Summoning for the Feast of Ancestors by Elizabeth Barrette
Sweet incense we burn in the brazier, Sweet music we play in the temple. Offerings we lay on the altar Of memory and stone.
O Ancestors, We beseech you! Speak to us in the swirling smoke, In the swish of bells and the skirl of pipes. Murmur your wisdom in the slow drums And breathe it into the bones of the dancers. We come before you as your children Singing our praises of the ancient days. Come now to greet us as your own.
Frankincense and myrrh we burn, Sage and sandlewood perfume the air. See all your favorite foods set out In memory of you, And the music you loved in life Alive again.
Look on all of this with favor, And walk among us once more For the space of this night. Hail and welcome!
This poem was originally published in Circle Network News #73 Fall 1999.