Modern Worship FAQ

are you a priest?
Formerly I was both a Reverend (Imakhu) and a W'ab (shrine-priest), yes. When I entered the priesthood I had a whole lot more freetime than I do now. Changes in my workplace in 2006 forced me to accept that things weren't going to get any less hectic, and I officially resigned at the New Year's Festival that year.

I remain in the faith as a Shemsu-Ankh (a follower inducted into the mysteries), and sometimes surface at events, where I am regularly humbled by my fellow brothers and sisters of the faith, who wonder when I'm going to cave and take vows again. :)

will you pray for my pet?
Losing an animal, or the helplessness that closes in on all of us as a beloved pet becomes ill, can be heart-rending. We reach out for someone -- anyone -- to help. I understand. I share that pain with you. I may not answer emails of this nature, but I pray when asked.

But please understand that you know your pet and its needs far better than a stranger you've only met through her articles. You don't need a special lifeline to pray to Bast. All you need is an open heart and honest words.

what do I offer Bast?
These modern times have made many things accessible to us that were not to the Egyptians of antiquity. In these days of convenience shopping, my suggestions of offerings Bast enjoys are: whole meats, chocolate, limes, or perfumes. Organic produce and meats are my preference because they are more likely to be "pure" (minimally processed, without pesticides or growth hormones). Barring that, cool water is the traditional go-to offering of all Kemetic Orthodox.

But none of it matters without deep sincerity and appreciation for life. Remember the parable of the widow's mite. Different religion, same sentiment. And never waste an offering. Once it is made, it must always be used. Yes, Virginia, you should offer your chocolate and eat it, too (or give it to someone who will).

how does one become Kemetic Orthodox?
My generation of Kemetic Orthodox are all converts. Since I joined, we have had children born into the faith, and many more on the way.

If you are interested in knowing more about Kemetic Orthodoxy -- which includes in its worship Bast as well as all the other ancient Egyptian deities -- please visit the website of the faith at www.kemet.org. There are regular indoctrination classes given online. Our physical temple is located in Joliet, Illinois (just south of Chicago).

how can I contact you?
Please see the contacts page.