Order of service for Cathairachd
Drawn from the order of service for the Ancient Order of Druids:
ArdDraoi, Soerdraoi, DoerDraoi, Secretary, and Guardian (Chief Champion) assume official collars, The DoerDraoi having previously assertained that no person is present who is not fully an initiated member of the order.
ArdDraoi: DoerDraoi, cuiridh tu an t-sruthadh agus leantainn ris na dleastanasan do oifis.
("DoerDraoi, You will secure the entrance and proceed with the duties of your office.")
The DoerDraoi having secured the entrance, advances to the center of the Nemeton
DoerDraoi: A charaidean Draoithe, bidh mi a' cur an t-òran dhuibh seasamh agus cuideachadh an ArdDraoi gus an Cathairach seo fhosgladh.
("Fellow Draoithe, I will thank you to be upstanding and assist the ArdDraoi to open this Cathairach.")
The ArdDraoi shakes their Golden branch, this is repeated by the SoerDraoi shaking their silver branch, followed by the DoerDraoi shaking their copper branch.
DoerDraoi: A charaidean Draoithe, gabhaidh sibh fàilte agus cur an àite na rèile.
("Fellow Draoithe, please assume regalia.")
ArdDraoi: SoerDraoi, dè an obair chiad-ghnìomhaidh a tha aig ArdDraoi?
("SoerDraoi, what is the first care of an ArdDraoi?")
SoerDraoi: Urramach ArdDraoi, is e an obair chiad-ghnìomhaidh agad na slighe dìomhair a chumail sàbhailte, na h-oifigearan riatanach aig an na h-àiteachan aca, agus nach eil ach an fheadhainn air an cuir air dòigh ann an tuilleadh air an làthair.
("Noble ArdDraoi, your first care is to see the secret avenues secure, the necessary officers at their respective posts, and none but the duly initiated are present.")
ArdDraoi: DoerDraoi, tha do chomhairle agam gus na cothroman gu dearbh a chur an gnìomh.
("DoerDraoi, you have my command to place the guardian on duty.")
The Guardian who is standing opposite the secretary's seat, is then conducted to the entrance by the DoerDraoi, who gives them passwords in a whisper, and their wand or symbol of office. Here they must remain until the Nemeton is closed.
DoerDraoi: Urramach ArdDraoi, chaidh na h-instructaidhean agad a dhèanamh.
("Noble ArdDraoi, your instructions have been obeyed.")
ArdDraoi: Urramach Guardian, an eil na slighe dìomhair sàbhailte? An geall thu do bhròn?
("Noble Guardian, are the secret avenues secure? Do you pledge your bond?")
Guardian: Tha iad sàbhailte, Urramach ArdDraoi, agus geallaim mo bhròn airson seo.
("They are secure, Noble ArdDraoi, to this I pledge my bond.")
Guardian holds wand horizontally-level with their breast - at opening and closing of Nemeton when addressing the ArdDraoi.
ArdDraoi: DoerDraoi, an eil thu air do shàbhailteachd gu bheil an luchd-làimhe ann gu làidir gu dìreach air an seirbheis òir-gheal?
("DoerDraoi, are you satisfied that all present are duly initiated members of the order?")
DoerDraoi: Tha mi air mo chinnteach, Urramach ArdDraoi.
("I am entirely satisfied, Noble ArdDraoi.")
ArdDraoi: Ach, bidh mi a’ cur ort toirt air na druidich a' chiad ghlanachaidh ri pròiseas fàilteachaidh an t-suaicheantas.
("Nevertheless, I will thank you to prove yourselves Druids.")
All assembled: Mar a bhios leat, Urramach ArdDraoi, cho ceart is a bhios seo.
("As you will, Noble ArdDraoi, so mote it be.")
ArdDraoi: Cò ris a bhios Dia?
("What is God?")
All: Chan urrainn seo a bhith mar eile.
("What Cannot be otherwise.")
ArdDraoi: Carson nach urrainn seo a bhith mar eile?
("Why can it not be otherwise?")
All: Nam b’ urrainn seo a bhith mar eile, cha bhiodh fiosrachadh sam bith againn a dh’fhaodadh an t-sìonadh air giùlain, na chaochladh fhèin le cruthachadh, no sinn fhèin mar chreideamh.
("Could it be otherwise, we should have no knowledge of any animation, being, existence, or futurity in relation to anything now known to us.")
