Sacrament

Preparing for the Sacrament

This section is concerned with the materials, supplies, and blessings needed to effectively conduct the sacrament. We’ll cover how to select equipment, what a blessing is and how to do it, and the Saltwater Rite.

In general, you should be mindful of anything the prepared seawater for the Saltwater Rite will be touching. I am not especially familiar with chemistry or material sciences, but I would caution against using metal unless you are certain of the chemical composition, as seawater has a tendency to corrode iron and other metals. Stainless steel and other steel alloys contain iron. Preparing and holding the seawater will cause the pots and vessels used to break down, causing pitting and rust. Aluminum may be a potential option. Copper and its alloys may corrode, however it’s unclear to me. The average person should not be expected to be familiar with the chemical interactions of seawater and various metals, however. Especially as it is further complicated by the leaching of contaminant metals in cookware that we cannot be expected to detect on an individual basis. It is possible the risk will be small, but for the health and safety of yourself and others, I would avoid the interaction of metals and seawater.

You will need a bottle, jar, or another sealable vessel. This is the vessel inside which you will be storing seawater for the rite, so be mindful of that in your selection. You will need to be able to pour liquid into this container, so I would recommend one that is wide-mouthed, or be sure to have a funnel available to you. This vessel will be hard-sided and made of glass, ceramic, or earthenware.

You will need small cups for the Saltwater Rite. Shot glasses and small teacups are a good reference for size, as you will not be drinking very much seawater. Drinking too much seawater is bad for you. It does not taste good, either. One sip should be sufficient, as drinking large amounts may make you choke or vomit. We do not want this. Be sure the vessel is made of glass, ceramic, earthenware, or another similar material.

You will need ample amounts of freshwater and vessels of any kind you deem appropriate. It is important for health and wellness that participants are staying hydrated, especially because it is advisable to drink water immediately following the rite.

note: I'll need to come back and revise this section with updated information later.