Dedication and Protection of an Infant

On the first night after a baby is born, or the same night that the birth takes place, the mother or father (or the midwife, if she is a close friend or relative) should take the infant out under the stars. The child should first be held up to the heavens, saying:

O Lady of the Starry Heavens, Wise All-Father,
Behold this lively child (name).
Conceived and brought forth in love.

Bless and protect him/her
And grant the gifts of wisdom,
Inspiration, and wonder.

Place the child on the ground briefly, saying:

Hail Earth, Mother of All.
This is my infant, my love
And my jewel.

Bless and protect him/her,
Granting your enduring and eternal strength and steadfastness.
May he/she ever have a spirit
That seeks the stars,
And roots deep within
thy loving breast.

One should then clasp the child close and look about for a few minutes, for those who are gifted with second sight are often able at this time to see prophesies for the child or the mother.

Magical Rites from the Crystal Well, Ed Fitch, Llewellyn Publications, 1987