Classes and workshops offered by ShadowGrove members and Clergy

ShadowGrove has within it many people who are experienced in a broad range of spiritual subjects. Join them as they present classes and workshops in their particular areas of expertise: from kitchen witchery to Reiki, from herbalism to personal energy manipulation, from crystals to Chakra balancing, and much more.

Introduction to Personal Energy Work

Instructor: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: February 15, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Learn the basics of personal energy manipulation, beginning with meditation, and progressing through finding your personal center, grounding yourself in the Earth, and then building a shield around yourself to keep unwanted external influences from intruding upon your mind.

SoulCollage Group

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: May 24, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Through the Introduction to the SoulCollage® Process workshop, we discovered that many are intrigued by this process. So we will begin gathering once per month to work together to create our own individual SoulCollage® cards and share ideas and company with others.

Be sure to bring any magazines and other images you will want to use to create your own cards and if you have any to share, please bring those as well. Scissors, glue and cardstock will be provided, but if you wish to use a specific type of backing, please plan to bring that yourself.

The Tool of Sound

Instructor: Brannen

Next Offered: July 5, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Sound is one of the most widely used tools in the Earth's cultures, let alone in the multitudes of spiritual practices around the globe. From hymns to the gods to trance music, from droning of the seeker to the white noise to blot our distracting input, sound plays a vital role in most practices. This sessin will discuss a variety of sounds and how they can be used as a general toolkit for one's spiritual practice. If there is a particular mantra, song or other soundform, you use in your personal work, be prepared to talk about it or even share it the week before the session.

The Creation of Daily Practice

Instructor: Brannen

Next Offered: June 28, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

For many Pagan paths, our spirituality is not something reserved for once a week or once a season, but is a vibrant and ever present part of our day to day existence. One method to help remind ourselves of this is the establishment of a personal daily practice; an expression of our spiritual foundations and explorations. This session will cover reasons for daily practices, types and examples of practices, and ideas on establishing one's own practice. Come prepared to share your own findings and experiences.

Dark Moon Goddesses

Instructor: Elisa Boots

Next Offered: July 26, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Already know about Enlightenment? Try Endarkenment! Learn about the Dark Moon Godesses, their history and place on magical paths! Dark Moon Godesses were not always the old, but wise Crone that most practitioners associate with. The Goddess in her dark aspect is powerful, sensual, vibrant feminine energy in many different cultures. Join us to learn more about the Goddesses associated with the Dark Moon, their fascinating originis, rich myths and how you can work with this energy and incorporate these Godesses into your practice!

In this class, you will learn:
* How Dark Moon Goddesses originated in mythologies around the world.
*The rich history surrounding some of the more well known Dark Moon Goddesses, Hecate, Rhiannon, Circe, Kali, Ma, Hel and Lilith, to name only a few!
*Learn their correspondences for magical workings.

Shamanism, The Ecstatic's Journey

Instructor: Doug WolfShaman

Next Offered: August 2, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Have you wondered what shamanism is? It is a word often used these days in the new age magazines, books and web sites but it is rarely defined. I will be discussing what shamanism is and what it is not. We will also delve into the tools, techniques and views that are typical of modern shamanism. I will also discuss the inter-relationship of shamanism to other paths.

Kitchen Witchery

Instructor: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: No date scheduled ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us for a fun filled introduction to the magick you can make in the kitchen! We will explore the magickal and medicinal uses of common ingredients found in the kitchen, learn about herbal preparations that can be used to enhance your every day life, dabble in divination with tea leaf reading, and go home with valuable knowledge upon which to build a daily practice as a kitchen witch extraordinaire.

Introduction to Meditation

Instructor: SunRising

Next Offered: February 9, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This class is for people who have little or no experience meditating, or those who do have experience meditating but would like a refresher and some new ideas to bring to their meditation. I will cover several relaxation techniques and guide you through a few different meditations. Please bring a journal as we will take a few minutes after each meditation for you to write down your experiences before we have group discussion. This is so you don't forget anything that may have been interesting or important to you. The room we are in is a basement room and can be chilly, you may want to bring a mat (if you prefer to meditate lying down), a pillow and/or a blanket. Please dress comfortably.

