Claiming the Circle consists of four balanced spells to prepare the ritual area for magical work. The four Claimings are normally performed immediately after the Circle is cast, before any invocations or welcomings.
Each of the four Claimings is performed by a person standing at the appropriate quarter and facing Center (inward, not outward as in quarter calling).
The normal sequence is East, West, South, North, to emphasize the polarities and balance of the working.
If the Circle is cast with all participants present within, replace the words Let all who enter below with Let all within.
The Claimings are spells and should be spoken with conviction and intent. The Bard and remaining Quarters respond So mote it be! to each Claiming.
East speaks:
In the name of the Lady of Light, and in my own name,
I claim this circle as a place of Men.
Let all who enter be bound to speak and hear the Truth.
So mote it be.
West speaks:
In the name of the Sacred King, and in my own name,
I claim this circle as a place of Women.
Let all who enter be bound to Perfect Love and Trust.
So mote it be.
South speaks:
In the name of the Lord of the Greenwood, and in my own name,
I claim this circle as a place of Nature.
Let all who enter be bound to the Sacred Web of Life.
So mote it be.
North speaks:
In the name of the Queen of Heaven, and in my own name,
I claim this circle as Sacred Space.
Let all who enter be opened to the presence of God and Goddess.
So mote it be.