This ritual was held at Highbanks Metropark, in a non-reservable shelter. It was held on Sept. 22, 2007, and commemorated our fifth anniversary. The Grove had a social hour at 3 PM, and the ritual started at 4 PM.

Omen

Have our offerings been accepted? Elhaz
What do Powers offer us in return? Berkano
What further needs to the Powers have of us? Uruz

Interpretation:

Grove told that the kindreds protect us (Elhaz) in response to our offerings. They give us fertility (Berkano), and ask us to be strong (Uruz).
    -NE

Senior Druid

One of the best I've been to, in regards to Grove building—in the eyes of my Grovemates I found home. This is our 5 year, and I looked around to the new & old Grovemates and thought about all that we had done. . . In my mindseye, I played all our rites, time spent at ComFest, time at Summerlands, the business meetings, etc. All these things came rushing back to me. . . The people who have come & gone, each giving something to this Grove. I thought Shawn, Donald, Mariel, and Bonnie did a good job—So many new voices—they did great—Donald was shaking with energy.

Good omens, I feel tired, good and happy. Our Grove has really grown & changed and I am very happy with where we are. I can't really talk about the rite because I was so taken by it all. Also, Mike had me oath to the Grove—I only hope I live up to expectations—I know I will but it still humbles me.
    -JD

Druid in Charge

Five years of ritual. From two guys standing in that same dark shelter, fumbling with our scripts and full of uncertainty, we have become a strong Grove, a tall Grove, and even a mature Grove. I changed our opening prayer from the old Universal Spirit Prayer and broke new ground with a deeply polytheistic Opening Prayer.

This rite meant so much to me, I cannot explain it well. The friendship and fellowship, the closeness of my Grove, and the closeness of the Gods was astounding.

Today, we prayed with a good fire.

This was my last rite as Senior Druid. Seamus has taken over the office, and a new crop of members who have not held office in the past have taken our other offices.

I could not be happier to see new Cranes taking on their new roles, and I couldn't have more faith in Seamus' ability to run this "shindig of a Grove."

    -Rev. Michael J Dangler