Reclaiming the Name of Crone
In early cultures, the female elder was considered a wise woman. She was the healer, the teacher, and the one who imparted knowledge. She mediated disputes, she had influence over tribal leaders, and she cared for the dying as they took their final breaths. For many women in these cultures reaching the status of Crone is a major milestone. These women are reclaiming the name of crone in a positive way, and see it as a time to joyfully welcome one's position as an elder within the community.
Rejoicing in Our Own Wisdom
Any woman can have a croning ceremony, although traditionally most choose to wait until they are at least 50 years old. This is partly because of the physical changes in the body, but also because five decades of learning is nothing to sneeze at! In some traditions it is recommended that you wait until after menopause to become a Crone. However, some women in their thirties no longer have periods, and some women continue menstruating into their 60s, so the timing of your ceremony will depend on the guidelines of your particular path.
A croning ceremony is typically performed as part of a women's circle. There is no set rule for how a ceremony is conducted, but many women who have achieved the title of crone find they like to include at least some of the following:
A ritual bath or cleansing beforehand
Singing and chanting
A guided meditation honoring the archetype of Wise Woman
Symbols of initiation: a staff, a special cloak, a garland or crown
Drumming, music or poetry celebrating womanhood
An altar with photos of female relatives and friends who have empowered you
A celebratory meal
A symbol of the passage into Cronehood, such as entering through a curtain or tunnel; crossing a ceremonial threshold
An exchange of gifts or blessings (a croning basket filled with chocolates and herbal teas is popular)
Some women choose to adopt a new name at their croning ceremony—this is certainly not mandatory, but we often take on new names for other milestones in our lives, so this is an option if you feel that this is right for you. Your crone name can be one you keep to yourself, share only among friends, or announce to the world.
Crossing the threshold into cronehood can be a major event in a woman's life. It's a celebration of all that you've learned and all that you will come to know in the future. For many women, it's a time to make new commitments and vows. If you've ever had an interest in taking a leadership position in some aspect of your life, now is a great time to do so. This third cycle of your life is the one in which you become an elder, and you've joined a special group. You have a lifetime of achievements behind you, and decades more to look forward to. The word crone should now be a word of power for you, so celebrate it. You've earned it.
Wigington, Patti. "Croning Ceremony to Celebrate Women's Wisdom." Learn Religions, Sep. 9, 2021, learnreligions.com/croning-ceremony-2562871.
