Stanley J. A. Modyrzk

Title:	Celebrating Times of Change
Sub-title:	A Wiccan Book of Shadows for Family and Coven Growth
Author:	Stanley J. A. Modyrzk
Publisher:	Samuel Weiser
ISBN:	0-88728-820-8
Pages:	136 pages + Glossary
Copyright:	1995
Reviewer:	Mike Gleason
Contact Information:	gleason.mike@verizon.net
Category:	Wicca
Review:	I knew Stan decades ago when we both lived in the Metro Chicago area. I remember him as an extremely competent Priest with a flair for the dramatic; but one who could laugh at himself when the occasion arose. Over the years his style has obviously mellowed. He takes great pains to show not only the forms of the rituals used by his particular group, but the reasoning behind those forms. While not everyone will agree with everything he says, they should be able to accept his reasoning. He does not state that "This is the way it is, because I say so." Instead, he says "This is why we do things this way. Change it if you wish." The subtitle of this book tells you what to expect: "A Wiccan Book of Shadows for Family and Coven Growth." It is a book composed of rituals. It does not have tables of correspondences, not does it have "restricted" information. It contains basic formats and ideas to help the reader expand their perceptions and understanding of Wiccan rituals. It contains complete rituals with only one exception. While some may say that this violates oaths of secrecy, the author feels (and I agree with him) that unless a person is fully prepared for the experience, mere words will mean nothing. In the words of an early Pagan publication (Earth Religion News): "Guard the Mysteries...Reveal Them Constantly." Our religion is one of experience and knowledge, and without one the other is incomplete. If you combine this book with his earlier work Turning of the Wheel, you will have everything you need to become a member of the Pagan community, growing personally and spiritually, and contributing to the growth of the community. At $11.00 it is one of the least expensive books I have seen in a long time, and it is worth every penny of the price.
Review submitted:	20 May 2003