ArdDraoi: Cò ris a bhios Dia?
("What is God?")
All: Dia is beatha iomlan is foirfe, agus sgrios iomlan air a h-uile dad neo-bheò is bàsach; chan urrainn do sheòrsa sam bith de bhàs co-obrachadh leis, oir tha Dia na bheatha làn, neo-bhriseadh, agus gun chrìoch.
(God is Complete and perfect life, and the total annihilation of everything inanimate and dead, nor can any species of mortality concur with it, for God is life, full, entire, imperishable, and without end)
ArdDraoi, SoerDraoi, and DoerDraoi shake their respective branches.
All: I.A.O.
The DoerDraoi holds the hilt of the great sword (cleidheamh mor) over the ArdDraoi's head, the SoerDraoi takes the hilt.
ArdDraoi:
Am Firinne in agaidh am t-saoghal The truth against the world
A bheil sidhe? is there peace?
All:
Siochana! There is peace!
ArdDraoi:
Sheinn ard ud eile sheinn A song above all other songs
a bheil sidhe? is there peace?
All:
Siochana ! There is peace!
ArdDraoi:
Macalla ard ud eile macalla An echo above all other echoes
a bheil sidhe? is there peace?
All:
Siochana! There is peace!
All 3 Ministers:
Sidh gu naoimh Peace to the heavens
Naoimhe gu domham Heaven to earth/ sanctity to the earth
Domham fo naoimh Earth beneath heaven
ArdDraoi, SoerDraoi, and DoerDraoi shake their respective branches
ArdDraoi: *SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, agus Draoithe uile, a' dearbhadh gu bheil na slighean dhiadhaidh tèarainte, na h-oifigearan riatanach aig na puist aca, agus nach eil ach na daoine a chaidh a-steach gu h-iomlan an làthair, mar ArdDraoi an (ainm cuir a-steach) Nemeton Àireamh... ann an aonachd leis an Lodg Impireil mhòr, Tha mi gu ceart agus gu laghail ag fhosgladh seo airson an t-adhbhar a tha an toiseach, gu h-àraidh, Soirbheachadh, Aonaidh, Bràithreachas, a' cur an cèill, agus gnìomhan sam bith a dh'fhaodas a bhith air an tighinn air adhart ron ArdDraoi a tha a' stiùireadh, a tha freagairteach don Nemeton seo, no don òrdugh gu h-iomlan. Le na cumhachdan a tha air an cur nam làimh, tha mi a-nis a’ toirt foillseachadh seo air a' Nemeton fhosgladh agus uile nan laghan ann an feidhm. *
("SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, and assembled Druids, having ascertained that the secret avenues are secure, the necessary officers at their respective posts, and none but the duly initiated present, I as the ArdDraoi of this (insert name) Nemeton No (ie: number)... in union with the Imperial Grand Lodge, duly and legally open for the purpose of its first institution, namely, Benevolence, Harmony, Fraternity, proclamation, and any business which may be brought before me or the ArdDraoi presiding, beneficial to this Nemeton, or the order in general. By the powers vested in me, I now declare this Nemeton open and all laws in force.")
The three ministers shake their respective branches.
All: IAO
DoerDraoi: A charaidean Draoithe, bidh mi a’toirt taing dhuibh uile airson fuireach nan seasamh agus do chuideachadh le bhith ag seinnt na h-òrain fosglaidh.
("Fellow Druids, I will thank you all to remain standing and assist in singing the opening hymns.")
O Chanada [oh KHanada]
Duthaich nan gaisgeach coir, [doo-eeCH nan gash-gyaKH core]
Crun air do cheann [croon air do CHyaun]
De dhuilleag dhearg is oir. [jeh GHool-yuk yarrak iss or]
Bho chuan go cuan le oran binn, [vo KHoo-an gu koo-an lay oarran been]
Do chliu ni sinn a luaidh, [do KHlyoo nee sheen a loo-ay]
Fo dhion so sgeith tha saorsa grinn, [fo yee-an do skay ha sursa green]
Nach spion an namhaid uainn. [naKH spee-an an navij oo-ain]
O Chanada, durachd ar cridh' [oh KHanada, doo-raKHk ar kree]
Sonas le sith is maitheas Dhe d'ar tir. [sonas lay shee iss my-us yay dar cheer]
Sonas le sith is maitheas Dhe d'ar tir.
