Prayers and Reflections on the Force: A Spiritual Connection, Summaries of Music

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The Unofficial Temple Of The Jedi Order 2014 1st Edition Jedi Liturgy & Prayer Book Prayers, Blessings, Ceremonies and Quatrains Official Temple of the Jedi Order text and Member Contributions Page | 1 Table of Contents Official Liturgy of the Temple of the Jedi Order TOTJO PRAYERS 3 TO RESPOND TO THE CALL OF A JEDI (ONESELF OR OTHERS) 3 THE SERENITY PRAYER (JEDI EDITION) 4 THANKSGIVING 4 PERSONAL PRAYER TO THE FORCE 5 LUMINOUS BEINGS ARE WE 5 GENERAL PRAYERS 6 GENERAL INTERCESSIONS 7 GENERAL INTERCESSIONS 9 FOR VOCATION 10 FOR VOCATION 10 TOTJO BLESSINGS 11 SIMPLE BLESSING 11 FOR ALL PEOPLE 11 FOR FREEDOM 12 FOR HOPE 12 FOR THE POOR AND MARGINALIZED 12 FOR PROTECTION 13 FOR UNDERSTANDING 13 FOR PERSONAL GROWTH 13 FOR GUIDANCE 13 FOR DEDICATION 14 FOR THE SICK 14 FOR HEALING 15 FOR CONSOLATION 15 FOR FUNERALS 15 FOR SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN IN WAR 16 FOR FATHERS 16 FOR MOTHERS 16 TOTJO CEREMONIES 18 MARRIAGE CEREMONY 18 FUNERAL / MEMORIAL CEREMONY #1 20 FUNERAL / MEMORIAL SERVICE #2 22 CEREMONY TO CONSECRATE LAND 25 CEREMONY TO CONSECRATE A TEMPLE 26 CEREMONY FOR THE KNIGHTING OF AN APPRENTICE 30 CEREMONY FOR THE GRANTING OF A MINISTERS LICENSE 33 CEREMONY FOR THE ORDINATION OF A MINISTER 37 CEREMONY FOR THE ORDINATION OF A BISHOP 40 Page | 4 The Serenity Prayer (Jedi Edition) Force grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change Courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference Living one day at a time Enjoying one moment at a time Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace. Taking, as the force did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it Trusting that the force will make all things right if I surrender to its Will That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy in the force forever in the next. Thanksgiving O mighty Force I thank you for the wonders of this universe the joy of knowing that I am one with all life that I am here now through you and can observe and influence those around me just as you influence me Help me to greater appreciate the life I have and the things others have to offer me and the things I have to offer to others O Force, help this Jedi to be what I should be to do what I should do May the Force be with me and with us all Page | 5 Personal prayer to the Force My friend, my partner, the force, I pray for strength, for there are days when I must bear the weight of the world, I pray for wisdom, to guide my actions I ask you to be within me always, for without the connections you bring I could not serve, I serve life, because from life springs joy, Where there is darkness, I will bring light, Where there is indignity, I will bring honor, Where there is death, I will bring preservation of life, I seek these things in life around me, I therefore ask them for myself as well, So that I may be an example of duty, honor, valor, friendship to all, allow me this confidence, I pray, so I may be better than I am today. Luminous beings are we Luminous Beings are we We Answer our call The call of the Force We answer our call Without hesitation We answer our call While others decry us As Freaks,weirdos or Witches Yet we persist For we have heard our call & we have answered it The call of the Force We suffer the temptations of this Crude Matter We suffer through bouts of Anger We suffer through bouts of Depression At times we feel alone But we are never truly alone For the Force is always with us & it is now I say Luminous Beings are We May the Force be with you (Jedi Arion Bane 28 FEB 2005 From the Jedi Sanctuary) Page | 6 General prayers Each passing day brings with us new experiences, new responsibilities and new chances for happiness. With good will in your hearts and the wisdom of Masters in your souls may you go forth into each day upon the strength of those you care about and those who care about you. May you know Justice and Diplomacy, Strength and Honour and Wisdom and Compassion. May you spend this day and everyday in pursuit of that which brings you self enlightenment and joy. May you bring this knowledge and experience to those you know and love. May you be guided into hearing the voice of the Force as it calls to you. May you hold an open heart to hear its words and gain the courage to follow its advice. We offer thanks for the bonds that hold us together; that allow us to rest in the support of our Jedi brothers and Jedi sisters; that connect us to, and in, the Force. May our hearts be forever open to the wonder of all that is, to the joy of shared experience, and to the gentle contentment of time spent alone. May the Force foster a spirit of community within us all, that we may join together in times of need and in times of celebration, to open our hearts and share our dreams, to inspire each other, to comfort each one of us and to walk together in peace. May the Force foster a spirit of community within us all, that we may join together in times of need and in times of celebration, to open our hearts and share our dreams, to inspire each other, to comfort each one of us and to walk together in peace. May the Force be with you all! May the Force, that flows through us and is a vital part of our being, grant us the ability to learn from our journey through life, to see each moment as a valuable experience, and to honour each step that we take along our path. Guide our feet and strengthen our hearts, that we may achieve the results that we seek and accept the lessons that we need. May the light of the Force, animate within each of us, guide us along our journeys. May our actions be bold yet considered, may our thoughts be clear yet reasoned, and may our hearts be compassionate yet strong. We honour the Force in its totality just as we honour the Force within and in doing so, we honour us all. Be at peace my fellow Jedi. We offer our thanks for the insight that springs from the Force as we seek to apply it to our lives. As beings of light we connect with our brothers and sisters in the Universal Moment and as beings of flesh and bone our footsteps walk this Earth and echo in time. Grant us the focus, knowledge and wisdom to live each moment as best we can as mortal creatures, as eternal souls, as Jedi. The Force is at once both everything and nothing, the vital spark within us all, Hear our prayers and heed our words as we open our hearts to your guidance and light. May we focus on our path, receive knowledge of our direction and gain the wisdom of the lessons along the way. In compassion and honesty, with the bonds of connected community, this we ask with all our being. Page | 9 General intercessions Let us turn to the Force. Creator and preserver of all, we intercede for people in every kind of need; make your ways known on earth, your saving health among all nations (REPLY: May the Force be with us) We intercede for the good fortune of the Church; guide and govern us by your Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Jedi may be led into the way of truth, and hold steadfast in the unity of spirit, in the bond of peace and in righteousness of life¦ (REPLY: May the Force be with us) We commend to your will all those who are in any way afflicted or distressed, in mind, body or estate; comfort and relieve them in their need, give them patience in their sufferings, and bring good out of all their afflictions¦ (REPLY: May the Force be with us) We remember those who have gone before us in Your peace, and we give you praise for all the faithful... (REPLY: May the Force be with us) Page | 10 For vocation Loving universal Force, it is You who call us by name and ask us to follow You. Help us to grow in the Love and Service of our Temple as we experience it today. Give us the necessary energy and courage to build a future Grant us faithful leaders who embrace Your Mission of love and justice. Bless Temple of the Jedi Order by calling dedicated and generous leaders from our families and friends who will serve Your people as Sisters, Priests, Brothers, Deacons and Lay Ministers. Inspire us to know You better and open our hearts to hear Your call. May the Force be with us always. For vocation For as long as space endures And for as long as living beings remain Until then may I too abide To dispel the misery of the world. Page | 11 TOTJO Blessings Simple Blessing We call to the Force, almighty Sanctifier, Power of love, who envelopes all life with positive energy, come and sanctify us. Replace the tensions within us with righteous peace. Replace the fears within us with quiet confidence. Replace the bitterness within us with the sweetness of respect. Replace the coldness within us with a loving warmth. Replace the night within us with Your consoling light. Fill our emptiness. Dull the edge of our pride. Sharpen the edge of our humility. Let us see ourselves as You see us, Let us see others as You see them. Enlighten our minds, strengthen our wills, purify our consciences, rectify our judgment, set our hearts on fire, and preserve us from the misfortunes of resisting Your inspirations. Teach us to see Your design in all of creation. May the Force be with us always. For All People To the Force that lives within us all and which binds us to eternity Help us to see the beauty that we are, without and within. Help us to love ourselves, unconditionally, without judgment. Your radiance manifests through us and is present within and around us at all times. Our bodies are Your conduit and a vehicle for Your Work. It is therefore deserving of love, respect and honor. This day and always, help us to honor our bodies, to love them unconditionally, and to be grateful for their service. May The Force Be With Us Page | 14 For Dedication Through the virtues I have collected By practising the stages of the Jedi doctrine, May all living beings find the opportunity To practice in the same way. However many living beings there may be Experiencing mental and physical suffering, May their suffering cease through the power of my practice, And may they find everlasting happiness and joy. May everyone experience The happiness of humans and gods, And quickly attain enlightenment, So that suffering is finally extinguished. For the benefits of all living beings as extensive as space, May I attain great wisdom, Great compassion, Great Power. May there never arise in this world The miseries of incurable disease, famine or war, Or the dangers of earthquakes, fires, Floods, storms, and so forth. May all beings meet precious teachers, Who reveal the way to enlightenment, And through engaging on this path May they quickly attain the ultimate peace of full enlightenment. For The Sick Almighty and Eternal Force, You are the everlasting health of those who trust in You. Hear us for Our sick brother/sister (NAME) for whom we implore the aid of Your tender mercy, that being restored to bodily health, s/he may give thanks to You. May the Force be with him/her. Page | 15 For Healing Everlasting Force, essence of life. this being before me, a child of the force, has been harmed, the sickness may grow, the body grows weak, Use me, a servant in a time of need as an avatar of your power, Send thru me the healing flow of the force, Restore them to health Heal the wounds, strengthen the mind, Help me care for them as a brother/sister in the Force. For Consolation Breath into me creative Force, that my thoughts may all be focused. Move in me, creative force, that my work too, may be focused. Attract my heart, embracing Force, that I may love only what is in you. Strengthen me, embracing Force, that I may defend all that is in you. Protect me, universal Force, that I always may be with you. May the Force be with me. For Funerals Depart, O soul, out of this present world in which in the name of the Force that created you, and rejoin that from which you came. May you rest in peace as you have again become one with the Force. May the Force strengthen and support us all the day long until the fever of life is over and our work is done. May the Force welcome and grant safe lodging and a holy peace at last. May the Force grant (remaining family member/s) comfort in the knowledge and sure confidence in it's care. Defend him/her from the danger of the enemy and keep him/her/them in spiritual peace and safety. May the Force be with you, always. For Soldiers Force, you flow through all living things, I ask for strength of body and mind to defend my country with honor and wisdom, I ask for forgiveness for being away from my family, for I miss them every day and yearn to be with them, I ask for the wisdom to know right and wrong even in the midst of battle, I will endeavor to keep the force in me and with me at all times, for these I promise to do my best, my duty, to my country and my fellow man. Page | 16 For Servicemen and Women in War We humbly will the protection of the Force for all our men and women in military service. Give them unflinching courage to defend with honor, dignity and devotion, the rights of all who are imperiled by injustice and evil. Be their rock, their shield, and their stronghold and let them draw their strength from you. May The Force Be With Them! For Fathers Most marvelous and unsolved Force, We thank you for our fathers, those to whom you have entrusted the responsibility to provide loving protection of their families and guidance of their children. We thank you, also, for our Spiritual Fathers, whose spiritual Guidance is so vital to the faith of your people. May our fathers imitate the courage of all the great historical fathers of the past in providing wise counsel to the children you have given to their care. And may our spiritual fathers be guided by the examples of the Great Masters. Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict, hope in time of trouble and sorrow, and steadfast love for their families, and for all people throughout the world. Assist all fathers of families, all spiritual fathers, and all men, that through your understanding they may steadily grow in wisdom and in knowledge and of your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them. May their lives be examples to all of heroic faithfulness to your awesome will. We ask blessing on all those to whom you have entrusted fatherhood. May your guidance constantly inspire them with justice and mercy, wisdom and strength, fidelity and self-giving love. May they receive your wisdom abundantly in this earthly life, and may they look forward to eternal understanding in your presence. May The Force Be With Them Always! For Mothers Most Mysterious and Awesome Force, We thank You for our mothers to whom You have entrusted the care of every precious human life from its very beginning in the womb. You have given to woman the capacity of participating with You in the creation of new life. Grant that every woman may come to understand the full meaning of that blessing, which gives her an unlimited capacity for selfless love for every child she may be privileged to bear, and for all children. Watch over every mother who is with child, strengthen her faith in your care and love for her and for her Page | 19 (Minister asks for the rings) MINISTER: Rings are very large in their significance. they are made of a precious metal and precious stone and that reminds us that love is not cheap nor common; but indeed love is very costly and dear to us. These rings are also made in a circle and their design tells us that we must keep love continuous throughout our whole lives even as the circle of the ring is continuous. As you wear these rings, whether you are together or apart for even just a moment, may these rings be a constant reminder of the promises you are making to one another this day. MINISTER: (to the groom) __________ will you please take this ring and place it upon the third finger of _________ 's left hand, and holding their hand in yours, please repeat this promise to _________, saying after me: with this ring, I seal my promise, to be your faithful and loving husband, with all present and the Living Force of Creation as my witness. MINISTER: (to the bride) __________ will you please take this ring and place it upon the third finger of __________ 's left hand, and holding his hand in yours please repeat this promise to ________, saying after me: with this ring, I seal my promise, to be your faithful and loving wife, with all present and the Living Force of Creation as my witness. (candle lighting optional.) (prayer for bride and groom and personal words by the minister.) (poems - optional or have your own.) MINISTER: True love gives nothing of itself And takes nothing but from itself Love does not possess, nor would it be possessed For love is sufficient unto love. Love has no other desire but to fulfill itself To awake at dawn with a winged heart and to give Thanks for another day of loving. To rest at noon and meditate upon love's ecstasy, To return home at evening with gratitude And then to sleep with a prayer for your beloved In your heart and a song of praise upon your lips. __________ and __________, you have come here today before us and have expressed your desire to become husband and wife. You have shown your love and affection by joining hands, and have made promises of faith and devotion, each to the other, and have sealed these promises by the giving and the receiving of the rings. Therefore, it is my privilege as a Minister of the Force and by the authority given to me by the (state jurisdictional location), I now pronounce that you are husband and wife. ___________ you may kiss your wife. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my privilege to introduce to you for the first time Mr. and Mrs. __________________. Page | 20 Funeral / Memorial Ceremony #1 The following ceremony does not represent the practices of every member but may serve as useful inspiration. Ministers are encouraged to devise their own ceremonies with the intuitive guidance of the Force and in accordance with the needs of the situation. MINISTER: We meet in the name of (deceased), who died and has returned to the glory of the Force. Peace be with you. ALL: And also with you. MINISTER: We look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are seen are transient but the things that are unseen are eternal. Today we come together to remember our brother/sister (deceased) to give thanks for his/her life and to comfort one another in our grief. Ever-present and eternal Force, we thank you because you gave us gifts in body, mind and spirit. We thank you now for (deceased) and what he/she meant to each of us. As we honour his/her memory, make us more aware that it is only from the Force that life flows. We thank you for the life and grace you gave them and the peace in which they rest. Meet us in our sadness and fill our hearts with trust and thanksgiving. MINISTER: The wilderness and the dry land shall rejoice: the desert shall burst into song. May the Force guide our hearts, and lead us to fulfilment . ALL: To the Force return our Brother/Sister, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. MINISTER: Strengthen the weary hands: make firm the feeble knees. Say to the anxious: Be strong, fear not, For the Force is with us. ALL: To the Force return our Brother/Sister, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away (Memories may be shared, a tribute or tributes may be made. songs and readings may be used.) (Message is written and delivered by the Minister. One of these sayings may then be used) MINISTER: Eternal and comforting Force, Page | 21 we give you thanks for your servant (deceased). We recollect his/her life and cherish his/her memory. He/she has brought light to our lives; for we have seen in his/her friendship reflections eternal compassion, in his/her integrity demonstrations of great goodness, in his/her faithfulness glimpses of eternal life in the Force. May each of us, beloved and bereft, follow his/her good example so that we with him/her may come to know more of the Mystery. Those who have died in faith have eternal joy in the Force. For us who remain, be with us in our sadness and turn our spirits to you. Raise us to new life in the Force, give us victory over death and confidence to look forward on our Paths. Let us declare our faith in the Force and the Eternal Mystery in the form of the Jedi Creed. Please repeat after me: (all to repeat, one line at a time) I am a Jedi, an instrument of peace. Where there is hatred I shall bring love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy. I am a Jedi. I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. The Force is always with me, for I am a Jedi. MINISTER: Peace be with you now as you remember our fellow traveller on the Path. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Peace in the Force be with you always. ALL: And also with you. MINISTER: Neither death nor life can separate us from the Force. May we have the Patience and Wisdom to trust the Force not for ourselves alone, but also for those whom we love and who are hidden from us by the shadow of death; that, as we travel our Paths we may be lead by its eternal and universal Will. May the Force make you perfect in every good work that you may follow its will and May The Force Be With You Always. ALL: And also with you. Page | 24 (We remember him/her) Closing Prayer Let us Pray: Eternal and compassionate Force, we send forth the soul of your beloved (deceased) into your gentle arms. Hold his precious spirit in your beautiful universal embrace, where he is safe and whole. (The remainder of the Closing Prayer should be written by the Minister as a reflection of the life of the deceased) Sample Reading: The Dash (Linda Ellis) I read of a man who stood to speak At the funeral of a friend He referred to the dates on her tombstone From the beginning to the end He noted that first came the date of her birth And spoke the following date with tears, But he said what mattered most of all Was the dash between those years For that dash represents all the time That she spent alive on earth. And now only those who loved her Know what that little line is worth. For it matters not how much we own; The cars, the house, the cash, What matters is how we live and love And how we spend our dash. So think about this long and hard. Are there things you’d like to change? For you never know how much time is left, That can still be rearranged. If we could just slow down enough To consider what’s true and real And always try to understand The way other people feel. And be less quick to anger, And show appreciation more And love the people in our lives Like we’ve never loved before. If we treat each other with respect, And more often wear a smile Remembering that this special dash Might only last a little while. So, when your eulogy is being read With your life’s actions to rehash Would you be proud of the things they say About how you spent your dash? Final Blessing May the Force bless you and keep you always. Page | 25 May its light shine upon your face and be gracious unto you. May its presence be with you now and for all the days of your lives, And may It grant you peace and comfort, now and forever. Let Us All Say loud ... May the force be with You always (NAME)! (ALL) May the force be with You always (NAME)! Go in peace my friends Ceremony to Consecrate Land (A processional sign or symbol around which Jedi gather may be used to focus the gathering point.) MINISTER: Dear Friends, we have gathered here in gratitude for the gift of the universe, and to accept this special gift of the stewardship of the land on which we now stand. It is we who are a part of that universe and have received. All that we are and all that we have are at one with the Force. We are woven into the great seamless fabric of the universal, our health and wholeness depend on its health and wholeness. Therefore, we adopt this land as a special trust from the Force. Let us pray: Almighty and never ending Force, be present with us as we accept from you this gift of stewardship. Grant to this land the grace of your presence, so that all who come here will know the peace and comfort of your love. Bless all people and all creatures who will share and use this property. May we be good neighbours and worthy stewards of the life that graces this portion of your earth. (Text reading relevant to stewardship, earth...) (Hymn/poem relevant to stewardship, earth...) MINISTER: We ask the Force to be with this land and to guide and bless us in preparing it for holy worship, prayer, service and fellowship. We recognize that it is a part of the universal whole, good and pleasing and valuable in its own right. The responsibility and the privilege rest upon us to be worthy tenants and caretakers. We bring offerings as tokens of our pledge to care for the health and wholeness of this land and this community. (Upon the invitation of the minister, all who wish may step forward to scatter a small offering of soil, compost, ash, or other earth material on the ground as they