Self Healing through Meditation

Instructor: SunRising

Next Offered: May 31, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This is a class for people comfortable with meditation and is an expansion on the Introduction to Meditation class. Everyone has access to the healing energies in our Universe, and you don't need special training to access this energy to heal yourself or balance your Chakras. I will guide you through different visualizations to bring healing energy into your body. Please bring a journal as we will take a few minutes after each meditation for you to write down your experiences before we have group discussion. This is so you don't forget anything that may have been interesting or important to you. The room we are in is a basement room and can be chilly, you may want to bring a mat (if you prefer to meditate lying down), a pillow and/or a blanket. Please dress comfortably.

Spiritual Crocheting

Instructor: Kelly Malatt

Next Offered: March 9, 2009 ($10 for non-members, $8 for members)

Crochet is a timeless craft that lends itself easily to meditation, prayer, and even spellwork. In this class, you will learn basic stitches and how to use them to calm your mind, for praying and/or chanting, and if time permits and there is a desire for it, how to use crochet in your spellwork. You will also learn some history of the art, a bit about color choice, and some information about the fibers that go into yarn, and how you can use them to enhance your spiritual experience.

Please RSVP so that we may prepare the correct amount of materials. Each participant will take home a ball of yarn and a crochet hook.

Spiritual Cleansing

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: March 16, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us as we explore and practice various spiritual cleansing techniques which can be used for self-cleansing, as well as the cleansing of others, personal spaces and magical/divination tools. Discover which cleansing techniques will work best for you. Please bring one or two of your magical/divination tools to practice with. There will be an information packet for you to take home. Please RSVP so we know how many participants to prepare for.

*** NO CLASS ***

Instructor:

Next Offered: February 1, 2010

There will be no class or discussion night on Monday, February 1, 2010 due illness. Please join us again on Monday February 8, 2009.

Book of Shadows crafting and discussion

Instructor: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: September 28, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us for an informal and fun class on creating and using your own book of shadows. Bring your book (or book materials) to class to work on as we talk about the history and practical applications of having a BoS. Parchment paper, hole punch, pens and quill & ink will be available for your use.

Spellworking (Part 1)

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: April 20, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. Learn the What, Why, When, and How on basic spellcrafting methods.
In this workshop, you will learn the following:

• The definition of Magic and Spellwork
• Examples what types of life situations for which spellwork is effective
• When to perform spells and magic for optimum results
• The basic framework and tools for constructing and casting spells

Spellworking (Part 2)

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: April 27, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This is Part 2 of a 2-part series. Learn the What, Why, When, and How on basic spellcrafting methods.
In this workshop, you will learn the following:

• The definition of Magic and Spellwork
• Examples what types of life situations for which spellwork is effective
• When to perform spells and magic for optimum results
• The basic framework and tools for constructing and casting spells

Ritual Crafting for Solitaries and Small Groups

Instructor: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: June 1, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us for a combination lecture and discussion on the art of ritual crafting! Be they mundane or magical, rituals are a part of our daily lives. For those tasked with creating a sacred rite for yourself or your group, writing a ritual can be a lesson in frustration as much as it can be a blessing. Come and learn the basics of ritual writing - the nuts and bolts that hold any ritual together - then stay for a lively discussion on ritual. We will explore ritual as a transformative act, as well different types or forms of ritual and delve into how and why they work.

Discovering Chakras

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: June 15, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Discovering Chakras offers a practical guide to the seven chakras, what they are and how they function. Through a simple personality test, Discovering Chakras will also help you learn your chakra personality type and determine where your strengths lie as well as what you could use to work on. The class will expand in the coming weeks with a focus on each individual chakra per week. These subsequent individual chakra classes will focus on the various methods you can employ to clear blockages, strengthen weaknesses and create long term balance.

