainte river, Slainey of healing, is joined by the river of the Druid oak, the Derry. In the fork of this river is a wooded Castle. It is presided over by the sacred Mt. Leinster, prediluvian, crowned with stones belonging to the past.  Mt. Leinster is indigo in the darkening sky, flanked by two perfectly symmetrical foothills, forming the form of the Triple Goddess.  And when the white moon moves through the three mountains, an eclipse of the moon follows, thus this place is the land of the White Lady, the Goddess of the Moon."


Link: Audio Gallery

October 15, 2013

Pantheon of the Goddesses Shrine

 
"Those who identify with various Goddesses and Gods, who revere and love them, will find integration of consciousness. For there is a Deity for every person, whether humorous, grave, joyful, lively, strong or gentle. Not only is each person represented by a Deity; the ideal lover is also present: for Isis has ten thousand names, and Osiris ten thousand faces. Eros is seen as Love, yet coloured by race, family, feature, according to the devotion of Psyche. And Psyche appears to the Lover with the form and beauty that is for him alone. So Deity is to be sought in meditation: loved in those we know: and discovered through the Mysteries. This is the dark secret of the Underworld: this is the enigma of the Labyrinth. It is a secret that is told by all teachers. It is a spoken secret. Yet words may tell: a sphinx portray: yet only when the secret is experienced is it known. An ear of barley is reaped in Silence."   
 
Olivia Robertson, from the book "Dea, Rites and Mysteries of the Goddess."


(Pantheon of the Goddesses Shrine, Clonegal Castle. Photo copyright Ashera)

Photo Galleries

October 13, 2013

The Isis Wedding Rite - Highlighted Book


Olivia Robertson writes in the introduction:
"'To find the Other is to find Oneself: All Nature is expressed in one loved face.' "So says the Bard of the Druids in our Isis Wedding Rite. To unite with another soul is the goal of the Lover: through this devotion selfishness and loneliness fade away. When twin souls unite in Divine Union, it is through discovery of The Immortal Beloved that they find their own real selves. Such is the truth underlying the Egyptian myth of Isis and Osiris, perfect wife and husband. In classical Greece Plato brought forth the ideal of twin souls divided and discovering reunion through love. Centuries later medieval troubadours travelled throughout Europe singing of fulfilment through the romantic devotion of lovers. Within our secret dreams, we have this knowledge in ourselves."

The Isis Wedding Rite is now available in paperback and may also be read in full, along with all of the FOI Liturgy:


October 11, 2013

FOI Daily Prayer


Fellowship of Isis Daily Prayer

"Holy Goddess Isis, Mother of all beings, come to our hearts.
Grant us, Thy children, Love and Joy, Wisdom and Abundance.
We offer Thee our loving care for all who are born of Thee."


Photo of the High Altar by Minette Quick: "Isis of the New Aeon of Aquarius, carved by David Durdin-Robertson, with watering pot on her head, Bast and Horus. The Rose Crystal at her feet shows Her Love for All."


Archival Link:  FOI Prayers and Blessings

October 7, 2013

Olivia Photo

 
 
A 1994 photo of Olivia Robertson on the grounds of Clonegal Castle.
(photo copyright Ashera)
 
 

October 5, 2013

Remembering Laura and Deena

 

A reminder for those members who wish to attune, that memorials for the Rt. Revs. Laura Janesdaughter and Deena Butta are taking place over this weekend.

Homepage Archive memorials:

Laura Janesdaughter

Deena Butta
 
And for those who are also on Facebook, here are the links for more information on the events:

Laura:
https://www.facebook.com/events/168551343347690/
(today and tomorrow)
 
Deena:
https://www.facebook.com/events/347894935344722/
(today)
https://www.facebook.com/events/649385325085932/
(yesterday)


(photo of the High Altar, Clonegal Castle, copyright Minette Quick)



October 4, 2013

Highlighted artwork: The Twin in the Pool

 
"To know oneself is to look within. 
Gaze in a pool and you will see your twin." 
Olivia Robertson
 


("The Twin in the Pool" artwork by Olivia Robertson, quote from "Nuit of the Milky Way".)

Homepage Archive:  Artwork of Olivia Robertson

October 1, 2013

Oct. Oracle: Goddess Isis

 
The October Oracle of the Month has been uploaded and also includes an audio file of Olivia Robertson:
 
 
 
 
 
(Photo by Dennis Murphy from the DVD "Olivia Robertson, Priestess of Isis." All rights reserved.)
 

