The Grief Ritual
There are many moments in life that can awaken grief—life crises, losses, disappointments, and failures. There are many experiences that wound us, and many moments when we unintentionally wound others. There are countless reasons why grief arises. Not everything is fully grieved and lovingly integrated. Instead, layers of unresolved grief accumulate, quietly dimming our joy, reducing our vitality, and affecting our health.
During this extended weekend, we will create a safely held space where grief can be expressed, witnessed, and more deeply integrated.
What Makes This Retreat Unique
The uniqueness of this retreat lies in entering a shared ritual space together. We intentionally open a sacred container where the unseen world can support both our personal and collective grief journey. Our ancestors, the elements of nature—especially the Element of Water—will help us release what no longer needs to be carried.
The ritual is also held within the experience of community. Rather than grieving alone, participants experience what it means to be held, supported, and carried by others while moving through grief. It is a profound gift to remember that during times of sorrow we are supported not only by Spirit, but also by one another.
Schedule
-
In the tradition of the Dagara Grief Ritual, participants build shrines that will be used during the 3-day ritual and learn about the symbols, colors, meanings, and purpose of the Grief, Forgiveness, and Ancestor shrines.
In the evening, during the Welcoming Circle, each participant introduces themselves and is welcomed to the weekend and to the group. The evening concludes with a discussion of the different types of grief and how the Grief Ritual works to relieve and restore the spirit.
-
The Ritual is opened with prayers to the 5 Dagara Elements: Fire, Water, Earth, Mineral, and Nature. Then the drumming begins, and continues until the Ritual is closed. The Shrine remains open as well until the Ritual closes.
-
The Ritual continues until the conclusion, when the Shrines are closed, repeating the cycle of prayers to the Elements. The Shrines are dissesemled by the participants, followed by a closing Circle.
The Details
Ages
Adults and children ages 13–19 who feel called to participate are warmly invited, provided they attend with an adult who is also participating in the retreat.
Dates & Times
Begins: Thursday, October 29 at 3:00 PM
Ends: Sunday, November 1 after lunch (1:00 PM) Departure begins at 2:00 PM
Meals & Accomodations
Meals and accommodations are available for an additional cost at Tempelhof.
Location
Schloss Tempelhof Community near Crailsheim, Germany.
Registration & Cost
Regular: €490
Returning Participants: €440
Early Registration (before 9-30): €390
Accommodation and meals are additional.
After your registration is confirmed, you can book your accommodation and meals directly with Schloss Tempelhof.
Where to Find Us
Tempelhof 3, 74594 Kreßberg, Germany
+4979579239030
Schloss Tempelhof
The future is built upon the present. We are a community in Baden-Württemberg, comprising approximately 130 adults, young people, and children, as well as other individuals who work in our businesses. We experiment and research how we can cultivate our interactions and our relationship with nature in a way that creates a future