Honor Your Ancestors (Samhain)

Take several deep breaths. Focus on those who have come before you, on their branching connections to you. Remember that you are the result of the love of thousands.

Light the fire/three candles. When you are ready, say:

"Through the shadows of living memory

And out across the gulf of time

I call now to my Ancestors:

Hear my/our prayers and accept this tribute, (give offering)

Great-grandparents of yesteryear,

And all honorable forebears,

Across the ages, can you hear

As I call to you this night, to share

The eve together in good cheer.

Hear my/our prayers and accept this tribute, (give offering)

For again I recall that it was only

Through your distant voice,

Through your ancient anarchy,

And through your every choice,

That I stand here, wild and free.

Hear my/our prayers and accept this tribute, (give offering)

Our connection is again renewed,

Here on this night with the veil so thin.

Through all the years that interlude,

You're with me, here, within.

To you, I give my gratitude.

That I might see this day,

Informed by your vision,

—Old Ones, this I pray!

That I might understand this day,

Guided by your wisdom,

—Old Ones, this I pray!

That I might share this day,

Empowered by your love,

—Old Ones, this I pray!

(place message paper in the fire/light it in the candles then drop it in the fire-proof container; be careful not to burn yourself!)

Ancestors from beyond,

You are not forgotten.

We still share this bond.

Have thee a Blessed Samhain."

Watch the smoke from your message as it rises and dissipates, knowing your communication has been heard. Let the fire/candles burn down/out (unless you need to do something else—don't leave a lit fire unattended!) and put the ashes outside with the offerings in the dish (preferably in a graveyard, but if you don't have easy access one, don't worry about it).

Blessed be.