Look at me being timely with posting a ritual this time! The little cadre of midwestern Fyrnsidera that I met up with for Ēosturdæg are meeting again for Midsumor next week. This time we’re having a cookout and giving thanks to Sunne for the life-giving heat and light she provides.

As usual, this post assumes that you or your group have your own preferences for ritual cleanliness.

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For this ritual, you will need:

• Some sort of flat space for an altar. A table, a big flat rock, a window sill. Doesn’t matter.
• An image of Sunne (optional, esp if outside)
• Libation offerings. Water or juice is absolutely fine.
• Something to pour the libations into.
• Incense (optional). I use loose with charcoal or cones, but whatever type you prefer is just dandy.
• Candles. LED works just as well.

Good Neighbors (optional)

Note: This section is optional and has been put here in case you are performing this ritual outside or in an unfamiliar space (such as a rented park pavilion).

Good Neighbors, Spirits of this Place
We know that this space is yours
But we ask that you let us borrow it for a while
Join us if our purpose is agreeable
Or leave us in peace for a time

Action: Pour libation for the Good Neighbors outside the space you will be holding ritual.

Statement of Purpose

Today makes the midpoint in the summer season.
It is a hinge upon which the year turns
From new life and growth to harvest and death
The time of warmth and bounty begins to wane
And so we gather to honor Sunne at the height of her power
Before the cycles of nature pull her distant from us once more.

Action: Light the altar candles

Gatekeeper (optional)

Note: I do not usually acknowledge a gatekeeper in my personal praxis, but I know a lot of people do. So, I chose to include this section for those who may be looking for an appropriate gatekeeper-deity in Fyrnsidu. Other options might include Wadda, Frīg, or even Woden, depending on the purpose of the ritual.

Æled, radiant one, offering-bearer
We ask that you give life to this flame
That it may carry our gifts and prayers
Upon its rising smoke
Open the gate!

Action: Light incense or pour libation offering for Æled.

Invocation

Hail Sunne, brilliant Day Rider, and  Ever-glowing goddess
[All Hail Sunne]

Action: Add incense or pour libation for Sunne.

Your brilliance warms Mother Eorthe’s soil,
Calling forth the green growing things that nourish our bodies.
Today, we celebrate the peak of your glory.
We relish and respect the hot rays of your light,
And adore the feel of your warmth upon our skin,
Even as we protect ourselves from your full might



Accept now our offerings, our praise, and our thanks for the beautiful gift of your light. Remember us, even as the wheel turns and autumn begins to encroach upon our bright summer joy.

Action: Add incense or pour additional libation for Sunne. If in a group, allow time after the main offering for individual prayers and offerings. You may also allow time for additional toasts and/or divination.

Closing

From the gods, to the earth, to us
From us, to the earth, to the gods
A gift has been given, may be it be well received.

Action: Blow out the candles to indicate the closing of the rite. Dispose of offerings appropriately.