Ancestor Remembrance During the Samhain Season

For those of us who are in tune with the thinning of the veil as the days shorten and the air becomes crisp, we are often reminded of our loved ones who have passed over and we seek to honor them and connect with them in more meaningful ways. I lost my beloved grandmother only months ago, and while I am very much in the grieving stage her loving presence is very close to me still. I dream of her and have received very personal messages which I hold sacred and precious. While these are mine only and close to my heart, I know many, if not most of you also have your own deeply personal experiences. So, it seems this is a perfect time to contemplate the hereafter, meditate on the wonders of life, and also the end of it, for none of us escape it. It is an uncomfortable topic for all of us, but I truly believe we can work through grief and uncertainty of what might or might not come "after" by connecting with those who already know.

Ancestor Altars

As witches we are already familiar with the concept of altars and the ways we can design them to our purpose and intention. First we dedicate the space. You can of course use your current altar, but also consider another space specifically for your ancestor. If your loved one was a great cook and your fondest memories are of them in the kitchen, then setting your altar in the kitchen is a perfect way to make it even more special and personal. If the garden was their happy place, perhaps an outdoor space would be fitting. Take the time to commune with their memory and their personality and find the place that brings you closer to those feelings. Place cloths and candles in their favorite colors and vases with their favorite flowers. These are the personal touches that will inspire your beloved memories and call them closer to you.

Personal Items

Photographs are wonderful ways to help us visualize our departed loved ones. Choose one special photo that you can look into their faces as they were, happy and joyful, that makes you smile. Add as many others as you like showing them doing their favorite things, with you or with other family members at holidays. If you have any heirlooms like watches or hankerchiefs, jewelry or books they shared with you, be sure to add these to your space.

Once you have your place of honor for your ancestor you may want to create a ritual. You might just desire to honor them with candle lightings, prayers, or thanks for what they meant to you in your life. You may just want to speak to them in a relaxed way, tell them of the latest family news, births, marriages or important events where they were missed. All of these and more are heartfelt ways to send out love to them and the universe.

Depending on your culture, your practices or belief systems, find a ritual that feels natural and right for you.

If you would like your ritual to have more of a ceremonial feel and intention, here are some ideas you might consider. Cast your sacred circle and call the corners. Invite your ancestor, welcome them to appear to you or to speak with you in dreams. Speak aloud your desires to them thru invocation, incantation or song. Prepare beforehand by writing on parchment so that your words ebb and flow and create a poetic and magickal space. Find time to also be still, so that you may receive.

Once your ritual is complete perhaps leave an offering of their favorite food and drinks outside near a tall tree or body of water, whatever place feels special to you.

I hope these words find you as I am now, of the mind to make this season more meaningful. Whether you have recently lost someone or not, this is a time for introspection into the deeper meanings of life, death and rebirth. I hope you are all happy and well, and I wish you all a happy and fullfilling Samhain!

Blessings!

Lynx