speak the responses below) MINISTER: That a church may meet here where children will learn to love the Force and grow in Wonder and grace and goodness, and in unity with the Force and all people, Page | 26 May the Force be with this land today and make it holy. That a church may meet here where the weary and heavy-laden will find peace, May the Force be with this land today and make it holy. That a church may meet here where multitudes will be refreshed in spirit, relieved from pain and anxiety, released from bondage, and redeemed from guilt, May the Force be with this land today and make it holy. That a church may meet here from which, by your power, your people are sent forth into this community and all the world as champions of justice and peace in all the earth, May the Force be with this land today and make it holy. That a church may meet here and use and care for this land with such gratitude, diligence, and respect that it will be in perfect harmony with the entire community of creation, May the Force be with this land today and make it holy as we seek to fulfill the holy purposes for which we dedicate ourselves and this land, in Your name. May the Force be with us. (if desired, ceremony may be concluded with a reading of the Jedi Creed and with all responding) Ceremony to Consecrate a Temple Before the Consecration of the temple/church takes place, the Bishop has to make certain that it is properly furnished and equipped for the celebration of the rites and ceremonies of the Church according to the use of the Temple of the Jedi Order. This Service should only be used when the land and buildings are free from debt and there is reason to believe that the building will be used for worship in perpetuity. Otherwise it should not be consecrated, but dedicated with the use of some of the prayers in this form, as the Bishop shall direct. The Bishop, attended by assistants, should be received at the door of the Church by those gathered. A Petition, in the form following or to the like effect, signed by responsible ministers, wardens, and others, should be read, and presented to the Bishop. “To the Right Reverend .............................. Bishop of ..................... We, the responsible, wardens, and inhabitants of ........................, having acquired the land [describe it], more particularly described in a deed between ........................ and ........................ [or by will or otherwise as the case may be], duly registered according to law [where registration is possible] on the ........... day of ......................... in the year of our Lord ........................., on which there is a Temple/Church, which we certify to be free from any legal incumbrance, do humbly pray you to separate the same from all profane and common uses, and to consecrate the said Temple/Church, and set it apart for ever for worship with the Force, according to the rites and discipline of the Temple of the Jedi Order.” The Bishop, accepting the Petition, should answer and consent, saying: BISHOP: Brothers and Sisters, if this is your wish, and the wish of the all members of the Temple of the Jedi Order, we will now proceed to the act of Consecration. May the positive energy of the Force be with us, in all that we do; that in all our works, begun, continued, Page | 29 Grant, O Force, that this Table may be consecrated for celebration and remembrance of the sanctity of Life; and that our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving which is here offered unto Your Divine Majesty may be acceptable, through the merits and mediation of Your faithful, the Jedi. May the Force be with us. (The Bishop, sitting in his Chair, shall then sign, and cause to be read publicly, the Sentence of Consecration given under his hand and seal according to the form following, or to the like effect, which Sentence shall be recorded in the Registry of the Temple/Diocese.) SENTENCE OF CONSECRATION: In the Name of the Force. WHEREAS a Temple/Church has been erected at ..................... within our Diocese and jurisdiction, upon a piece of land [description of the land and title to be here inserted]; and whereas the said building is now completed and furnished with all things requisite for the due performance of public worship, and is free from all legal liability for debt, and is now ready for Consecration; and whereas a Petition has been presented to us by the responsible, the Wardens, and others [to be here described as the case may be], praying that we would be pleased to consecrate the said building: Now therefore, we, ......................., by Divine permission Bishop of ....................... do by virtue of the authority ordinary and episcopal to us committed, consecrate the said building, and do set it apart from all profane and common uses, and do dedicate the same to the Force for the ministration, and for public worship, according to the rites and ceremonies of the Temple of the Jedi Order, by the name of ...................... And we do pronounce, decree, and declare that the said Temple/Church shall remain so consecrated, set apart, and dedicated for ever; In the Name of the Force and the Temple of the Jedi Order. WITNESS our hand and seal, this ..................... day of ...................... in the Year of the Lord ...................... and of our Consecration the ...................... (The Bishop standing, and turning to the people, shall say:) BISHOP: Grant that this whole place which is here dedicated to You by our office and ministry may also be consecrated by the sanctifying power of the Force, who lives and governs all things, world without end. Now, by virtue of the sacred office committed to us in the Temple/Church, I do declare to be consecrated and set apart from all profane and common uses this Temple under the Name and __title__ of THE TEMPLE OF ...... [here he shall state the dedication], Page | 30 Ceremony for the Knighting of an Apprentice MASTER OF CEREMONIES should be a Councillor of TOTJO. If this is not possible, then a representative duly elected as such by the Council for this ceremony. CANDIDATE – the member receiving the promotion to Knighthood. TRAINING MASTER – the candidate’s training master (apprenticeship). ______________________________________________________________________________ MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Welcome one and all to this, the occasion of bestowing Knighthood upon a worthy member of our Order. I am (USER NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and Councillor of the Temple of the Jedi Order. [If the Master of Ceremonies is not a Councillor then they should announce themselves with: I am (USER NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and elected to represent the Council of the Temple of the Jedi Order at this ceremony] Let us begin the ceremony in reflection: The Force, as we are, is at once both everything and nothing, the vital spark within us all. Heed our words as we open our hearts to its guidance and light. May we focus on our path, receive knowledge of our direction and gain the wisdom of the lessons along the way. In compassion and honesty, with the bonds of connected community, this we ask with all our being. May the Force be with you all. EVERYONE: And also with you. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will the Candidate please step forward and announce themselves. CANDIDATE: I am (FULL NAME), Jedi Apprentice and known as (USER NAME). MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Are you prepared to accept the accolade of Knighthood this day? CANDIDATE: Yes, I am. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will the candidate's Training Master please step forward and announce themselves. [If the Training Master is not available, their representative will announce themselves with the line: I am (USER NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and speaking on behalf of (TRAINING MASTER), (RANK) of Jediism and Training Master to (CANDIDATE)] Page | 31 TRAINING MASTER: I am (TRAINING MASTER), (RANK) of Jediism and Training Master to (CANDIDATE). MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Has the candidate completed all of the required training as prescribed by the Temple of the Jedi Order? TRAINING MASTER: Yes, s/he has. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Is the Candidate duly registered according to the regulations of the Temple of the Jedi Order? TRAINING MASTER: Yes, s/he is. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Is the candidate under any judicial ban that would prevent the taking of this office at this time? TRAINING MASTER: No, s/he is not. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Is the candidate a member in good standing? TRAINING MASTER: Yes, s/he is. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: And are you satisfied that the candidate is ready to accept the mantle of Knighthood? TRAINING MASTER: Yes, I am. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Thank you. As a representative of the Council of the Temple of the Jedi Order, I give my consent to this Knighting. [If other Councillors are present] MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I would ask any Councillors here present to state their agreement if this be the case. [Response is: “I, (USER NAME), give my consent to this Knighting”] MASTER OF CEREMONIES: A knight is sworn to valor. Their heart knows only virtue. Their blade defends the helpless. Their word speaks only truth. Their Shield shelters the forsaken. Their courage gives hope to the despairing. Their justice undoes the wicked. Their image brings peace. Their code breaks the darkness, Their legend brings light Page | 34 EVERYONE: And also with you MASTER OF CEREMONIES: The Force guides everyone to serve in their own particular way and some of these people are called to minister its truths and mysteries to others. As servants of the people, Ministers are to shepherd them on their respective paths and to guide them to self discovery and understanding. With their fellow Ministers, they are to sustain the community of the faithful by the ministry of doctrine and guidance, that we all may grow into the fullness of the Force and better understand ourselves. Will the Candidate please step forward and announce themselves. CANDIDATE: I am (FULL NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and known as (USER NAME). M: Are you prepared to accept the responsibilities of the role of Minister of Jediism on this day? CANDIDATE: Yes, I am. M: Will the Presenting Minister please step forward and announce themselves. PRESENTING MINISTER: I am (USER NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and (CLERICAL TITLE) of the Temple of the Jedi Order. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Has the Candidate completed all of the required Clerical training as prescribed by the Temple of the Jedi Order? PRESENTING MINISTER: Yes, s/he has. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Does the Candidate fulfil the requirements according to their rank at the Temple of the Jedi Order, including all necessary Oaths or Vows? PRESENTING MINISTER: Yes, s/he does. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Has the Candidate fulfilled all of the requirements of the issuance of a Minister’s License as prescribed by the Temple of the Jedi Order? PRESENTING MINISTER: Yes, s/he has. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Is the Candidate under any judicial ban that would prevent the granting of a Minister’s License at this time? PRESENTING MINISTER: No, s/he is not. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: And does the issuance of this Minister’s License have the approval of the Council of the Temple of the Jedi Order? Page | 35 PRESENTING MINISTER: Yes, it does. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Thank you. Ministers are called to be servants among the people. They are to be messengers, watchmen and stewards of the Church. They are to teach and to admonish, to nourish and to support, and to guide the people through the confusions of life, that they may grow in knowledge and wisdom of the Force. As Jedi they are to protect the peace and defend the weak. As Ministers they are to uplift the spirit through the guidance of the Doctrine and the wisdom of the Force. With the qualities of compassion, understanding, tolerance and acceptance, they are to open their arms to embrace the community and to provide counsel in times of need. They are to minister to the sick and prepare those who are transitioning from this world and back to the Force, supporting all those who are affected by such changes. Standing together with their brothers and sisters, they are to provide light through the darkness, that the whole Church may be built up in unity and faith. (CANDIDATE), Will you on this day devote yourself to the care and the needs of the people as a Minister of Jediism? MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you faithfully minister the Doctrine of this church, that our community may flourish in their faith? