Supplies for Rituals & Retreats

Deeply Rooted Church is an off-grid Pagan sanctuary. Preparing well ensures that you stay comfortable, grounded, and safe throughout your visit. This guide is for anyone attending a ritual, festival, or weekend retreat — especially first-time visitors.

Our land is rustic. Weather shifts quickly, temperatures swing dramatically, and the terrain can be muddy, uneven, or slippery depending on the season. Bringing the right supplies will greatly improve your experience.

What You Should Bring to Rituals

These items help you stay present, respectful, and ready within sacred space:

  • A water bottle (hydration is essential, especially during high-energy rituals)

  • A small notebook or journal (for reflections, messages, or ritual insights)

  • Appropriate outdoor clothing — layers, waterproof gear, gloves, hat, etc.

  • Footwear with good traction (mud, roots, and uneven paths are common)

  • A blanket, cushion, or foldable chair if you need support while standing or sitting

  • Offerings for deities or ancestors, such as:

    • biodegradable food

    • natural materials (herbs, grain, stones)

    • handwritten letters

    • small tokens that can be burned or returned to nature

  • A flashlight or headlamp (rituals sometimes end after sunset)

  • Insect protection (especially in warm months)

If you are unsure what offerings are appropriate for a specific ritual, ask a member of clergy — we’re here to guide you.

Supplies for Weekend Retreats & Festivals

A weekend on the land is powerful, however it also requires preparation. Please consider bringing:

Personal Essentials

  • Any prescription medications

  • Toiletries (biodegradable whenever possible)

  • Sunscreen

  • Bug spray or tick protection

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Hand sanitizer

Clothing

  • Layers (temperatures drop quickly at night)

  • Water-resistant outerwear

  • Sturdy shoes

  • Extra socks

  • Sleepwear appropriate for cold nights

Food & Cooking

  • A cooler with ice (no refrigeration on site)

  • Snacks and simple meals

  • A potluck dish if attending a communal meal

  • Eating utensils, cup, plate, or bowl

  • Portable stove or camp grill if you plan to cook

Camping Gear (Optional but Helpful)

  • Tent, tarp, or canopy

  • Sleeping bag rated for Wisconsin temperatures

  • Sleeping pad or air mattress

  • Extra blankets

  • Camping chair

  • Outdoor lantern

Ritual Etiquette: What Not to Bring

Out of respect for the land and community:

  • Do not bring anything made of plastic, foil, or non-biodegradable materials as offerings

  • Do not bring open flames unless approved by the clergy or caretakers

  • Do not bring firearms, fireworks, or weapons of any kind

  • Do not bring loud music or generators that disturb the sanctuary

  • Do not leave trash, food, or scented items unattended (we share the land with wildlife)

Accessibility Considerations

If you need accommodations — such as being seated during ritual, staying indoors, or having clergy bring ritual elements to you — please tell us ahead of time. Consent, accessibility, and personal comfort are deeply valued.

Weather Reality Check

Deeply Rooted is entirely outdoors except for the lodge. Weather can do anything. Expect:

  • Mud

  • Bugs

  • Sudden rain

  • Hot days

  • Cold nights

  • Wind

  • Uneven ground

Preparation transforms these elements from obstacles into part of the ritual experience.

If You’re Unsure What to Bring

Always feel free to ask. No question is too small. Many people’s first ritual or retreat happens here, and we want you to feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.

We also maintain extra supplies such as:

  • spare blankets

  • basic food staples

  • outdoor seating

  • extra water

  • first aid items