Preparation – As Guests Arrive – Purification and Meditation
- Assign who will recite which incantations before the ritual begins so everyone will have a chance to become familiar with what they need to say and not be nervous.
- If you will be singing chants – decide how they will be sung ahead of time and practice them together BEFORE beginning.
- As participants arrive, if anyone has brought anything to the Ritual, thank them and place those items on your Altar.
- If flowers are required in the ritual and a guest forgets to bring their own flowers – if there is time – have them look around to pick some form of nature.
Instruct all to wash up before taking their place in a circle.
Explain the importance of starting fresh when entering the Ritual space. Paraphrase the following:
“As we all are about to embark on this Sacred Journey – please take a moment to clean your face and hands to help wash away the days worries and cares. “Please refrain from speaking to each other as this is meant to be a personal moment to release any unwanted or negative feelings.
“When you come back, quietly take your place in a Circle around the Altar and we will take a moment of meditation to calm the day’s thoughts.”
Prior to proceeding to the Ritual introduction, turn the music down slowly until it is not audible and dim bright lights. Leader may facilitate a guided meditation if desired.
“We will take a quiet moment to calm the day’s thoughts.”
