Rites of Departure
Wiccans have a positive view death seeing it as part of the natural cycle of endings and rebirth and because of this belief in the afterlife and reincarnation, they tend not to fear it. They call a funeral 'the Requiem' or the 'Rites of Departure'. Most Wiccans are cremated as they don't support the use of embalming fluids or airtight coffins that are sealed off from nature.
A 'sending ceremony' takes places place prior to a cremation, where close friends and family gather round a wicker casket laced with flowers. Each guest places a gift, such as a crystal or a message written on a card, on top of the casked while saying their goodbyes.
Following the cremation, the ashes are taken to the person's favourite tree, where they are buried or scattered. Coloured ribbons are tied to the branches so that they send prayers to the angels across the winds. Finally, all guests light a white candle and drink a glass or wine to toast the passing of their loved one.
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Posted on Tue 11th Oct 2011 22:18:15