Prayer Bundles: A Sacred Ceremony for New Beginnings

A few weeks ago, I had the honor of participating in a Prayer Bundle Ceremony facilitated by Heather Christensen. Held at the Harbin Ceremonial Grounds, the ceremony was perfectly timed with the energy of the new moon; a time that represents new beginnings, fresh starts, and setting intentions for the future. The beauty of the day, the setting, and the ceremony itself created a powerful spiritual experience that I will cherish for a long time.

Heather carefully prepared for this ceremony by creating a gorgeous display of offerings that we used in the prayer bundle-making process. The offerings included feathers, tobacco, sage, kumquats, mimosa, bay leaves, essential oils, string, and an array of cloth and leather pieces. Each item held its unique symbolism and energy, which would later be infused into our prayer bundles as we crafted them.

The Process of Crafting Prayer Bundles

As we silently wrapped each prayer bundle, we infused them with our personal intentions. I loved the quiet, sacred atmosphere that settled the group during this part of the ceremony. It felt as if the very air was charged with potential, with the promise of what these bundles might carry into the world.

Where the Prayer Bundles Go

Once everyone had finished making their prayer bundles, Heather invited us to decide what we wanted to do with them. We could take them home, leave them in nature, place them on a special altar, or even gift them to someone. The choice was ours, and it was a beautiful reminder that our prayers and intentions are fluid, they can evolve, and they can be shared in many ways.

I decided to place my prayer bundle on my office altar, where I already keep many sacred items. I felt that this was the perfect spot for my prayer bundles to continue holding my intentions while also connecting with my daily work life. In the midst of my busy workdays, I often take a moment to stand before my altar, a sacred refuge in the corner of my office. There, I honor the prayers, intentions, and heartfelt wishes I have placed with love, finding comfort and connection in their presence.

Sharing Our Experiences

At the end of the ceremony, we went around the circle and shared our experiences with the group. It was powerful to hear the intentions behind the prayer bundles that others had created. Almost everyone shared who they had crafted their prayer bundles for—whether for family, friends, personal goals, or the collective good. It was a beautiful, open space for vulnerability and connection.

For me, I made six prayer bundles. The first two were for my parents, followed by one for my two children, and one for my partner. I also created a prayer bundle for a big wish I hope comes true, and the last one was for the collective prayer for the well-being and healing of the world. Each prayer bundle held a piece of my heart, and it has been touching to reflect on the deeper connections and intentions that I placed onto each one of them.

A Beautiful, Spiritual Ceremony

Overall, the Prayer Bundle Ceremony was a deeply spiritual and beautiful experience. It allowed me to connect with my own intentions while also acknowledging the needs of those I care about. It gave me space to reflect on what truly matters and to honor those thoughts and feelings with intention and prayer.

As I keep my prayer bundle on my office altar, I feel the presence of that ceremony with me. The new moon energy still lingers, reminding me of the new beginnings I’m stepping into and the collective hope that we all hold for a brighter future. If you ever get the chance to participate in a ceremony like this, I highly recommend it. There is something deeply grounding and transformative about putting your wishes into the world with such intention and care.

To learn more about the classes, events and ceremonies at Harbin, please visit: https://harbin.org/experience/events/