TEMPLE OF GAIA RITUAL GUIDELINES

1. No smoking in Circle.

This rule is for the health of everyone in the Circle. Cigarette tobacco, with all it's toxic chemicals, has no place in Circle

2. No watches or timekeeping devices in Circle.

When we cast a Circle, we are between the worlds in a place that is not a place, in a time that is not a time. Therefore, we need no timepieces that measure a quantity that we are not part of. There is nothing as distracting as having the person next to you glance at their watch. Inevitably, you wonder what time it is yourself, and that leads to thoughts of whether the babysitter got the kids to bed, whether your spouse is home yet, what is happening on your favorite TV show, whether your spouse remembered to tape that movie you wanted to watch, etc. When we are in Circle, we must be there fully with as little distractions as possible.

3. We insist on anonymity.

The "burning times" are behind us, but there is still a lot of prejudice out there. It is the right of the individual to decide who needs to know of their religious affiliation. Speaking of members of the Circle to others, or where others can overhear, violates this right and may lead to harm. Remember our law, "An' it harm none". When in Circle, use Circle names. When addressing the person in the mundane world, use mundane names.

4. Members must be clean for 24 hours before ritual.

This means no mind-altering substances. This interferes with one's ability to raise power. What you do in the mundane world or in your private life is up to you, but you must be clean before ritual. If you show up hung-over or obviously under the influence, you will be asked to leave. Period. This rule is not negotiable.

5. Members must make a commitment to the Circle.

We take our fellowship seriously. This is not a party or social gathering. We are here to worship our deities, perform acts of magick, and support one another in our growth processes. We understand that things do happen. All we ask is that you make an honest effort to be here when we meet.

The following rules of etiquette are common sense guidelines when attending a ritual sponsored by another group:

1. Ask before bringing children.

Some groups welcome children into the Circle. Others may feel they are a distraction. Still others may allow children to the Sabbats and celebrations, but restrict them from the 'working' rituals, where it is important to concentrate on raising power. 2. If something they do is not what you are used to, keep it to yourself.

This is their ritual, not ours. If something bothers you to the point where you cannot stay, quietly ask a member to cut a door in the Circle and leave quietly.

3. Ask before hand if ritual is skyclad.

It's good to know these things before you go. You don't want to be caught unaware.

4. Take a shower or bath before ritual.

This may seem like common sense to most of us, but, unfortunately, some people don't get it, and it ruins the experience for others.

5. Do not wear scented deodorant or perfume to the ritual.

Some groups have members who are allergic to these substances. Also, please do not smoke in the clothing you wear to ritual. Non-smokers can smell it, even if you can't. Remember the perfume you adore may be offensive to the person standing next to you.

6. Inquire before hand whether to bring your own 'tools and toys'.

Some groups only allow the High Priest/ess to wield athames, etc. Ask before the ritual if you are unsure.

7. Offer to stay and clean up.

This makes a lasing impression, and may determine if you get invited back or not. 8. Just because you were invited to one ritual does not mean you are now automatically a member of the Circle.

If you would like to join the Circle, ask the High Priest/ess the procedure to go about this.

This page was updated 2005

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