How to create an Ancestor Shrine... First, thoroughly cleanse the space. Dust the table top or shelf and clear it...
How to create an Ancestor Shrine...
First, thoroughly cleanse the space. Dust the table top or shelf and clear it of any items that are not related to your shrine. If you like, you can consecrate the space as sacred, by saying something like:
“I dedicate this space to those
whose blood runs through me.
My ancestors of days gone by.
Grandmothers of blood, place, and time,
Fathers and mothers,
My guides and guardians,
and those whose spirits
helped to shape me.”
As you do this, smudge/smoke cleanse the area with sage or sweetgrass.
Finally, add an altar cloth to help welcome the ancestors. In some Eastern religions, a red cloth is always used. In some Celtic-based paths, it is believed that a fringe on the altar cloth helps tie your spirit to those of your ancestors. If you have time before Samhain, you might want to make an ancestor altar cloth, detailing your genealogy.
Welcome your kin and clan...
Samhain is a good time to remember those who came before us.
There are different types of ancestors — our blood ancestors, who are the people from whom we directly descend (parents, grandparents, and so on), ancestors of the land/place (the spirits of the place you are now), and our spiritual ancestors (those who we may not be tied to by blood or marriage, but who we claim as family), to name a few. Honor whomever you choose.
What you'll need...
Start by selecting photos of your ancestors (it doesn’t matter if there are others in the picture with your ancestor). Arrange the photos on your altar so that you can see all of them at once.
If you don’t have a photo to represent an ancestor, you can use an item that belonged to him or her. If you’re placing someone on your altar who lived prior to the mid-1800s, chances are good there’s no photograph existing. Instead, use an item that may have belonged to them — such as a piece of jewelry, a dish that’s been handed down in your family, a Book of Shadows, or a family Bible.
You can also use symbols of your ancestors. If your family is from Scotland you can use a kilt pin or a length of plaid to represent your clan. If you come from a family of craftsmen, use an item designed or created to symbolize your family’s artisanship.
You can also add a genealogy sheet or family tree to the shrine. If you have the ashes of a departed loved one, add those as well.
That extra touch...
Once you have everything in your shrine that represents your ancestors, consider adding a few other items. Some people like to add votive candles so they can light them while meditating. You can add a symbol of your spirituality, such as a pentagram, ankh, or some other demonstration of your beliefs.
Some people leave food offerings on their altars as well, so that their ancestors can share a meal with the family.
Be magickal, y’all!
