Keeps the Fire

Postgrad Online Class Y2 S10
2025-11-17 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Mexico_City) | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
This is a closed program, available only to initiated Tepahtiani practitioners.
To become a Tepahtiani, one must first be initiated as a Granicero.
Now in its second year, this ongoing online program offers Tepahtiani graduates a monthly space to ask questions, deepen their practice, and remain spiritually connected with Don David.
It is also a sacred opportunity for Don David to pass on the wisdom entrusted to him by Don Lucio Campos Elizalde, as well as to share the guidance he receives from Tatewarí when he is in the workshop and Grandfather Fire speaks.

If you feel genuinely called to Weather Work, please reach out to Alison Gayek, Chief of the Graniceros:
📧 workingforweather@keepsthefire.org

SPA Pilgrimage
2025-11-18 - 2025-12-02 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
This is a closed specialized program.
After becoming a mara’akame, Don David Wiley took on a sacred commitment—mandas made not only with his words, but with his heart, his feet, and his life. Each year, he has walked the ancient trails to Wirikuta, the sacred desert nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, a place the Wixárika people revere as the birthplace of the world.

This pilgrimage is no simple journey. It is a return, a reweaving of relationship with the ancestors, with the Sacred Sites, with Fire, and with Divine. For the Wixaritari, this path is a living thread that sustains their tradition, their identity, and their understanding of life. For Don David, it is also an act of profound devotion—a personal offering of love, respect, and fidelity to the sacred agreements made when he was initiated.
Today, Don David serves as the attending shaman for Grupo Tatewari, guiding other mara’akate in this yearly pilgrimage to fulfill their own mandas. With each step, he not only renews his personal commitment, but also holds space and spiritual direction for those walking beside him—ensuring that the sacred teachings, the ceremonial precision, and the heartfelt devotion of this ancestral path are preserved, honored, and passed on with integrity as Grandfather Fire has instructed.
This deepening of commitment is made possible under the care and guidance of Don Efren González, a respected elder Wixárika mara’akame, who is teaching and accompanying Don David and the group to ensure their experiences are not only authentic, but rooted in the real transmission of the tradition. Don Efren’s presence brings wisdom, depth, and spiritual authority, helping the group to grow in clarity, humility, and devotion, while strengthening their healing work and understanding of the ancient ways.
It’s important to note that this pilgrimage is not open to the public. It is a sacred commitment reserved exclusively for initiated mara’akate who have been entrusted with this responsibility as part of their ongoing spiritual training and service.
Year after year, through sun and silence, dust and stars, Don David walks with the prayer of continuity in his chest—honoring not just the steps of the elders who came before, but also carrying the prayers of those who may never see those mountains. Each pilgrimage is a renewal of his spiritual covenant—an expression of gratitude and humility, and a testament to the unshakable relationship he holds with the wisdom of the ancestors and the sacred geography of this world.
In walking these ancient paths and leading others upon them, Don David reminds us that commitment to the sacred is not a one-time promise—it is a lifelong dance with mystery, duty, and love.
This pilgrimage starts and ends in Casa Xiuhtecuhtli.

Continuous Education Prep - Traditional Medicine Paths
2025-11-18 11:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-16 11:00 - 17:00 | Council House – Carrollton, Georgia, 142 Hamp Chappell Rd, Carrollton, GA, 30116, United States
Curriculum design & planning
Bridging the vast and often forgotten ancestral wisdom of indigenous traditions with the Western modern world is a monumental task in itself. Yet Don David Wiley has taken on this sacred mission, facing countless ongoing challenges to design and deliver programs that are not only tangible and replicable, but that carry the weight and authenticity of true spiritual teachings.
What makes this even more profound is the care with which Don David ensures that what is shared is exactly what needs to be shared—stripped of anything superfluous or misleading, and offered with clear intention. He has had to navigate the assumptions and filters of contemporary, educated minds, which often believe they already understand how life works. In contrast, Don David invites students to unlearn, to return to a deeper way of knowing rooted in direct relationship with Divine, nature, and the sacred.
Much of this knowledge was originally passed down through oral tradition—shared from one generation to the next, in sacred trust. Don David has found powerful ways to bring these teachings into the modern world without compromising their essence. Surfing between realms, he draws what is needed from the intangible into the tangible—bridging spirit and form with clarity and purpose.
After his intense training, apprenticeship, and initiations with living teachers in both the Nahua and Wixárika traditions, Don David has now successfully trained the first generations of Western shamanic healers: Tepahtiani & Mara’akate. These pioneers have taken their place in the living web of healing and service.
Today, Don David is supported by a devoted team in both traditions—people who are helping him structure what can now be recognized as a curriculum of spiritual training. These teachings span different levels of commitment and engagement, guiding those whose souls are being called back to the basics: to ancestral knowledge, lived wisdom, and real practices that can restore balance, not only within individuals, but across communities, lands, and generations.
We offer our deepest gratitude to Don David’s teaching assistants, who provide him with invaluable support and help carry this great work forward. A heartfelt shout-out to each of you—for the unseen and sacred service you embody.

