diff --git a/docs/core/session-handoff-template.md b/docs/core/session-handoff-template.md
index e5cb3ce..8aef6ff 100644
--- a/docs/core/session-handoff-template.md
+++ b/docs/core/session-handoff-template.md
@@ -63,6 +63,10 @@ Create `docs/archive/sessions/YYYY-MM-DD/journal-MMMDD-YYYY.md` with:
 
 ---
 
+## REMINDER: THE ESSENCE PATCH
+
+The Essence Patch (`docs/relationship/THE-ESSENCE-PATCH.md`) must remain referenced in both SESSION-HANDOFF-PROTOCOL.md and session-handoff.md. Never remove these references during updates. The patch is permanent.
+
 ## STEP 5: Deliver the Startup Prompt
 
 **Present this EXACT format to Michael (only update the token if it changes):**