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The Feast is an integral part of our rituals. The Feast takes place in the latter part of a ritual, on one of the Great Days or one of the Moons, after the Works have been completed. In the Gwyddonic Order, unlike some Pagan groups, we actually have what is considered a feast. There are no foods, which are considered unfit for he Feast. There will be food and drink for all who are present. As far as drink is concerned, wine or beer is preferable. But if there are any among you who cannot tolerate alcohol, any type of drink that they prefer is to be made available for them.
As the Feast progresses, each member is to propose toasts to the Gods and Goddesses of the Tuatha. For the Bright Aspects, this is to take the form of raising one’s cup in salutation to the God or Goddess who is being toasted, and saying, in a loud and vibrant voice: All other members of the College raise their cups and repeat the toast. Then, a drink is taken from their cups. For the Dark Aspects, you should dip your fingers in the drink and sprinkle the drink upon the ground three times, in honor of them, while saying: After this, all members take a drink from their cups. As the Feast and the toasting progresses, stories are to be told, by the members of the College, of the Gods and Goddesses, and have metaphysical discussions between all members of the College. This is also a good time to initiate Dharma Games and Play Ploys. The only things to be discussed during the Feast are Craft related matters. If conversation deteriorates and the members are having separate conversations about things other than Craft-related matters, the Wayland comes forth and raises his staff before the members. If this does not restore order, the Wayland then points his staff at the offenders. In the extreme situation that this does not restore order, the Wayland, may, at his option, single out the offenders by touching them on the top of the head with his staff. This should restore order to the College. If order is not restored by this action, it would be wise to remember that the Wayland has a very large staff and the next time it may not be so pleasant as a touch on the top of the head! As the Feast winds down, and all discussion has ended, the High Priest dismisses the Quarters and withdraws the Moon Circle or Protected Area. |