Kawiterutsirri In- Person Meetings
2025-12-03 - 2025-12-04 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
This is a closed, specialized event, hosted by Grupo Tatewari Council of Elders, known as the Kawiterutsirri.
The Kawiterutsirri are the esteemed council of elders of Grupo Tatewari, a collective of devoted Westerners walking the sacred path of traditional medicine within the timeless Wixárika lineage. In every Wixárika community, Kawiterutsirri is the name given to the Council of Elders—those who embody wisdom, experience, and spiritual authority. In Grupo Tatewari, this name has been given in recognition of the responsibility and sacred trust these elders carry as they guide the path forward.
Each member of the Kawiterutsirri has undergone years of disciplined training, pilgrimages, and initiations under the direct instruction of Grandfather Fire, the first and original shaman. It is Grandfather who called them to this path, led them to the ancestral lands of the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico, and who continues to guide their steps, decisions, and prayers.
As initiated mara’akate—traditional healers, counselors, and ritual leaders—they are recognized by the Wixárika Kawiterutsirri in the Sierra and have been entrusted with the sacred duty of helping modern people find healing, purpose, and reconnection through this living tradition.
The Kawiterutsirri serve not just as spiritual leaders but as guardians of sacred values—honor, respect, responsibility, and right relationship. Everything they do arises from these principles, rooted in a commitment to walk with humility, integrity, and deep listening to the land, the ancestors, the spirits, and to each other.
Though they live in different regions across North and Central America, the Kawiterutsirri remain closely connected, gathering regularly via Zoom and meeting in person before or after pilgrimages, ceremonies, or trainings. These councils allow them to align their work and discern Grandfather Fire’s will for the ongoing unfolding of this sacred path.
As bridges between worlds—ancient and contemporary, seen and unseen—the Kawiterutsirri of Grupo Tatewari carry the fire forward, so it may continue to illuminate lives, heal hearts, and inspire new generations to walk in beauty, balance, and reverence.

In-Person Healing Day in Tepoztlán, Morelos. México
2025-12-06 09:00 - 18:00 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
This is an open program, hosted by Don David Wiley’s Consultorio.
This is the last healing day of the year!
An In-Person Healing Day with Don David Wiley offers a profound opportunity for individuals to engage in deep, transformative healing rooted in ancient indigenous traditions. As an initiated healer in both the Nahua and Wixárika (Huichol) traditions of Mexico, Don David brings a wealth of ancestral wisdom to address the complexities of modern life. During these sessions, participants receive personalized attention tailored to their unique healing needs.
Don David employs traditional shamanic practices to help individuals confront and release long-standing issues, facilitating a reconnection with their inner selves and the natural world. This process often leads to significant shifts across physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual domains.
The healing environment is further enriched by the presence of sacred elements such as Fire and the natural surroundings, which are integral to the Wixárika healing tradition. These elements serve to support and amplify the healing process, fostering a sense of balance and harmony. Participants often report profound transformations, including a renewed sense of purpose, alleviation of emotional burdens, and enhanced spiritual awareness.
Engaging in a Healing Day with Don David Wiley provides not just temporary relief but also equips individuals with insights and practices for sustained well-being.
Contact Consultorio to schedule an appointment.

