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1. The Location
When you choose a location, do what feels right. In my case the choice was easy – I selected
the place of my Bardic initiation for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. The location in
question was a lovely spot in a local wood – a set of crossroads with their own significance to
the development of my path. I did consider other locations, visiting them and meditating for
inspiration. None made my heart skip a beat like my crossroads.
Note: be aware that some locations will more likely be visited by passers by during ritual than
others. If you’re a purist you may wish to select a more remote location. If you’re like us – you
come to appreciate the interest and curiosity that casual walkers by show. Who knows, the
spark may strike them…
2. The Ritual
Writing the Ritual can seem quite daunting. Fortunately, the AC has built up quite a repository
of past rituals that can be used as a basis. In addition, the Order of Bard, Ovates and Druids
(OBOD) provides its members with a collection of rituals from which one may draw inspiration
(even if we are discouraged from sharing the actual rituals).
Rituals vary significantly across paths, occasions and individuals. We tend to save the goat
slaughtering for special occasions so putting that aside, most rituals have a similar format
which make it easier to write your own.
The Opening
In this case I chose to start with a short breathing exercise to allow people to relax, focus and
connect with their surroundings. The traditional casting of the circle and calling of the quarters
followed this. (Google is your friend if you’re more curious as to what that entails.)
The Rite
The Rite itself is where you can really let your creativity loose – with no fixed format. In my
case the Rite was precipitated by a beautiful elegy sung in Welsh by the lovely Vee Harness– if
you ever get the chance to hear Vee sing, make sure you take it!).