Author: Mandrake Windwillow

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            You’ve been invited to attend a Pagan ritual, welcome, we are glad to have you.  Here are some things you need to know to make your experience more meaningful, enjoyable and less confusing.  First of all, remember that Pagans are just like any other faith, they have holidays, traditions, ceremonies, rituals and churches just like any other faith.  Whether you’ve been invited to a coming of age ceremony, a pagan wedding or a holiday celebration, chances are you’ll be seeing and feeling things that may seem a bit strange to you.  That is why you are reading this, to prepare you a bit for some of the events you may encounter.

            The first thing that may be different from what you are used to is that our sacred space is not in an established church building like other faiths.  Pagans usually hold their observances in their homes or outdoors.  Make sure you ask whoever invited you what climate to dress for so you aren’t over or underdressed, we wouldn’t want you to be uncomfortable.  Also similar to other faiths pagans hold their observances in a specific order.  Ritual is usually opened by either the Priest or Priestess or Both depending on the group.  Also most groups stand in a circle for their rites.  This is done for a specific reason so make sure you follow the guide of the others in the circle. 

            You may also notice that the people in the ritual may be dressed different.  Some pagans wear garb to ritual, which is similar to what you would see at a renaissance fair or mayday festival, others wear costumes of the deities depicted, but most wear robes or cloaks or both.  Pagans dress in this way to separate themselves from everyday activities.  Its similar to dressing nice to go to church as some Christians do for holidays and special services.  You may also see people wearing special jewelry, headpieces, masks or face and body paint.  All these things have special significance to the people wearing them.                Now that we are past the differences in the dress you may see, let’s go onto what makes a pagan circle a pagan circle.  Most groups have an altar set either on one side of the sacred area or in the middle of where everyone will be standing.  It is important not to touch any of the items on the altar unless permission is given; these are special tools for those performing the ritual and are placed carefully on the altar for the event.  Generally an altar is a flat platform or table covered in cloth and decorated to reflect the event.  You may see animal skins or bones, crystals, bowls, candles, a bell, knives, flowers or anything else significant to the event being celebrated.  This is normal, you will not be asked to handle anything you are uncomfortable handling or participating in any way which makes you uneasy.  If anyone makes you feel uneasy or uncomfortable in any way alert either the person who brought you someone with the group holding the event.  You are a guest and should enjoy your experience.

            During the ritual itself you may see people calling the various directions, the high priest and priestess blessing the entrants and each other with water, smoke or oil.  Do not feel obligated to be anointed if you do not want to be or are allergic or asthmatic.  Your safety and comfort are of our highest concerns.  You may also see food and drink passed for sharing.  If you do not consume alcohol please ask if it is alcoholic in nature and if so simply pass it on without taking a drink.  The same goes for food allergies, just simply pass the food to the next person.

            If at any time you feel dizzy or need to sit down during the ritual please stay where you are and sit or alert someone within the group to be removed from the area. Please do NOT just leave, this is not just disruptive and rude, but it may harm the energies raised and cause problems with the circle.  This is by far one of the most important things to remember about attending a pagan circle.

            Also you may be enjoying a feast during or after the ritual is over.  This is a time to relax, talk, eat, drink and be merry.  Feel free to ask questions, discuss what you experienced and make new friends.  Pagans are friendly people and most will be happy to answer any questions you have.

            In summation here are a few points to remember.

1.      Ask about where the ritual will be held and dress accordingly

2.      Pagans are just like anyone else, they aren’t trying to lure you into a sacrifice.

3.      Don’t allow anyone to make you feel uncomfortable, speak up

4.      Alert someone if you need to leave the area or feel ill/dizzy

5.      Don’t feel pressured to partake in anything you don’t wish to.

6.      Enjoy yourself that is why you are there, to learn and enjoy.

Hail and Be welcome!