Funeral Rite-Passing the GaTE

(Written by Jaime)

The only items on the altar should be incense, your Goddess/God 

respresentations (candles, statues, etc.), a white candle, and something of 

or belonging to the departed.

The Circle should be cast in a non-luminous manner (perhaps wholly 

visualized) according to your particular tradition.  The room should be 

darkened and the incense may be lit at this time.

Take a few minutes to meditate and recall the departed one.

Invocation to the Goddess may be spoken at this time.

Darkly-crescented Queen of the Wise,

Rend the veil before mine eyes.

I have lost one that I love,

I turn in pain to thee above.

You know the truths of Death and Life,

Be with me in my sacred rite.

By stars above and Earth below,

Comfort me with what you know!

If using a candle for the Goddess, it may be lit at this time.  Meditate.

Invocation to the God may be spoken at this time.

Lord of the Dark, King of the Wise,

Pierce the veil before mine eyes.

I would hear what you do tell,

For I hath heard the funereal knell.

One I love hath passed away;

Of Death you know the secret ways.

Lend me comfort on this night.

Be with me in my sacred rite!

If using a candle for the God, it may be lit at this time.  Meditate.

The funeral chant may be spoken at this time.

One I love hath passed the Gate,

I question not the hand of Fate.

A blessing on her would I ask,

Help to speed her journey fast.

Love her with thy very heart,

From Thee let her never part.

By the Earth below and stars above,

Let her be in peace and love.

Hold the objects of the departed, and remember the departed in silence.

Light the white candle for the departed and speak the following:

This flame I light to guide her way

So that far she will not stray.

Light and hope may it her lend,

When it's done, 'tis journey's end.

At this time, the departed may be remembered and spoken of, if desired.

Close the ritual/Circle in the appropriate manner.

Allow the candle to burn out before disassembling the altar.