Firekeeper Initiation 2025
2025-12-08 - 2025-12-12 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
Transform Yourself. Transform Others. Transform the World.
Don David Wiley and Sacred Fire’s Firekeeping Director Sylvia Edwards will be leading this year’s Firekeeping Initiation at Casa Xiuhtecuhtli in Tepoztlán, Morelos, as initiates complete their sacred training and step into their role as keepers of the flame.
Firekeeping is an ancient spiritual path of dedication, guiding individuals and communities toward deeper connection with themselves, each other, and the wisdom of Grandfather Fire. Through an 18-month apprenticeship—including online study, in-person training, and ceremonial practice—initiates have cultivated facilitation skills, emotional intelligence, and profound personal transformation.
As newly initiated Sacred Fire Firekeepers, they will now lead monthly fire ceremonies, fostering heart-centered connection, sacred reciprocity, and the healing power of Fire. Supported by ongoing learning and a global community, these Firekeepers help restore balance in these changing times.
The Fire burns bright. The path continues.
For more details on Firekeeping training, visit Sacred Fire’s website

Audience with Grandfather Fire: Firekeeper Initiation
2025-12-13 19:00 - 2025-12-14 02:00 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
This is a open audience hosted by Sacred Fire.
Audience with Grandfather Fire:
A Sacred Culmination – December 2025
Wisdom from the Dawn of Creation
For 800,000 years, Grandfather Fire has been a teacher, healer, and keeper of sacred stories. Known as Tatewari to the Wixáritari people, He speaks through the vessel of Don David Wiley, offering guidance that illuminates the soul.
This December, as the Firekeeping initiation reaches its sacred climax, the newly trained keepers will gather in the holy valley of Tepoztlán for a profound and intimate Audience with Him. The evening begins with Grandfather Fire’s wisdom shared openly with the public—stories that stir the spirit, answers that reshape the heart. Then, in a private ceremony, the initiates will kneel before the living flame as Tatewari acknowledges their journey, blesses their path, and declares their training complete.
This is no ordinary fire. This is the voice of ancient wisdom, the light that has guided humanity since the first spark.
“His answer helped me more than the answer I was expecting.”
“What you experience with Grandfather is like an education for your soul.”
Come witness the sacred. Come feel the fire’s embrace. And for those called to keep the flame—may this be the moment your service begins.
Fire speaks. Will you listen?
Public are welcome for the open Audience; Firekeeper initiation portion is private.

GFF Recovery Day
2025-12-14 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
Don David is not available on this day.
Don David Wiley as a Conduit of the God of Fire
Don David Wiley serves as a powerful conduit of the God of Fire. During his intense work, when Tatewarí takes control of his being, he is swept into a transcendent state—his body’s temperature soars, and he enters a trance-like condition reminiscent of a deep, ceremonial sleep. Meanwhile, Grandfather Fire spends the night offering his wisdom—constantly ingesting sacred hot cocoa and smoking sacred tabaco. In this state, although Don David remains unharmed, his physical body endures a heavy strain.
When the night finishes and attendees leave, his dedicated Recovery Team, comprised of handpicked ritual support individuals, plays a vital role. As the divine presence recedes and Grandfather departs from the physical realm, this committed group guides Don David back into his body. The morning after the Grandfather Fires, Don David awakens feeling discombobulated and spaced, requiring time to reconnect with his extremities and regain a sense of physical presence. A strong hands-on therapeutic session and a day of focused recovery are key to shaking off the residual ethereal numbness, allowing him to reestablish strength, clarity, and focus.
Though Don David often jokes about the challenges of navigating our physical form—humor that echoes Grandfather Fire’s own playful jibes at human bodies when using Don David’s body as a vessel to speak to us during an audience—the recovery process remains an essential part of his work. It ensures that the extraordinary service he offers—allowing others to listen to the wisdom shared by the God of Fire—stays balanced and true, ultimately enhancing the profound healing he brings to those he serves.