Translation:
O Canada
Land of the worthy heroes
A crown on your head of red and gold leaves
From sea to sea, with a sweet song
We praise your name a luaidh [term of endearment, like "dear"]
Under the shelter of your shield there is sweet freedom
That no enemy can seize from us
O Canada, the devotion of our hearts
Happiness with peace and the bounty of God to our land
Happiness with peace and the bounty of God to our land
God save the queen/king:
Dhia glèidh ar Ban/Ard-righ mhòr,
Beatha bhuan da'r Ban/Ard-righ choir,
Dhia glèidh 'Bhan/Ard-righ.
Thoir buaidh dhi, 'us solas,
Son' agus ro ghlòrmhoir,
Fada chum riaghladh oirnn';
Dhia glèidh 'Bhan/Ard-righ;
A Thighearn ar Dia èirich,
Sgap a naimhdean eitich,
'Us leag iad sìos.
Cuir clì an droch riaghladh,
Tilg sìos an lùib dhiabhlaidh,
Ar dòchas oirre leag—
Dhia glèidh 'Bhanrigh:
Do thìodhlaig mhaith thoir dhi,
Dòirt oirre pailt gun dith,
Fad' riaghladh i;
Ar reachdan dìonadh i,
Toirt dhuinn aobhar, gun sgìos,
'Bhi seinn le 'r guth 's ar c
ridh'
Dhia glèidh 'Bhanrigh!
God save our gracious Queen/King,
Long live our noble Queen/King,
God save The Queen/King:
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save The Queen/King.
O Lord our God arise,
Scatter her enemies,
And make them fall:
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish tricks,
On Thee our hopes we fix:
God save us all.
Thy choicest gifts in store,
On her be pleased to pour;
Long may she reign:
May she defend our laws,
And ever give us cause
To sing with heart and voice
God save The Queen!
Arddraoi:
Ailiu ath Chanada I request the land of Canada (to come forth)
Earmach muir mothach coursed is the wild sea
mothach sliabh screatach wild the crying mountains
Screatach coill citheach crying the generous woods
citheach ab eascach generous in showers(rain/waterfalls)
Eascach lochlinnmhar showers lakes and vast pools
Linnmhar tor tiopra vast pools host of well-springs
tiopra tuath oenach well-springs of tribes in assembly
oemach Rig Ottauaich assembly of Kings of Ottawa
Ottauaich tor tuathach Ottawa host of tribes
tuathaich Mac Mhileadh tribes of the sons of Mil
Mileadh long libarn Mill of boats and ships
libearn do nEirinn ships from Ireland
Eireann ard diglas Ireland high terribly blue
dichetal ro gaeth an incantation on the same wind
ro gaeth ban Bhreise (which was the) wind empty of Bres
Breise ban buaigne Bres of an empty cup
Be adhbhul Chanada Be mighty Canada
Erimon ar dtus Ermon at the beginning
Ir, Eber aileas Ir, Eber, requested
ailiu iath Canada! (Now it is) I (who) request the land of Canada
All assembled: I.A.O
SoerDraoi:
Gebaid Foss fionnghrinne It is established steadfast bright and accurate
Duine domhain People of the world
Toice bad cach toirel it has come that all has been made manifest
Ar mblathaibh to our flowering ones
Mhorad an bhearadh Made great are those (who were) reduced
Ar m'easaibh By my judgment/esteem
M'arcainibh Darach (by) my singing chants of Oaks
Oigridhiu to (those of) youthful feats of riding
I gcribchidhiu in quick (soon over) weeping
Cealtar bron! Vanish sorrow!
Beartar failte daoine fuim . Joy/Welcome is bound on the people below me.
Techet grian gleasaibh The sun gives home to (these) arrangements
Saorchaomaibh. To those cherished ones who are free
Sintar fir fleitighibh. Go forth O men to the banquet halls
Ailtiu I establish the framework of this house
Astath (this) binding estanlishment
Fo chomh-fhearga cridiu. Concerning (our) mutual angers in (the) heart.
Cealait Fomoire farraige fionn.v Cas ro-seat! The Formors of the bright sea do vanish
Beatha Chanada! Life to Canada
&Eacht;acht a guidi eachtrann Destruction of foreign petitions/ chants
Agus suthaine daoinaibh and long-life to the people
Fionnchluiche forbarseadh bright games-playing be prosperous
O indiu go brach from today forever
Biodh sidh ar Fomoire agus Chanada be there peace between Fomor and Canada
Bards prayer... (See the Iobairt mor)
DoerDraoi: A charaidean Draoithe, cuiribh sios.
