Lately, I’ve been thinking about what makes something a ritual versus a habit or routine. Maybe each morning you drink a cup of coffee while reading the paper. Is that a ritual or a routine? …
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What Makes a Ritual?
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Rituals Build Community
Have you ever been part of a group that just didn’t seem to gel? People weren’t on the same wavelength, there were unnecessary misunderstandings and distrust? We often think of community as something that happens …
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Going Through the Motions
One well-known criticism of rituals is that it is “just going through the motions.” While that can be the case, it doesn’t have to be. A recent Patheos article considered the average Christian’s understanding of …
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Graduation Rituals – Cultural and Practical
The season of graduation is upon us. This weekend the University of Vermont will be awarding degrees. Soon local high schools will be playing pomp and circumstance as the class of 2019 receive their diplomas. …
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Ritual in the Simple
One misconception about ritual is that it has to be fancy. While ritual can be elaborate and ornate, ritual can also be plain and simple. On Christmas morning in my family, we share a breakfast …
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What is Ritual?
At its most basic, a ritual is a ceremonial act. This could refer to an elaborate wedding, a carefully planned baby blessing, an intimate memorial service, or the simple act of sitting down for your …