General information regarding rituals:

 Forest Sanctuary offers many types of events, ranging from “open” rituals, to workshops, healings, and “closed” rituals.  There is emphasis placed on New/Full moon esbats, the Wheel of the year, and the cycles of growth, death and rebirth as manifested in the eight Sabbats.

As with many events offered in the Pagan community, there is a need to honor codes of courtesy, respect, and confidentiality. Too often are lines of communication blurred, thus leading to breaches of courtesy, boundary violations, and general discomfort for all. Forest Sanctuary maintains a code of Etiquette, and all members wishing to attend are held to these codes.

   Ritual:

• There is no Pagan Standard Time, only emergencies and accidents, so please arrive for ritual on time.
•  Ritual is in a Wiccan format, generalized so that all guests are comfortable whether they identify as Pagan, Wiccan, beginner or experienced.
• A communal cup is shared during the Cakes/Wine aspect of ritual, and if you chose not to drink from the cup, please raise it in a silent toast and pass it to the person on your left.
• If you are late for ritual, please do not interrupt it. Have a seat, and then join us for the Potluck after ritual.
• If you are ill, need the bathroom, or disagree with what is occurring, please leave quietly.
• Please respect the Temple/sacred space by not attempting magical workings/spells, except when asked to. To do otherwise is extremely rude and unsafe – for yourself and others.
• Do not place personal items on the altar, unless you have been invited to do so.

   Children:

• Forest Sanctuary is not a baby-sitting service, and parents are expected to supervise their children at all times, as well as provide for their child’s entertainment needs.
• Minors must have guardian consent to attend events, with a supervising adult accompanying children under 15.
• No children under 11, as events are generally designed for adults.

   Clothing:

• No nudity
• Ceremonial garb is not required, though ceremonial and festive clothing is encouraged.

   Communication:

• Make known any allergies to food or incense, prior to ritual.
• If you are unsure of anything, please ask for clarification.
• You are responsible for your personal actions, comfort, and safety.
• Share complaints/issues with the host(s) after ritual. There IS a policy for handling complaints, etc.
• Please let us know if you will be attending.

   Substances:

• Drugs and alcohol are not permitted, and any intoxicated individuals will be asked to leave.
• An offering-can is available for tobacco devotions. Please smoke in designated areas.

   Tools:

• “Sharp pointies” must be sheathed, except those utilized by ritual facilitators
• Do not touch other people’s ritual items, without express permission

   General:

• Please exercise appropriate language, and respect for: personal boundaries, physical taboos, the land, the ritual, facilitators, other participants, and confidentiality/privacy.
• Physical disability will be accommodated within reason.
• Events occur in a private home, please remain in designated areas, and do not enter closed rooms.
• Clean up after yourself wherever you may be.
• No photographs without permission.
• No pets.
• If you cannot honor the codes of courtesy, confidentiality, and respect, you WILL be asked politely to leave.
• Guests are asked to simply enjoy themselves, respect the land, the ritual, the facilitators, and all other guests.