‘Isn’t every communion?’

‘I guess so. Jock’s cider is the best I’ve ever tasted so I reckon I’ll be rolling home tonight.’

The first members arrived and placed their offerings on a table laid out in the hall, where they’d make merry later. They were a group of twelve; the youngest was twenty-three and the oldest was Jock, who was eighty-three, followed by Fred, who was sixty-seven. They fell into easy conversation about everyday life and it was clear that Jock commanded a great deal of respect. Age was seen as a symbol of wisdom in the group and he’d lived a long and eventful life, remembering the blitz and serving in the Korean War. He’d turned to nature after watching war after war unfolding before his eyes, with politicians on the sidelines, barking their suspect morality and judgemental hypocrisy. He’d had a stomach full. But for Fred stepping in, Jock would have made an excellent High Priest, but he’d rather it went to Fred who, he said, suited the role. Jock said he was happy to support in the background like he’d always done. Jock was the longest current serving member of the group and had seen lots of souls come and go. His cheeks were ruddy, and he still hiked the fells every weekend. He lived alone, and found pleasure in talking about fishing to Fred, swapping gardening tips with Sandra, and visiting his grandchildren, of which he had eight, with others adopted along the way.

One by one, after shaking hands and kissing cheeks, they waited for Fred and Mary to begin. The High Priest and Priestess appealed for silence and began preparing the circle. Everybody held hands. Jock was the only one seated. Once the circle was formed, the tools could be consecrated from all four directions of the elements on the paten, to purify them and remove negative energy. Fred and Mary chanted to all points of the circle and called on the north for the earth, the east for the air, the south for fire, and the west for water. The younger ranks watched in awe as Fred and Mary worked together to create the circle and sanctify the tools. Incense filled the small space and the candles flickered. They sang songs and moved rhythmically from side to side, sharing love with their neighbours to each side. When it was done, Fred read verses aloud and Mary helped with the adherents’ replies.