Summer Solstice at
Stonehenge

Sunday June 25th 2005

Accompanied by music from Schelmish, a sack pipe and drum ban over from Germany especially for the occasion, we all processed through the road tunnel to the eastern entrance to the stones.

The procession halted at the eastern gate while the  High Priest uttered an invocation and the portal keepers held their staffs aloft. The guests entered into the Henge and formed a large circle. We called for peace and opened the quarters. Then we held a short meditation to attune to the earth energies.

The Druids Oath was recited after which an explanation of Summer Solstice was given.

A set piece was performed which had been especially written for the event where 21 guests were invited by the Archdruid of the Cotswold Order to light  incenses thereby creating a circle of incense around the Henge.

One young boy was raised as Page of the Cotswold Order of Druids and the Insular Order (from Portsmouth) raised a Squire for their Order.

The joint Archdruids of Glastonbury were given a blessing. When the Priest offered to bless the working tools, a queue formed with people bringing forward their staffs , Athames and crystals.

Mead and Cakes were offered to everyone in the circle an while these were handed round Schelmish played two further tunes and the Bard “Smiles” sang and played his guitar.

The Squire took the Talking Stick round the circle giving everyone a chance to make a contribution to the ceremony.

One couple were Handfasted.

We asked for peace and the Druids prayer was recited by everyone.

The High Priest closed the quarters and we processed out with the pipes and drums signalling the end of the ceremony.

Photo's by Steve Best
Many thanks Steve