folklore – Author M. A. Phillips

The Three Kindred

In my early days of Pagan study and worship, it was easiest for me to connect with and understand the Nature Spirits. I was raised to respect them and even taught by my mother to believe in fairies and unicorns, even if they were part of a different reality than our own. As time went by, IContinue reading “The Three Kindred”

A Brief History of the Druids

Ellis, Peter Berresford. A Brief History of the Druids. New York: Carroll & Graf Publishers, 2003. Each Summer Solstice the news media releases a handful of articles on a modern group of Druids worshipping near Stonehenge. The photos are of regular looking people wearing long white robes and sometimes white head coverings that look more akin toContinue reading “A Brief History of the Druids”

Witches and Deer

I found a folktale from New York State about a malevolent witch who could turn into a white deer. It’s very interesting… ( For My LJ Friends: http://adfcatprints.blogspot.com/ )

On the Evolution of Magic

I’ve been reading Magic in the Ancient World by Fritz Graf. While I’m not even halfway through, I’m learning a lot about magic in the Mediterranean world. The concept changed throughout history, but there was always this concept of the “other” – the enemy or the outsiders – practicing malevolent magic. Unless I am wayContinue reading “On the Evolution of Magic”

Rolling in Books

A new book arrived for me in the mail today: Magic in the Ancient World by Fritz Graf. It’s recommended reading for Magic 1 in ADF’s Initiate Program. I’ve read many titles about the history and folklore of magic in Europe – mostly focusing on the north-eastern parts. This latest book focuses on the Mediterranean world.Continue reading “Rolling in Books”

The Moon in Modern Druidism

It is well known that Wiccans hold special rituals during the full and new moons. Many Neo-Pagans and traditional witches observe certain lunar practices. For example, some spells are thought to be more effective when performed on a specific day of the moon’s cycle. What did the ancient Druids do and what can/do modern DruidsContinue reading “The Moon in Modern Druidism”

Looking for a good book for your Pagan child?

I came across a childrens’ book today and, after flipping through it, I couldn’t pass it up for my growing collection of young Pagan literature. Any parents/educators should be familiar with the hugely successful “Magic Tree House” books. I see second and third graders reading them all the time. This book, entitled Leprechauns and IrishContinue reading “Looking for a good book for your Pagan child?”

My Review of "The Rites of Brigid Goddess and Saint"

I recently purchased and read The Rites of Brigid Goddess and Saint by Seán Ó Duinn. I wanted to better understand the Goddess and, though I have read such works as “The First Battle of Moytura” and “The Second Battle of Moytura,” as well as several scholarly works which studiedContinue reading “My Review of "The Rites of Brigid Goddess and Saint"”