The Vibe: Connecting with the Beloved Dead

I call it a Silent Supper, but this ritual was known as a ‘Dumb Supper.’ The term ‘Dumb’ is an antiquated word used to describe people who could not speak. It implied they were stupid, but we know that intelligence is not measured in how much one speaks. So, let us call this tradition a SILENT Supper.

The intention of this ritual is to connect with the Beloved Dead. By turning off our voices, we leave room for the dead to be remembered and felt.

The Silent Supper Ritual

Welcome the wisdom and gifts of the dead

*A note of caution - do not invite ancestors you would not want in your home. Toxic people and their harmful ways are not welcome during this ritual.

Ritual from the Samhain Workbook by Magical Homemaking.png

You will need:

a feast of favorite foods
beautiful table setting
family heirlooms
black attire
one extra place setting

The Ritual

1. SET A DATE WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS

2. COOK GOOD FOOD

Prepare family-favorite dishes, especially ones your favorite ancestors enjoyed. As you cook, tell stories of your Beloved Dead. Hold them in your mind and give thanks as you cook.

3. SET A BEAUTIFUL TABLE +1

Use your best linens, especially if they were passed down by the Beloved Dead. Set out an extra place setting and chair that will remain empty during the meal. This is the symbolic place for the Beloved Dead.

4. GET DRESSED UP

Put your best clothes on, especially black ones. Imagine it is the biggest celebration of the season. Wear big hats and fancy shoes. Adorn yourself with family heirlooms such as earrings, brooches, cufflinks, etc...

5. OPEN SACRED SPACE

Ground and center. Call in the directions, giving thanks to the gifts of the North, East, South, and West. Welcome deities, angels, and ascended masters to bless the space.

6. WELCOME THE BELOVED DEAD
Go around the table, giving each person time to share the names of their Beloved Dead. Welcome each one into your home. Give thanks for their gifts, life, and legacy. Invite any ancestors that come in love to join your meal.

7. TAKE A VOW OF SILENCE
Formally announce the time of quiet. This is a time for listening to the sounds of the environment, your inner wisdom, and the subtle messages of the Otherworld. Make space for the Beloved Dead to be remembered and felt.

8. EAT MINDFULLY
Pay attention to the flavors and how the food makes you feel. What stories and emotions arise? Treat this time as a meditation on the abundance in your life. Give thanks for all that your ancestors have passed down.

9. GIVE THANKS
When folks are done eating, formally end the time of silence. Give thanks to all the ancestors who came to visit. Let them know they can "stay if you wish, or go if you must." Ask for their blessing. Close the sacred space.

10. CONVERSATION & SHARING
Leave time for people to talk about their experience. Enjoy one last drink and treat as you ground and anchor any residual energy.