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you, reconciled to your eternal existence in the Force, strive to be an instrument of peace in the Temple and in the world? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you stand shoulder to shoulder with your fellow Ministers in upholding the spirits of the people and guiding them to their highest potential? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: And will you strive to further your own self, to be the best that you can be and to allow your light to shine forth as inspiration to others that may follow? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Thank you. Know that you will always be supported by your fellow Ministers, by the Temple itself and by your own faith in the guidance of the Force. With this in mind, it is with great pleasure that I issue you with a License as a Minister of Jediism and state that you shall henceforth be known as Rev. (CANDIDATE’S REAL NAME). May the Force be with you! Page | 36 Should any member wish to say anything, please feel free to do so now. [time for people to add their own contributions, if any] MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I now ask the newly proclaimed Minister to lead us all in the reading of the Creed. CANDIDATE: Would those gathered here please repeat after me [everyone to repeat the following lines, one at a time] I am a Jedi, an instrument of peace; Where there is hatred I shall bring love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy. I am a Jedi. I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. The Force is always with me, for I am a Jedi. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I declare this ceremony to be complete. May the Force be with us all. Page | 39 (CANDIDATE), Will you on this day devote yourself to the care and the needs of the people as an Ordained Minister of Jediism? CANDIDATE: I will. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you faithfully minister the Doctrine of this church, that our community may flourish in their faith? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you, reconciled to your eternal existence in the Force, strive to be an instrument of peace in the Temple and in the world? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Will you stand shoulder to shoulder with your fellow Ministers in upholding the spirits of the people and guiding them to their highest potential? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: And will you strive to further your own self, to be the best that you can be and to allow your light to shine forth as inspiration to others that may follow? CANDIDATE: I will MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Thank you. Know that you will always be supported by your fellow Ministers, by the Temple itself and by your own faith in the guidance of the Force. With this in mind, it is with great pleasure that I ordain you as a Minister and (CLERICAL RANK) of Jediism and state that you shall henceforth be known as Rev. (CANDIDATE’S REAL NAME) OCP. May the Force be with you! Should any member wish to say anything, please feel free to do so now. [time for people to add their own contributions, if any] MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I now ask the newly proclaimed Minister to lead us all in the reading of the Creed. CANDIDATE: Would those gathered here please repeat after me [everyone to repeat the following lines, one at a time] I am a Jedi, an instrument of peace; Where there is hatred I shall bring love; Where there is injury, pardon; Page | 40 Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy. I am a Jedi. I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. The Force is always with me, for I am a Jedi. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I declare this ceremony to be complete. May the Force be with us all. Ceremony for the Ordination of a Bishop MASTER OF CEREMONIES – must be a Bishop of TOTJO. CANDIDATE – the member receiving the Minister’s License. PRESENTING MINISTER – another Minister acting as witness to the ceremony. Should ideally be an Ordained Minister. _______________________________________________________________________________ Page | 41 MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Welcome one and all to this, the occasion of the Ordination of a Bishop of the Order. Let us begin the ceremony in reflection: We offer our thanks for the lessons that we are given, the courage to learn from moments of strive and the humility to accept the grace in moments of better fortune. With the guidance of the Force, every step we take leads us to the right place at the right time and we ask that our hearts and minds be forever open to the signs and feelings that shepherd us safely through the confusion. We give thanks to those who have stepped up to guide others, that they may carry the weight of each burden with openness and honour, and may they always be able to stretch out their hands to those who are in need, that we may all walk together in strength as sisters and brothers in the Force. May the Force be with you all EVERYONE: And also with you MASTER OF CEREMONIES: The Force guides everyone to serve in their own particular way and some of these people are called to minister its truths and mysteries to others. As servants of the people, Ministers are to shepherd them on their respective paths and to guide them to self discovery and understanding. With their fellow Ministers, they are to sustain the community of the faithful by the ministry of doctrine and guidance, that we all may grow into the fullness of the Force and better understand ourselves. The title of Bishop is bestowed upon those who have committed themselves fully to the guidance of the Force and who have accepted the responsibility of shepherding the Ministers and congregation through their duties, trials and development. As the highest Clerical order, they hold the spiritual energies of TOTJO on behalf of all those that walk these halls and may bestow ordination upon those Ministers who are deemed to be ready. Even though these tasks are great, the Bishops remain simply as Jedi and as the servants of the servants of the people. Will the Candidate please step forward and announce themselves. CANDIDATE: I am (FULL NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and known as (USER NAME). M: Are you prepared to accept the responsibilities of the role of Bishop of Jediism on this day? CANDIDATE: Yes, I am. M: Will the Presenting Minister please step forward and announce themselves. PRESENTING MINISTER I am (USER NAME), (RANK) of Jediism and (CLERICAL TITLE) of the Temple of the Jedi Order. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Has the Candidate completed all of the required Clerical training as prescribed by the Temple of the Jedi Order? PRESENTING MINISTER: Yes, s/he has. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Does the Candidate fulfil the requirements according to their rank at the Temple of the Jedi Order, including all necessary Oaths or Vows? Page | 44 Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy. I am a Jedi. I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. The Force is always with me, for I am a Jedi. MASTER OF CEREMONIES: I declare this ceremony to be complete. May the Force be with us all. Page | 45 Member Created Liturgy of The Temple of the Jedi Order Member Prayers A Contemplation on “Ignorance, yet knowledge” Taken from: Sermon – Perceptions (2nd April) by Michael James Kitchen, 4/2/2012 with limited knowledge at our disposal, it is easy to pass judgment so take the time to think, before you respond acknowledge that you don’t always know the reason behind things, no matter what the situation or how much knowledge you THINK you have Ignorance; yet knowledge Page | 46 IN PRAISE OF THE EARTH Let us bless The imagination of the Earth. That knew early the patience To harness the mind of time, Waited for the seas to warm, Ready to welcome the emergence Of things dreaming of voyaging Among the stillness of land. And how light knew to nurse The growth until the face of the Earth Brightened beneath a vision of color. When the ages of ice came And sealed the Earth inside An endless coma of cold, The heart of the Earth held hope, Storing fragments of memory, Ready for the return of the sun. Let us thank the Earth That offers ground for home And holds our feet firm To walk in space open To infinite galaxies. Let us salute the silence And certainty of mountains: Their sublime stillness, Their dream filled hearts. The wonder of a garden Trusting the first warmth of spring Until its black infinity of cells Becomes charged with dream; Then the silent, slow nuture Of seed’s self, coaxing it To trust the act of death. The humility of the Earth That transfigures all That has fallen Of outlived growth. Page | 49 Breeding soldiers & servants Mereeka A Present Reflection On The Breeding of servants and soldiers a present perception shadow figures moving in mind what “they” are doing what “they” did who is cause? what is cause? memories seem real, yet do i choose to be now but a mere shadow of memories? is that all that I am? it cannot be so . . . . . who is cause? in present now not servant nor soldier neither bred nor breeder neither stuck nor limited is that what i am? it cannot be so . . . . allowing a few moments of melting glue unattached cause less ness not a victim nor a victor followed by a few moments of terror. . . . Page | 50 effects of the shadows. . . . rise up in a shriek . . . . if i am not these things what will become of me? not a thing not another thing Guided Reflection Taken From Sermon: Memorial Day/Samhein Service and Sermon by Mark Barwell May the Force grant us strength to say goodbye to that which we have cherished, the courage to continue to walk without those we have loved, and the understanding to know that all is as it should be. In honour of all that is gone, all that is, and all that shall be. May the Force be with you all. We . . .set aside a time . . .to respect those who have passed into the Force. For now, we shall focus on remembering and honouring the people that have touched our lives and who have since left us. As the Code tells us, “Death, yet the Force” or as the Orthodox Code proclaims: “there is no Death, there is the Force”. These lines echo the sentiments that have been expressed by many faiths and traditions throughout our history. Some paths believe that we move from our earthly body into a place of eternal contentment. Others place faith in the continuity of re-incarnation. There are people who believe that death is the end; that after we shuffle off this mortal coil we simple cease to exist. Page | 51 As the polar opposites of light and darkness reflect and define each other, we (as living beings) reflect Death in our very existence. We come from that place and to it we shall return. We can theorize as much as we want about the nature of life and what awaits us afterwards, but the only true way of finding out is to experience it. The same is true of everything we do – philosophy may lay the foundation for possibilities, but grasping a moment and living it will flood our beings with a much more profound understanding. Time flows forever on for us, but in the Force there is no such concept. To return to its embrace is to experience the Totality of all that is. Such a thing is to be celebrated and welcomed as much as this life is to be explored, honoured and enjoyed. So. . .take a moment to reflect on the people that have walked your path with you, as antagonists or as valued companions. Those that no longer enjoy the physical life that you once shared but who live in the memories they created within you. I am a Jedi By jasonwilkins I am a Jedi A virtuous knight I stand in the gap Between darkness and light A voice of comfort To those who have need And of caution to those Who are evil in deed A sword always ready A pool, calm and still I am all, I am nothing I