The Witch's and Druids Den

Losing an animal companion is never easy. The bond we share with them is deep, and their absence leaves a great void in our lives. This rite is a way to honor the life of our beloved animal companions, acknowledging their place within the natural world and their transition back into the earth. It draws on connecting with the elements—earth, air, fire, and water—and the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. It allows us to mourn our loss while also celebrating the connection we shared with our animal friend. Through this rite, we guide their spirit to rest in harmony with the earth, while also seeking closure and peace for ourselves.

This rite is also flexible—it provides a foundation that can be easily adapted or expanded according to personal needs or traditions. Each individual or family can add their own words, memories, or rituals to make the ceremony meaningful and fitting for their bond with the animal. You may wish to incorporate the burning of herbs or the giving of offerings at any point in the rite. These actions can help connect the spirit of your animal to the earth, the elements, and the ancestors, and offer a tangible way to express love and gratitude.

There is beauty in the return to the earth and the eternal flow of life.

Opening

The rite begins by invoking the elements and the spirits of the earth, wind, water, and fire. These forces are the ancient powers that shape the world and guide all living things through their journey of life and death. By calling upon them, we ask for their presence and protection as we guide our animal companion on their final transition.

“Spirits of the earth, the wind, the water, and the fire, I call upon you to witness and guide this transition. Ancient ones, guardians of the soul’s journey, we ask for your presence and your blessing in this sacred rite.”

Remembering

This moment is dedicated to honoring the life of the animal, reflecting on the joy, companionship, and wisdom they brought into our lives. It allows us to speak their name, recall fond memories, and acknowledge the sorrow of their passing, while also expressing gratitude for the time we were able to share with them.

“We gather to honor the life of [Animal’s Name], who brought [love, joy, companionship, wisdom] into our lives. We remember the moments of play, the quiet times of rest, the loyalty, and the unconditional love. In their passing, we feel sorrow, but also gratitude for the time we were given.”

Into the Earth

In this part of the rite, we symbolically or literally return the animal to the earth. This step represents the cycle of life—what comes from the earth must return to it. As we release the body, we acknowledge that their spirit will now run free in the Otherworld, where they can rest and become one with the cycles of nature.

“As [Animal’s Name] returns to the earth, we offer our love and our thanks. May their spirit run free in the fields of the Otherworld, finding peace, joy, and rest. May they become one with the cycles of nature, as the earth, water, air, and fire transform all life.”

The words that follow express the essence of this moment, honoring the animal’s connection to the earth and their inevitable return to it.

“From the earth they came, to the earth they return. May they find rest in the embrace of the mother.”

Silence

At this point, silence is observed, offering a time of quiet reflection. This is a moment to connect with your emotions, the spirit of the animal, and the elements around you. Silence provides space for personal contemplation and closure.

Closing

The closing of the rite thanks the spirits and elements for their guidance. It also acknowledges the natural cycle of life, expressed through the concepts of Samos (light) and Giamos (darkness), which together represent the balance and flow of the seasons, life, and death. The closing words bring a sense of peace and continuity, reminding us that even in death, there is renewal and transformation.

“Spirits of the earth, wind, water, and fire, we thank you for your presence. Guardians and ancestors, we thank you for guiding [Animal’s Name] on their journey. May their spirit find peace in the cycles of nature, and may we remember them always with love.”

“As day turns to night and light turns to dark, so too does life return to the shadow and beyond. We honor the flow of Samos and Giamos, and the eternal return of the soul.”