Ritual answers a need we all have, it is a means of demonstrating our devotion to the gods, it is a way of demonstrating our sincerity and connecting with the divine in a meaningful manner. Ritual allows us to communicate with the gods even when we have little to say. But more than this, it shows respect.
Traditional Witchcraft ritual is not standardized, far from it. The god or gods that individual Crafters honour are as numerous as the way they are honoured. Nevertheless, while there is no set liturgy, there are standard rituals and informal guidelines that most Trads follow. Of course, many gods would have their own rituals that would be done in addition to the ones we speak about.
The Issue Of Secrecy
Many Traditional Witches, or Crafters, tend to be a secretive lot, and that extends to the specifics of their rituals and spellcasting procedures. In fact, secrecy is a trait that is very common. Some family Trads and groups (covens) even have an oath forbidding the disclosing of any information. This is in addition to the general desire to keep all things about the Craft as strictly personal. Suspicion of outsiders has been a strong influence for hundreds of years; and it does continue today.
Going Within
After the central importance of Nature in the thoughts of those in the Traditional Craft, Going Within, or meditation and visualization, has always been central to spell workings as well as to preparation for ritual.
Ritual Wording
Traditional Witchcraft ritual practices can vary a great deal from one Trad to the next. But all would agree that it is not the "saying of the words" in an exact manner that is important, but what comes from the heart. Crafters say spells spontaineously, and tend to do the same with other rituals. Of course, Crafters do not worship their gods but honour them in a manner fitting to the gods they honour. follow a set text. Each person should create their own wording for ritual and in spellcraft. All crafters do this.
The Compass Round:
The laying of a compass round is a time-honoured tradition in British witchcraft. Because we consider the Earth to be sacred, experienced crafters will not necessarily use a compass on a day-to-day basis. However, all seekers should use a compass for at least two years to get use to the ritual. Then do it as needed.
Why use a compass?
1) It is a vehicle for concentration.
2) When needed, it is an additional protective barrier. Experienced Crafters will use a compass when they sense an unfriendly presence or when a general feeling of negativity or uneasiness is present.
3) It can be used during a very important spellcasting.
4) It can be used during group ritual.
Going Deosil:
Within a compass it is a custom to always walk clockwise, or "deosil" in order to enhance energy.
It is a custom to walk counterclockwise, or "widdershins" when banishing negative energy and in taking- up or closing a compass.
Clothing:
During ritual or magical workings iy is not appropriate to be unclothed, to be so-called "skyclad." For Full Moon and Festival celebrations, it is appropriate (but not required) to bathe/shower and to dress with clean cloths.
Robes are usually made of wool and are used as a coat. Very few wear a robe inside the house, but of course, many do out-of-doors. But if you do, a robe is worn over clothing- not instead of clothing.
Wearing Leather:
There is no reason to avoid the wearing of leather during ritual or magical procedures.
Dedication Ritual:
In the old manner, one became a seeker in The Old Craft by doing and not by virtue of a ceremony. The most important thing is to start doing. By doing, you become a seeker.
Nevertheless, some will want a dedication ceremony. While not really an old part of this Trad, it is understandable that solitary seekers may view it as a watershed event. As it is more logical to have such a ceremony after reading, understanding, and beginning to incorporate The Old Ways into your thinking and daily life,