("Fellow Druids, please be seated.")
ArdDraoi: SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, agus Draoithe uile, tha mi a’ lorg do aire air an rùnaire againn, a bhios a’ leughadh no a’ còmhradh nan mionaidibh bhon Cathairach roimhe.
("SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, and assembled Druids, I claim your attention to our secretary, who will now read/recite the minutes of the previous Cathairach.")
The Secretary reads/recites the minutes.
ArdDraoi: SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, an eil cothrom sam bith no gnìomhan a dh'fhaodas a bhith air an rathad?
("SoerDraoi, DoerDraoi, are there any comments or past order of business due?")
Pause.
All of you who were present at the previous Cathairach and consider the minutes as presented by our secretary to be a correct record will signify the same in the manner observed amongst Draoithe.
Show of hands.
ArdDraoi: Air an taobh eile?
("On the contrary?")
If the minutes are carried:
ArdDraoi: Tapadh leibh a Rùnaire / a Bhan-Rùnaire, tha mi a’ toirt dhuibh na mionaidibh mar an rathad gu deas.
("I Thank you Lord/Lady secretary, I declare the minutes as read duly confirmed.")
ArdDraoi: A Rùnaire / a Bhan-Rùnaire, an eil gnìomhan sam bith bhon mionaidibh?
("Lord/Lady Secretary, is there any business from the minutes?")
Such business, if any, is now undertaken.
General Business
Any Anruth should take this opportunity to register if not already done. Bard plays a short overture.
ArdDraoi: A Rùnaire / a Bhan-Rùnaire, gheibh sinn a-nis am post-d agus gnìomhan eile.
("Lord/Lady Secretary, we will now take correspondence and other business.")
Inter-grove/Nemeton communications, other correspondence, and general business should now be disposed of...
ArdDraoi: An eil buill a’ phobail a tha air beachdachadh a thoirt air ball de dhreuchd, no rud sam bith a dhèanamh le bhith air adhartas a dhèanamh leis an òrdugh no le Bardism?
("Has any member an associate to propose, or anything to advance for the benefit of the order, or Bardism?")
Proposals and suggestions---if any.
ArdDraoi: An eil companach ann a tha airson Ollamh a thoirt air adhart le molaidhean do chreideamh Draoithe?
("Is there a companion who wishes to propose an Ollamh for recommendation to the degree of Draoithe?")
Recommendations are given.---if any.
ArdDraoi: An eil buill de Olamhach a tha airson Bard a thoirt air adhart le molaidhean do na h-òrdughan aca?
("Is there a member of the Olamhach who wishes to propose a Bard for recommendation to their order?")
Recommendations are given.---if any.
ArdDraoi: Tha mi a-nis a’ toirt seachad na gnìomhan seo dùinte airson an oidhche seo.
("I now declare the business closed for this evening.")
Initiations and other approved ceremonies held on appointed occasions must be performed and concluded before the second care.
Official toast
Ioslainct: The Quaich Tradition — The Official Toast
When the Quaich is used in toast, the toaster and toastee each take a handle, facing one another — a gesture of unity and mutual trust. The toaster offers the blessing, then drinks first to show that no harm lies within the cup. The toastee drinks in kind, accepting the bond and oath thus shared between them. The Quaich is then passed to the next, repeating the pattern down the ranks — always moving Deosil (sunwise), except at funerals, where the toast to the dead is taken Tuathbhiul (the way of the people).
This rite, sacred and binding, affirms fellowship before great undertakings — a hunt, a battle, or the work of the Nemeton — and serves as an oath of unity among all present. It is, as ever, another good reason to keep a flask of Uisge Bheatha close at hand.
These first toasts to be taken in immediate succession.
The Doer-Draoi faces each minister in turn.
Doer-Draoi: Mosgail o Tuatha ma se do thoil sibh gus an toir sinn tòiseachadh leis na toastaichean oifigeil.
("Praise o Tuatha, please honor the first official toasts.")
ArdDraoi: Dhe Draoithe mo dhe tar gach nDhe.
("To the Draoithe of our ancestors and beyond.")
