What is a Self-dedication ritual and why should I perform one?
Self-dedication is simply committing
yourself to following the Wiccan way
and dedicating yourself to the Goddess
and God. This is something that you
should do only after you have studied
and practiced rituals. When you have
come to a point at which you know in
your heart that Wicca is the true path
for you, then you can consider
performing this ritual. I don't
believe that Self-dedication is
necessary to practice wicca and I think
that is is something you should have
given a great deal of thought and
meditation.
You will know when you are ready to
perform this ritual.
The Self-dedication Ritual
First, spend a few sunrises or late at
night contemplating what you want to
gain from Wicca. Write it down in your
Mirror Book (This is like a journal
that you keep about your thoughts about
wicca, divination, or anything else you
might want to put in such a journal).
Second, think about what you wish to
give to Wicca. This could be anything
from connecting with other Wiccans on
the Web to anything that cares for the
Earth. Write this down in your Mirror
Book. This done, you are ready to go
to the next step of performing the
actual ritual.
The Rite
Prepare a ritual bath and add some salt
and a few drops of sandalwood or
frankincense oil to it. If you have to
use a shower, take a washcloth and put
salt and oil on it, then rub it all
over your body.
When you have finished your bath, dress
comfortably to go to a secluded area
outside. You can do this anywhere in
the outdoor but you need to be in a
place where you won't be disturbed.
All you need to take with you is some
essential oil like sandalwood,
frankincense, cinnamon, or any other
you feel would be appropriate.
When you get to the place you have
decided upon, take off your shoes and
sit quietly on the ground. Sit until
you are calm and relaxed feeling the
Earth's energies around you.
Then stand up and look out where you
are and let the Deities draw you to the
right place for the ritual.
When you have found the right place,
sit down and set the oil on the ground
beside you. Use deep breathing and
relax yourself again, let the energies
flow around and through you.
Call upon the Goddess and the God in
your own way. Tell them what you
desire and that you wish to dedicate
yourself to the Wiccan way and to them.
Ask them to fill you with their divine
energy.
When you do this, you may feel a surge
of energy or a peaceful feeling.
Whatever happens you will know that the
Deities have heard you. You will feel
different.
After you have finished talking the the
Lord and Lady, take some of the oil and
draw the symbols for the Goddess and
the God on you somewhere. Visualize
the symbols glowing in white light and
flowing into your body.
Thank the Deities and sit and quietly
meditate on the experience before you
leave.
It is done. Go home and celebrate your
experience in some way. Share the
excitement with any of your wiccan
friends. It's your celebration, so do
it in your way.
The Goddess symbol-
The God symbol-
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