ALUNA TEMPLE MAGAZINE Edition No3 'INITIATIONS' | Page 22

WOMEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE
with Cheryl Hart and Sitting Owl
Modern day society, with the absence of rites
of passage ceremonies and its disconnection
from nature has had detrimental effects on the
society at large; both men and women.
Art © Unknown

Our subject here however is women’s rites of passage.
Rites of Passage always involve three stages:
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Separation: Separation from the existing limited awareness of all that is familiar and
secure (in this case childhood). It is important to acknowledging the fear and resistance, with
awareness that we have no choice, but to let go and face the fear of the unknown. At this stage
the community has to see that the initiate is ready for the transition. In the case of women’s rites
this is evident in her menstruation.
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Transition Rites or the Adventure: This is a hazing period, when we are in full flight
of the adventure. This is where we face the fears head on, as the grip of old consciousness fades,
and in time merges with new revelations.
This is a time when our faith is tested, a time when the community support is needed for
wisdom and clarity. This is fulfilled by the sharing of wisdom of the elders.

This is the ‘Dark Night of the Soul’. This is a time to surrender to The Great
Spirit and His mystery.
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Rites of Incorporation - the Return: The return of the same person, but forever
changed. The ceremony or ritual has penetrated the subconscious.
The deed has been achieved and the Initiate has accepted the gift, which has brought her to selfrecognition and a deep understanding of surrender.
Celebration and community support enhances the individual’s
experience to trust in the cycles of life. There is a strong
sense of belonging and acceptance from the community of
this new mature woman.
These rites of passage ceremonies connected all women to each
other in a meaningful way.
And the blessings and understanding of the women’s role as
the life givers were carried with much pride and transferred to
the initiate’s consciousness so that all women were united
and proud of such a responsibility.
Into The Unknown © Suzana Grau
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