Vision Boards

Instructor: SeaWitch

Next Offered: July 13, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

A Vision Board is a visual representation or collage of images of the things you want to have, affirmations of your dreams, things you want to do in your life and your deepest desires. Once completed, you will use this board to direct your focus and surround yourself with the images of who you want to become and pull things from your environment to help you realize your dream.

Please bring a poster board and magazines (all types) that you will be cutting images from and that you want to share. All other materials will be supplied.

Introduction to Reiki

Instructor: Felinea

Next Offered: June 29, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Reiki is a Japanese form of healing that incorporates elements of spiritual healing, auras, crystals, chakra balancing, meditation, and many other alternative healing practices. This class will focus on an overview of Reiki energy, its history and its practice. We will explore the answers to the following questions: What is Reiki? How does it work? What are the different levels? What is an attunement? And most importantly: Is Reiki for me?

Magic in Art

Instructor: Crimson Stormfire

Next Offered: August 3, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Every day we are inundated with some form of artwork. From the McDonald's arches to the Mona Lisa, from the small stone that catches our eye on our lunch break at work, it's all art, in one way or another it's art. Whether fashioned by man or fashioned by nature, it speaks to us. Images carved on cave walls, Hieroglyphs in Egypt told tales of heroics and bemoaned lost loved ones, warned of dangerous places and gave secret answers to hidden questions {druid tree alphabet} older than any written language and holding an ancient power. An image given at the right moment can change a life. This workshop is a basis to connect to that basic energy we all have within us. Even if you can do no more than a stick figure, it can have a life, a power all it's own. To speak, and be heard. To be given and treasured. Your images and words can do magic. This is how it starts. Take the step forward and draw the line. Just bring yourselves, and if you have your own sketch book and pencils bring 'em along.

Chakra series - Focusing on the Root Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: July 20, 2009 (See fee details below)

Following the Discovering Chakras class, we now begin our focus workshops with the Root Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Root chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class, you are still welcome to attend. Please contact Truthsong @ Shadowgrove . com to make arrangements to take the assessment test prior to the first focus workshop.

Pre-payment fee for the entire series is $45 for non-members or $30 for members and can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the first class in the series using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Stone Divination

Instructor: SunRising

Next Offered: June 14, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Each of us carries with us a connection to the Divine and Knowledge of All. There are many tools we can use to help us access this Knowledge: runes, tarot, meditation, dreams, and many, many more. This class will focus on the knowledge we can find from a humble stone. They're all around us and will tell us a lot ... if we only ask and then take the time to listen.

I will teach you all to read the images within each stone and then seek meaning that will answer a question you have asked.

Please come to class with paper, something to write with, and if you have a rock that you would like to bring (no smaller than an orange, but no larger than you wish to carry) please do bring it. I will also be bringing rocks to class, but it might be best for you to choose your own if you're able before class.

Shamanic Journey

Instructor: SunRising

Next Offered: August 9, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

For those who have never journeyed before, you will learn to go on your own Shamanic Journey into the Lower World (Shamanic World) and find your power animal.

If you have journeyed before and know your power animal(s), you can use this journey time to consult with them or even to find another.

We will have the opportunity to discuss our Journeys during the workshop. I will have resources available for you to look up the animal(s) you encounter during your journey. As we change and grow, so do our power animals. You don't need to be walking a Native American/Shamanic path to Journey ... your curiosity is all you need! Join us on this journey of self discovery.

Because this is a form of meditation, you are encouraged to bring whatever you need to make your physical body comfortable during your spirit's journey. I also highly recommend that you bring a journal to record the details of your journey as those details can be as fleeting as the ethereal images of a night's dream.

RESCHEDULED: Chakra series - Focusing on the Sacral Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: August 31, 2009 (See fee details below)

This class was canceled because of a family emergency and has been rescheduled for Monday August 31st.

Following the Root Chakras class, we now continue our focus workshops with the Sacral Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Sacral Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class, you are still welcome to attend. Please contact Truthsong @ Shadowgrove . com to make arrangements.

