GOG's Maypole at MPA Beltane 2006 Gathering

GOG was asked by the MidAtlantic Pagan Alliance to run their Maypole ritual at the Beltane 2006 Gathering. Before we wove our community maypole, Norma gave a brief lecture on the history of maypoles, and then the first group got to weave the ribbons and then unweave them, giving that energy to the Beltane community. The first group wove chaotically, and then worked together to unwind. The second group was more serious, and wove a good tight basket weave despite all we could do to harass them with hobby horse, rag man with sharp horns, and heckling. It was great exhilarating fun for all. Selena Fox complimented us on the lecture and maypole and beasties, and took lots and lots of photos. Nine grove members participated in the maypole ritual Thanks to Bob for being the horse, Ed for dancing in the rag man, and Trish for the photos, and all who helped out.
GOG also ran a Congo Square drum prayer ritual the next day, in association with others across the country who were drumming for the benefit of those who lost their possessions in the hurricanes that hit the gulf coast last year. Seven grove members helped with that, twenty attended the ritual.