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What is a Gorsedd?

The word Gorsedd was used for these open rites to link it with the tradition of folk gathering to honour the changing of land, peoples and celebrating with like minded folk in and with nature, but they are not exclusively for Druids, put open to folk of all faiths and indeed those of none..

From The Druid Network website...

A Gorsedd is a gathering of bards, traditionally held on a sacred hill or mound (gorsedd literally means 'a high seat').

In 1792, Iolo Morganwg, perceiving the sorry state into which the Bardic Order had fallen in Britain, held an inaugural rite for the Gorsedd of Bards of the Isles of Britain on Primrose Hill in London. 201 years later, in 1993, Philip Shallcrass, founder and chief of the British Druid Order, was asked to compose a ceremony for a multi-faith gathering to be held at Avebury in Wiltshire.

Inspired by the spirits of the place and by the example of Iolo, the resulting rite led to the formation of the Gorsedd of Bards of Caer Abiri (Avebury). For many years after the autumn equinox of 1993, the Gorsedd became host to regular celebrations of the eight main festivals of modern Paganism. Within two years, the initial gathering had grown to number more than 400. The original multi-faith nature of the Gorsedd was maintained, so that each celebration saw Druids from many different Orders gather in one circle alongside Witches, Christians, Odinists, Hindus, Buddhists, non-aligned Pagans and others.

Within each gathering rites of passage such as handfasting, blessings for children and honouring the dead are held. Space is also offered for eisteddfodau in which bards can practice their skills in the arts of music, poetry and storytelling. These celebrations have given many Pagans a first opportunity to celebrate their faith in public, inspiring other Gorseddau to be formed at sacred sites around Britain and across the world.

Each Gorsedd differs, but most include within the ritual a form of bardic initiation, offered as a means by which celebrants may link themselves to the spirit of the place, acknowledge their place within the Gorsedd community and take a first step on the path of Druidry, making an initial connection with the awen, the flowing spirit of the tradition. Many thousands of people have now taken bardic initiation through the Gorsedd at Avebury and the many Gorseddau founded subsequently.

Usually attendance at the rites is free, unless there is a charge to the site. The celebrations are open to all, regardless of age, sex, creed or colour.

The Druid Network - www.druidnetwork.org

You can see a copy of the original Gorsedd Rite on The Druid Network Website and copy of the Kent Gorsedd Rite here.

FAQ's

Q) Can I wear my Robes?

A) Yes, people are free to wear the robes or whatever ritual dress they require to facilitate their journey through the rite. However, it’s not necessary to have a robe to attend or take part.

Q) Can I bring my Children?

A) Yes, well behaved children are welcome and there is space made for the blessing of children too, during the rite. Please contact us if this is something you require on the day.

Q) Can I take photographs or videos?

A) You must ask permission first and let us know that you intend to take pictures/film the rite. At the initial meeting place you will then be identified to everyone present and anyone who does not wished to be filmed or photographed will have their wishes respected.

Q) Do I have to do anything?

A) You can do as much or as little as you like. There will be opportunity to play a role in the rite or to simply be a part of the circle.

Q) Do I have to be a Druid?

A) No! This is an Open Public Ritual for people of all pagan traditions and indeed from other faiths.

Q) What offerings should I bring?

A) Biodegradable! Also consider the nature of the site and be conscious of the effect that leaving something at that place will have both physically and spiritually. Please do not make offerings of Salt (this kills everything), Bird seed (it often germinates causing exotic species of plants to escape into the wild and native species compete for space). If in doubt ask us first. Donations of Mead and Bread to share during the rite are also most welcome.

Q) What is the Eisteddfod?

A) This is an opportunity to share your creativity, your Bardic skill. Open to everyone, you can share your words through poems, song, story, dance or music; totally non judgmentally and offered as a gift to the community, the gods and indeed the ancestors - the bards of old and new time.