Ritual Structure

This script includes most of the formal elements of Sacred Grove ritual and may be modified as an outline for other rituals.

The Circle

In this example, Participants begin standing outside the area where the circle is to be cast. Most Westerners will want chairs for sitting; if chairs are used they should be set in a circle with one or more spaces (gates) through which participants may enter the circle.

For large groups in small rooms a double circle may be used, though this will make dancing impossible for most participants.

With minor wording changes and major logistical changes, the ritual can be moved to cyberspace, if participants are widely scattered or pandemic warrants social distancing.

The Preparations

The Preparations call the Sacred Grove into manifestation as temple for the ritual. Participants commit themselves to each other and to their intentions, then step between the worlds.

The Warning

Bard and Quarters take their places in circle (Bard in center).

Bard speaks:

Required element: The Warning

Marking the Circle

Optional element: casting a Circle

Claiming the Circle

Required element: Claiming Sacred Space

The Challenges

Optional element: The Challenges

Sealing the Circle

Required element: Sealing the Circle

Inviting the Guardians

Optional element: Inviting the Guardians

The Mystery

Welcoming the Lord and Lady

Priest invokes the Lady

Priestess invokes the Lord

Optional element: invite freeform invocations by any so moved.

The Working

Optional elements: journeying, teaching, or magical workings

The Presence

Participants sit in silence or speak as moved, sharing visions, inspirations or whatever the Lord and Lady may lead them to say.

in the grove 2

When the time seems right, Priest and Priestess gather Participants and make farewells to All present.

The Closing

Thanking the Lord and Lady

Priest thanks Lady

Priestess thanks Lord.

Thanking the Guardians

Optional element: Quarters thank Guardians, if they were invited.

The Return

Bard recalls everyone to normal wakefulness.

Optional element: Priest and Priestess address any unfinished business

Opening the Circle

Bard comes to North, snuffs Grove candle

Bard speaks:

The rite is ended, the circle is open. May the blessing of the Lord and Lady be with us all.

So mote it be.