Editing Big Easy Voodoo Noir (section)

===Parts of a Ritual===
'''''Preparation'''''. The crafter prepares herself, the ritual space and the subject. Preparing the space includes things like ritual cleansing with brooms, water and or incense; drawing or painting symbols on the walls and floor (voodoo ''vever'', Lodge pentagrams and Enochian symbols). Participants take ritual baths and or anointed with special oils. The right mindset is achieved through meditation or prayer, accompanied by dancing and drumming in some traditions, chanting in others.

'''''Invocation'''''. Necessary spirits are called to the ritual. This process often begins during the preparation but continues--the dancing, drumming or chanting continues throughout the ritual. In the invocation any and all powers invited will be spoken, and symbolic representations presented.

'''''Intent'''''. The crafter expresses what he wants the ritual to accomplish. It can be simple and direct--"destroy this enemy in particular"--or something more complex. Symbolic representations are often used: a ritual bath for the subject of an exorcism to symbolize the cleansing process, damaging a symbolic link to the subject of a harmful ritual (the "voodoo doll"). Crafters generally continue invoking the spirits while performing tese symbolic actions.

'''''Offering'''''. The "what's in it for me?" stage where offerings are made to satisfy the spirits invoked and encourage them to honor the intent. This can be a sacrifice, a gift of food or drink, or something less tangible like a promise of service or prayer of thanks. 

'''''Dismissal'''''. The powers called up for the ritual are dissipated or sent away, excess energy is safely grounded. More hostile spirits will be more difficult to send away. "Never summon something you can't put down, kid." This is a crucial component of harmful rituals, because the crafter needs to take steps to protect herself and her clients from the magic's effects.