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