An invocation is a call to a specific Deity/Energy/Spirit in ritual. This can be to ask for guidance, for a prayer or blessing, to assist in a magickal working, to honor them and perform offerings, or for channeling. An invocation is performed with respect and reference, and is always a request and never a demand.
Category: Ritual
Connecting with Aphrodite: A Ritual Template – Creating Sacred Space
I like to begin each of my rituals by creating sacred space. What exactly makes a space sacred? It can be many things, but the primary attribute of a sacred space is that it brings us closer to the Divine. Some spaces may have an environmental sacred element to them, like beautiful places in nature. Some sacred spaces have been established and maintained by people, such as ancient temples or even the altar area in your home. And other sacred spaces we create specifically for the purpose of ritual.
A Hymn to Isis and Dreaming of What Paganism Could Be
As I mentioned in my last post of Priestess in a Pandemic, Isis came into my life this past year. Her arrival was unexpected but welcome. She showed up when there was need, though I wouldn’t have been able to articulate it then. Our relationship has been transformational and healing.
Connecting with Aphrodite: A Ritual Template – Preparations
Preparation is the first element in my ritual template. This can include cleansing and purification, getting together your tools and altar, engaging your senses, and creating a ritual outline.
Connecting with Aphrodite: Introduction to a Simple Ritual Template
There is no one right way to do a ritual. Find what works for you and Aphrodite! Here I share a very general template that I use for my rituals.
Unexpectedly Aphrodite
I like to think I’ve gotten used to Aphrodite showing up in unexpected ways. I’ve written multiple posts on this blog about how my experience of Her doesn’t usually match the lore, and doesn’t jive with the frilly, superficial way She is often portrayed in modern Paganism. I no longer assume that She will fit into any mold that we humans prescribe for Her. And yet, there are still times when She surprises me.
Connecting with Aphrodite – Seeking Out the Goddess
The process and experience of connection will be different for each person. You can use what follows as a general guide, but do not feel limited by it. If you feel called to do something different, do it! As I’ve said before, pursuing a Goddess is an experimental process. You have to figure out what works for you and for Her. Your connection with Aphrodite will be unique.
Beltane in a Pandemic – One Year Later
One year ago, my local Pagan group held its first-ever virtual Sabbat - Beltane of 2020. At that time, we were starting to realize the gravity of what the pandemic would bring. Off-handed statements of “It will all be over in a month or two” were starting to fade as COVID-19 took the world by… Continue reading Beltane in a Pandemic – One Year Later
Self-Compassion Ritual – Pandemic Edition
Our modern society doesn’t teach us self-compassion. Quite the opposite. It teaches us self-criticism, shame, guilt, and blame. It tells us that we have to follow the rules, meet its unrealistic expectations, and practically achieve perfection before we are worthy of loving ourselves. This, quite frankly, is an utter load of crap.
No Words of Wisdom
I wish I had some profound words of wisdom to share with you today, in the wake of the chaos of this week. I don’t. Just this: Take care of yourself, take care of those you love, and do what you can.