Misinghalikun Guardian Ceremony

In the heart of the ancient forest, where Avalon now sits, the Misinghalikun watches over the land and its inhabitants. This ceremony, held once every year, is a sacred rite to honor and renew the bond between the Misinghalikun and the people of the village. Through the generations, what began as a blending of Jesuit practices with Lenape (Delaware) traditions has become something reflective of the old ways, but uniquely of Avalon.

History

The Misinghalikun Guardian Ceremony is more than a ritual; it is a testament to the enduring relationship between the village founders -- the Lenape of the are and the French missionary explorers who traveled together out of New England -- and the spirit of the forest where they made their new home. It reminds the villagers of their duty to protect and respect the natural world, and it reinforces the values of bravery, wisdom, and compassion that are essential to their way of life. The presence of trickster spirits, like the Puckwudgies, has skewed the blended beliefs away from the church and more toward the beliefs of the Lenape people, creating a unique and harmonious blend of traditions.

Execution

The ceremony takes place in a clearing deep in the orchard, near the edge of the forest where the trees form a natural cathedral. The air is thick with the scent of apples, pine, maple and earth, and the only sounds are the whispers of the wind and the distant calls of nocturnal creatures.

The villagers gather at dusk, bringing offerings of food, handmade crafts, and tokens of gratitude. The Living Village Elder leads them in a joyful procession to the orchard clearing.

As night falls, the Elder lights a ceremonial bonfire that has been laid in preparation. The flames dance and cast eerie shdows, summoning the Misinghalikun from the depths of the forest. The elder makes a ritual offering, inviting the 'chosen one' to step forward.

The Misinghalikun presents three trials to the 'chosen one,' each designed to test the individual's courage, wisdom, and compassion. These trials are symbolic, reflecting the challenges the village faces in their daily lives and their relationship with the natural world.

Upon completing the trials, the 'chosen one' faces the Misinghalikun once more. If they are deemed worthy -- that is, if they have passed the Misinghalikun's test -- then the 'chosen one' is accepted as a full member of the village, and joyous celebration commences. They dance around the fire, sing songs, and share a feast under the stars.

Primary Related Location

Avalon, Indiana

Important Locations

• Avalon Village Community Center

Related Organizations

• Guiding Circle

Related Ethnicities

• Dead
• Living

Participants

• The Misinghalikun: A shadowy figure, part human, part spirit, with eyes that glow like embers in the night. It is both protector and judge, ensuring the balance of nature is maintained.
• Living Village Elder: The village’s spiritual leader, who guides the ceremony and communicates with the Misinghalikun.
• The 'Chosen Ones': The newest living villagers, selected to represent the community, who must prove their worthiness through a series of trials.