How to Practice Paganism When You Have to Hide It

A decorative pentacle

In a perfect world, one would never need to hide their faith. If you're a teen or you're feeling a need to keep your faith hidden from your family or spouse, read this article for some useful ideas.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. If you want to wear a pentacle but are afraid of it being noticed, try an item that is very ornate, or where the pentacle is somewhat hidden. You may also opt to wear one on a long chain that you can keep tucked into your shirt, or wear it around your ankle.

2. If you have books, but you don't want them noticed, try taking the dust jackets off mundane books, and putting them on your religious ones. You may also opt to keep your books stored out of sight in a box or behind other items.

3. Make a portable altar. You might take a small plank of wood and decorate it as a mobile altar. An end table can also be used. Keep a cloth and ritual tools inside or nearby, and only take them out when you need them.

4. Use mundane items as ritual tools. Candles are common and go unnoticed. Use a pocket knife or table knife as an athame, use a dessert plate for offerings, a drinking glass as a chalice, etc.

5. Have a ritual space outside. A peaceful place and a flat rock can be all you need to make a sacred space for yourself outside, away from prying eyes.

6. A small trunk can be a great place to store ritual items, and the top can be used as an altar when needed.

7. The back corner of a closet can be used for ritual practice, and any items left can be obscured by hanging clothing.

Tips & Warnings

• Try talking about your faith with the people around you. You shouldn't have to hide who you are or what you believe. Find others that share your beliefs, and talk with them about ways to "come out", so to speak.