May The Circle Be Open Yet Unbroken Poster by AzureGreen, 8.5 x 11 Inches

Parchment-style art print. Printed on aged-look paper, which suits an altar or a reading nook.

8.5 by 11 inches. Standard letter size, so it drops into an off-the-shelf frame.

The traditional parting words. Figures in a circle around the line, from AzureGreen's print line.

• Size: 8.5 by 11 inches
• Parchment-style printed paper, sold unframed
• Publisher: AzureGreen
• SKU: EPMAY

In Wiccan and many modern Pagan traditions, a ritual begins by casting a circle and ends by opening it. The words mark that closing: the boundary comes down, but the bond and the energy raised within it are held to remain. The line is usually paired with the parting blessing, merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again, and the sense of it is that those who gathered will gather again.

It is worth knowing that this is a modern liturgy rather than an ancient one. It comes out of twentieth-century Wicca, and it has become one of the most widely used closings in the craft because it says something true about what a circle is for: the working ends, and the connection does not.

1. Choose a spot where you will see it: above an altar, or wherever you gather for ritual.
2. Frame it in a standard 8.5 by 11 frame to protect the paper, or pin it up as it is.
3. Keep it out of direct sun and away from damp, which fades the print and warps the paper.
4. Read the words as you open your circle at the close of a rite, if that suits your practice.

• Circle Casting Bundle: the elemental candles for casting the circle this poster closes.
• Living Wicca by Scott Cunningham: the book behind the practice.
• White Chime Candles, Set of 20: candles for the quarters.
• White Sage Smudge Stick: to clear the space before you cast.
• Lake Prayer Poster: another AzureGreen print, for the same wall.

What does may the circle be open yet unbroken mean?

In Wiccan and Pagan ritual, the circle cast at the start of a rite is released at the end. The words mark that closing: the boundary is taken down, but the bond and energy raised within it remain unbroken.

Is it an ancient saying?

No. It comes out of twentieth-century Wicca. That does not make it less useful, and it is now one of the most widely used closings in the craft.

How big is it, and is it framed?

8.5 by 11 inches, standard letter size, sold unframed.

How should I care for it?

Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Framing behind glass is the best protection in a working ritual space.

Can I use it in ritual, or just as decor?

Either. Some read the words as they open their circle; others simply like the print.