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
