Being new to anything can be intimidating; with that in mind we offer you this handy-dandy guide to understanding your first Pagan Ritual or event. We hope you find a warm welcoming space where you can explore the meaning of spiritual growth and Pagan fellowship.

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• Do your research. Although any good ritual facilitator will explain what to expect before the ritual begins, go in with an open mind, but don’t do in blind. Do some basic research by reading at least one beginner book to gather some knowledge about what will happen.

 

• Plan to arrive during the “gathering time.” This will allow you to get to know us a little and begin to feel comfortable. You will also get the most out of the pre-ritual introduction.

 

• We are an open and affirming fellowship: ALL are welcome. We gather in honor of diversity and embrace it fully. All gender identities, racial identities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses’, abilities, and traditions are welcome.

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• Manners matter. This is a social gathering as well as a religions gathering; there is always room for those with introverted tendencies (many rituals are led by introverts!) and social anxiety can happen to the best of us. Politeness will get you farther than an outgoing personality. If you know you might feel anxious, honor your feelings; plan ahead and email the facilitator beforehand to introduce yourself, learn what you can about the group, and prepare by doing what you need to feel comfortable. Please read our Anti-Harassment Policy for further clarification about expected behavior and our culture of mediation.

 

• Ritual is both a spiritual experience and a social experience. To help facilitate a friendly environment we always begin our rituals with group introductions, including a round of names. This is a time for you to introduce yourself, get acquainted with everyone gathered, and make a friend or two.

 

• Ritual is a sacred time to attune with the divine and your fellow worshippers. If you are new to this spiritual path, your first ritual may feel more awkward than sacred. That’s okay. Acting respectful toward your fellow ritual goers is all that is required of you; a respectful and welcoming space might be a religious experience in itself.

 

• Ritual is about a sacred and safe space. We always attempt to make every effort to clarify the purpose of the ritual, what to expect during the ritual, and emphasize that there is NO WRONG WAY to participate. All are welcome to participate in what way feels most comfortable as long as it is respectful to others.​

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• Ritual is fun! Community is fun! We gather for worship, we gather for magic, but we do not gather to take ourselves too seriously. The Gods have a sense of humor, why shouldn't we?

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If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us directly.

We hope to see you soon at up-coming events!

 

Warmest Blessings!

Boston Pagan Central