SD (SoerDraoi): Na Tuatha Dé Danann, an t-òrdugh diadhaidh a tha sinn a’ nochdadh tro na linntean. Do na seanchaidhean againn a dh’fhaodadh na lasraichean traidiseanta a ghleidheadh tro ùine airson sinn a thoirt air adhart anns an àm seo.
("The Tuatha de Danann, whose divine order we reflect through the ages. To our ancestors who bore the flame of tradition through time to relay it to us that we might bear it forth in our time.")
DD (DoerDraoi): Mo Daoine, bidh an toas seo air a dhèanamh ann an sìth le S.o.t.S (sìth na h-anama?).
("My People, the next toast will be observed in silence with the Silence of the Soul.")
Secretary: Do chuimhne na seann ArdDraoithe (ainm air a thoirt a-steach) agus na fheadhainn a chaidh roimhe (an òrdugh bho Toland, stèidheadair an òrdugh ath-nuadhachaidh).
("To the memory of the Past ArdDraoithe (Here named) and those who went before him/her (in order from Toland, founder of the revived order).")
ArdDraoi: Am firinne?
("the truth?")
SD: An aghaidh.
("Against.")
DD: Am tsaoil.
("the world.")
All assembled: B'I Siodhchana.
("There is Peace.")
3Draoi: IAO
ArdDraoi: Tha an Cathairach seo a-nis ann an seisean.
("This Cathairach is now in session.")
DD: Faodaidh sibh a bhith suidhichte.
("You may be seated.")
Suidheachadh (A Gaelic Seder):
The rite is held within the Nemeton or at the family table, the space purified and blessed.
The altar or hearth is adorned with signs of renewal — bread, honey, flame, and stone — offerings of gratitude to the gods and ancestors.
All gathered share in the sacred feast of hospitality, as once did the Dagda when he welcomed even his foes with plenty and peace.
Na Tiodhlacan Naomha — The Sacred Foods
Each gift upon the table recalls the blessings of the Tuatha Dé Danann and the labour of Earth:
-
Arán Gràin — the bread of harvest, symbol of sustenance and shared toil.
-
Mil & Meidh — honey and mead, sweetness of divine joy and union.
-
Bíobhrán na Talmhainn — the root stew, strength drawn from the depths of the earth.
-
Bradan Naomh — the sacred salmon, wisdom of the waters and the Otherworld.
-
Gràinneog — porridge of grain, nourishment of exile and homecoming.
-
Meas & Spìosraidh — fruits and spices blended sweet, healing born of hardship.
-
Ugh na Beatha Ùir — the egg of rebirth, promise of renewal.
-
Uisge Salainn — salt water, tears of grief and cleansing of soul.
-
Glasraich an Earraich — greens of spring, sign of hope and return of life.
Thus is the feast set in sacred order, the gifts received in gratitude.
In this sharing, the people renew their covenant with the land, the gods, and one another.
As the Dagda’s cauldron never empties, so may our hearts be full — in giving, in peace, and in renewal.
Opening Prayer
The leader offers a prayer blending Gaelic and Hebrew traditions:
"Beannaichte thu, A Thighearna, ar Dia, Rí an t-Samhraidh... Thar chloinn na gcroíthe, thar gach rud a thàinig..."
"Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu, Melech haolam... Thar cheann na gcroíthe, thar an domhan seo..."
("Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, King of the Universe... Over the hearts of all beings, over all that exists...")
· Feast of Offerings
The ArdDraoi and other officiating Druids place the sacred foods on the altar in an orderly fashion, each food presented with its accompanying blessing:
“Mar a thairg sinn an arán seo, bidh e na shiombal den fhàs agus na h-aonachd againn.”
(“As we offer this bread, may it be a symbol of our shared harvest and unity.”)
“Le seo an t-honach agus an mead, bidh sinn a’ gairm sweetas an t-eòlas diadhaidh agus aoibhinn.”
(“With this honey and mead, we invoke the sweetness of divine wisdom and joy.”)
“Anns an stobhadh seo, tha sinn air cuimhneachadh air neart na talmhainn, agus air lasair nan seanairean ann ar cridheachan.”
(“In this stew, we are reminded of the strength of the land, and the fire of our ancestors within our hearts.”)
“Anns an iasgaich seo, cliù sinn eòlas na h-uisge agus an ceangal sìorraidh eadar an saoghal seo agus an Saoghal Eile.”
