The Temple Rites: Primary Texts

The Charges

The Inheritance

I have inherited these Traditions: they are mine to look after until I pass them on, adding whatever jewels I can to them. And thus shall I be proud to pass them on to those who come after, to whom I have a duty to safeguard these Traditions as well I may, that they may derive as much, if not more, benefit from them as have I. As too do I have a responsibility to those who have gone before, for they have honoured me by placing these cherished treasures in my care, trusting that I shall keep them as safe as did they. May I prove worthy of the trust so placed in me, and not betray the memory, the goodwill, the faith, of those who have gone before.

Of Hospitality

The comfort and well-being of the guest shall be attended to with an abundance that is limited only by the resources of the host. Nor shall the poise and equanimity of the guest be disturbed in any way whatsoever, or their physical security be imperilled. They shall be welcomed as a member of one's own family, as kin, where no effort is too great, no inconvenience too demanding, no expense spared.

Opulence and luxury are not necessary; nor are vulgar displays of wealth and power which, if the guest be from lesser station, may prove an embarrassment. But no more restraint shall be shown than if one were entertaining those most dearly loved.

And food and drink shall be shared, not sparingly, but as often as may be required, and according to prevailing custom. And the guest shall not be forsaken for other interests, or compelled to attend to matters that concern them not.

The Keeper of the Altar

Ye are solemnly charged to protect and safeguard this Holy Altar even more than your own self; that ye shall not allow any blasphemy, any sacrilege, any profanation to taint that which is consecrated to the service of our Holy Mother.

When ye approach, be clean of mind and body, humble in deed and word. Let not arrogance, nor selfishness, nor pettiness, nor vanity distract from the unsullied simplicity and holiness of that which is the Repository of all Mysteries, the Holy Table from whence is served the Bread of Life and the Wine of Love, the Sacrificial Stone on which is laid all that which is base and low that, by the Grace of our Holy Mother, it be transmuted into Silver and Gold.

Accept this Charge, and preserve the sanctity of that which be entrusted to your stewardship and care.

In the Name of the Great Goddess, Queen of Creation, Holy Mother.