Pagan Rites

A pagan service is a casual affair. Paganism involves the non-religious worshipping of people and the earth. The elements of fire, water, earth and air are associated with pagan rites. To represent fire, light candles or make a fire pit; for earth, have a small mound of dirt or sand available; fill a bowl of water from a creek or pool; for air, ask guests to be mindful of the wind. You can interpret these symbols and incorporate them into the service any way you choose.

Most pagan services are held outdoors in a natural setting. You can choose a public park, a meadow, a place in the woods, on a mountaintop, or even someone’s backyard. Usually an altar to the deceased, with a photo and a receptacle for offerings, is set up. Each guest has the opportunity to place flowers, candy or fruit at the altar, and then bow in respect as a way of saying goodbye.

Under the direction of a group leader or officiator, guests will then sit in a circle. Each person in turn introduces himself and tells how he or she knew the deceased. Attendants can also share stories about the departed and express how they’re feeling. There may be moments during which sadness, tears, tension, anger and laughter are exhibited, but connecting with others in this manner can be very rewarding. (This circle of grief can be said to be the rough equivalent of outdoor group therapy.) When an appropriate time for closure arrives, guests hold hands during a moment of silence before they throw coins (signifying good fortune) in the middle of the circle. Music, chanting and dancing follow. A simple picnic concludes the service.