Outline for Mentored Introductory Practicum

by Rob Andrews

This is a generic outline that may be of use in a mentored (or non-mentored, to a great extent) practicum for acquainting a novice with devotion to a Patron Deity. It may be used to aid an aspirant in exploring some core concepts in personal devotion prior to or in the early stages of entrance to Mysteries of a particular deity or group.

This practicum refers to the "Approaching the Mysteries" self-study, which provides such resources as the "Questions for Reflection", "Basic Exercises", and a "Self-Dedication".

1. • Lesson 1: Introduction, explanation, and "Questions for Reflection".
   • Exercise 1: Answer "Questions for Reflection" in journal.
   • Duration: 1 week.
2. • Lesson 2: Info about certain deities (one per day) and the Mysteries in history.
   • Exercise 2: Contemplate an image of the deity of the day for 5 minutes.
   • Duration: ~2 weeks.
3. • Lesson 3: Devotion to a Patron in history and practice.
   • Exercise 3: Settle on no more than one or two deities for daily devotion.
   • Duration: 1 week.
4. • Lesson 4: Specialization.
   • Exercise 4: Practice a specific intermediate specialty (just one, unless otherwise stated):
     1. Option A: Practice an appropriate form of meditation.
     2. Option B: Chant the name of the deity.
     3. Option C: Read aloud sacred songs to/of the deity.
     4. Option D: Pray before sleep for guidance in dreams.
     5. Option E: Check with mentor for other ideas.
   • Duration: 1 week.
5. • Lesson 5: Time Out.
   • Exercise 5: Perform one special duty alone for/with the deity:
     1. Option 1: Erect a shrine.
     2. Option 2: Chant the name of the deity for an extended session.
     3. Option 3: Write a hymn to the deity.
     4. Option 4: Offer a special sacrifice to the deity.
     5. Option 5: Offer a special service to the deity.
     6. Option 6: Check with mentor for other ideas.
   • Duration: Variable, but at least a few uninterrupted hours.
6. • Lesson 6: "Questions for Reflection".
   • Exercise 6: First answer them again, then compare them with your original answers.
   • Duration: 1 week.
7. • Lesson 7: Self-Dedication.
   • Exercise 7: Design and perform a self-dedication appropriate for your situation.
   • Duration: 1 week.
• Total number of lessons: 7
• Total number of weeks: 7 (more or less)