Ceremony is perhaps the most powerful element of any religious system, and Paganism is no exception. From simple but heartfelt improvisation to elaborate, rehearsed rituals, Pagan ceremonies can fit a wide variety of preferences.
A solitary Pagan's ceremony may consist of just meditating on a rock by a stream to (re)connect herself to nature. A group ceremony could consist of 50 robed people chanting and singing, complete with enough regalia (incense, chalice, candles, etc.) to rival a Catholic High Mass. But what makes it different from most mainstream religions? Mainly, it hinges on the participatory nature. In many traditions, though there are one or two clear leaders (High Priest/ess, or an equivalent), every member is a priest/ess. During the ceremony, members get called upon to fill certain roles: calling the elements, leading the chants, etc. Instead of simply listening to someone relate a parable, or passively being involved, Paganism stresses active participation -- no medium between you and the Divine is needed.
Most ceremonies start with the creation of a sacred space. This essentially creates a temporary consecrated area, "hallowed group" on which to celebrate. Each tradition does this differently: Wicca, for example, "casts a circle," creating a circular portal to a place outside the mundane world.
Following this are the invocations: welcoming the Gods/Goddesses, elements (e.g. earth, air, fire, and water), and any other spirits (angels, totems, etc.). Once all are in attendance, it is time for any celebratory aspects, if appropriate. These can range from guided mediation to a "mystery play," similar to Greek theater.
After that comes the Working -- raising and directing energy. I'll go into more depth later, in another article, but Working is very similar to praying. When the Working is done, things are wrapped up: thanks and farewells are given to those that were invited, and the sacred space is "dismantled," returning the area to "normal."
Now that I've given you a basic idea of what goes on, let's go onto the when. I can't give an exhaustive list, because each tradition varies, but many use the European system, following the cycles of planting and harvest. These are, roughly: Yule (Winter Solstice), Imbolg (February Eve), Ostara (Vernal Equinox), Beltaine (May Eve), Midsummer (Summer Solstice), Lammas (August Eve), Mabon (Autumnal Equinox), and Samhain (November Eve).
Some groups also use a lunar cycle, typically meeting on the full moon. Normally this is used more for Working than for celebrating. However, many women's groups use this time to honor their femininity.
The feelings that a successful ceremony can evoke are intense. It's both lighthearted and solemn, free and wild, a thrill of energy coursing between yourself and something greater. In short, it's a little slice of religious ecstasy.
For more links to ceremonial stuff, check out these links: Catlinn Storm's Book of Shadows and Pagan Chants of the Month.
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