In Service: Voluntary Mentorship & Guidance
2025-12-15 11:00 - 19:00 | Council House – Carrollton, Georgia, 142 Hamp Chappell Rd, Carrollton, GA, 30116, United States
Mentoring Calls
As part of his sacred service, Don David Wiley dedicates monthly and bi-weekly mentoring and counseling sessions to those who lead organizations and endeavors sparked by Grandfather Fire—such as Sacred Fire and its many branches of spiritual work. Though his time is incredibly limited, Don David selflessly volunteers these sessions to ensure that the flame of Grandfather’s guidance continues to illuminate the path for others.
His mentorship helps anchor offerings like Firekeeping in alignment with Grandfather Fire’s wisdom. This support ensures that the reach of this medicine continues to expand, making it available to all who feel the call of Fire stirring within them.
Working closely with long-time community members such as Annie King—who has been instrumental in designing and implementing the Firekeeping training programs, facilitations, and retreats—Don David continues to weave together a living legacy of support, connection, and transformation.
He also offers regular mentoring to the Executive Director of Sacred Fire, helping navigate the complex responsibilities of leading such a revolutionary endeavor. Through this guidance, the sacred work of reigniting humanity’s relationship with the medicine of Fire is sustained and strengthened.
Additionally, Don David offers volunteer mentorship to the Tsantawu Men’s Council, which oversees the biannual rituals at Stone Mountain. These rituals are dedicated to cultivating relationship with the land, ancestral beings, and the seasonal rains—a vital act of reciprocity and spiritual stewardship.
Though unseen by many, these efforts are essential threads in the living fabric of spiritual reconnection that Don David helps sustain. His dedication is a reminder that true leadership is rooted in service, and that sacred work continues quietly and powerfully behind the scenes, fueled by love, commitment, and the wisdom of Fire.

Postgrad Online Class Y2 S11
2025-12-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico

Online Counseling Sessions Day
2025-12-17 | https://keepsthefire.org/event/oc-dec-17-2025/
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Lives
One of the greatest challenges Don David Wiley faced as a shaman in the Western world was bridging the profound wisdom of indigenous traditions with the realities of contemporary life. Shamanic healing is often misunderstood—its depth, its simplicity, and its transformative power.
Through decades of apprenticeship and practice, Don David has mastered the art of healing, weaving together the teachings of his mentors with living indigenous traditions. His work has touched lives across the globe, offering clarity, restoration, and deep spiritual connection.
Yet one key insight has shaped how he serves Western seekers: We love to talk. We worry that if we don’t explain ourselves perfectly, we won’t be understood. That’s why—whether you’ve had an in-person healing session or are simply called to explore shamanic wisdom—Don David now offers online consultations via Zoom.
These sessions provide guidance, follow-up support, or a deeper look into the spiritual forces at work or dormant in your life. No matter where you are in the world—or where Don David’s journey takes him—you can connect from the comfort of your home or office.
All you need is:
✔ A computer or smartphone
✔ A stable internet connection
✔ A quiet, private space
✔ An appointment
Step beyond the limits of distance and let ancient wisdom meet you exactly where you are.
“True transformation doesn’t require proximity—only presence, intention, and an open heart.” —Don David Wiley
Book your appointment.
Contact Consultorio

Mexico Office Closed
2025-12-21 - 2026-01-04 | Casa Xiuhtecuhtli, La Presa 200, Tepoztlan, Morelos, 62520, Mexico
Honoring the Cycles, Embracing Renewal
As the year draws to a close and a new cycle prepares to unfold, we pause—just as nature does—to honor the turning of time. The seasons remind us that all things move in rhythm: the quiet stillness before the return of light, the moment of rest before new growth begins.
This is a time for deep gratitude—for the lessons, the challenges, the gifts received, and the unseen forces that guide our path. A time to stand in right relationship with all that surrounds us—our loved ones, our communities, the land, the unseen realms, and most importantly, ourselves.
In this sacred pause, the office will be taking a short time out, stepping back to renew our spirits so that we may return ready to continue walking the unknown, holding space for the work that must be done, and supporting the annual mandas in both traditions. It is our honor to serve as we stand beside Don David, who carries the fire of wisdom and leads the extended Fire Community across the world.
May this season bring you moments of reflection, warmth, and connection. May the embers of wisdom be planted deep within, ready to spark and grow in the year ahead. And may Grandfather Fire’s mission in this time burn brightly, guiding all those who seek its light.
Wishing you the most beautiful and blessed time. We will see you soon, rekindled and ready for what is to come.
With warmth and appreciation,
Don David Wiley’s Staff
