Update from the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo


To our community and friends,

Thankfully, we are currently safe from the most severe impacts of Hurricane Helene. However, we remain vigilant as floodwaters may still affect us downstream. At this moment, our thoughts are with those facing immediate distress.

In response to the crisis, I invite you to light a candle and join me in a prayer to Hecate, calling upon her manifold strengths to guide and protect us during these trying times. Afterward, let's channel our energies into tangible actions: consider donating, assisting neighbors, and engaging actively in the recovery efforts.

As our planet faces increasing challenges from a changing climate, events like these may become more frequent. Let's stand together not only in response but in proactive care and community resilience.

May her torches guide us.

Blessings

Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson

Torchbearer & Keybearer - Covenant of Hekate

Founder - Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo


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Prayer to Hecate in the Wake of Devastation

Hail Hecate, Mother of the Universe, Creator of Light, Keeper of the Heavens, Earth, and Sea,

Hecate Soteira, our Savior, deliver us from despair, as the floods ravage our homes and spirits. Watch over the lost and the weary, grant them your protection and the strength to rebuild. Bless the first responders and all offering aid with the clarity and courage of your light.

We call upon you, Hecate Phylakē, Guardian, as we stand amidst the ruins wrought by Hurricane Helene. With your torches high, guide us through the night that has descended upon our lands.

Hecate Enodia, Lady of the Paths, guide our steps as we navigate these broken roads. Lead us with your wisdom, and show us the roads to recovery and renewal. Illuminate our choices, that we may see the way forward, not with fear, but with hope.

With every step, may your guidance shape our journey, and may your keys unlock transformational healing.

Hecate Chthonia, as we mourn what the earth has claimed, help us to accept the cycles of nature and the lessons they bear.

May your torches light our darkest hours, and your wisdom guide our hearts.

Hecate Alexeatis, Averter of Evil, bring calm to our chaos, and help us to rebuild stronger and wiser.

For the crossroads you guard are not just of paths in our lives but of hearts and destinies. In your many forms, bring us the courage to choose the road that leads to recovery and resilience.

Hail Hecate, Bringer of Wisdom, embrace us with your guidance and foresight. May our prayers reach your ears, and may our actions reflect your illuminated path.

Blessed be.

Part 5 - Hecate’s Wisdom: Unlocking Divine Guidance




Cuppa & Cards Episode 13 Hecate’s Wisdom: Unlocking Divine Guidance Welcome everyone to the final part of our five-part series on the Five Virtues of Hecate. I am Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson, Torchbearer, Keybearer, and Founder of the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo. Today, we’re diving into the virtue of Wisdom, the final virtue in our series, and one that is deeply connected to Hecate’s role as a guide and protector at life’s crossroads. Prayer of the 5-Virtues of Hekate Sacred Goddess Hekate help me to manifest Justice in my actions Temperance in my soul Courage in my choices Wisdom in my words Compassion towards all beings. Created by the Covenant of Hekate As we look back out our previous episodes we have covered: Compassion: Embodying love and care for all beings. Courage: Facing challenges and fears with strength. Temperance: Balancing life’s extremes with moderation. Justice: Maintaining fairness and accountability in all actions. Now, we turn our attention to Wisdom, a virtue that informs all the others. Wisdom is the foundation upon which we make decisions, take action, and navigate life’s complexities. What is Wisdom? Wisdom is the deep understanding that comes from experience, insight, and reflection. It’s about seeing beyond the surface and grasping the bigger picture, recognizing the interconnection between events, actions, and consequences. The ability to reflect on past experiences and grow from them. Making decisions that are guided by a sense of balance, fairness, and truth. Knowing when to act and when to pause, finding clarity in difficult situations. In my own life, Wisdom has been a guiding force in everything from my spiritual practice to my holistic wellness work. It’s not just about having information, but about applying what we learn in a way that fosters growth and balance. Wisdom is the virtue that allows us to navigate life’s complexities with clarity, balance, and insight. It helps us learn from the past, act in the present, and prepare for the future. Reflect on how Wisdom plays a role in your life. How can you cultivate deeper understanding and clarity in your decisions, and where can you call on Hecate to guide you in times of uncertainty? Just as Hecate stands at the crossroads, offering insight and clarity, may we all walk our paths with the wisdom to make decisions that reflect balance, fairness, and growth. Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson Torchbearer & Keybearer - Covenant of Hekate Founder - Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo hecatebrimo.org



Between Light and Shadow: The Complex Legacy of Marion Zimmer Bradley

Greetings, fellow seekers,

As a witch and a Keybearer for the Covenant of Hekate, I navigate the realms of light and shadow not only in my spiritual practice but also in the broader landscapes of literature and ethics that inform our journey. Today, I delve into the deeply challenging topic of Marion Zimmer Bradley's troubling revelations and the implications for those of us who cherish her works, particularly The Mists of Avalon, a seminal book that reshaped many views on Arthurian legends with its powerful portrayal of female characters.




