Rituals are the heart of any Carolina Spirit Quest event. Spirit is our middle name, pun intended. This year’s rituals have an elemental theme and will weave the energy of the rituals, the spiritual element of Spirit Quest through all the activities of the weekend. You are welcome to choose an elemental cohort (think temporary, time limited coven) during the opening ritual, or you may spend some time prior to quest meditating and working with elemental energies in order to maximize this opportunity. Of course, as we all know, Spirit may change your plans, but if you wish to prepare to work a particular path, you may bring ritual garb and altar items to support your expression of this element.

We will have much fun as we nurture our Spirits and share spiritual nurture with the community. As in everything in life, you receive in direct proportion to what you bring, so bring big cups to fill and share as we celebrate the Elemental Energies and Powers of our pagan path.

As Spring Quest is a family event, children are welcome at all rituals. No special dress is required for the rituals, although many people do enjoy dressing up in their favorite ritual attire.

Opening Ritual

In our Opening Ritual Friday evening, each attendee, including the children, will be asked to join an elemental cohort: Air, Earth, Water, Fire or Spirit. They will work with this cohort all weekend to deal with the issues this element represents, embody the powers of the element, and teach the rest of the community more about the gifts and challenges of the element.

Main Ritual

In the Main Ritual Saturday evening, each participant and each cohort will deepen their understanding and relationship with the elemental energies they have chosen to work this weekend and create an opportunity for the community to experience this energy. This takes advantage of the truth that we learn by teaching and we only truly know that which we can teach others.

Closing Ritual

In our Closing Ritual Sunday afternoon, we will gather in our small groups one last time and express our gratitude and speak the intentions we will carry home with us. We will honor and acknowledge the relationships formed and work done this weekend.

Feel free to wear your traveling clothes as we head back to our daily routines.

Self-Guided Ritual Opportunities

Camp Royall is a beautiful, spiritual place. If you would like to conduct a personal or small group ritual, please let the CSQ staff know. We are happy to help you find a space for your rite.