Honoring Traditions and Those Who Came Before Us: A Pagan Reflection for Samhain

By Marty Mullenax | Bull & Thorn Blog

As the last harvest fades and autumn’s chill deepens, Pagans around the world turn their hearts toward Samhain, the sacred festival that marks the end of the agricultural year. Traditionally celebrated from October 31st to November 1st, Samhain is far more than the “witches’ new year” — it is a time of honoring our ancestors, remembering our roots, and reflecting on the cycles of death and rebirth that shape all life.

In many traditions, it is said that the veil between the worlds is thinnest at Samhain. Spirits, ancestors, and guides may draw near, offering wisdom, comfort, or reminders of our path. It’s a night to light candles in remembrance, to set a place at the table for those who have passed, and to whisper gratitude for the lives that made ours possible.

Across Pagan and witchcraft traditions — from Wicca and Druidry to modern folk magick and heathen paths — the honoring of ancestors is a shared thread. Some traditions speak of the Mighty Dead, the wise witches and teachers who walk beside us still. Others honor the blood ancestors, spiritual ancestors, or cultural ancestors who have shaped our magic and worldview.

Creating an ancestor altar is a powerful act of devotion. A few simple ways to connect during Samhain include:

• Lighting a black or white candle in memory of those who’ve crossed the veil.

• Placing photographs, heirlooms, or offerings such as bread, cider, or apples.

• Speaking the names of your ancestors aloud — remembering that in doing so, they live again.

• Meditating or journeying to seek ancestral wisdom or guidance.

This season reminds us that our power and our craft are not isolated — they are the continuation of a lineage that stretches far behind us.

Modern Paganism is diverse, drawing from ancient cultures, folklore, and contemporary interpretations. Yet amid this variety, respect for the past remains a cornerstone. Whether you follow a Celtic path, a Wiccan coven, or a solitary eclectic practice, Samhain is a time to reflect on the traditions that sustain your spiritual growth.

Ask yourself:

• What rituals or stories have shaped your practice?

• Who are the elders or teachers that lit your path?

• How can you carry their wisdom forward in a way that honors their legacy while keeping your own flame alive?

To honor those who came before us is to weave their strength into our present — to become living bridges between past and future.

Samhain is not simply about mourning; it is about continuity and transformation. Just as the Earth rests before spring’s renewal, we too pause to honor the endings that give rise to beginnings.In many ways, every act of remembrance — lighting a candle, telling a story, singing an old song — is a spell of resurrection. It keeps the spirit of our traditions alive.

By honoring our ancestors and our magical heritage, we acknowledge the sacred cycle of life, death, and rebirth — the same cycle reflected in the turning of the Wheel of the Year.

As we step into the dark half of the year, may we carry the warmth of their wisdom, the courage of their lessons, and the blessings of their presence beside us.

Blessed Samhain, and may your ancestors walk with you. 🕯️

This Samhain ancestor ritual can be done alone or with a small group. It is designed to open the veil gently, invite connection, and honor the lineage that walks beside you.

You Will Need:

• 1 black candle (for death, protection, and endings)

• 1 white candle (for spirit, peace, and beginnings)

• A photograph or symbol of your ancestors

• Offerings such as apple slices, bread, cider, or autumn herbs

• A small bowl of water (for cleansing and reflection)

• Incense or sage (to purify the space)

Ritual Steps:

1. Cleanse your space. Light the incense and walk clockwise around your altar or circle, saying:“I cleanse this space of all that is heavy or unkind,Leaving only peace and sacred mind.”

2. Light your candles.Light the black candle, saying:“I honor the darkness, the time of rest, the quiet between worlds.”Then light the white candle, saying:“I welcome the light, the wisdom of those who have gone before.”

3. Call upon your ancestors.Place your photo or offering at the center of the altar. Speak aloud:“Beloved ancestors, kin of blood and spirit,I honor your lives, your struggles, your love, your strength.You are remembered. You are welcome.”

4. Offer gratitude.Sit quietly, gaze into the candles, and speak words of thanks.Listen for any impressions or feelings that come.

5. Close with release.When ready, extinguish the candles and say:“The veil closes, but our connection remains.Until we meet again, blessed be.”

6. Share your offerings.Leave them outside under the moon or at the base of a tree as a gift to nature and spirit.

This ritual honors the eternal cycle — reminding us that what dies is never truly lost, and that love endures beyond the veil.