Marion Zimmer Bradley was more than a celebrated author; she was a figure who brought the stories of strong, mystical women to the forefront. However, her legacy was irrevocably tarnished by her deeply troubling criminal behaviors towards her daughter. 

These revelations compel us to confront uncomfortable questions about the intersection of personal morality and professional contributions. In my own experience, I've grappled with similar revelations about another author whose work initially guided me on my path. I kept their book, believing that owning it didn’t mean I condoned their behavior. Yet, after reading several accounts from Bradley’s victims, my stance has shifted. I've realized the significance of the symbols and energies we choose to surround ourselves with. This is something I will be remedying post haste, as I seek to realign my external influences with my internal ethics. What once guided me on my path now only flashes with negativity, hostility, and aggression.

The knowledge of Bradley’s actions presents a profound ethical dilemma. How do we reconcile the wisdom and empowerment found in her narratives with the darkness of her personal deeds? This question extends to the broader sphere of authors whose careers were launched or significantly influenced by her mentorship and patronage. Can the insights and breakthroughs facilitated by her support remain untainted by her personal failings? As a community, we must reflect on the ripple effects of supporting work tied to problematic figures and consider the full scope of their influence, both positive and negative. Do we continue to print her books, or should we allow her works to phase out of print? How do we weigh her literary contributions against her moral failings?

As a survivor of child rape, I know the trauma never fades. Even forty years later, driving past locations in my hometown where I was assaulted brings back vivid memories. I imagine Bradley’s victims feel a similar trigger when they encounter her works or hear how she changed lives as some sort of magical guru.

Owning a book by someone who has inflicted harm poses a significant moral question for us in the magical community. It compels us to consider the energy we emit when we keep such works on our shelves. What messages are we endorsing, and what energies are we fostering within our sacred spaces? Is there ever a time to "toss the baby out with the bathwater"? Sometimes, distancing ourselves from works that are overshadowed by their creators' misdeeds may be necessary to maintain the purity of our practices and the integrity of our environments. What is the impact of erasing these voices? Is our community better for not having learned of Bradley’s actions? Is it better to understand that perpetrators live among us from all walks of life and sometimes right under our noses, than to lie in denial and continue to support a work that could be a constant reminder of such horrible pain?

Moving forward, it is essential that we use these challenges as teaching moments. We must ask ourselves if the energies we invite into our lives align with the principles we uphold. Engaging in open discussions about the ethical implications of our literary and spiritual choices teaches critical thinking and ethical discernment to our community. Supporting creators who not only inspire but also live lives of ethical integrity is crucial in fostering a body of work that reflects our highest ideals. As a magical community I feel as though we should make it clear to others who may not have rooted much of their identity into the Mists of Avalon. Instead of coming with anger and fists shaking approach them with honest conversation and provide the facts. It's hard to argue alone; however, if we take this approach, I believe we can convey the seriousness of the situation without alienating the reader. 

As we advocate for change and ethical integrity, it's important to remember that the path to understanding and healing is long. Words hold power—'spelling' is not just about letters but about the energies we create and sustain. While I wouldn't recommend burning all copies, if destroying a book helps cleanse your personal space, then it may be a necessary step for some.

This path is not about easy answers but about the willingness to engage with complexity and make choices that reflect both the light of our wisdom and the depth of our integrity. Let us choose with wisdom and lead with courage, setting examples that future generations can look to as they navigate their own ethical landscapes. Ultimately, our goal here should be growth and healing. We need to learn from history and become better people because of it.

As we reflect on these complex legacies, how can we as a community support each other in making ethical choices that lead to real healing and growth?

Thank you for joining me in this necessary reflection. May our choices always be guided by light, even when made in the shadow of complex legacies.

Chakra Healing Sound Bath | Root, Sacral, & Solar Plexus Activation with...




Session Time - 20 minutes Crystal Healing Bowls Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson In this crystal healing bowl session, I focus on recharging the Root, Sacral, and Solar Plexus Chakras. The Root Chakra grounds us, fostering stability and security. The Sacral Chakra enhances creativity, sensuality, and emotional well-being. The Solar Plexus Chakra boosts confidence, personal power, and self-esteem. Join me as I use the healing frequencies of crystal bowls to restore balance, release blockages, and promote overall well-being. Allow the soothing vibrations to align your energy and empower your spiritual and physical health. #ChakraHealing #SoundHealing #SanctuaryOfHecateBrimo Neuse River Witch - neuseriverwitch.com Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo - hecatebrimo.org Subscribe - https://www.youtube.com/@SanctuaryofHecateBrimo?sub_confirmation=1