Persephone Returns Ritual September 19th, 2005 Color of the day: White Incense of the day: Peony Heton Lampador Haera, the torchlit procession of initiates of the Eleusinian Mysteries, represents grain goddess Demeter searching for her daughter Persephone. As we prepare for the season when Persephone returns to the underworld and the land becomes cold and dark, we give thanks for the gifts her mother has bestowed. A Demeter ritual is one that can solidify our appreciation of all that we have, and enhance the shift of the seasons. Dress in robes of autumn colors, and burn candles of red, orange, gold, and violet. Place autumn fruits and vegetables on the altar—especially apples, pumpkins, and corn. Display a pomegranate in a prominent spot. Pomegranates are sacred to Persephone, who after swallowing three of the seeds was taken into the underworld. Gaze upon the abundant gifts of the earth, and give thanks to Demeter for providing all the gifts you possess. By: Ruby Lavender