New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Samhain is a time for remembering and honoring our loved ones who have passed. Create an ancestor altar using Halloween's favorite fruit: pumpkins.
Cut your pumpkin as if you were making a jack-o'-lantern. Scoop out the seeds, then wash and dry them. Instead of creating a face on the pumpkin, carve your ancestors' names or initials into the flesh, speaking them aloud as you work. You can also paint the names or initials on the pumpkin. If you go this route, drill small holes into the pumpkin so that it still acts as a lantern. Dry out the pumpkin as best you can, then put the seeds back in with this blessing: "Dearly departed But always present, Bless what's inside With your presence." Place a tealight on top of the seeds and put the pumpkin outside to light up the night until the candle goes out. The next day, take out the seeds and save them to plant next year. |
