Lange Nacht de Religionen

When I first heard of the Lange Nacht de Religionen (Long Night of Religions), I was immediately intrigued by the name. I knew that our two German congregations, Holuntar-Hain and Adrana Hain Protogroves, would be present. The international ADF community has been an important part of my focus as Archdruid of ADF, and I thought it would be excellent to show my support for our German groups by attending.

Berlin

I had never been to Berlin before, and I was a little fearful that my inability to speak German would be a hindrance. In everyday tasks, it was not an issue. My hosts were so kind as to speak in English when I was around, of which I am extremely grateful. I will do my best to at least learn some conversational German for my next visit.

Berlin is an amazing, beautiful, modern city. Thanks to the tutelage of one of my fellow members, I found the subway system to be easy, accessible, and highly efficient. While I will confess to getting lost several times, I was able to arrive at my destinations, nevertheless.

The Gathering

The gathering itself was attended by several diverse groups, providing a good cross-section of pagan paths. I attended the opening rite on Saturday morning, and while the lack of German comprehension on my part hindered me from understanding all the content, I was so happy to see the beauty and expression of ritual done by skilled practitioners.

I have found that even when I do not understand a language, the sheer beauty and tonal quality of linguistic expression weaves a subtle web of understanding. While I might not have understood what was being said, I felt the ritual and was carried along by the timbre and meter of the words.

The Druid area where the ADF protogroves and the OBOD members occupied was filled with knowledge, sharing of stories, and beautiful goods for sale. There were several times when I was alone at the ADF tables and people would come up and speak to me in German and I would say that I did not speak it, but each person in turn spoke English and I was at the same time delighted and enlightened.

People

I met so many new and kind people who were interested in Druidry, be it ADF or OBOD, and were kind enough to share their stories. There is so much to learn about people and their practices. I did attend one workshop, which was in German, but the material was enjoyable to watch, even if my comprehension was lacking.

I was interviewed, in English, and asked to say a little bit about ADF, our practices, how we fit into the theme of balance (I mentioned moderation being one of our virtues), and I was honored and delighted to be asked to speak, even briefly.

Ritual

The evening brought the closing rite which was moving and powerful. This rite was a combination ADF and OBOD rite and once again, what I lacked in linguistic understanding was more than compensated by the sheer beauty of expression and the synchronicity of those who participated. I was fortunate enough to have several parts, and I even drummed during the offerings section.

The acknowledgement of the directions and the general cohesion that existed among the separate groups was wonderful I was most moved by Niko, one of the participants, in their call to Thor. This provided me with a whole, new appreciate for the power of this God.

Another ADF member offered a dance as an offering/sacrifice/working and I must believe that the energy raised in this beautiful, flowing, and intense dance was enough to raise the multi-story building several meters off the ground. Even I was drumming, which is something I rarely do, but also something I could not resist.

The end of the ritual was the end of the gathering for that location, and it was a great conclusion to a wonderful day.

Thank you

I would be remiss to not acknowledge and thank my hosts from Holuntar-Hain and Adrana Hain. You made me feel welcome and like I belonged. I consider you my friends and I am a part of your Family of Druidry.

To those who stopped to talk, ask questions, and share stories, I appreciate the glimpse into your world. Building relationships is our practice and our joy.

To my OBOD friends, who I had not seen since Glastonbury several years before, thank you for making me welcome. It was good to see and speak with you. What a delight to share ritual with you and hear OBOD prayers in German! It was very moving.

To the organizer of the gathering, thank you. I learned so very much from you and again, your kindness and hospitality touched me deeply. Thank you for sharing your home for the afternoon and for helping me to better understand your way.

To my ADF friends, who opened your lives, your homes, and your hearts, thank you. I left Berlin with great sadness and with a greater longing to return. Should the Gods be kind, I will be there again next year. I would love to offer a workshop if it is in the stars.

To those who welcomed me to your ritual spaces, I thank you for the trust that you extended to me. These are holy and sacred places. I know that their memory will follow me always. I hope that a piece of me remains, until the next time.

And finally, to those who shared my travels with me, I say “Thank you.”

While it may have been a long night of religions, it was a long night of sharing, understanding, and blessings. I am forever grateful.