(“In the fish, we honor the wisdom of the waters and the eternal connection between this world and the Otherworld.”)
“Le seo an fhrùth, gealladh sinn sinn fhèin, mar a tha sinn air a bhith gealladh leis an talamh.”
(“May this porridge sustain us, as we are sustained by the earth.”)
“Tro mheasg na clach seo, gabhaidh sinn aithneachadh air an t-sròn aoibhinn, agus air sweetas an t-sgòr an-fhuasgladh againn.”
(“Through this mixture of the stones, we acknowledge the bitterness of our struggles, and the sweetness of our deliverance.”)
“Le seo an ubhal seo, bidh e gu dearbh a’ còdadh gu bhith a’ toradh agus an ath-bheothachadh na talmhainn, mar a tha sinn a’ faighinn ar fhèin ann an seacharan saoghal.”
(“May this egg symbolize rebirth and the renewal of the land, as we move forward in the sacred cycle.”)
“Tro an t-salann uisge, bha sinn a’ iona ann ar n-albha agus briac d 'aeindh bhriosadh feadh an aircheadan sìor."
(“Through the salt water, we purify ourselves and cleanse our hearts of all sorrow.”)
“Tha na duilleagan seo a’ riochdachadh na tighinn bhon earrach, an t-ath-cheangail síor nan dòchas."
(“These greens represent the spring of life, the eternal return of hope.”)
· Sacred Toasting & Blessings
The ArdDraoi raises a ceremonial toast to the ancestors, the gods, and the Tuatha Dé Danann, asking for their guidance and blessings upon the gathering. The guests respond with the sacred phrase, "I.A.O" acknowledging the unity of the divine and earthly realms.
· The First Toast
"Do chuimhne na daoine a dh'fhàg, an fheadhainn aig an robh gnìomhan a chruthachadh an t-saoghail againn. Gu bheil iad a’ foisachadh ann an sìth, agus gu cuiridh sinn an eòlas aca air adhart."
“To the memory of those who have passed, those whose deeds shaped our world. May they rest in peace, and may we carry their wisdom forward.”
Bu toil leinn gu bheil e math leinn agus le ar daoine."
May it be well for us and out people
Slainte Mhor (tap the table with your glass to toast those who cannot be at the board before drinking)
Second Toast
"Do dh’Talamh agus do’n Dagda mór, a chumadh neart a tha sinn beò air, agus a chumadh cumhachd a gheàrras a-mach na Fomóire, a dh’fheuch ri dùbhlanachadh an neart sin mar a chasaicheas an solas an sgàil dheireannach na dorchadaidh."
“To the Earth and the great Dagda, whose strength sustains us, and whose power drives out the Fomóire, who sought to challenge that strength as light chases the last shadow of darkness”
Third Toast
"Do chruinn-eòlas na beatha, na bàis, agus na ath-bheothaich, mar a ghabhas sinn pàirt anns an t-soithichean diadhaidh, agus a thèid sinn fhèin a thabhann do fhiosrachadh nan diofantaich."
“To the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, as we partake of the divine potage, and offer ourselves to the wisdom of the gods.”
Now the table is set, the toasting may begin:
The Cathairach may now proceed to ceremonies, lectures, and performances.
If an Ol-Feis (drinking feast) is to be performed in association with any other ceremony other than initiation, the Ol-Feis proceeds. With an initiation, the Ol-Feis follows as both a lesson and an additional toast.
(Working if any)
Feis n'an Ol/ Drinking feast
1) Tha Coisrigidh (buidhcheas) – The dedication: "We are gathered here to..."
2) am a Choisrigidh- The Consecration: Siodhchana sobriste, 'Am Firinne in aghaidh am tsaol'
3) Urnaigh – Prayer: Tog orainn Diathan...Mise a dhol orra slighesa Diathan
4) Loisgte – Offering: Libation to the Gods, to the Heros, to the Ladies (Clanns)
5) Tha Cur – The sending: Cone, dance, chant
6)Beannaichte – The blessing: Baistidh benediction
7) Tha roghnaicheas – The choosing: Ogham/Rune/Oracle
8) Tha an luchd- - The consuming: Toasts/ meal
9) Gu Crich – the ending: "Mise adhol amach orra slighesa Diathan...”
“B’I osgail na cruinne…..”
AD: Soer-Draoi, dè an Dàrna Cúram a th’ aig an ArdDraoi?
