Dedication Ritual

Last night we formally designated the garden circle as a sacred space. Dedication rituals are usually a bit more involved since you only do them once. It made sense to me to wait until the next new moon, which is a time for setting new goals and letting go of old habits. I bought some candles and incense to help create that special atmosphere that fosters deep thoughts and sacred moments. We began our ritual by calling upon the elemental powers of the world.

The stone circle we created has four full moon shapes set precisely in north, south, east, and west. We took turns standing on each moon and calling upon the corresponding element. Then, we each placed a floating candle into the fountain.

There was no breeze at all, and the sweet smell of incense hung in the air. With the candles glowing against a darkening sky, we each said our pledge aloud. I pledged to care for the space, for the plants and animals that lived in and around the circle. I promised never to be petty or selfish or dishonest in the circle. I pledged to welcome anyone who wanted to be in the circle with me, and finally I promised that all communication in the space would be gentle and kind, resolving any conflicts with an open heart. Whew! When we finished our pledges, we each placed a final candle into the fountain.

With our ritual complete, we hugged and kissed and went inside for a drink!