First, if your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so at this time. If you don’t normally cast a circle, at least take the time to ritually purify the area by smudging or asperging. This will establish the space as sacred. You’ll need a bowl of water and a moon candle for the altar. This is traditionally a white unscented pillar-style candle. You can decorate the moon candle with sigils or inscriptions etched with a hot knife. Adorn your altar with lunar symbols — mirrors, silver ribbons, white crystals. Feel free to substitute the names and attributes of the deities of your path in this incantation.
Turn to the altar, and hold your arms open wide. Tilt your head so that your face is skyward — after all, this is a celebration honoring the full moon. Say:
Goddess of the moon, queen of the night,
keeper of women’s mysteries, mistress of the tides,
you who are ever changing and yet alway s constant,
I ask that you guide me with your wisdom,
help me grow with your knowledge,
and hold me in your arms.
At this time, light the moon candle, and take a moment to reflect upon the gifts you have in your life.
Hold the bowl of water to the sky. Say:
The moon is the symbol of the mother,
and she watches over us day and night.
She brings the changing tide, the shifting night,
the flow that changes women’s bodies,
and the passion of lovers to their beloved.
Her wisdom is great and all-knowing,
and we honor her tonight.
Keep your watchful eyes upon us, great mother,
until the cycle returns once more,
and bring us to the next full moon,
in your love and light.
Take a few moments to think about the things in your life which have changed in the past moon cycle. Are there people who have come into your world that you’re thankful for? Have you ended a toxic relationship? Have you experienced good fortune at work? Meditate on all the things you have to be thankful for, as well as the things you would like to see change for you by the next full moon. When you are ready, close the circle and end the ritual.
This is also a good time to perform Drawing down the Moon