GATHERING WITH THE TRIBE Everything you ever wanted to know about attending a Caer Avalon open ritual but were afraid to ask! For the sake of those who have been to ritual before and have some unfulfilled wonderings and also for those who haven't been and would like to know what to do when they get there, we have put together some information on this page. These questions form the basis for what one might call "ritual etiquette", a code of conduct to help everyone participate and fully enjoy ritual. Q: "This is my first ritual and I'm a bit nervous. What can I expect?" A: First off, it is a good idea to know a little of what were all about, so have a look through our website. Next, please know that there is nothing really to be nervous about. We all went our first open ritual with many the same feelings. Also, most of us started on this path with little or no experience so don't feel to you need any to attend. Just come with an open heart, an open mind and an open spirit. No expectations necessary. Q: "I know you said to arrive at a certain time, but I can show up a little late, right?" A: Actually no. Please arrive on time as latecomers will not be allowed to take part in ritual. Q: "What kind of food should I bring for the Feast?" A: Well, anything goes. Foods of the season (breads, pies, salads, etc.) are appropriate as are Non-Alcoholic beverages such as juices, bottled water and soda. We ask that you be considerate to those with allergy concerns and label any possible "allergic foods" (those with nuts, etc.) Also, re-usable containters are encouraged as they cut down on garbage and are more enviro-friendly. Be sure to take home any containers afterwards. Q: "I brought some candles and other things to share in ritual. Are they mine to take home with me?" A: Yes. In fact, we ask that you take home everything you came with. This helps to keep the park clean and lessens the workload for those cleaning up afterwards. Q: "We are making offerings in ritual. Can I pick some flowers or leaves from the area to use?" A: We seek to honour the land in our rituals, so we kindly ask that you not pick any flowers, leaves or live tree branches to be used as offerings. Offerings are absolutely welcome but please bring them from home or use loose items such as stones or pinecones found in the area. Q: "The altar seems quite interesting. Can I pick up the items or add my own?" A: The altar or shrine is sacred; a place for the Gods. That being said, please do not touch or place anything on the altar without first speaking to one of the members of Caer Avalon. The same applies to the Fire. Is has been blessed and its flame is sacred, so please to do not place anything such as garbage into it. Also, only members of the Tribe are to tend it at anytime. Q: "I didn't get a chance to talk to all the members of Caer Avalon before the ritual started. What gives?" A: Open rituals are quite a busy time for us, so please don't take it personally if every member of Tribe cannot chat before ritual. Q: "I don't want to be in ritual. Can I just sit and watch?" A: No. This is, afterall, a religious celebration, not a spectator sport. Not only does it make people uncomfortable, but it can also be considered rude to those gathered, and to the Gods. Q: "Is Caer Avalon accepting any new members?" A: No, but you are free to come to any of our open events. Q: "I appreciated the ritual very much. Can I make a donation of some kind in return?" A: We certainly do not ask for anything in return for the ritual. We are all members of the greater Tribe and therefor we all have the right to attend, participate and worship in ritual without a cost of any kind. But we do understand that some may want to contribute and help out from time to time (such as park permit costs, ritual supplies, etc.), so if you wish to make a donation (of any kind), please see a member of Caer Avalon. Q: "If I really enjoy the ritual can I attend more in the future?" A: Absolutely! We'd love to see you back again. Questions? Commments? Concerns? caeravalon@yahoo.com To be notified about and to attend one of our open rituals, please join our discussion group at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Caer_Avalon Blessed Be! < Back to the Temenoi © Caer Avalon