Part Two

Rituals are an integral part of any religion. It allows adherents to entered an altered state of mind, one that is more receptive to the energies surrounding the ritual chamber. It provides a structure that the mind can wrap itself around, a rational frame for an irrational activity. It is also known as psychodrama. Pyschodrama is a term for ritualistic activity designed to instill a sense of reverence and power into oneself for the purpose of working magick. Magick is defined as "using one's will to affect changes in circumstances for the betterment of self and others," but it is more than that. Magick is a tool, a means to an end, that end being a reconnecting to the Source. Mankind's ultimate goal is reuniting with the Source, whether they be Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Pagan, or otherwise. There are many means, right and wrong, to reconnect, as many as there are religions. For the purpose of the treatise, only Pagan means will be discussed. Preparation for any ritual begins with gathering the materials needed, then a symbolic cleansing of the body, usually by bath or shower. Then one will progress to a cleansing of the mind, by meditation. One usually begins meditation by finding a quiet spot, assuming a comfortable position, and clearing the mind of all clutter. Once the mind is cleared, then one focuses on the object of the ritual, visualizing it in the best way possible for them, whether by an image connected to the object, or, in the case of communing with the Source, a representation that best suits the aspect of the Source one is communing with. Then, with the image or representation firmly in place in the mind, the ritual begins, usually with an opening of the magickal circle. Some also do a banishing, ridding the chamber of negative energies. The ritual itself can be written out or memorized, but most often, the more successful rituals have no script. During the ritual, energy is raised, harnessed, and put to use. The means of raising such energy are widely varied, and there is really no wrong way to do so. Finally, thanks are given, the circle is closed, and usually the participant grounds themselves by either physically touching the ground, thereby placing unused energy back into the Earth, or releasing the energy to the four winds. This is the basic structure of a ritual process, but it is by no means concrete. Most people add to, or take out, parts of the process as needed. Again, there is no real way to conduct a ritual, provided one feels comfortable in their workings. If something doesn't feel right, by all means, alter it until it does. The beauty of the Pagan path is nothing is set in stone. It is malleable, suited to be adjusted to one's needs. After all, we choose this path for the freedom it offers. And freedom is what we are after, freedom to reconnect with the Source as we see fit. That being said, once we reconnect with the Source, only then will we truly be free, free from care, free from pain, free to love. Namaste.