Pre-payment fee for the entire series is $45 for non-members or $30 for members and can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the first class in the series using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Found Dieties

Instructor: ShadowWeaver

Next Offered: September 21, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Samhain Lore, Customs and Rituals

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: October 26, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

In this class we will explore the history, lore, and customs of the Celtic solar festival of Samhain, a time of endings and transformation that is celebrated by many as the last harvest and the Pagan/Wiccan New Year. As this is the time when the veil between the worlds is thinnest, we will perform a short ritual to honor and commune with the Ancestors. Please bring a quartz crystal and a picture or memento of an ancestor you wish to commune with.

Chakra series - Focusing on the Heart Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: November 2, 2009 (See fee details below)

Following the focus on the Navel Chakra class, we continue our focus workshops with the Heart Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Heart Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class or the following focus classes, you are still welcome to attend.

Since the series is now in full swing, drop-in rates apply for anyone who has not already registed/paid for the series. This fee can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the class itself using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Wiccan Traditions

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: November 9, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us as we discuss and dispel the myths between Wicca and witchcraft. In this class we will discuss the differences and similarities between Wicca and Witchcraft. We will also discuss several of the major Wiccan traditions and see how they are applied to the modern practice of Wicca.

Crone Goddesses

Instructor: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: November 16, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us as we discuss all aspects of the Crone Goddess. We will explore the attributes and mythology of various Crone Goddesses from around the world, and delve into the lessons that the Crone and her energies can share with us. We will also participate in a working to allow each of us to connect with the Crone.

Dark Gods

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: November 23, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us as we discuss the God of Darkness. This class will be in two parts. The first part of the class will focus on the aspects of Dark Gods as the Horned God, Underworld God, Sea God and Forge God from various cultures. In the last half hour of the class we will perform a working to attune ourselves to one of the faces of the Dark God.

Spiritual Steel - Protection Techniques for Your Person and Your Home

Instructor: Frank Stormcatcher

Next Offered: November 30, 2009 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Living in a magical cosmology opens us to wonders we might otherwise never experience, both good and ill. While it is easy to get caught up in the beauty and joy, we must remember that not everything or everyone out there will be friendly, and on occasion may even be outright hostile. This class will introduce techniques to protect both yourself and the place (or places) you call home. The first half will cover simple techniques that anyone can use, some using everyday items you can find just about anywhere. The second half will cover more complex techniques meant for those familiar witth ritual and magical workings.

Chakra series - Focusing on the Throat Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: December 7, 2009 (See fee details below)

Following the focus on the Heart Chakra class, we continue our focus workshops with the Throat Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Throat Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class or the following focus classes, you are still welcome to attend.

Since the series is now in full swing, drop-in rates apply for anyone who has not already registed/paid for the series. This fee can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the class itself using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Chakra series - Focusing on the Navel Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: October 5, 2009 (See fee details below)

Following the focus on the Sacral Chakra class, we continue our focus workshops with the Navel Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Navel Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class or the following focus classes, you are still welcome to attend.

Since the series is now in full swing, drop-in rates apply for anyone who has not already registed/paid for the series. This fee can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the class itself using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Yule Lore, Customs and Traditions

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: December 14, 2009 (TBD)

Details coming soon!

Chakra series - Focusing on the Third Eye Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: January 4, 2010 (See fee details below)

Following the focus on the Throat Chakra class, we continue our focus workshops with the Third Eye Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Third Eye Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class or the following focus classes, you are still welcome to attend.

Since the series is now in full swing, drop-in rates apply for anyone who has not already registed/paid for the series. This fee can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the class itself using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Runes and their uses - Part 1

Instructor: David Ewing

Next Offered: January 11, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Part 1 will be a brief overview of the individual elder futhark runes, with a specific focus toward creating and using bindrunes. This class will complement Frank Stormcatcher's "Spiritual Steel" class. Prior attendance in the Spiritual Steel is not required.