am Force, I am will A shield and a balance A servant to all I am Jedi and One I will answer the call. Page | 54 In the tree beside the house are the secrets that do abound, running through the sacred ground, making all their sacred sounds. I tell you it is the way, my dear, when the trees become our seers. Gratefulness Joseph T. Renaldi Posted by Phortis Nespin I am grateful for the eyes that I can see the activities that can be done by me. I am grateful for the ears that I may hear the sobbing of those who need me near. I am grateful for the lips that I might speak words of comfort and peace to all who seek. I am grateful for a mind that I might know how to aid those who need me so. I am gratedul for the hands that I might do some arduous or simple task for you. I am grateful for the ability to always pray to give me strength and guidance everyday. I am grateful for one thing, all else above that I was given a heart, that I may love. Page | 55 A Change of Worlds A Lakota Indian Inspiration I heard used at a Funeral... posted by Phortis Nespin When a man dies, he is not dead. He has merely changed his World instead. His vision may become that of a Tall Tree, Looking out in all directions at once. His vision may become that of a Tiny Ant With his nose as his horizon. His vision may include the voice of Stars or The humming song of Leaves. Who Knows? In this World a man can also be The warm breath of the Summer Wind Or the comforting blanket of Winter Snow. In this World a man who is a Raven Is also a man who is a Stone. Each living thing has lived before: The Bird, The Tree, The Man. Why fear this change of Worlds, my friend? Your courage travels with you. Your example is left behind So that others may know The sweetness of your time. Great Spirit Inspired by and Guided by the prayers Wescli posted: Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the wind, Whose breath gives life to all the world. Hear me; I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Page | 56 Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Help me to remain calm and strong in the face of all that comes towards me. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock. Help me seek pure thoughts and act with the intention of helping others. Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me. I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy - Myself (My fears and my doubts). Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes. So when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame. Awakening Oh North Star Light, Star Bright First Star I See Tonight The Way of the Jedi, The Way of Maji As I Awaken to the Living Force As I Honor The Awakening and Living Light In All Humanity No One is Ever Alone The Great Rays and the Living Force is with us all There is no death or evil shadow to fear Forgiveness and Compassion, daily manna, walk with us As the ancient lies and memories melt into nothingness In the Presence of the Force’s stillness and ways Awakening Together we walk with each other Remembering who we truly are Wholly Self crystal clear Oh Joyful Awakening Each the Day Thankful Each the New Year Page | 59 LIFE JUST ISN'T But, life is about whom you love and whom you hurt. It's about whom you make happy or unhappy purposefully, It's about keeping or betraying trust. It's about friendship, used as a sanctity or a weapon. It's about what you say and mean, maybe hurtful, maybe heartening. About starting rumors and contributing to petty gossip. It's about what judgments you pass and why. And who your judgments are spread to. It's about whom you've ignored with full control and intention. It's about jealousy, fear, ignorance, and revenge. It's about carrying inner hate and love, letting it grow, and spreading it. But most of all, it's about using your life to touch or poison other people's hearts in such a way that could have never occurred alone. Only you choose the way those hearts are affected, And those choices are what life's all about. Living Force Living Force of Creation I thank you for the wonders of this universe the joy of knowing that I am one with all life that I am here now through you and can observe and influence those around me just as you influence me Help me to greater appreciate the life I have and the things others have to offer me and the things I have to offer to others Living Force, help this Jedi to be what I should be to do what I should do May the Force be with me and with us all Page | 60 Living Force Living Force, I am lost as to where to go. I cannot see the way ahead. I cannot know for certain where it will lead. Who am I? Just because I think I trust in Your will, does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that my desire to be mindful of You, does in fact envelope all life with Your positive energy. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this, You will lead me on the right way, though I may not know anything about it. Therefore, I will trust you always, although I may seem to be lost and walk in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for You are always with me, and You will never leave me to face darkness alone. I as the Force (a mantra) By Phortis Nespin I breath in the Force; I breath out the Force I move with the Force; I am motionless with the Force I think with the Force; I am empty with the Force I am Kind with the Force; I am Compassionate with the Force I defend with the Force; I heal with the Force I Serve with the Force; I Love with the Force It is the Light in the Darkness; It is the Darkness in the Light It is All Things; It is Nothing It is Life; It is Lifelessness The Force as I; I as the Force Page | 61 Living Force, by E-3_4L_Teeter Guide me to where I am most needed For I know not where you take me Yet I know that you still carry me Forward With purpose And thus I carry on knowing That wherever I may go I am destined to be here and I will let your light show Into the Darkness ~Jedi Koji Stepping out into darkness again, Another life, another mission soon to end, Ever unsure but always hopeful, For The Lord of All is near. Inside every heart and soul The beacon on truth shines bright, The time is now to not say "You need to know The Lord!" For we are already in his sight. Know him as you will For it is not by good works Nor by money in which we are freed, But in our connection to freedom itself, Allowing us to be righteous and Holy, Set apart for God. Page | 64 La lumière pure concentre toutes les couleurs. C'est pourquoi elle est incolore. C'est seulement lorsque l'unité est dispersée Que surgit la couleur. Pure light concentrates all of the colours. This is why it is colourless. It is only when the unity is dispersed That colour emerges. Le lit sous le courant de l'eau, Un pin parfumé. Terre de roches rouges, Montagne escarpée. The bed beneath the watercourse, A perfumed pine. Earth of red rocks, Rugged mountain. Le paradis et l'enfer : Notre inconscient. Heaven and Hell : Our unconscious. Le ciel et la terre contiennent l'horizon ; Peu importe le profil déchiqueté, Le ciel s'y adapte fidèlement. The sky and the Earth contain the horizon ; No matter how irregular it is, The sky adapts itself faithfully. Page | 65 Lorsque les oiseaux volent trop haut, Ils chantent faux. When the birds fly too high, They sing off. La proie passe devant le tigre Qui parfois simplement observe, Parfois s'élance sans hésitation, Mais ne manque jamais d'agir. The prey passes before the tiger Who sometimes simply observes, Sometimes bounds without hesitation, But never fails to act. Les démons qui pénètrent dans notre sphère Doivent être explusés. The demons that penetrate into our sphere Must be expelled. Page | 66 Member Created Ceremonies Easter Liturgy for Christian Jedi By Phortis Nespin GATHERING AND MUSICAL PRELUDE (* = please stand) CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 118:14-24 - from the rear of the Sanctuary) L God’s Force is my strength. P God’s Force has become my salvation. L There is a song of joy and victory in the tents of the righteous. P The right hand of the God has triumphed! The right hand of the God is exalted! L Because of the God’s victory I will not die. P Instead I will live and proclaim what God has done. L Open to me the gates of the Temple. P I will go in and give thanks to the God. L I will give thanks to God, for he has answered me. P He has become my salvation. L The stone the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all. P God has done this. It is marvelous in our eyes. L This is the day of God’s victory. P Let us rejoice and be glad in it. PROCESSIONAL HYMN "Jesus Christ is Risen Today" WORDS OF WELCOME AND PRAYER OF APPROACH L The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. P And also with you. L Let us Pray....... P Most gracious and loving God, you who have swallowed up death with the resurrection of Christ Jesus, bring about in us new life with him. L Pour your Holy Spirit upon us and give us hearts and minds fitting for your praise. P Grant to us your continual help. Make us die every day to sin so that we may live with him forever. L You give us the joy of celebrating our Lord's resurrection. Give us also the joys of life in your service and bring us at last to the full joy of life eternal P We ask these things in the name of your risen Son, he who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, both now, and forevermore. Amen Page | 69 So after all the trial and tribulation that Jesus faced, the evil doers could not find a fault or crack in his armor. So the cowards turned to a weak minded ruler and tormented Jesus through violence. And yet he turned the other check. He was made to carry the cross on which he was to hang, and yet he remained silent. He was mocked and placed hanging with two real criminals, and yet he forgave them. Finally in his last moments, beaten and bent, he asked why, but he already knew the answer. “INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMEND MY SPIRIT” God, the maker of all things, including the essence we know as the Force, set the path for Jesus at the beginning of time. Jesus was guided by the Force to his end so that we could know the path to everlasting life. Now, after physical death, he is guided by the Force to his friends and family to verify that all that God has taught us about a spiritual life in the Force is possible. We celebrate today, when Jesus Christ’s Force Spirit came back to stand with his disciples in the glory of God to save us from eternal damnation and prove eternal life. Let us Pray – Creator and maker of us all - bless the words of my lips and the meditations of our hearts - grow thou in us and show us your ways and inspire us to live by your truth. Amen We celebrate today the resurrection of Christ Jesus our Lord. Praise be to God our Father who raises the dead to life, Praise be to Jesus the Son who shares his life with the faithful, and Praise be to the Spirit who makes one with him. Amen BLESSING FROM THE FORCE Come, Living Force of Creation, almighty Sanctifier, Power of love, who envelopes all life with positive energy, come and sanctify us. Replace the tensions within us with righteous peace. Replace the fears within us with quiet confidence. Replace the bitterness within us with the sweetness of respect. Replace the coldness within us with a loving warmth. Replace the night within us with Your consoling light. Fill our emptiness. Dull the edge of our pride. Sharpen the edge of our humility. Let us see ourselves as You see us, Let us see others as You see them. Enlighten our minds, strengthen our wills, purify our consciences, rectify our judgment, set our hearts on fire, and preserve us from the misfortunes of resisting Your inspirations. Teach us to see Your design in all of creation. May the Force be with us always. Page | 70 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE Lord Jesus, today we greet you, risen from the dead, victorious over sin and death, over suffering and shame, over all evil and wrong. Keep us mindful of those who labor under these burdens this day and grant them your peace and comfort. Lord hear our prayer. Lord Jesus, we greet you, risen from the dead, overcoming by the power of love, by patient trust and perseverance, by faith in God alone. Grant that all your people may have your heart and your mind among them and help them to minister to one another and to your world in your name. Lord hear our prayer. Lord Jesus, we greet you, risen from the dead, proving that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Grant