Creating a sacred space for your ancestors is an important step in building a connection with them. An ancestor altar provides a dedicated place for regular communication and serves as a reminder of their presence. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and maintaining your ancestor altar in a clear, step-by-step manner.
Step 1: Choose a Location
Select a suitable place for your altar. It is best to avoid placing it in your bedroom. Consider using your living room, dining room, or kitchen. Choose a surface such as a table, shelf, or counter that will be used only for honoring your ancestors. Do not place unrelated items like phones, remotes, or appliances on this surface. A wall shelf, empty bookshelf, or small accent table are all appropriate options.
Step 2: Gather Supplies
Decide what items you would like to include on your ancestor altar. Common items are photographs of ancestors, family heirlooms, a cup and bowl for offerings, incense and an incense burner, candles and candle holders, and optional seasonal decorations. If you do not have photos or heirlooms, you may use objects that represent your ancestors, such as a map of their homeland or images of historical landmarks.
Step 3: Cleanse the Space
After choosing your location and gathering supplies, cleanse the altar and all items. You may use smoke-cleansing, asperging, or simply wipe the surface and tools with a cloth. For wiping, a mixture of lemon juice and water is effective. As you cleanse, visualize white light illuminating the altar and each item.
Step 4: Arrange the Altar
Arrange your altar in a way that feels meaningful to you. In some traditions, there are specific patterns to follow, but if you are working alone, you may arrange it as you prefer. Place ancestor photos or representations at the center, and add other items around them. You may include seasonal decorations, such as eggs and bunnies for spring, flowers for summer, sunflowers and pumpkins for fall, and holiday decor for winter. Remember to invite your ancestors to this space.
Step 5: Make Offerings
When your altar is set up, provide offerings and invite your ancestors to the space. Suitable offerings include fresh water, flowers, incense, candlelight, beverages like wine or coffee, fruit, and food. Over time, you may sense which offerings your ancestors prefer. Be attentive to any impressions or feelings you receive.
Using Your Ancestor Altar
Use your altar as a place to communicate with your ancestors. You may speak aloud or silently. Offerings can be made regularly—daily, weekly, or as you feel appropriate. Other offerings may include handmade items, poetry, songs, artwork, or anything you feel moved to share.
Let your altar be a source of inspiration and comfort. When you feel sad, unwell, or in need of support, stand at your altar and call upon your ancestors. You may knock three times and call their names if you know them. Lighting a candle in their honor is a meaningful gesture.
Remember to cleanse your ancestor altar periodically. Monthly cleansing, such as on the New Moon, is recommended. Remove all items, dust the surface and objects, and cleanse with smoke or blessed water. Afterward, return the items and invite your ancestors back to the space.
