There has been much discussion over the last few years as to the merits of Ritual in a language other than our own. The Vatican has been espousing Latin for centuries, for example!

But what about Wiccan/Pagan Ritual? Is is right to perform the ritual in a language that we aren't comfortable with? Or should we just put up and shut up and go with the flow because it leads to an easier life?

I for one would not be happy stepping into a circle that has been cast in a language I didn't understand. Although having said that, if I were on holiday in Greece and was invited into a Greek Circle, then I wouldn't think twice - what an honour that would be!

But what about in jolly old Blighty? What language should we cast our circles in? Well, English seems to be the most obvious choice - but for those of you with a more theatrical or, dare I say 'churchy' bent - why not consider Latin? After all, Latin was around way before English was - and if it's good enough for the Vatican, well by golly, it should be good enough for the rest of us!

It is a language of Gods and Goddesses, a language of myth and romanticism - it is also a language of power - why else would the Vatican stick so dogmatically to it?

But what about other languages? Well, really it has to be up to you. If you don't feel happy with the person casting the circle, you shouldn't enter the circle whatever the language! And if you don't understand what is being said, then it is only right to be cautious.

Would I, for example. willingly take part in a ritual performed in a language I didn't understand by someone who was speaking it 'just because' - a language with no real connection to the time or place I was in, then the answer is no, I don't think I would.

Latin, though, that's a different story!

Beatus exsisto!

* For those of you who detect a 'churchy' note here and there within the musings and who don't already know, Kit trained for many years to become a Christian priest before discovering the true faith.