MARCH 16, 2018 BY CYNDI BRANNEN

The edge of Spring may seem like a rather peculiar time to write a prayer to Hekate for the dead, but death calls according to her own schedule. She’s made quite a few visits to people I know – no one that I was very close to – in the past few weeks. While I am saddened by the loss of these genuinely good people, what these deaths have triggered in me is the remembrance of my beloved that have departed this life. I pray for the souls of the departed, and those left to grieve.

As we stand on the threshold between Winter and Spring, it is here that death once again reminds us of Her power. While Winter is the season of death, Spring begs us to remember that all that is dead shall be born anew when the time is right. The time of death yields to the season of rebirth.

This is the time when Hekate led Persephone up from the depths of the Under World reuniting her with Demeter, her beloved mother. All that was lost was found.  There is comfort to be found in Persephone’s story. For although there may be hellish times in our lives – of personal suffering, loss and mourning – just as sure as the Spring returns, so will the light in our lives.

Death is a peculiar thing, for while our departed loved ones are no longer physically present in this life, their memory and energy remains. My dad and beloved great-aunt come to me in my dreams. When I am working in the yard, I feel my father’s watchful eye. And the spirits of the dead roam the streets of my little village. Death in it’s practical sense is always nearby as well, for there are three cemeteries within short walking distance of my home. This all reminds me that death is but another phase of life, though it is one that can cause us so much pain.

We can pray to Hekate as Mistress of the Dead for the protection of our loved ones as they journey forward, and for own our relief from suffering.

Prayer to Hekate for the Dead

Hail Hekate, Mighty Eternal Queen,
Divine Mediator,
She who walks between the worlds,  
Torch-bearer who shines Her light
Upon our path.
Hear me now,
Mistress of Death,
Welcome this departed soul.

I call upon You,
Great Light,
Embrace this soul as they pass through
The gates of death.
Guide my beloved safely
To the other side, 
Offer them comfort,
As they cross the threshold
From this life to the next.

Be with us now in our time of grief.
May we know the peace of eternity.
Let the light of their memory burn bright,
Give us the faith to know that all
That dies shall be reborn.

Hail Hekate, Mighty Eternal Queen,
Divine Mediator,
She who walks between the worlds,
Torch-bearer who shines Her light
Upon our path.
Hear me now,
Mistress of Death,
Welcome this departed soul.

Read more at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/keepingherkeys/2018/03/prayer-hekate-d...