Preparation – Practice, Practice, Practice:
Weeks and Days and Hours Before
As a leader of ritual, it helps if you know what is going on and what you intend to happen… Although it is not necessary to memorize the words of a ritual, the more you are familiar with what you will be saying and the spirit of the words said, the easier it will be to say them. Also, practicing a ritual makes it run so much smoother so that energy is focused on the healing changing power of ritual and not just getting through the mechanics of it.
Feel free to change the words and make them your own as needed, as long as the spirit of the ritual is not altered dramatically. If someone in the group wishes to share a special reading or experience, invite them to do so as you enjoy cakes and wine.
Chants
It is suggested that the chants may be sung. If you choose to sing them, figure out how they will be sung before the day of the ritual and please do not use more than a 3-4 note range. It makes it easier for everyone to participate!
- The leader has the responsibility to provide the Altar and Ritual tools, but can delegate this responsibility.
- The leader should photocopy the actual spoken parts of the Ritual and distribute it ahead of time to those who are expected to participate verbally, so they are more familiar with what will be going on AND they’ll know what they’ll be saying and when they’ll be saying it. It also helps prepare everyone so all can fully appreciate the depth of the experience.
- Read through the entire Ritual – so that you are very familiar with it and may facilitate with understanding.
- If you have time, create Sabbath specific decorations and percussion instruments. This is fitting in Wicca, as the philosophy is about self-empowerment and creativity.
