Conducting a seance requires a belief that the deceased are still out there somewhere, on the "other side." People use the ceremony as a means of communication with the dead, and often use the opportunity to ask questions to "ghosts" that have long remained unanswered. Sometimes the experience can offer closure when a loved one has died unexpectedly. You will get the most out of a seance if you enter with an open mind and keep your expectations realistic.

The sitters at a seance are guests that you have invited to share the experience with. They participate by directing their energy towards finding the deceased, and provide support.

When choosing your sitters, make sure to only include people who genuinely want to be present, and who are open to the idea of a seance. Any negativity or skepticism could interfere with your results. Optimally, they will also be interested in communicating with a loved one or friend. They should be able to come into this with loving energy and a sense of purpose. http://www.newagedirectory.com/sixth/seance.htm

Before you commence the ceremony, set up to create the proper atmosphere.

1. First of all, your location should be comfortable and free of any outside distractions. Using a house where the deceased has spent time is optimal.
2. All house phones, cell phones and pagers should be turned off. Not just on vibrate, but completely off.
3. All guests must be able to sit around a single table.
4. A white candle should be placed in the center of the table.
5. Any meaningful objects belonging to the deceased should be placed onto the table.
6. Lights should be dimmed or turned off completely. http://www.ehow.com/how_12531_hold-seance.html

Here's how to conduct the ceremony:

1. All sitters should set their hands on top of the table, fingers gently spread
2. Everyone should touch fingers
3. Everyone should close their eyes
4. Play soothing music for 10 minutes or so
5. The medium should remind everyone of the purpose of the seance
6. The medium should remind all to feel love in their hearts, and emanate loving energy
7. Everyone should be encouraged to bring up memories of the deceased
8. Everyone should then focus on the spirit of the deceased
9. Yes or no questions to the deceased should then be asked
10. Continue until satisfied