On Saturday evening, November 17th, 2001, Ryleh had the pleasure of attending an Asatru Handfasting between Thorne and his lady, Rayna, performed in the Patron Campground at TRF. Thorne is perhaps best known for his "fire-breathing" exhibitions at the drumjams held every weekend evening at the campground during the TRF season. Michael McDane Harris (AKA "The RenGeek") held the honor of daggerbearer at the rite, which also included a Bloodbonding between the happy couple. Also in attendance were Pamela Harris, James Huckabay (AKA "Tavern Knight"), "Keltic" of AFR fame, and George Laking (AKA "Ryleh the Wanderer"). Once again Taz organized an Honour Guard bearing broadswords and rapiers to form an arch of live steel under which the newly-handfasted couple passed as they exited the ceremonial circle. (Photo, above: the Celebrants begin the Rite by invoking the Old Norse Gods, Odin and Freya, to bless and protect Rayna and Thorne throughout their lives together. Photo, below: Rayna and Thorne kneel together as the Celebrants read the first of several vows which they exchanged that evening. Among those vows were pledges of mutual growth, love, understanding and sharing within their relationship.).

As Rayna kneels before the Celebrants, the High Priestess touches her forehead with a piece of jewelry, symbolizing both the feminine aspects and the particular feminine gifts which she brings to this relationship. Likewise, the High Priest later touched Thorne's forehead with a sword, symbolizing the male aspects and gifts of their union. (Photo, right).

While the High Priest read the Rite, Rayna then touched Thorne's sword to her own forehead in acceptance of the (male) gifts he brings to their relationship. (Photo, left).

Likewise, Thorne then touched Rayna's jewelry to his own forehead, accepting her (feminine) gifts while the High Priestess officiated.(Photo, left).

More Asatru Handfasting...