September 28, 2013

Old Abbey and Owl Tower

 
"The old ruins to the North of the Castle has always been known as the 'Abbey.' It may have been used by Franciscan monks, or it may have been part of the Augustinian Abbey of Abbeydown, two miles to the East. There are no records (written); it is thought to be over 600 years old. It was kept as a kennel for harriers, by William Durdin. It has two very old cells, which may have been oratory chapels. they have 3'6" roofs and date back to the 15th century."
 
Lawrence Durdin-Robertson
"Guide to Clonegal Castle" 
 
(photo by Olivia Robertson, cropped/enhanced by this website.)
 
More Castle Photos:  Photo Galleries

September 25, 2013

Message from Olivia

Via Pamela from our FOI Facebook page:

"A message from Olivia:

Many thanks for the love and good wishes which we at FOI share from you all. I love to hear from old friends. Love and blessings of Isis to each one of you.

from Olivia,
her great niece Pamela
and Pamela's children Jasmine and Salima"


FOI Homepage Archive Facebook Page

Autumn Equinox Festival


AUTUMN EQUINOX FESTIVAL
21st September 2013. 

Report written by Minette Quick:

We were all delighted to welcome Lady Olivia back to the Festival for the first time since her accident early in June, and although she was only on 'day release' from the hospital, she was able to enjoy everything from the comfort of a wheelchair. It was a beautiful day, warm and even balmy, the sort of day which somehow the Goddess manages to arrange so often on these occasions, so that we can process down to the Druid Grove and elsewhere in the grounds.

She had been asked if she had any particular wishes for the celebrations and preparations had been made by Cait Branigan, who we have to thank most warmly for calling in to visit Olivia very frequently over the past weeks, as she lives quite near Gorey. Following the procession round the grounds and entry into the Temple at Persephone's Shrine, beautifully decorated with autumnal colours, Olivia was happy to give Blessings at Brigid's Well of Truth and was wheeled down the line giving her usual insightful messages to many of our regular members.

Once Olivia was positioned beside the High Altar in her traditional place, we received a powerful Oracle from the Goddess Danu, given through her priestess, Eimear Burke. She spoke of the need for harmony amongst light workers at this time.

At Olivia's request we were then treated to a Festival of Arts, which turned out to be a veritable feast of paintings, poetry, music, a mystic drama, and a magical journey accompanied by live harp which blended perfectly and intensified the hushed atmosphere. Many members of the priesthood contributed, too many to mention here, but suffice it to say that it was a rich experience, perhaps best summed up by the words of one of players in the drama to the effect that art is the perfect way to go to the heart of divinity and express the truth that we discover on our life's journey....

Olivia was delighted with it all, and joined us down in the Village for our customary home-made tea and get-together once the ceremonies were completed. It was an occasion of great happiness and wonderful energy, and she was safely returned to Gorey hospital after a thoroughly enjoyable day out. It was so good to see her back in her natural surroundings in the Temple of Isis again.

May the Goddess Bless and Enlighten us all!


(Photo copyright Minette Quick: "Brighid, Goddess & Saint, presides over the Holy Grael of the New Aeon of Aquarius. At Her feet is the Holy Well in Her Chapel that bestows Healing & Vision. The statue of a young girl on the Altar with a cup of water for Healing, represents those loving people who care for others.")

Our thanks to Minette and to all members of the Circle of Brigid.

Letters from Olivia

Olivia's DVD


The video trailer of the DVD, "Olivia, Priestess of Isis." Available through Logic Reality. 


(offsite link) Logic Reality:  Olivia's DVD

September 23, 2013

Message from Olivia and Cressida


Received from Olivia Robertson and Cressida Pryor (via Minette Quick) for distribution through global sites this morning:

"Protection of honesty and integrity within the Fellowship of Isis.
22nd September, 2013.
 
In the Ethos of the Manifesto, since its Foundation in 1976, secret names never had any validity or authority within the Fellowship of Isis.

