I wrote this attunement for our Imbolc rite last year. It was requested that we do a “convection” attunement. I like these because it work the way science does, with heat rising and cold falling.
A Healing Ritual for Mental Health
Mental Health is something that so many people struggle with, myself included. It can seem hard to see the hope and the light when the world seems to be covered in darkness and nothing but feelings of bleak desolation. While religion is no substitute for other medical interventions, such as therapy and/or medication, is definitely has its place in making things more bearable. When the flame seems to have gone out, we can pray in hopes of finding it’s light again.
While this is a full ADF Core Order of Ritual, the working section can be performed as a stand alone piece, particularly if performing the whole ritual seems daunting. The ritual can also be performed on behalf of another, though please do make sure you have their permission first to offer prayers on their behalf.
Explaining the Patron vs. Devotee Relationship
A post came up recently asking for insight on the idea of a Patron Deity, who calls to whom, and what that relationship looks like. I’ve written about this on a more personal level before, but I’ll focus this post on a more general description of what that relationship can look like, how different people can experience it, and variations on a personal relationship with a deity.
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Affirmation Sigil: I can overcome this.
![[Image: A line drawn graphical sigil. Text sigil for firing "I can overcome this": cnVrMThS]](https://hellenicdruid.files.wordpress.com/2018/10/sigil-i-can-overcome.jpg?w=750)
Dealing with all manner of situations and emotions means that sometimes you need to remind yourself that you can do this. You are strong enough to handle what life is throwing at you, and you can overcome it.
With the way the political climate is right now, I know a lot of us are struggling, myself included. The big, black dog of depression has a really easy path to sneak up on us and follow us around. There are a lot of self-care options out there, and ways to combat the depression, anxiety, and generally triggered state that many of find ourselves in these days. I’ve found that working magic alongside the other self-care things I’m doing is a good way to keep pushing through.
My favorite way to use sigils like this one, that are meant to be a reminder and a focus for the hard work of fighting depression, is to put it directly on my skin. My favored method is using henna, since that takes time to prep and apply, thus focusing my intent, and then it stays on for at least a week, maybe more. However, if you don’t have access to henna, it can certainly be applied with a pen or sharpie, as long as you focus your intent while drawing it on.
I hope others find this as helpful as I do.
[this post originally appeared on my Patreon. Please head over there to support my work]
Breaking Away from the Earth Mother/Sky Father Binary
One of the things that has come up recently in discussion on various ADF forums is the the binary nature of Earth Mother and Sky Father. Although not all groves or solitary practitioners include an invocation to the Sky Father, as only the Earth Mother is required in our core liturgy, the implicit binary is still present. This dualistic Earth Mother/Sky Father present in ADF rituals can be quite off-putting, especially for our non-binary members.
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Teaching Ritual Performance
Teaching Ritual Performance was designed to assist students to instruct others in ritual performance. In this course students are required to journal their work directing several rituals. Students do not necessarily need to write the rituals, nor do they need to write all the parts for the rituals. In fact, students may find it more challenging to allow others to write the ritual and then simply teach others how to work with the text they are given or come up with on their own. The primary goal of this course is for students to enhance their skills for directing group ritual performance.
Pagan Theology 1
Pagan Theology 1 is a survey of concepts and issues in theology, including both western philosophical concepts and key themes in existing world polytheisms. This course begins by teaching the student about the common terms used in the theological work of most religions, and moves on to ask students to think about how the concepts represented by those terms can be applied to Our Druidry.
Leadership Development 2
Leadership Development 2
Leadership Development 2 is designed to build upon the knowledge attained in Leadership Development 1. This course will assist students in examining theoretical knowledge and provide opportunities for application of this knowledge. The primary goal for this course is for students to increase their knowledge and skills for effective group leadership and public relations.
ADF Election 2018 Questions
Rev. Jan Avende’s Responses – VAD Candidate
Hi y’all. I’m running for Vice Arch Druid in the 2018 ADF Election this year. Many folks have asked questions of the candidates, and I’ve answered all the ones I’ve seen below. I also welcome more questions, and will update this post as necessary to address them. Email me at rev.jan.avende at gmail.com, so your questions don’t get lost.
Code of Ethics
I recently revisited and revised my personal Clergy Code of Ethics as it is suggested that we do every so often. You can read it below, and can find the ADF Clergy Code of Ethics here.
Last updated 1/31/18
