The altar is often times underestimated in modern Pagan practice as being the powerful tool it is for spiritual growth. There is no need to feel intimidated by visions of complex, handmade oak tables set off in a room specifically used for magic. Whether in a simple setting of candles and incense on a small side table to an elaborate altar covered with all the trappings of the ritual of a special occasion, altars can be used for prayer, meditation, and celebration.

Pagan altars, depending on the tradition, usually include some representation of deities, symbols of the faith and the tools of that tradition. Sometimes altars are set up for use during a particular ritual and then taken down again afterwards for space or convenience. But taking them down is not the rule. Having a permanent altar can become as integral to faith as celebrating the turn of the seasons. A home shrine is one form of such an altar that can provide a daily reminder for devotion. A shrine dedicated specifically to one or more deities will help to focus devotion and become a place for offerings.

Prayer and devotion aren’t associated with the Christian faith only.  Repeated daily prayer and contemplation at a shrine will attune you to the energies of this deity that you are attracted to and give you a comfort that you have not felt before.  Daily devotions have been practiced throughout the ages by many different faiths.  This shrine can also be the place you meditate regularly for relaxation.  Many Pagans consider the kitchen the hearth of their homes and place a small shrine there to show gratitude for blessings bestowed by the hearth gods of their tradition.

I have many small altars around my home tucked away into corners here and there. One only includes a stone that I found and felt had healing properties. Another small altar near my bed has a plaque with a sleeping fairy on it as a constant prayer for healthy sleep. I also have a candle in my kitchen dedicated to Frigga, Norse goddess of hearth, home, and marriage.

As you see, your altars need not be complex. In fact, you will find that they most likely will develop organically over time and change as you need them to. If you try to avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself at work, using objects symbolically to represent an element or a specific deity is also a good way to have an altar at your place of employment.

For Pagans experiencing a standstill of their faith, the altar is a path back to spiritual practice. It’s also a good introduction for people who aren't sure where to start. The altar is a place to show respect for the gods and contemplate your place in relation to them in a way that brings a deeper understanding of your chosen tradition.