Olivia Robertson, Co-Founder of FOI
and Cressida Pryor, Interfaith Minister and FOI Steward"


Affiliated Link:  Olivia's Letters

September 22, 2013

Olivia speaks of Libra of the Scales

 
Equinox blessings Aset Shemsu!  Here is a historic audio clip of Olivia Robertson speaking during an Autumn Equinox ritual at the Castle:
 
(mp3 / 2:34 mins / 605kb)
 
Audio transcript:
"You say, I may not be born under the constellation of Libra, what are the stars to do with me? The stars are the mystical body of the Goddess. We have stars, atoms within ourselves, and we are atoms within the body of our galaxy, and the Ancients taught us of the wonder of the stars, taking our own humble names. A Lady, a bright Being from the stars would come to a simple person and point to an area of the sky where certain radiations came and would say: 'what do you call that?'  'We call it the scales' - man - 'it looks like scales'. And the Lady would pause and go into a contemplation and then say:  'my friend, get your family and the elders of the village together. And I will tell them about the meaning of the scales and of balance between violence and gentleness, love and truth.' And so were the mysteries brought forth to our ancestors who could not read, but to whom the picturebook of the sky was a revelation.
 
"Each man and each woman - each creature - has two forces, complimentary: positive and receptive. You are receptive now, to my voice, but when you give a person directions, of any sort, even the way, you are being positive in relationship. So no human being is either all positive or all receptive - there's a beautiful flow and harmony between both. Now magical ritual helps attune us to the stars. . .and this is the time of the Atumnal Equinox, when day and night are equally long. It is the time of harmony, of Libra of the Scales."


More audio clips:  Audio Gallery


(photo by Dennis Murphy for our FOI audio gallery, please do not reproduce.)

Shrine of Libra

 
The Shrine of Libra is located in the Well Chapel of Brigid. The central figure was carved by the late David Durdin-Robertson.
 
"Presided over by Niamh, who brought spiritual knowledge of Atlantis, the Sidhe (Faeries) and Dana to Oisin a human Irish hero. Dedicated to The College of Isis, Wooden plaque of Coat of Arms of Magdalen College, Oxford, where family scholars studied under the auspices of Magdalen as spiritual teacher. The continuation of this takes place in the Old Mill House, which houses lectures, exhibitions and events of various kinds."
 
 
 
For more photos of the Castle:  Photo Gallery
 
(quote by Olivia Robertson, photo by Minette Quick, copyright reserved.)

September 18, 2013

Athena, Arcadian Awakening


Just a quick note to let you know that we brought the online rites in Olivia's ongoing book "Athena, Arcadian Awakening" up-to-date, including the introductions:

 
 
 

September 16, 2013

Rite of Rebirth of the Fellowship of Isis: Highlighted Book

 
Olivia Robertson writes in the introduction:
"This myth is a representation of our descent into the womb, and our ascent from it. We face our unconscious past lives in order to progress. Every great myth carries many meanings related to consciousness. So the descent of Ishtar with her crescent headdress may be seen as the waxing and waning of the Moon - for is she not the Lady of 15? It may be understood as the alchemical transmutation of the soul, leaving the domain of air and sun and sinking through the seven spheres of consciousness, through the four basic elements. Air and fire transmute to earth and water: spirit and thought gain knowledge of the practical sciences, the ability to feel and use the passions. This accomplished, totality of consciousness is experienced, and the soul, bringing with it understanding born from experience, ascends to its former state, in glory."
 
The Rite of Rebirth is available in paperback and may always be read in full, along with all of the FOI Liturgy:

 

September 13, 2013

Fellowship of Isis Manifesto


The FOI Manifesto may be found at this link:



(Explanation of symbols in this graphic: "The Manifesto of the Fellowship sets out the essential aims. It is headed with the Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs which link the Fellowship with the love of the Goddess of six thousand years ago, and so have profound symbolic and occult significance. The hieroglyphs are translated as "Aset Shemsu", the Retinue of Isis. Among the picture signs is that of Aset, the Throne of Isis, the Matriarchal seat which conferred power on each succeeding Pharaoh. The picture-word for Woman is presented as a seated woman in profile; and the symbol of the Sun-God Horus, son of Isis and Osiris, is given in his bird form, in which he uses his Utchat eye. One may still see these symbols carved on the walls and columns in Egyptian temples and tombs. They bring members into relationship with their ancestors who loved the Arts and Nature." From the FOI Handbook and Manual)