("Soer-Draoi, what is the Second Care of the ArdDraoi?")
SD: Tha do Dàrna Cúram gu bhith ag toirt taing far a bheil taing deònach.
("Your second care is to give thanks where thanks is due.")
DD: Leigibh dhuibh èirigh fhad 's a thig an ArdDraoi ri dhèanamh a’ Dàrna Cúram aige/i.
("Please rise while the ArdDraoi takes his/her second care.")
SD: Clàraiche, leigibh leam an clàr de bhith làthair a leughadh.
("Registrar, please read the record of attendance.")
The Registrar reads the record of attendance.
SD: An eil duine sam bith nach do chuala an t-ainm aca air a ghairm gu ceart, no nach do dh’fhaodadh a bhith air clàradh? (Ùine air a thoirt airson clàradh ma tha feum air.)
("Is there any who has not heard their name correctly called, or who has not attended the registrar?")
AD: Taing dhuinn do na déithe agus na banduinn a nochd am measg ar measg.
We give thanks to the gods and goddesses who have made their presence known among us.
Agus do na daoine uasal uile a thàinig gus tighinn naomh a chumail.
And to all noble souls who have come to bear witness to this sacred gathering.
Taing do na daoine a tha gar beathachadh agus gar cumail beò, a’ cumail na Craobh agus na Ciorcail nas fharsainge.
We offer our gratitude to those whose generosity and service sustain the work of this Grove and the wider Circle.
Tilleadh taingealachd do na Deacons, Na Naomh-Teaghlach, Na Monks, Abbaidhean, Easbaig, Ollamhan, agus na Draoithe—
We return thanks to the Deacons, Priests, Monks, Abbots, Bishops, Ollamhs, and Druids—
iad a stiùir, a thog agus a dhìon na slighean naomh o sheann amannan,
Those who have guided, nurtured, and protected the sacred paths in times past,
iad a tha an-dràsta gar sheirbheisean agus iad a tha gar brosnachadh airson an àm ri teachd.
Those who serve among us now, and those whose devotion inspires us for the future.
Tha sinn a’ cur urram air gliocas na seann-Draoithe, dìcheall nan daoine ùra a chaidh a thrèanadh,
We honor the wisdom of the elder Draoithe, the dedication of our newly initiated,
agus co-sheirm na h-uile duine a tha a’ dèanamh na Craobh seo naomh beò, làn de dh’fhaireachdainn, co-sheirm agus cumail nan traidiseanan naomh.
And the fellowship of all who make this Grove a living testament to devotion, harmony, and the keeping of our sacred traditions.
Do gach neach a tha gar onair le làthaireachd, togamaid ar cridheachan ann an taingealachd.
To all who grace us with their presence, we lift our hearts in thanksgiving.
The ArdDraoi returns thanks in suitable terms and calls for responses at his/her discretion.
Fifth Official Toast
The announcement of a Tuatha member's death should be made immediately before this toast is honoured and the Grove formally placed in mourning for a period specified by the ArdDraoi.
AD: A dhaoine uasal, èirighibh agus cuideigibh leis an Doer-Draoi ann a bhith a’ toirt an dàrna toast oifigeil.
("Noble ones arise and assist the Doer-Draoi in giving the fifth official toast.")
The assembled Draoithe and Ollamhs retrieve their respective Pelan Tan and hold it for this toast in their left hand, with their scycle and mistletoe in their right (for the salute).
DD: O mo Daoine, leigibh taingibh ann an urraim an dàrna toast oifigeil seo. "Gu cuimhne na daoine uasal a tha air falbh gu grov no àrd-dachaigh, ach an treabhadh.
("O my people, let us give thanks in honour of this fifth official toast: To the noble memory of those of our Tuatha who have passed to that supreme Grove beyond, reserved only for the worthy, and more especially those who have died for their realm.
After the silence, appropriate music may be played by a minstrel or Bard. If desired, the proceedings may be extended as follows:
AD: (Hands in benediction-Eloh) Chaidh na daoine a bhith le ceist níos mòra; dìreach ar-a-mach leis an tasgaidh ceart. Bidh an ceart a dh'fheumas a bhith cleachdaichte. Na tuathach sin a leigeas àite chan annach ma tha co-shìnteach sin.