Home Protection

Instructor: RedWolf

Next Offered: January 18, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Participants will learn the basics of home cleansing and protection. This class will cover the following topics:

* Simple home cleansing by smudging and the use of Washes ans Powders
* Purification spellwork with candles
* Indoor and outdoor protection methods
* Clearing and banishing home of negative energy

Chakra Series - Focusing on the Crown Chakra

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: March 1, 2010 (See fee details below)

Following the focus on the Third Eye Chakra class, we conclude our focus workshops with the final of the major chakras, the Crown Chakra. In this workshop, we will discuss the signs which indicate blockages and weaknesses, and we will explore the various methods you can employ to clear and strengthen the Crown Chakra to create long term balance. This is a series of workshops which will be offered over the course of the next few months. Everyone who participates is encouraged to attend the entire series.

If you are interested in this series, but were unable to attend the introductory class or the following focus classes, you are still welcome to attend.

Since the series is now in full swing, drop-in rates apply for anyone who has not already registed/paid for the series. This fee can be paid via the paypal button below, or at the class itself using cash or check. Drop-in fee per class is $8 for non-members or $5 for members.

Personal Energy Work in an Elemental Framework - Part 1

Instructor: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: February 22, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Expand upon the lessons in Introduction to Personal Energy Work, by exploring an Elemental framework for that energy work. Learn different techniques of grounding, based upon your knowledge of the traditional alchemical elements of old, in order to match your personal energy state to any situation. In Part 1, we will talk about working with Earth and Water, the stable elements.

Personal Energy Work in an Elemental Framerwork - Part 2

Instructor: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: No date scheduled ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Expand upon the lessons in Introduction to Personal Energy Work, by exploring an Elemental framework for that energy work. Learn different techniques of grounding, based upon your knowledge of the traditional alchemical elements of old, in order to match your personal energy state to any situation. In Part 2, we will talk about working with Air and Fire, the volatile elements. Note: It is highly recommended that people who wish to attend this section attend Part 1 (Earth and Water) first.

Introduction to Ogam

Instructor: Brennan

Next Offered: March 15, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This session will discuss the insular Celtic writing system known as Ogam; it's history and historical use, modern stories that have grown about it; its use in personal practice today. The session will touch on both the divining and declaring aspects of the ogam in modern work.

Money Magic

Instructor: Felinea

Next Offered: March 29, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Everyone needs a little money magic! This workshop will focus on money on two plains: the magical and the mundane. We will touch on ways to make your money work for you and getting more out of your net paycheck. We will also discuss prosperity spells and other techniques of making sure the universe knows your intent towards money.

An overview of reconstructionism and reconstructionist movements

Instructor: Brennan

Next Offered: March 22, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

This session will discuss the philosophical foundations of modern reconstructionist paganism; the ways reconstructionist paths tend to differ from many other pagan paths; some of the cultural issues and self-definition issues in the reconstructionist movements; an overview of wider spread reconstructionist paths active in North America today.

Introduction to the Soul Collage process

Instructor: Truthsong

Next Offered: April 19, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

Join us as we explore the process of SoulCollage® as described in Seena B. Frost's published works about SoulCollage®. Their website describes it as "a process for accessing your intuition and creating an incredible deck of cards with deep personal meaning that will help you with life's questions and transitions." During this introductory class, everyone will have the opportunity to begin working on this process and if enough interest emerges, a monthly SoulCollage® group may form so we can continue to explore and learn together.

Participants are encouraged to bring old magazines to use and share with the group.

Tarot 101: History and Usage

Instructor: Doug Wolfshaman

Next Offered: April 5, 2010 ($8 for non-members, $5 for members)

The tarot is undergoing another mordern renaissance with new interest in its usage. Come learn the fascinating history of the cards and the ways the tarot has been changed by different spiritual movements. Explore the tarot as a symbolic language that helps you learn about other realms and yourself. We will also explore the use of the cards as a divination tool to help guide others or yourself. Several different tarot decks will be available for your perusal.

