LW was at one time a Drui. He became Warlock (an oath breaker). He was the cause why the Druen stopped participating in ritual with their male counter parts.
Because he was an oath breaker, evil and dangerous, the Druid did remove him from this world. His spirit was cursed to walk the earth until such time he was made welcome back into the circle and be redeemed.
Every Samhain, my Tuatha (as well as other Tuathas) light a candle at gathering and during our invitations "Jack" is also invited to join us. Whether or when he does is his choice but it will be a joyful time when he decides to be a part of us again.
In modern time, the Jack O Lantern has become a sign that Deagh is welcome.
Vortigen is correct in the fact that Druid sacrifice was performed to "make sacred" that which is offered. And yes, the "sacrifices" were indeed criminals. Twice a year these offerings were made..Beltane and Samhain. Not only was the human/humans placed into the "wicker man" but also animals so that the sacrificee would have company and food on his journey to the Otherworld.
I am glad we no longer make the human sacrifices although I admit I do feel there are those who should be sent on to their next incarnation. Possibly we all know one or two of those? And as for the animals..these do furnish us sustenance. Even plants have life and that is also taken so we may eat.
If you want written "proof" of what I tell you, sorry but it is still custom that most things are not documented by writings. The oral tradition is still well alive.
And yes, there are tradional Druid and Druen who do walk amongst you in these times. It was Christianity that caused the true and devout Druid to go underground yet they maintain their oral tradition, their Oghamic traditions and use Nemhenic in communicating.
Slain, Agate.