The Mighty Dead are the spirits of accomplished magical practitioners, teachers, and honored guides who have crossed over. They may or may not be related to us by blood or lineage, but they are powerful beings we can look to for inspiration and guidance. If you didn’t know them in life, then it’s good to start with an introduction before formally setting them up on your altar and working with them. To do this, review the work they did ( books, songs, art, speeches, etc.) that has inspired you. Frame a photo or other image of them and place it on a table you can sit at, facing you. Prepare two cups of tea (appropriate for the hour), one for yourself and one for them. Between you, set and light a white candle, and say:

I welcome you, (name of Mighty
Dead). Please join me for tea.

Sit quietly, enjoying your tea and focusing on their image. Make note of whatever words or feelings come to you to determine if you can work with them further. Extinguish the candle.