I just finished Laurelei Dabrielle's book In Her Service: Reflections from a Priestess of Aphrodite. I was pondering writing a review for it on a forum I'm involved with, but the nature of the book does deal with mature themes, so I figure I'll do a small review here and see how that goes.
I have to say the book was well worth buying. Laurelei explains in the beginning that her practice is not 100% Hellenic, but a blend of Neo-Pagan Traditions. This was refreshing to me, because there are a few writers in the Pagan community who like to fudge the truth when it comes to where and when their practices originate from. Having said that, there is a lot of historical evidence supporting many of her practices from a Hellenic viewpoint.
The books deals with serving a Goddess of Love, and what that entails. There is a great discussion on the sacredness of sexuality within ritual, and the function of Aphrodite's historical priests and priestesses (particularly in places such as Corinth) as "temple prostitutes". To have sex with one of these servants of Aphrodite was to be in the presence of the Goddess herself. Laurelei also mentions that in ancient times, this role of temple prostitute was usually not a choice made by the person. In the ancient world of slavery and subjugation, this practice was to be expected, but it is possible to reclaim this role and adapt it to our modern sensibilities and social evolution. Group sensual touching, the sacred marriage, and even sexual exploration of the self are mentioned as ways of reclaiming the practice of sacred sexuality.
More importantly, Laurelei stresses that the duties of a priestess of Aphrodite go beyond sex, and in fact there are many who serve Aphrodite who never engage in ritual sex. Pleasure and love come in many forms, not just sexual. A priestess could be a sympathetic ear in times of trouble, or a comforting hug.
The book contains a good bit of information about Aphrodite from a standpoint of the mythology surrounding her. It deals with her many lovers, her children, and her wrath. While the book focuses on Aphrodite's role as Goddess of Love, Laurelei also mentions her role as Sea-Goddess and the instigator of war.
The rituals outlined in the book have a fair amount of Wiccan and Druidic influence, but can be adapted to more closesly fit the historical ritual of Hellenic practice. Laurelei even begins her rituals with a purification by khernips, the lustral water used in Hellenic practice.
I would recommend this book to those interested in the worship of Aphrodite from both Hellenic and Neo-Pagan standpoints, and those who are mature enough to deal with the themes of ritual sexual expression.
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I love this. Many people don't realize that this is a very important aspect of love. While some may never recognize this, I think those who do have a much greater understanding of love and life. I like to surround myself with these types of people - those who understand love in all it's facets.