AwesomeSauce, while there can be an underlying and (mostly) common formula behind the structure and enactment of most rituals, it still takes a measure of understanding and adaptation to make it effective. If you want an answer that will be informed and useful, then hedging around details will only hinder you.
Here is what we need to know if you want effective advice;
- Which deity/entity are you wanting to call on. Different beings ask for different things to be done. Some favor offerings, some call for dedication of effort and time, others are bargainers and pact-makers. Knowing the entity you want to work with will advise us on how to educate you on the deity and it's likes.
- What is your goal in connecting? Why do you want to reach out to this deity, what are you hoping to gain? Do you want to receive personal guidance? What with? (Self discovery, personal growth, artistic inspiration, protection and guardianship... and so on) do you want to just open up a proverbial dialogue or even just accept the being as a patron or focal point of worship? Do you want to gain something specific?
Gods can have multiple expresseions/identities. Knowing what you want along with who you want it from will narrow the focus of action to be specific to your goals. One can call on Athena the God of wisdom and strategy to seek inspiration in battle be it literal, in sport, or in social settings (like business dealings). One would call on Athena as the patroness of handicrafts (yes, that's a thing) to inspire more mechanical creativity and inspiration. Many cultures had gods that played multiple roles though, and often each role gave the God an additional name or epithet. Think of it like a job title or profession giving a unique form of the same being.
-it is also helpful to have some knowledge of your current methods of practice, if any. If you have no specific practice or knowledge, that is also good to say. Everyone starts at the beginning, but you will never hear about the basics unless you ask for them. And no tree can grow without first gaining some roots! Knowing if you have any foreknowledge, or preferences of practice, would allow us to tailor how we present the information you are looking for.
Do you practice any forms of worship, prayer, meditation, or magic already? Do you prefer the more tactile use of ritual, drawing sigil, and physical symbolism? Or are you usually happier building ideas and imagery within, through meditation and stillness? Do you feel a connection to rocks and crystals? Are you used to working with idols and effigies?
You don't need to answer all of these, I'm just listing a few prompting to consider so you can help us, help you. I understand feeling nervous or Self-conscious. Or afraid to reveal an idea that under normal social circumstances might bring ridicule or rejection. But remember you are talking about magic and faith, with a *community* built around discussing magic and faith.
The worst we'd do is reveal misconceptions if they exist, and help you open the door to practices that would actually be of use to you and your goals. The idea is to inspire critical thought, active study, and personal growth. ...Even if the process can be blunt sometimes. Some coconuts just need a good hard thwack to get open.
