It is good to visit a Grove or Temple to make prayer and offerings and it is preferred to congregate than to pray alone. The Celts prayed and worshiped primarily outdoors but were not opposed to temple structures and buildings. In our modern times we may incorporate indoor temples in addition to a grove, the two will typically be placed next to each other. Nothing is inherently wrong about indoor worship, the quiet and peaceful monasteries of old give some people a cozy nostalgic feeling, it is certainly necessary in the icy winters. Despite the emphasis of outdoor worship in ancient Gaul it is logical and likely that Celts in their round homes and city centers worshiped indoors often, singing songs and giving thanks to the Gods in bardic songs.
At the temple unlike the home the Druid will officiate and make offerings to the Gods, offering the five elements of prayer. The Druid after offering the elements to the Gods, will then bless the congregation with the offerings of fire and incense waving them before the people, later food that is offered is also partaken of. The devotees sing liturgy and various incantations towards the Gods, paying their respects to the Gods who nurture us daily.
Temple conduct
- Shoes are left outside
- Phones are silenced or off
- Respectful conversation
- No silly behavior
- No lewd clothing
Dress
Devotees who come to the temple do not have to be dressed in their “Sunday best” but they may arrive in clean, comfortable clothing for meditation and prayer. Unlike modern times the ancient Celts typically sat on the floor so there isn’t “seating”. In the back of the temples, there will be seats for the elderly who cannot sit so low. The flooring is carpeted and is comfortable for devotees. Generally men and women sit on different sides of the temple so as to not be distracted.
Temple times
Temples will be open throughout the day and closed in the night after the 3rd prayer of the day unless the community is busy enough for the temples to remain open 24/7. Generally Temples will include a decent library for studying ancient texts alone or with a friend, and small kitchen for warm drinks and snacks. We encourage devotees to feel at home in a temple and to make it a place of study for the enlightenment and edification of the individual.