A croning ceremony is an occasion which honours an older woman. A crone is a woman who has entered the third stage of life. She is usually post-menopausal and often over 50 or 60 years old.

The term “crone”

In ancient times a crone was revered as a woman of wisdom and experience. She was often a healer and a counsellor. The word was derived from the old word for “crown”.

However, patriarchal societies came to fear the power of the old women and the term “crone” became used to describe an elderly woman who is ugly and ill-tempered. The word hag had similar connotations.

A croning ceremony recognises a woman who has embraced her age and the freedom it brings, often rejecting societal expectations and stereotypes about older women. She is regarded as a mentor or guide who shares her wisdom with younger generations. A modern crone is a woman who is comfortable with her own power and identity, often associated with spiritual growth and self-actualization.

Elements of a croning ceremony

There is no set formula for a croning ceremony. Each is unique and personal to the one whom we celebrate. Croning ceremonies are usually created and conducted by women, although men may also participate. There may be many different elements included.

croning ceremony
A staff of wisdom is a strong ceremonial element.
  • Circle: The participants usually sit in a circle, creating a sacred space for the ceremony.
  • Candles: Often in colours representing wisdom, strength, or the goddess (e.g., purple, silver, white).
  • Altar: A central focal point decorated with meaningful objects.
  • Crone’s crown: A special headdress made from twigs, grasses or flowers or a tiara for the woman being honoured.
  • Symbolic items: Objects representing the crone’s journey (e.g., walking stick or staff, keys, mirror).
  • Elements representation: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water symbols.
  • Blessing bowl: Filled with water for cleansing or blessing.
  • Smudging materials: Imphepho, sage or sweetgrass for cleansing the space and participants.
  • Crystals: Those associated with wisdom and power (e.g., amethyst, moonstone).

Other elements of the ritual

  • Ceremonial robe: A special garment for the crone to wear, such as a shawl or a kimono.
  • Story sharing: Time for the participants to share stories about the crone and also for the crone to share her life experiences.
  • Readings: each guest may read something that they have written or poetry or passages that they feel are appropriate to the occasion.
  • Wisdom book: Where attendees can write messages or advice for the crone.
  • Crone’s wand: A symbolic tool of her power and authority.
  • Flowers or herbs: Those associated with wisdom or the crone archetype.
  • Music: Drums, bells, or other instruments for ambiance and energy raising.
  • Crone’s cup: For a ritual toast or blessing.
  • Meditation or guided visualisation: To connect with inner wisdom.
  • Symbolic action: Like crossing a threshold or cutting ties to past roles.
  • Feast: Celebratory food and drink to conclude the ceremony.
crtoning ceremony
Participants can paint their wishes for the crone on stones.
croning ceremony
We often use flowers, ceremonial cloths and candles  in a croning ceremony

Closing thoughts

Whether drawing from ancient traditions or crafting contemporary rituals, today’s croning ceremonies reflect our evolving understanding of feminine wisdom and power. The beauty lies in thoughtfully weaving together elements that resonate deeply with the woman being honoured. We combine the gravitas of traditional ceremonial tools like the crone’s staff with personally meaningful symbols from her own spiritual journey.

Some women choose to incorporate their cultural heritage through music, dress, or ritual objects, whilst others may craft entirely new traditions, such as creating a wisdom book filled with messages from loved ones or planting a crone’s garden of sacred herbs.

The key is to fashion a ceremony that authentically celebrates her unique path to wisdom, her accumulated life experience, and her vision for the years ahead. In the end, the most powerful croning ceremonies are those that leave a woman feeling truly seen, deeply honoured, and confidently empowered as she steps into her role as an elder in her community.

Wordways Ceremonies offers a variety of non-religious, rites of passage ceremonies. Get in touch with Vanessa today to discuss your needs.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *