Services

Congregation

More resorces

Some of the customs of the craft may not be obvious to newcomers or visitors. We hope this list of guidelines will be helpful.

1. Since traditional lore teaches that a consecrated object easily absorbs energy (becomes charged), we do not touch such items without the owner's explicit permission. This would apply especially, although not exclusively, to such items as Tarot cards, the Tools (athame, wand, chalice, etc.), ritual jewelry and other regalia.

2. Your ritual bath should be taken before you depart for the gathering.

3. A Circle is a religious rite and all participants should conduct themselves in a manner respectful of the Goddess and God. Your conduct is a reflection upon yourself and your community. Once the pre-ritual grounding begins, the time for socializing and chitchat is over. The time for respect, spiritual focus and magical concentration begins.

4. If you are drunk, stoned, drugged or on very strong prescription medication, you do not belong in Circle. Excuse yourself and leave. Else the High Priest/ess or Warder may escort you out and suggest that you not bother ever to return.

5. Once the Circle is cast, do not break the circle except for emergencies. In an emergency, the Warder will cut a special door in the Circle and escort you out. We recommend that all participants take a bathroom break before entering the Circle.

6. A Circle is not for observers. A Circle is participatory. If you are not ready to focus and contribute your attention and efforts to the ceremony, you do not belong in Circle. If you do not wish to participate, you should excuse yourself before the pre-ritual grounding begins, and leave the area. Do not watch from outside, as your presence will be distracting and disruptive. Find something else to occupy your attention, elsewhere.

7. Once the rite begins, focus your attention on it. Talking, joking, laughing etc, are extremely rude and break the concentration and continuity of the ceremony. Such behavior is disrespectful of the occasion.

8. We have an informal segment of the rite after cakes and ale. Everyone relaxes and enjoys. This is a time for discussion of magical topics, planning of events, announcements, and fun. It is NOT a time for horseplay, however.