that your most Holy Church and the people of this congregation might show forth the fruit of reconciliation and draw all people unto you and the peace you offer.... Lord, hear our prayer... Lord Jesus, we greet you, risen from the dead, our living hope, and our power for each day. We pray O God that you might grant hope and pour out your power upon those we name before you now in the silence of our hearts...... Lord hear our prayer.... Lord Jesus, we greet you, risen from the dead, our savior and our redeemer. Bless we pray now: Prayers of intercession as shared Lord Jesus, we greet You, risen from the dead and we offer you our thanks and our praise, our prayers and our worship, our devotion and our service, both now and forever. Amen. SHARING GOD'S BLESSINGS: O God, we come with our offerings in response to your love. With the new life in Christ, we give ourselves in service to you and to our brothers and sisters. Receive the work we do and the gifts that we bring, that they and we may prove to be a blessing to you and to the world that Christ came to save. We ask it in his name. Amen PASSING OF THE PEACE HYMN: "Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Give Thanks" COMMUNION LITANY: L: The peace of the Lord be with you. Page | 71 P And also with you. L Lift up your hearts. P We lift them up to the Lord. L Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. P It is right to give God thanks and praise. THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER L Loving and Compassionate God, Father, all powerful and ever-living, we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks and praise through Jesus Christ our Lord. We praise you with great joy on this Easter day, when Christ rose in fulfillment of the promises you made through the law and the prophets. He is the true Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. By dying he destroyed our death; by rising he restored our life. And so with all creation, and with all the company of the redeemed, we magnify your glorious name, evermore praising thee, saying P Holy, holy, holy, Lord, God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the highest. L Lord, you are holy indeed. You are gracious to all who turn to you and keep your promises to all who trust in you. With grateful hearts we proclaim the mystery of our faith: P Christ has died. Christ is Risen. Christ will come again. L We remember, O Father, in accordance with his command, how Jesus on the night he was betrayed, took bread and gave you thanks and praise. He broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take this, all of you, and eat. This is my body which will be given up for you.". When supper was ended he took the cup. Again he gave you thanks and praise, and then gave the cup to his disciples and said: "Take this, all of you and drink from it. This is the cup of my blood, the blood of the new and everlasting covenant. It will be shed for you and for all so that sins may be forgiven. Do this in memory of me." P When we eat this bread and drink this cup we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus, until you come in glory. L Worthy is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain, to receive all power and wealth, wisdom and might, honor and glory and praise. P Lord, by your cross and resurrection, you have set us free. You are the Savior of the world. L Loving God, send your Holy Spirit upon these gifts, that the bread we break may be for us communion in the body of Christ, and the cup of blessing which we bless may be for us communion in the blood of Christ; that being built up in love we may be strengthened in the unity of the faith and come to the fullness of the stature of Christ our Lord. Amen Page | 74 Although standing only dozens of yards from and next to the Twin Towers the small 17th-century chapel in which George Washington had prayed when becoming the nation's first president was entirely spared, with not even a single broken window - naturally, St. Paul's Chapel served to house the wounded and, in the weeks that followed, the workers cleaning up the debris (ringing of the fire bell in a pattern of 3-3-5, the old telegraph code signifying return to quarters.) At 8:46 – Ring the bell for the firefighters 3-3-5 Return home Read – Luminous Beings Are We We answer our call The call of the Force We answer our call Without hesitation We answer our call While others decry us As Freaks, weirdo’s, or Witches Yet we persist For we have heard our call and we have answered it The call of the Force We suffer the temptations of this Crude Matter We suffer through bouts of Anger We suffer through bouts of Depression At times we feel alone But we are never truly alone For the Force is always with us and it is now I say Luminous Beings Are We May The Force Be With You Candle Lighting Ceremony – (ask that everyone light their candles) The Candle Sandy Keeney There was a child standing outside, alone. She was absorbed into the wall surrounding her. By chance someone saw here there, saw her need, And stopped to light her candle, And she, in candlelight, glows. There was a child without confidence. She was afraid to try, worried about rejection. Someone lit her candle with a smile, A nodding of praise for her efforts, And she, in candlelight, glows. There was a child who couldn't be still. She bounced and bubbled and never came to rest. Someone filled her eyes with awe, and she saw Page | 75 A gift of light, and emotions quieted her soul, And she, in candlelight, glows. There was a child searching for meaning. Looking for direction that made sense to her. Someone lit a candle to help her find a way, With a Promise, a song, and a prayer, And she, in candlelight, glows. There was a child seeing a need in the world. She didn't know what to do that would help. Someone showed her a little light, flickering. She lit the candles of others, And she, in candlelight, glows. Fire Adopted from the Girl Guides of Canada Eternal Force, fire is one of your gifts. Fire gives us warmth to comfort our bodies. Help us to give the warmth of our love to others. Fire brings light in the dark of the night. Help our good deeds bring light to those in the dark. Fire gives us heat to cook our meals. Help us not to waste food, and to remember the hungry of the world. Fire, used carelessly, can destroy. Help us to use it, like all your gifts, in the right way. Fire's dancing colors bring us beauty and joy. Help us to spread happiness in a world that is often grey and sad. We watch the fire with care, lest it leap out of control. Help us to watch our words with care, lest we hurt a friend. For fire, and for all your gifts, we give you thanks. May The Force Be with Us (Music – How do I live without you? – Leann Rhimes) What is a Jedi? – Sermon As I walk through life I have come to be watchful of those around me. I love to watch people and how they interact with each other, with those they know and those they do not. I am surprised sometimes by the fact that there are so many Jedi walking around out there that do not know that they are Jedi. I am surprised by the goodness I see in people who do not realize the good they are doing. I am surprised by the fact that I am a Jedi like the firefighters before me, although they do not know they are Jedi. As I have read the 16 basic teachings of the Jedi and the vows of the Jedi, I have tried to gage my actions to those articles. The more I tried to reconcile myself to them, the more I noticed these basic actions and vows Page | 76 were already present in many of my fellow firefighters. I had to ask myself…What is a Jedi? Does a Jedi have to take an oath to an Order or can he exist as a natural course of being? There is one way in which I can become a great Jedi…practice, perseverance, and a steadfast dedication to the Jedi Code. It is to take the teachings of my fellow firefighters and follow in those footsteps. But where do I start? As I looked through the Vows of a Jedi I saw a couple that stood out from the others. Not that they are any more important than the others, but more to the point that they are more a part of who I am already. The Vows I speak of are: Respect, Defense, and Charity. On September 11th 2001, a great evil was perpetrated upon the city of New York. 2996 conscious living beings were lost in a vile attach on innocent lives. Among these lives were 343 members of the FDNY, 23 members of the NYPD, 37 members of The Port Authority, 8 members of private medical services, and 40 passengers and crew on a flight over Pennsylvania. Not only them, but many others in the World Trade Center that worked to help others. All of those that I have just mentioned worked without thought of their own safety. They moved in the opposite direction of those that fled the collapsing towers. The actions of those men and women came not from the orders of a military general who has to take a hill at any cost. No, it came from within. So what does this have to do with the Vows of Respect, Defense, and Charity? The Vow of Respect - In order for any human to give his life for another, he must first value the life of another greater than his own. He must respect life in all its forms and accept life as sacred. He must respect the lives of those humans not worthy of saving as much as he respects his own life that he feel is worth giving up. Respect for life is an essential part of a Jedi’s core values. If he cannot respect the life of another, he truly cannot respect his own. The firefighters, police, Port Authority members and all of the rescuers and the people of flight 93 knew that their lives were in great peril. They knew this during the making of the decision to act and at the end of their lives. The actions of the “ordinary” citizens on flight 93, knowing full well that any miscalculation will end in their death, took action because the lives of the people at the other end of this flight were more important than their own. The welfare of the members of Congress or maybe even the President, were more important to the country than their own lives. Respect for the other lives in the United States can be counted not in the few that would be killed at the end of the flight, but at the untold thousands that would have their lives affected by the destruction of their governing body. The Vow of Defense – If you, like the samurai, give yourself willingly to death, than the defense of others is a natural response. It is natural in the knowing that the life you save or the country you defend is sacred. Your actions happen without hesitation and fear. You have given yourself to death and do not fear it’s unknown. In knowing that your body is ultimately the property of death, you embrace the sacrifice of your life to those who have not yet attained enlightenment. Those who gave up their lives did so in defense of the weak and helpless. They gave up their lives freely and without remorse. To say they were afraid is not possible, because at the moment that one realizes the end, peace overcomes fear. The actions of the rescuers and passengers, is the mandate of the Jedi. The Vow of Charity- It is redundant to talk of the Vow of Charity. To give of oneself the ultimate gift of your own life, is the most charitable gift one could give. Life is precious no matter whose it is. The rescuers are as in need as those they would help. When the fire crew sat down in the stairwell with the old woman who could go no further, their lives were as in need as the woman’s. But they gave their lives to the will of the Force and sat down beside her. It is in that moment that you must believe in a higher power, for they crashed down the falling tower in that stairwell, and survived. The hope and courage that those firefighters gave that day to the woman, alone and without a chance, enveloped them all in the glow of the Force and protected them. There is a saying…Charity begins in the home. If you have ever been in a fire house you would know that charity begins where ever the firefighters are. SO, Jedi oath or not, those men and women that gave their lives, have the Force as their ally and are one with it on this day. (Music – The World as I Know It – Collective Soul) Page | 79 Samhain Ritual By Phortis Nespin A Ceremony for the Circle of Life To Pray for the Hunter and Honor the Hunted (This ceremony is to be held outdoors, build a pyre with an alter to the south, so the congregation faces north) (A procession of Hunters should place the instruments of the hunt on the alter in a ritual manner) (A procession of Others