Hospitality is a virtue. However our blots (fainings) and sumbels are often at a private home so we do like to ~try~ to meet people beforehand. We do this both for the comfort of our guest (you) and for our host. Rituals can be hectic events. Meeting first in a neutral setting helps foster a feeling of security for everyone involved.
What is a "faining"?
A "faining" is a bloodless blot or ritual. In ancient times, blots included the sacrificing of an animal. Obviously, this is no longer allowed in our modern world.
Horn Blessings and Sumbels...
While we will have a Valkyrie pass the blessed horn, we ask each bring their own horn or stein or chalice from which to drink. Additionally, we will have both alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks available for toasts.
Please feel free to contact us with questions: EMAIL ********* The recognition of the depravity of human nature, which calls for a struggle against our natural desires and forbearance toward the weakness of others.
Courage and faith both to bear the hard decrees of the norns and to fight against enemies.
The struggle for independence in life with regard to knowledge as well as to fortune; an independence which should, therefore, be earned by a love of learning and industry.
A strict adherence to oaths and promises.
Candor and fidelity as well as foresight in love, devotion to the tried friend, but dissimulation toward the false and war to the death against the implacable enemy.
Respect for old age.
Hospitality, liberality, and charity to the poor.
A prudent foresight in word and deed.
Temperance, not only in the gratification of the senses, but also in the exercise of power. Contentment and cheerfulness.
Modesty and politeness in intercourse.
A desire to win the good will of our fellow men, especially to surround ourselves with a steadfast circle of devoted kinsmen and faithful friends.
A careful treatment of the bodies of the dead
---13 rules of life given in the high song of Odin and in Sigrdrifumal, in which the valkyrie gives counsel to Sigurd Fafnisbane. Source: Norse Mythology, or the Religion of Our Forefathers (1875) by R.B. Anderson