Episode 50: Blue Moon Ritual
The Murder of the Smith Family
A Blue Moon is a phenomena that only occurs every two to three years, in which an extra full moon occurs during a single seasonal lunar cycle. Some believe a blue moon can wreak havoc with all magical forces, causing witches' powers to become erratic and unpredictable. In 2015, Pensacola Florida police shocked everyone when they claimed the murder of a mother and her two sons was the work of witchcraft, and more specifically the forces of the Blue Moon.
Conjure Tip of The Week
I want to share with all of you a True Blue Moon Ritual. As the Blue Moon rises, find a quiet space to connect with the divine energy, whatever that means to you. Place seasonal flowers, a candle, a dish of sea salt, incense of sandalwood or sage and any talismans or crystals you’d like cleansed on your altar. Light the candle and the incense, then repeat these words or words of your own. I call upon the Goddess of balance, grace, and justice. With the power of this blue moon, release any known or unknown obstacles so that I may be renewed for this next lunar cycle. This ritual for releasing what doesn't serve you and welcoming what awaits, is in true blue moon spirit.
Ep. 50 Sources
Gail Shortland, Mirror UK News; "Police blamed murders on blue moon and witchcraft but motive was far more simple"
Colin Warren-Hicks, Pensacola News Journal; "Pensacola man sentenced to life in prison in 'blue moon' triple murder case"
Colin Warren-Hicks, Pensacola News Journal; "Trial begins for man accused of killing his mother and brothers in 'blue moon' murder case"
Danielle Apolinar, ABC 3Wear TV; "Witness: Escambia County man accused of killing family wasn't getting along with brother"
WKRG, NorthWest Florida Channel 5 News; "Witnesses testify in ‘Witchcraft’ murder trial in Pensacola"
Associated Press, New York Post; "Family’s throats slit in ‘ritualistic’ murder tied to the blue moon"
The Associated Press, ABC News; "Florida man guilty; used claw hammer, knife to kill family"
FindAGrave.com
Staff Writer, The Ledger; "Jury finds Florida man guilty of killing mother, brothers in 'blue moon' murder case"
Adam Janos, A&E TV; "Was Witchcraft to Blame for Florida's 'Blue Moon' Triple Murder?"
Colin Warren-Hicks, Pensacola News Journal; "Jury finds Hartung guilty on all 3 counts of murder in 'blue moon' case"
Colin Warren-Hicks, Pensacola News Journal; "Jury selection begins for 'blue moon' triple murder case after more than four years"
Colin Warren-Hicks, Pensacola News Journal; "Pensacola 'blue moon' triple murder case may finally go to trial after more than 3 years"
Ahnentafel of Voncile Hammac Hartung Smith, AAFA #0788
Leslie Acosta, ABC 3Wear-TV; “Donald Hartung's son testifies: 'Dad was black sheep of the family'”