("Greater love hath no one than this, that a person lay down their lives for their friends. O Thou, who givest all, and unto whom all must, in its season return, we commend to Your care and keeping all those of our clan who have died that we might live. May we, so live our lives as to prove worthy of that gift, and to show the world they did not die in vain, may they look back kindly upon us, and bless us in our gathering.")
An "Abide with Me"-type hymn is sung.
At the conclusion, the ArdDraoi rings their silver branch three times and the assembly resumes their seats.
Crìochnachadh — The Completion (Closing)
AD: Leig dhuinn ar gealltanas a dhèanamh anns an cruinneachadh seo.
("Let us make our pledge before this assembly.")
All: Geallamaid le sìth agus gaol seasamh
Cridhe ri cridhe, agus làimh ri làimh
Cluinn, a Spiorad, agus chomharraich sinn an-dràsta
Agus dearbhaich seo, ar gealltanas naomh.
("We pledge by peace and love to stand,
Heart to heart, and hand in hand,
Hear, Oh Spirit, and mark us now,
Confirming this, our sacred vow.")
AD: Soer-Draoi, tha mi an-dràsta ag iarraidh ort mo thoirt gu làn fhuasgladh air treas Cùram an ArdDraoi.
AD: Soer-Draoi, I will now thank you to place me in possession of the third Care of an ArdDraoi.
SD: ArdDraoi naomha, tha do thriùir Cùram a’ toirt air na slighe naomha a dhìon.
SD : Noble ArdDraoi, your third Care is to secure the sacred paths.
AD: Còcaire! A bheil na slighe naomha tèarainte?
AD : Guard! Are the secret avenues secure?
Guardian: (Gu na Fèinne) Fianna! A bheil mo rathad sàbhailte còmhla ribh?
Guardian: (To the Fenians) Fianna! Is my path safe with you?
Guards: Tha e sàbhailte.
Guards It is safe.
Guardian: Tha iad tèarainte, ArdDraoi naomha.
Guardian They are secure, noble ArdDraoi.
AD: Soer-Draoi, a bheil thu ag aithris gum bi an Cathairach seo air a chur an gnìomh gu ceart?
AD Soer-Draoi, do you report this Cathairach as properly constituted?
SD: Tha na h-oifigearan riatanach an làthair, ArdDraoi naomha.
SD The necessary officers are present, noble ArdDraoi.
AD: An dèidh dhuinn dearbhadh gu bheil na slighe naomha tèarainte agus na h-oifigearan riatanach anns an àite aca: tha e riut, a Soer-Draoi naomha, agus riut, a Doer-Draoi naomha, gus an t-aonadh innse dhuinn mu ar cothrom air an ath choinneamh.
AD Having ascertained that the secret avenues are secure and the necessary officers at their posts: it is to you, O noble Soer-Draoi, and you, O noble Doer-Draoi, to instruct the assembly as to our next meeting.
SD: Èist! Cluinnibh! Fosgladh an Cathairach seo an seo air... an ath cheann-uidhe aig... uairean, airson na h-adhartas fhèin, gu h-àraidh Làn-ghàirdeachas, Aonachd, Càirdeas, còmhla ri gnìomh sam bith a thèid a thoirt air beulaibh an ArdDraoi a’ stiùireadh, feumail don Eaglais seo / Nemeton, no don Òrdugh gu h-iomlan.
SD Listen! Hear ye! This Cathairach will be re-opened here on... next at... o'clock, for the purpose of its first institution, namely Benevolence, Harmony, Fraternity, along with any business which may be brought before the ArdDraoi presiding, beneficial to this grove/Nemeton, or the Order in general.
DD: An t-Aonadh! Am fàilte nàiseanta.
DD: Assemble! The national anthem.
AD: Tha mi an seo comasach air seo a chur air adhart... Ar Ghrùb/Nemeton, chan eil... ann an aonachd, dhùinte gu laghail, an ath choinneamh air a chur air adhart gu ceart, agus gach reachd a’ tighinn às an feum.
AD I am now able to declare this our... Grove/Nemeton, no... in union, legally closed, the next meeting duly announced, and all laws out of force.
The assembly makes one last procession around the space externally singing:
All: "Tha an cearcall fosgailte, ach gun bhriseadh."
All "The circle is open, but unbroken."
A closing anthem is sung. Afterward, the members with their accoutrements file out in a clockwise procession. The three ministers (AD, SD, and DD) are the last to leave. When they reach the entrance, they look into the sanctuary and ring their silver branches three times: