# Formal start & invocation

## Purpose

This is the formal beginning of the event. It is a moment to draw everyone’s attention to the proceedings and help set the emotional tone (contemplative, appreciative, grateful, empathetic). Begin honoring the person you are celebrating.

## Ideas

Below are some ideas about what you can do during the invocation.  Get Creative!\
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**Step 1: call people’s attention**

* Ring a bell, or play some sort of resonant sound that lasts more than a few seconds

**Step 2: shift their emotions / shift the state of consciousness** 

* Request a moment of silence
* Guided meditation
* Lighting a candle, or other symbolic gesture. 
* Prayer
  * [Serenity Prayer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serenity_Prayer)
  * Add your own