Classes and workshops offered by guest instructors

From time to time, we will be inviting people from outside the ShadowGrove community to teach a class or workshop on a subject that we feel will interest the Pagan community in Northern Virginia.

Discussion nights on subjects of interest to the local Pagan Community

Part of being a community is sharing what we believe with one another. It is one of the foundational principles of ShadowGrove that it is not our similarities that create a stronger community, it is our differences. Join us to discuss various topics of interest to us all; to teach what you know and learn what you do not, in the spirit of creating a stronger, more diverse, more vibrant Pagan community in the Northern Virginia area.

The Power of the Word

Facilitator: WolfShaman

Next Offered: June 7, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Words have power beyond their simple meanings. They evoke emotions and philosophical thoughts in us. They can both empower and belittle us. They can make us think outside the box and completely change our lives. They can bring us to tears of joy or sorrow and they can heal our hearts. When used with specific intent, words can be quite powerful and magical. Like ripples in a still pond, the words we choose can be carried to the ends of time. Come join us for an impromptu discussion night on the Power of the Word and share your words with us.

Anger and the Pagan Philosophy

Facilitator: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: August 16, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Anger is a natural part of human emotion, but it can lead us to actions that are in conflict with our chosen paths. Come join us for an open discussion on how anger fits into our philosophy, and what courses of action for dealing with that anger have been, or may be, productive. Do you follow a Wiccanesque "Harm None" ideal? Is your tendency more in line with a Norse "protect me and mine" way of thinking? Come share your ideas with us.

Mabon Traditions, Customs and Lore

Facilitator:

Next Offered: September 20, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Mabon, the Autumn Equinox, is a time of balance and of the second harvest. A time to begin putting the final touches on all the work we've done over the growing season, and a time of thanksgiving. During this discussion, we'll talk about the many Mabon traditions and customs followed by those who walk the Pagan paths and take the opportunity to share the lore of this time of year.

Harnessing the Magic

Facilitator:

Next Offered: May 17, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Come join us for the first Monday Night session since Fertile Ground Gathering as we discuss the various ways that we experience festival energy and ways of maintaining and preserving that energy within ourselves once the festival is ended and we have returned to normal life. Whether you attended this year's gathering or plan on attending other festivals this season, you can benefit from hearing the experiences of others and reliving the magic of your own experience.

Sacred Spaces in the Home

Facilitator: Brannen

Next Offered: June 21, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Most paths and practices call for some space in the home which is set aside, set apart, or otherwise considered sacred. Join us as we discuss why such spaces are set aside, the nature of the devotions made in such spaces, and how such spaces are set apart.

Private Event

Facilitator:

Next Offered: August 30, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

On Monday August 30th, ShadowGrove reserves the lounge of the BRUU for a members-only event. If you are a non-member, please join us for our regularly scheduled classes and discussions on Mondays in September!

The longest journey begins with a single step

Facilitator: Truthsong

Next Offered: No date scheduled (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

When and how did you find your spiritual path? How did it affect your personal relationships? Each of us is walking a different path, and because our spirituality is not "mainstream", we can often forget that we are not alone. Come and share the things you experienced when you began your spiritual journey, and listen to the stories of others, who came from different places, and who walk a similar path to yours.

Imbolc Customs and Traditions

Facilitator: Truthsong

Next Offered: January 25, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Imbolc, the cross-quarter day between Yule and Ostara, is a holiday with a history that begins in the pre-Celtic neolithic and megalithic ages. Come join us for a discussion of the history, traditions, and observances that surround this celebration of returning light.

Dispelling myths about Paganism

Facilitator: Truthsong

Next Offered: March 23, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

For centuries the terms used in paganism have brought about many negative connotations. And Hollywood has perpetuated these connotations with films full of inaccuracies regarding the Earth Paths. Join us in discussing how you have handled situations where words surrounding your path have led to conflict or discomfort. Discuss how you have helped to dispell some of these myths and negative connotations. Learn ways to express yourself and your beliefs so that people will remain open and can better accept your path.

