For many, Samhain is the time of year for hunting down the past and shedding it. This is the most apt time to speak with our ancestors. With their knowledge and the insights we possess within ourselves, we may move forward anew. If you’re looking to leave elements of the past behind, feel a connection to the departed, and move forward with wholeness, consider exploring the Three Layers of the Veil this October.

The entire experience involves ritual and meditation and lasts four hours. It takes place privately, via Zoom. While Samhain and these rituals are pagan in nature, we welcome participants of all faiths. Participants must be 18+ and all genders are welcome. Our space strives for inclusion. We are LGBTQ+ affirming and support the Black Lives Matter movement as well as other beliefs of equality. While this experience is PG-13, we are a sex-positive space. Content includes participants’ personal experiences in life; we may talk about exclusion, abuse, parenting/fertility, and more, but have emotional safety tools to considerately engage with sensitive topics and to avoid triggering topics for participants. Participants should consider personally important spiritual beliefs and clothing and avoid appropriating elements from other cultures.

Each part includes a brief break to ensure participants’ needs are met.

While participants may explore aspects of their lives during these rituals, this is not therapy and it is not conducted by a licensed therapist. Additionally, while this is intended to be a spiritual experience, it is not affiliated with any regularly meeting group or ongoing, organized religious practice. 

Samhain Experience Structure

  • First Layer of the Veil: Introduction, Safe Ritual Space, and Self-Departure – In this session, we will say goodbye to the parts of ourselves we need to leave behind and honor the end of the harvest. (1 hour)
  • Second Layer of the Veil: Ancestors Mine – Using methods of divination and meditation, we will contact our ancestors, say what we wish to them, and ask of them what we will. (1.5 hours)
  • Third Layer of the Veil: My True Self – In our circle, moving forward involves meeting and knowing our true selves through ritual and analysis. (1 hour)
  • Conclusion and Debrief – Discussion of the experience and what we have learned; sharing and support. (30 minutes)

Materials Required

  • Notebook/journal and writing or drawing tools (however you best express yourself)
  • Three objects: One symbolizing something you wish to leave behind, one representing a connection to an ancestor (or the departed in general), and one indicative of how you wish to move forward or the person you aim to become
  • Stable internet connection
  • Glass of water (to drink–we’ll be speaking frequently)
  • A consumable item/food, preferably made of wheat or grain (or gluten-free option)
  • A container, such as a small box (this will store paper and possibly some of your objects)
  • Optional: Tarot cards or other divination tools (not required)

Ritual Attire

This experience is come as you truly are. We ask you to dress as your true self. What does your true self look like to you? We expect to see everything from people in pajamas, to traditional Halloween witches, to faerie facepaint. All are welcome, none are “silly.” No nudity or cultural appropriation, please.

Sign Up for Three Layers of the Veil

Ready to sign up for the experience? Excellent. We offer two sessions:

Cost: $19 (US)

Each session is limited to seven participants to ensure we all have time to share.

While the experience is in English, participants from around the world are welcome and encouraged to participate. All sessions run by Tara M. Clapper.

Unlike many events run by The Geek Initiative Larps, this is not a live action role playing game. You will not be assuming a character. Three Layers of the Veil was inspired by Sanctuary Avalon, a live action spiritual roleplay experience for femmes. Questions? Email tgilarps@gmail.com.