Ancestor Journals
After reading a very intriguing book by Mallorie Vaudoise, “Honoring Your Ancestors: A Guide to Ancestral Veneration” I became inspired to add something to my daily routine to help me forge an even better bond with my ancestors. The author speaks of establishing a daily communion with your ancestors through prayer or ritual. After reading the book, I was meditating on my ideas of communicating with them and decided to begin an ancestor journal. What is an ancestor journal? Why is it important to communicate with your ancestors?
Why is ancestral veneration so important to us as Pagans?
Communicating with our ancestors offers many benefits for Pagans. We can learn from their successes and failures, gaining wisdom to make better choices. Additionally, ancestors can help us achieve our goals by sharing insights.
Understanding our roots reveals more about ourselves, and even ancestors we've never met can impact our lives through genetics and culture.What have you learned from your parents or grandparents which has contributed to your life now?
In her book, Mallorie highlights the importance of starting and ending each day with prayers to your ancestors. This prayer isn't about repeating religious texts; instead, it's about having a personal dialogue with your ancestors, both biological and chosen, to help improve your life. It can be as simple as saying, “Thank you, Ancestors, for my blessings. Please guide me toward a life of gratitude,” or you can make it as detailed as you wish. If you're new to this, it's best to keep your messages simple. What words would you pray to your ancestors?
How is the daily interaction with our ancestors important?
In my work with the Deeply Rooted Church Community, I often hear, “How can I feel more connected to my craft?” When I share simple 5-minute rituals, it starts to make sense. Many believe they need complex rituals to connect with magic, nature, deities, and Paganism. However, we can create strong connections and show dedication with realistic goals. This not only fosters connection but also gives us a sense of accomplishment. Small daily prayers to our ancestors are a powerful way to bond with the magical world. An ancestor journal can also help people connect, ground themselves, and grow.
How do we get started with an ancestor journal?
Selecting the right journaling method is important for you. Whether online or traditional, journaling allows us to establish a dialogue with our subconscious and imagination. In this safe space, we can write about what truly matters to us.
I recommend starting the first page of your ancestor journal as a sort of dedication. Write about your intent before directly addressing your ancestors. For example, you might say, “This ancestor journal is dedicated to my dear father, who was a source of inspiration and courage in my life. Now, I wish to forge a connection between the veils so that he and I can once again be in each other’s presence.”
You could also write a poem, a spell, or create a sigil or magical symbol that holds personal significance for you and your ancestors. How would you start your ancestor journal? What idea calls to you or do you have another idea not expressed here?
Frequency matters. Why?
Choosing a daily time to write in your journal helps connect with your ancestors. Just like taking medicine regularly, writing can create a good habit and provide benefits. Picture your ancestors reading your notes; they're not judging your writing but appreciating your effort to grow. Some days, you might not feel like writing, and that's okay—just doodle in the journal or hold it close. Remember, connecting isn't only about writing; the journal is a way to center your thoughts on your ancestors, their stories, and their insights. What are some of the topics you’d talk to your ancestors about? Why are these ideas important to you?
Sometimes, I may post a letter to my ancestors on this blog. Feel free to read it and use it as a template for your own letters to your ancestors! As you work in this journal, take note of your dreams or any synchronicities that may occur. You might be surprised at how a little effort can enhance your connection with those closely tied to you. Ancestors are our first guides in the astral and spiritual realms due to our blood or emotional connection with them. You may find that your spell work manifests more quickly or effectively, your stress levels improve, or you experience other significant victories in your life. What other ways could you make a daily effort to honor your ancestors?
