The first day of November is celebrated by many as All Saint’s Day, but on the Gardinian calender November 1 marks another celebration for Lelah, goddess of life and death. However, unlike Anamhaint, the eve of Soul Reaping, Kahi of Nunginn is a celebration of the Ghost of Nunginn. During this time, those within the Gardinian universe turn their attention to the newest members of their communities and give thanks to the goddess for the safe keeping of their young ones.
Ceremony:
The ceremony for Kahi of Nunginn is performed in the place of morning services and led by the Saireceane, the ceremonial leader.
Attire/Appearance:
Traditional attire for the Kahi of Nunginn requires that all attendants dress in the traditional white ceremonial pants, but wear a vibrant colored top. Hair and face should be worn as the attendants prefer and in accordance with their cultural traditions.
Ceremonial Space:
The altar space should be prepared (usually performed after every service) with the Rite of Cleansing. In the center of the altar should be a replica of the Tree of Liflasir (World Tree). Ceremony attendants should place personal items of significance on the altar. A white candle is lit for each attendant of the ceremony should be placed within the altar space.
Ritual:
The Saireceane will step forward and motion everyone into prayer pose. The leader will recite the following words:
Rejoice for Life has ceased her slumber.
Blessed is she, our holy Lady and Keeper of Souls.
She is our usher into the mortal realm
—Our Lady of the First Dawn
Pray that she will guide us in the coming year
and protect the young ones that we hold dear.
May Life bless us as she deems fit
with new life from souls reborn.
All:
Bless the young ones
who have joined us in this past year.
May the Keeper of Souls bless us anew
in the year to come.
We wish the young ones
a long life with our Lady’s blessing.
May they live well and true to the Noble Cannons
and find their Passing in their elder years.
Presentation: The presentation occurs when there are children who have been born within the last year. These are the ceremony’s “young ones”. Upon being brought before the Saireceane, they are anointed with a holy oil blessed by the goddess herself. The Saireceane will draw two linking infinity marks upon the wrists of the presented young ones. This is the symbol of Lelah’s domain over Life and Death.
The following words are said to each young one after the anointing oil is applied:
And so you are blessed by our holy Lady. May you live a long life and forever cherish her blessing.
Should there be no young ones to be presented, the presentation ceremony is changed to include all young ones born with the Keeper of Soul’s grace. The Saireceane will say the following in the event of no young ones in attendance.
As there are no young ones to present, we will honor all young ones born under our Lady’s domain. May they live long and cherish her blessing.
Prayer: The Prayer is said by all in attendance.
Lady of the First Dawn
it is in reverence of our young ones
that we gather to worship you.
Your grace has no limitations
and for that we are eternally grateful.
May we continue to receive the benefit of new Life.
All honor to you, Keeper of Souls.
Feast:
The feast is a breakfast buffet which features fruits, vegetables, sweet breads and cured meats.
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