Symbolism Of The Order

The Crest

The Patch

Simple Patch

Usage

Bows

The Crest of the Order is in the shape of a shield to represent the fact that we wish to be a spiritual order. Just like the Knights of ancient religious orders, we wish to exist as both a religious fellowship and as a dedicated group of people committed to learning and service in the community. The flourish at the top helps to create the same connection between ancient and new practices. Within the shield are symbols representing the sun, the moon, and a star - specifically the Pagan symbol of the pentagram. These illustrate our commitment to the worship of natural cycles through symbols of cosmic forces. The S.O.L.P. underneath stands, of course, for the Sacred Order of Living Paganism.

The Patch, shown here in the order and colors of the degrees, is a similar symbol. It also shows the sun, moon, and star symbols. The eight rays of the sun represent the eight major sabbats in the Wheel of the Year. The letters SOLP stand for Sacred Order of Living Paganism. A smaller design allows for use of the patch as a medallion or coat button.

The simple patch was created as an alternative to the more complicated designs of the Crest and the Patch. Its design allows for easy hand drawing applications.

Crests and Patches allow members of the Order to recognize each other while also providing a means of identification to others who may have need of a Pagan dedicated to deep spiritual learning, practice, and service.

Members are welcome to make and wear jewelry using these designs but we emphasize simplicity in such displays. Remember that outward signs of recognition should represent the principles and purposes of the Order. We recommend small and simple pieces. For example, a patch may be printed from this page and applied to a simple round piece of wood to be made into a pendant or the simple patch could be hand drawn onto a pendant or other piece of jewelry.

Another means of recognition is through a courteous bow. One popular one used in the Order is the following:

From mind (put hands together and touch your forehead)
and heart, (bring hands to chest)
body (cross hands across chest)
and soul, (uncross hands bringing them down and forward, palms up)
may you in peace and love go, my friend. Blessed Be!

Another bow is the following:

Within you, I recognize:
the light of the God (hands up, shoulder width, palms up)
and the love of the Goddess. (hands crossed across chest)
O Sacred Child, welcome! (hands together to chest and bow)