Walking an ethical path (Part 1: Normative Ethics)

Facilitator: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: April 6, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

No matter what we call the manifestations of the spiritual path we walk (Magic, Spells, Empathy, Prayer, Energy, or something else), one of the hallmarks of the Pagan path is the idea that our focused will can be used in order to affect the world around us. In that way, it's a tool just like any other.

Most of us would never use physical force to control another. But what about a spiritual force? Where are the boundaries drawn? What is an ethical use of this thing called 'magic'? Join us for a discussion of the ethical issues involved in the exploration of magic in its various forms.

Walking an ethical path (Part 2: Applied Ethics)

Facilitator: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: April 13, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

The first part of this discussion was so rich, with so many people contributing to our exploration of Ethics as it applies to our spiritual paths, that we only got about halfway through the discussion that we had planned. So since everyone who participated wants to continue the discussion on a more practical level, we are holding a second session of the discussion, covering the application of the ethical principles we arrived at in the first session to real-life situations.

Everyone is welcome to attend this second section, even those who were unable to attend the first; we'll have a brief recap at the beginning of Part 2 to help catch people up.

In order to provide fodder for discussion, please come to this discussion night with at least one situation or scenario in mind that you consider to be morally or ethically ambiguous (try to keep the subject of these scenarios to things relating to our various spiritual paths), so that we can examine them, as a group.

Group practice, or walking a Solitary path?

Facilitator: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: May 18, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

Many people choose to walk a Solitary path, and others find that being a part of a Coven, Circle, or Grove is a better fit for them. Some have done both. Come discuss your experiences in groups, or as a solitary, and learn about the experiences that others have had in the different paths of practice.

The Road to Buddhism

Facilitator: Will

Next Offered: June 8, 2009 ($1 per person to cover the cost of materials)

Join us for a brief presentation of the history and philosophy of Buddhism followed by a group discussion and interpretation of the Buddhist philosophies and how they can apply to our everyday lives.

ShadowGrove Orientation for members and candidates

Facilitator: Cael SpiritHawk

Next Offered: July 12, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

We invite all current members and member candidates to come learn and talk about ShadowGrove, its beginnings, its history, its kin and its traditions. We encourage everyone who is a ShadowGrove member or candidate to attend. As our Grove family grows, we will offer these orientation nights quarterly so that everyone has an opportunity to attend.

This event will be held at the Grove, so that those who are finishing their candidacy periods and wish to pursue full membership can be inducted in the Grove's sacred space.

Mystical Experiences

Facilitator: Truthsong and SpiritHawk

Next Offered: July 6, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

*** Note that this discussion is replacing "Magic in Art", which has been postponed indefinitely because of a scheduling conflict for the presenter ***

At some point on our paths, many of us have experienced situations, phenomena, or occurrences that we simply cannot explain through normal means. Are these experiences magical? Are they evidence of the Divine working in our lives? Come join us, and share your own story, or just listen to the supernatural things that have happened to others.

Prayer and the Pagan Path

Facilitator: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: July 19, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

One of the most difficult leaps to make from Christianity (or other mainstream spiritual practices) to Paganism is the lack of a well-known or standardized way to pray to the gods. Pagan literature has books upon books of rituals, spells, and other magickal doings, but there are very few books of prayer for Pagans to turn to. What resources are available to new witch and old witch alike? What place does prayer have in our lives, and how can our daily practice be enriched by it? Join us to discuss all aspects of prayer, from why to how, from when to where.

Concepts of the Divine

Facilitator: Redwolf

Next Offered: October 19, 2009 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)

How do you view divinity as a Pagan? Are you a polytheist, animist, duotheist, pantheist, or none of the above? Not sure what all of this means? That's ok. I'll have a glossary of terms available Join us at BRUU for a lively discussion on how each of us sees and connects with the divine.

Clergy and the Pagan Paths

Facilitator: Crystal Broomall

Next Offered: March 8, 2010 (No fee, but your donation is appreciated)