Message from Olivia Robertson and Cressida Pryor

To: ALL FELLOWSHIP OF ISIS FACEBOOK MODERATORS & MEMBERS

All members of Facebook Groups of the Fellowship of Isis are individually held responsible for upholding the Ethics of the Fellowship as stated in the Manifesto. This means that deliberate acts of aggression against other members are held to be grounds for automatic expulsion from these groups and from the Fellowship. Members are cautioned, that where they hold beliefs based on teachings that encourage other than respect for the founders and membership of other world religions than their own, they cannot expect to be allowed to remain on Fellowship sites spreading incitement to acts of hatred or bullying. The ethos of the Fellowship is one of friendship, study and love of the Divine as expressed through the devotion of the Orders to the Goddess in Her many forms , as well as by individuals communing with the Deities. There are no grounds for destructive dissension.

OLIVIA ROBERTSON, Co-Founder of the Fellowship of Isis
CRESSIDA PRYOR, Interfaith Minister & FOI Steward

Note:  additions to this letter were made on Sept. 14th & 19th and may be viewed on the same page:  Olivia's Letter of Sept. 13th, 2013


Homepage Archive:  Letters from Olivia Robertson

September 11, 2013

Fellowship of Isis Thanksgiving Prayer

 
 FOI Thanskgiving Prayer
By:  Olivia Robertson
 
"Holy Isis, Holy Osiris;
We give you thanks
that your Love, Beauty and Truth
are manifest with Power and Peace
throughout all spheres,
within all beings,
and we accept your Blessing now,
in Mind and Heart."


(Photo of Winged Isis & Osiris in the Healing Chapel, copyright Minette Quick, all rights reserved.)

September 6, 2013

Messages for Olivia

 
If you would like to send a message to Olivia Robertson, please know that we will be posting a letter to her soon and would be happy to include it. Minette writes that she continues to do very well in her recovery from a broken ankle, and her family does make sure that she receives her mail. You can send your message to us through email here (or write her yourself of course!):   Contact Us


 (photo of Olivia on the bank of the Derreen river at the Haroldstown Dolmen, copyright M. Dier.)

September 5, 2013

Book Highlight: The Religion of the Goddess

 
The cover illustration is by Olivia Robertson and is based on the High Altar of the Temple of Isis, Clonegal Castle. Lawrence Durdin-Robertson gave this lecture in the Assembly Room in Wexford on October 26, 1974 at the opening of the The Wexford Arts Centre.  It may be read in full at this link:
 

 
Other books may be found here:
The Works of Lawrence Durdin-Robertson

September 2, 2013

Letter from Olivia



Letter from Olivia Robertson
September 1, 2013

"On Sunday, 1 September 2013, Cait Branigan sent me the following message from Olivia which she has been working on with her, and which expresses Olivia's ongoing deep reflections on her wishes for the future of the Fellowship of Isis and the sphere of its influence in the world. Minette"

To all Global Sites and Isian News

As the world moves through its current changes and the Fellowship of Isis continues to grow and evolve, we are reminded of the importance of the founding principles of the Fellowship, contained within the Manifesto. Lady Olivia would like to encourage each member of the Fellowship of Isis to regularly read and reflect on the Manifesto; to come to understand those principles which are the foundation stone and the heart of the Fellowship. Equality, love and respect for all life are just some of the principles - including respect for the animal kingdom and all the inter-related realms of nature. In a world that is experiencing devastating wars and attacks on the natural world, we are reminded that tyranny, cruelty and subjection of any being to negative practices has no place in the Fellowship of Isis.

The Fellowship of Isis also supports and honours the Sacred Arts in all their forms, including the creative arts and those members who express their vocation through said arts.

Lady Olivia would like to encourage all members wishing to move towards priesthood or membership of any other order within the Fellowship of Isis, to seek for guidance from those teachers, Iseums, Lyceums etc. which are recommended on the authorised Fellowship websites. This will enable each member to have a deeper and more enriched understanding of the purpose of the Fellowship and of the liturgy that Lady Olivia has mediated to us.

For more information please see the websites.

Blessings,
Priestess Hierophant Cait Branigan
Lyceum of the Three Mothers


Our sincere thanks to Cait and Minette for forwarding this letter from Olivia.  Photo by Dennis Murphy, Logic Reality.


Links:
Fellowship of Isis Manifesto

 Sept. 1st Letter from Olivia Robertson