About
Noumenia, the new moon, was the first and holiest day of the Athenian lunar month, a day for honouring the household gods before any other festivals of the month. Offerings were modest: incense, a little cake, a garland. Modern Hellenic polytheists often keep it as a monthly renewal of their household shrine.
Customs
- Watching for the first crescent moon at dusk
- Offering incense, fresh water and small cakes at the household shrine
- Honouring Hestia, Apollo Noumenios and the household gods
- Refreshing shrine flowers, garlands or cloths
- Setting a small intention for the new month
Food
- Small honey cakes
- Barley
- Fresh fruit
- Wine or water
A simple ritual
- Look for the new crescent moon in the western sky after sunset.
- Tidy your shrine or a small shelf and give it fresh water and flowers.
- Light a candle or incense in a safe holder and greet Hestia first.
- Offer a small cake or a spoonful of honey to the household gods.
- Name one thing you hope to tend during the coming month.
- Put out the flame when you have finished.
Never leave candles or fires unattended, and keep them away from pets and children.