Once within the circle it is usual to call upon elemental spirits from the four cardinal compass points to assist with the work and help to keep the circle intact. Witches work with such forces all the time and while each is not viewed as a god or goddess in itself they are treated with great care and respect. Some people feel the same spirit responds each time they are called, others feel that the individual spirits are different each time and some that each one is a collective of elemental spirits from that element/quarter. The Quarters are sometimes called the Watchtowers. In some circles the quarters are called by the priest or the priestess but we prefer to designate four people to do this each time. The gestures are different each time too but some make the sign of the horns (I think this might be a Nottingham thing!) while others simply stand with their palms upraised and open.
How it is done:
All present face the appropriate direction and make the gestures. The caller draws an appropriate invoking pentagram in the air and proclaims:
Hail to the Watchtower
of the [North, South, East West],
Element of [Earth, Fire, Air, Water]!
We summon, stir and call ye,
Ye mighty ones of the [North, South, East West],
Guardian spirits of Witchdom.
We welcome you to our circle,
Ask you to guard and protect it,
Witness and bless the rites we hold within
In the name of Witchcraft.
Guardians of the
[North, South, East West],
Lords of the [Earth, Fire, Air, Water],
Hail and Welcome!
[All] Hail and Welcome!