should place the Pictures or other likeness of the animals to be hunted on the pyre) (Congregation should wear costumes of animals and hunters through the ages, i.e. caveman through modern camo hunter) (The alter should be set with corn, pumpkins, apples, squash, stalks and herbs) (A call to the congregation to gather, Hunters in the inner circle and all others in the outer circle) (Opening Song) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfHpiKekxaA&feature=related Opening Prayer - Personal Focus (Spoken by the moderator of the event) Today is a time to reflect on the past year, to remember our deeds and the love of friends. It is a time to reflect on our poor choices and remember the suffering we brought unto others. It is the time to make changes within you, so that your true nature is manifest in yourself and your life. Samhain is also a time to communicate with the deepest part of our selves, and reflects on our personal ghosts or demons. To make peace with ourselves so that we end the suffering that torments our souls and therefore torments others. Make peace with the past because it is unchangeable. Make peace with your friends who have stood by you in times of torment. Getting rid of negative things in your life, settling old debts, releasing old grudges and begin your new life. As the mighty oak dies in fall, only to drop the acorn, the seed of new life, so should you let your old self die only to shed new life through your kindness and compassion. As the season of harvest comes to a close, let us gather here today to honor our forefathers and their contributions to our society. Let us honor our mother earth for providing a bountiful harvest. And let us honor the Great Spirit for the precious animals that will sustain us through winter. A Hunters Prayer for Honor (Spoken by one of the Hunters) 0 Great Spirit, I am a hunter I seek to take the life of your precious animal Let me not attempt the shot beyond my skill For they are your creatures given for our use But each one falls within your sight, they're not for our abuse And when I loose my arrow, please guide it swift and true Or let it miss completely, that pain be not undue A clean kill or no kill, such is my heart's desire Give me the skill to make it so, or let me hold my fire And when my time upon this earth is fulfilled Grant that I may die at least as clean as those I killed A Forest Prayer (Spoken by one of the outer circle) Page | 80 I am the heat of your hearth on the cold winter nights. I am the friendly shade screening you from the summer sun I am the fruits that hold refreshing draughts quenching your thirst as you journey on. I am the beam that holds your house, the board of your table, the bed on which you lie, and the timber that builds your boat. I am the handle of your hoe, the door of your homestead, the wood of your cradle, and the shell of your coffin. I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty. ‘Ye who pass by, listen to my prayer: Harm me not. Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Hunt (Spoken by one of the Hunters) Great Spirit, I thank you for the opportunity to go on the hunt. I thank you for the time alone to think and reflect on my life. I thank you for the time to be with friends on the hunt, enjoying good fellowship, good stories, and filling meals. Thank you for the beautiful scenery during the hunt and for the game taken and shared. I thank you especially for a safe hunt for myself and all the hunters who share the field. (Prepare to light the pyre while the Hunters Prayer to the Slain Animal is read) A HUNTER’S PRAYER (to the slain animal’s spirit) (Spoken by the moderator of the event) Life is a circle. At first, we do not exist in this world. Then we are born, grow, and thus live. Then after a while, when we must relinquish our existence in this world, the circle is complete. Some circles are very small, others much larger. We do not much control where the circle starts or ends. But within this circle, we are players whose performance is a balance of conscious and unconscious choices; influences from that which is imprinted within our species and that which is imposed from without. As such, I have not chosen to be predator any more than you have chosen to be prey. The circle of life demands that there be both. I accept that as predator, I have the awesome responsibility of being swift and sure, for carelessness may cause you suffering, and that I cannot bear. Yet, because I am sometimes less than I can be, I will cause suffering. May I be thus judged by the sincerity of my intentions, and the purity of my heart, and when it is deserved, may I be forgiven. I celebrate the way you lived; I wish I could live my life as well. Your courage and love of life was not a minor thing. Therefore, it is now with both sorrow and reverence that I now thank you, <animal species>, for giving your life, and I honor your life by pledging that through your death will come sustenance for renewed life. (Light the fire) Now that your spirit has been set free, it can go where it will. However, if you think I am worthy, perhaps you will honor me by allowing your spirit come into my heart where it can live within me and be my counsel. And when life comes full circle for me, may both of our spirits be set free in a better place— where the "lion can lay with the lamb", and we will feel sorrow and fear no more. jdg 1999 Prayer to Share the Fruit of the Hunt (Spoken by one of the Hunters) O Great Spirit, I am so blessed to be able to hunt, and I appreciate the blessings you have bestowed upon me. Yet I know that so many others are in great need. Give me the grace to share the food of the hunt not only with my family and friends, but also with those who have a greater need; the hungry and the poor. As they ask you, Great Spirit, for their daily meal, use me as one small instrument to help provide for my fellow man. Page | 81 Closing Intercession By Starhawk (Moderator)A year of beauty. A year of planting. A year of harvest. A year of plenty. (Congregation)This year may we renew the earth. (Moderator)A year of forests. A year of healing. A year of vision. A year of passion. A year of rebirth. (Congregation)This year may we renew the earth. (Moderator)Let it begin with each step we take. And let it begin with each change we make. And let it begin with each chain we break. And let it begin every time we awake. (Congregation)This year may we renew the earth. Ending Prayer Living Force of Creation I thank you for the wonders of this universe the joy of knowing that I am one with all life; That I am here now through you and can observe and influence those around me just as you influence me; Help me to greater appreciate the life I have and the things others have to offer me and the things I have to offer to others; Living Force, help this Jedi to be what I should be, to do what I should do; May the Force be with me and with us all, And May the Force keep you safe as you renew …The Circle of Life! (Closing Song) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C21G2OkHEYo (The service should follow with a buffet of treats based on the season) (Remember to completely extinguish the pyre) Page | 84 Play, smile, think of me, pray for me, Let my name be ever the household word that It always was. Let it be spoken without effort, Without the trace of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant It is the same as it ever was There is absolutely unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I am Out of sight? I am but waiting for you For an interval Somewhere very near Just around the corner . All is well. Canon Henry Scott Holland (1847-1918) Move to the west A ship sails and I stand watching till she fades on the horizon and someone at my side says She is gone. Gone where? Gone from my sight, that is all. She is just as large now as when I last saw her. Her diminished size and total loss from my sight is in me, not in her. And just at that moment, when someone at my side says she is gone, there are others who are watching her coming over their horizon and other voices take up a glad shout -There she comes! That is what dying is. An horizon and just the limit of our sight. Lift us up O Lord, that we may see further. by: Bishop Brent Simple Sermon Empty your mind of the grief caused by the passing of our friends. Why would you grieve for someone who is now in bliss with the Force? Let your heart be at peace with the passing of our friends. They are looking at you from the other side grieving for you because you have yet to attain bliss. Be compassionate toward those who grieve the passing of our friends, but do not grieve yourself, instead remember the happier times to come with those that remain. Each one of us is a luminous being of the Force, and we will all return to that source. Remember that there will be peace and tranquility upon your return to the Force, the source of all. If you have not come to realize this simple truth, you will never be at peace. You will stumble about this existence in confusion and sorrow. You will suffer just to suffer. You will be found wanting without knowing what it is you are seeking. You will fear death instead of embracing the light of the Force. Upon your awakening and realization that you are part of the Force, you will know without knowing, you will tolerate without tolerating, your interest in trivial things will be unknown to you. You will be amused and as Page | 85 kindhearted as a grandmother, as dignified as a righteous king. When you realize you are forever in your enlightenment, there will be nothing that you will need to care about, because it is all known to you as The Force. Immersed in the wonders of the Force you will be able to cope with all things, you will deal with all things calmly, you will be able to deal with all things as they come to you without turmoil. When death finally comes for you, it will not be a stranger that comes like a thief in the night, it will be like a loved one that welcomes you home. Every one moves to make a circle around the pyre. The Funeral Pyre symbolizes the release of our souls from our mortal bodies. Funeral Pyre – throw the pictures of our deceased on the fire Jedi Code There is no Emotion; there is Peace. There is no Ignorance; there is Knowledge. There is no Passion; there is Serenity. There is no Chaos; there is Harmony. There is no Fear; there is Courage. There is no Foolishness; there is Wisdom. There is no Death; there is the Force. AT THE END OF CEREMONIES May the sunlight warm your face, so that stranger, friend or kin may find comfort. And may that light shine from your heart, like a candle set in the porch of a house, inviting the wanderer to come in out of the storm. May the rain pour upon your Spirit, and wash away your sorrows. And may its pools reflect the greatness of creation, revealing its beauty all the days of your life. May the wind be always at your back, blowing new strength into your being. And may its whistle fill your heart with gladness, sounding over the roofs of mountains for ever after. May the earth keep you steadfast, soft under your feet as you pass along its paths. And may it cradle you gently as you lie out on it, tired at the end of day. May the Force be with you in everything you do. Page | 86 25 May – International Jedi Day By Alexandre Orion Prior planning : everyone would be asked to bring “an offering”, something to share at the end of the ceremony, these placed on a table furnished for this purpose, just aside the setting for the ceremony. Setting : Outdoors, in a Living Place, a circular, temporary construction that mixes ancient and ultramodern, with a source of electricity. Reminiscent of a druid stone circle, though its construction could be of any material, its apertures well aligned to modern star positions, sunrises at the equinoxes (with other coloured pillars, marked for the other ages in the precession of the equinoxes), in an inside ring a number of small alters, each illuminated by modern halogen spot and by standing brazier (with either fuel measured out to burn the duration of celebration), display the effigies of various mythic heroes who have undergone the Hero's Adventure (e.g. Gilgamesh, Arjuna, Odysseus, Perseus, Jason &c), including those of Luke Skywalker at the position of sunset (to symbolise his acceptance of the darkness in us all) and Annakin Skywalker/Darth Vader at the position of sunrise (to symbolise his redemption : his return from the dark side). This ring encircles the gathered assembly, at the southern point of the circle there is a larger fire recipient for light, and/or (since it is May) warmth. The time of sunset being given as the commencement of the ceremony (21:38 if in France), small spot lamps (modern) and braziers (times past) providing a timeless atmosphere in lighting. As this will be a celebration of the arrival to our generation by our modern media the Hero's Journey of classic myth, the Jedi/Force theme of Williams is playing audibly, yet not loudly, as the participants arrive : (I recommend this piece – The Force theme, but that is only my recommendation, other “heroic” theme music could be used – no lyrics) As the last rays of sunlight fall under the horizon, a chime is sounded and the music fades slowly with the chime, not completely out, but to a very low volume. Participants may sit or stand as they like, those sitting on the ground grouped in the centre, those standing form the perimeter. The MC remains circulating as he may among the assembly as the sermon is delivered. MC : The Force is with us. Assembly : The Force is with us. MC : We have assembled here this evening to offer our gratitude to the effort of Industry, Art and Opportunity that brought forth into the public of today that which was slipping into the shadow of the past, unilluminated by the lantern of History. The epic of the Hero's Adventure, that path which every living soul walks between the womb and the tomb, whether one is conscious of it or not. In every epoch, stories have served to illustrate this bold adventure of Life, that momentary canalisation of the Force which is every one of us in all the Times of the the Eternal Now, and this work, Star Wars, was conceived in that purpose. Should the Force have not inspired the teacher of its artist, many of us here would not have found the path we are on today. Shall we take a moment and reflect on what lead us to the Temple of the Jedi Order, and what we have discovered herein. (the music at low volume can still be heard ; the MC counts twenty-five breaths – a cord with twenty-five knots therein is a good measure for not losing count – [approx. 1:15 minutes and begins again) : Page | 89 * assembly repeats His word speaks only truth. * assembly repeats His Shield shelters the forsaken. * assembly repeats His courage gives hope to the despairing. * assembly repeats His justice undoes the wicked. * assembly repeats His image brings peace. * assembly repeats His code breaks the darkness, * assembly repeats His legend brings light * assembly repeats We should now close this liturgy in rising, those of you who are sitting, and saluting the Hero in one another. (Hereby everyone circulates to shake hands, hug, “faire les bises” or however they choose to re- greet one another. The music is slowly rising yet still not too loud. After a period of intermingling, the chime sounds again to direct attention once more to the MC) We now close the liturgy, but not the ceremony – for those who wish, let us now spend a moment of conviviality in the spirit of the Hero and the Continuing Adventure. May the Force be with you. Assembly : And also with you. The music rises and continues to the end of the piece. It can now be changed to whatever one wants to listen to, and the party ensues around the table ... October 31st By Alexandre Orion Prior arrangements : the company should dress in black, orange, and gold costume and jewellery. Each should be asked to bathe in a sea-salt bath beforehand, meditating on deceased loved ones as well as the year past and hopes/plans for the year to come. The preparation for the festival should be shared by all the assembly and in an ideal case, no one in particular should preside over it ... Setting : sunset 31 October (17h32 si en France) indoors, in a long hall with tables dressed with black and orange. There are candles in the windows and outside of the doors are set bowls of milk and plates of bannock bread. Inside, all along the walls are tables also dressed and piled with squashes of all sorts, and autumn fruits, apples of all colours and potatoes … these could be arranged in baskets or randomly placed, spilling out of a cornucopia or not … Page | 90 There would be a large hearth and a fire going at one end of the hall, and at the other, an alter dressed in white, on one and the other side stand banners with the TotJO symbol also in black, orange and gold. Two tall pillar candles are alight upon the altar, and an incensarium where smoulder Frankincense & Myrrh. These are also in a dish to one and the other side of the incensarium so that the participants may sprinkle a pinch of both upon the incensarium when/if they pass to the alter. A sphere of obsidian rests on its support in the centre of the alter, between the candles and just behind the incensarium (also centred). Eight smaller obsidian stones are to one side and the other of the central sphere, for a total of nine. Aside from these, the alter remains nearly empty, to allow room for the participants of the assembly to place things upon it. To one side and the other of the alter stand bowls of sea-salt, so that each in his/her turn may recast the circle about the alter when or should they choose to pass at the alter. The music could be something of this order : This is just a suggestion. On another large table, between the alter and the feasting tables would be spread the fare. Roasted red potatoes and apples, breads and pies of pumpkin, bannocks and large earthenware jarres of hot cidre with clove and cinnamon seasoned. At the end of the hall, and near to the fire, barrels of water are there where those who would like to may bob for apples – this a symbolic baptism. There would be no sermon in particular for this festival, though anyone who would wish to may say some words about a loved one or loved ones who has/have passed beyond the veil. When the dinner would be taken, plates are filled and set at the tables in places reserved for them for the service of the departed whose spirits join in the celebration with us. We should all be encouraged to talk with them, for on this night when the veil between the Summerland and the world of the Living is permeable. The feast may last well into the night, with music and dancing, all in a lighthearted and joyous atmosphere of togetherness for the living and the departed alike. Page | 91 Christmas/TOTJO Anniversary By Wescli Wardest FOR THE SEVICE: Hold service during afternoon to evening. Use the colors white, blue and gold. Have several candles to light and incense to burn and decorate the walls and Alter with evergreen boughs. Have several evergreen boughs to pass out. GREETING Bishop or Priest (With arms raised) Today, as we gather, not only are we here to celebrate the anniversary of TOTJO but also the community of people which meets here… visitors, members and everyone from all places that we share our lives with, and those that will come after us. OPENING PRAYER Bishop or Priest Prayer of Thanksgiving Living Force of Creation I thank you for the wonders of this universe the joy of knowing that I am one with all life that I am here now through you and can observe and influence those around me just as you influence me Help me to greater appreciate the life I have and the things others have to offer me and the things I have to offer to others Living Force, help this Jedi to be what I should be to do what I should do May the Force be with us People May the Force be with us all (Priest lights the candles on the Alter and hands the last candle to the Bishop which then lights the incense.) FIRST TEXT READING Knight or member of the congregation From the sixteen basic teachings of Jediism #10 Jedi believe in destiny and trust in the will of the Living Force. We accept the fact that what seem to be random events are not random at all, but the design of the Living Force of Creation. Each living creature has a purpose, understanding that purpose comes with a deep awareness of the Force. Even things that Page | 94 Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; And where there is sadness, joy. I am a Jedi. I shall never seek so much to be consoled as to console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. The Force is with me always, for I am a Jedi. PRAYER Priest Let us all pray together. All (Bishop Leads) FOR ALL PEOPLE Living Force of Creation, Bishop help us to see the beauty that we are, without and within. Help us to love ourselves, unconditionally, without judgment. Your radiance manifests through us and is present within and around us at all times. Our bodies are Your conduit and a vehicle for Your Work. It is therefore deserving of love, respect and honor. This day and always, help us to honor our bodies, to love them unconditionally, and to be grateful for their service. Bishop May The Force Be With Us People May the Force be with us all Page | 95 BLESSING Priest A BLESSING... (Taken from an Irish Blessing) Travel light in life; take only what you need; a loving family, good friends, simple pleasures, someone to love, and someone to love you; take enough to eat, enough to wear, and a little more than enough to drink; for thirst is a dangerous thing. *Optional ending* Priest AT THE END OF CEREMONIES May the sunlight warm your face, so that stranger, friend or kin may find comfort. And may that light shine from your heart, like a candle set in the porch of a house, inviting the wanderer to come in out of the storm. May the rain pour upon your Spirit, and wash away your sorrows. And may its pools reflect the greatness of creation, revealing its beauty all the days of your life. May the wind be always at your back, blowing new strength into your being. And may its whistle fill your heart with gladness, sounding over the roofs of mountains for ever after. May the earth keep you steadfast, soft under your feet as you pass along its paths. And may it cradle you gently as you lie out on it, tired at the end of day. May the Force be with you in everything you do. Page | 96 JEDI YOUNGLING DAY/ VOCATIONS DAY By Wescli Wardest Setting Held in the evening, outdoors with everyone gathered around a pit fire. The clergy should be dressed in robes standing behind a short alter (on it is a pen, paper and incense) and the banner in the background. Gathering the people Deacon/acolyte/assistant- Bells or a gong is rang (or the rattling of sticks) to gather the peoples’ attention. Greeting Priest- We are gathered here this evening to celebrate those who have found their calling and the future generations who follow in our footsteps. Let us begin with a prayer... Opening prayer Priest- For as long as space endures And for as long as living beings remain Until then may I too abide To dispel the misery of the world. May the Force be with you. All- And also with you. Text reading/Sermon Priest- (lights the incense) This is a holiday in which we celebrate Jedi Vocations and how they can be seen as fulfilling the spiritual need of Jedi, and the specific task for which each Jedi is specifically gifted. We also celebrate the Jedi younglings in which our future can be found. We share this Feast Day with many cultures around the world and with many religions; each celebrating with their own understanding and according to their own traditions. Many Jedi which have found their vocations have done so by transcending one life into another. By letting go of what they were to become what they are. It is a natural part of life, to transcend and to grow and to move out of the realm we knew. And each time we do we leave something behind! I would like to think that what is left behind was the husk or shell we no longer needed as we make our journey forward and are planted on the path to where we are going. For many that have come before us this journey has already been made and they realize that it never ends; that it is a cycle ever repeating and ever ongoing; like the seasons of the Earth. And our younglings, our future have begun this journey on their own rather they realize it or not. Each year as they grow they transcend their old self and grow into a new existence where more of the universe is open to their eyes and the miracle of existence. Whatever our theology, whatever our circumstances, there is meaning available to us in this holiday. This is a time very much about relationships, about change, about possibilities, about other worlds and ways that exist next to our own, about the eternal link between life and death, and about immanence; and, we witness all this in the world around us as we pass from Summer into Winter.