Lady Victoria Eclectic Pagan's blog: "Imbolc"

This is what I am preparing to do for my local groups workshop presentation for Imbolc. Priapus, the Roman patron god of gardens, viniculture, sailors and fishermen, was a god of fertility, and was always depicted with an erect phallus. In some traditions, a Priapic wand -- phallus-like in appearance -- is made, and used in ritual to bring forth the new growth of spring. Originally, Priapus was a fertility god from Asia Minor, especially in Lampsacus on the Hellespont, and was the most important god of the local pantheon. He is a son of Dionysus and Aphrodite, and a strong phallic fertility deity. Carved images of Priapus, were placed in the fields and gardens to ensure fruitfulness and protection. He was imported into Rome from Lampascus where Pausanias reported he was supreme among all gods. The Roman Priapus was far more popular than his Greek version. He was introduced in Greece around 400 BCE but not very popular. Let us all share in the splendid glory of Mother Earth and awaken the ground and the trees, calling for spring's return as we prepare to plant our own “seeds” (new projects, changes in our own being, wishes for fertility, garden preparations, etc…) for fruitful endeavors. Here's How: First, you'll need the following items: • A stick • An acorn • Craft glue • Ribbons or yarn in brown, green, yellow, and gold • Small bells 1. Strip the bark from the stick, and create a small notch on one end. Glue the acorn to the end of the stick. 2. When the glue is dry, wrap the stick in the ribbons or yarn beginning at the acorn -- leave extra ribbon at the end to hang down like streamers. Tie the bells on to the end of the streamers. 3. Use the wand outside around the time of Imbolc. The wand symbolizes the god of the forest, or whatever fertility god exists in your tradition. Shake the bells, pointing the wand at the ground and trees, in order to wake the sleeping plants within the earth. If you like, you can say the following incantation: Wake, wake, plants in the earth, spring is a time of light and rebirth. Hear, hear this magical sound, and grow, grow, out of the ground.

THRYPHON ZAREZAN (Bulgarian, Tryphonos Trimmer's Day - February 1st) Saint Tryphon is worshipped as the guardian of vineyards and this festival is in his honor. It is observed not only by vine-growers, but also by market-gardeners and tavern-keepers. Early in the morning the mistress of the house kneads some bread - unleavened or leavened. She also cooks a barnyard hen, which - following the tradition - is stuffed with rice or grouts. The hen is stewed in one piece and then roasted on a sachak (a kind of shallow copper pan). The loaf of bread, the hen and a wooden vessel (buklitza) full of wine are put in a new woolen bag. With such bags over their shoulders the men go to the vineyards. They make the sign of the cross, take the pruning-knives and cut, each one of them, three sticks from three main stems. Afterwards they make the sign of the cross again and pour the wine they have brought over the vines. This ritual is called 'trimming'. Following this ceremony, they single out 'the king of vineyards'. Only then the general feast begins. 'The king' is crowned with a wreath of vine sticks and decorated by another garland - across his shoulders. He is seated on a cart. The vine-growers draw the cart and, accompanied by the sounds of bagpipes, rebecks and a drum, make their way to the village or town. When arriving there, they stop in front of each house. The respective hostess brings out wine in a white caldron, offers it first to the king to drink and then treats the people of his suite. The wine left in the caldron is thrown over the king, pronouncing at the same time a blessing: "May we have a good harvest! May it overflow thresholds!" The king answers this blessing with: "Amen". When arriving at his own house, the king changes his clothes and, still wearing the wreaths on his head and over his shoulders, sits at a long table to meet people from the whole village. That is why, as a rule, a well-to-do man is chosen to be the king of this festival. The following two days, known as 'trifuntsi' in the folklore, are venerated for protection from wolves. Women do not cut with scissors in order to prevent wolves' mouths from opening, do not knit, do not sew. They make a ritual bread and after serving it to their neighbors, they put morsels of it in the fodder they give to the animals - to protect both cattle and people from wolves. DISTING (Teutonic, Feb 14th): is also known as Ewemeolc. The name Ewemeolc means "ewe's milk" and is named because it is the time of year when ewes gave birth and their milk was available. Common traditions include the blessing of objects/tools (due to the ancient custom of "charming the plough" at this time), beginning new projects, etc. Corresponding to the Celtic Imbolc, this holiday is typically celebrated at the beginning of February.

Also known as Feast of the Purification of the Virgin. Known in Mexico and Latin America as Dia de la Candelaria. In Hungary, February 2nd is called Blessing of the Candle of the Happy Woman. In Poland, it is called Mother of God Who Saves Us From Thunder. February 2 is one of the great cross-quarter days which make up the wheel of the year. It falls midway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox and in many traditions is considered the beginning of spring. The earliest whisperings of Springtide are heard now as the Goddess nurtures Her Young Son. As a time of the year associated with beginning growth, Imbolc is an initiatory period for many and Covens usually initiate new members at this time. Here we plant the "seeds" of our hopes and dreams for the coming summer months. The promises of the return of the light and the renewal of life which were made at the winter solstice are now becoming manifest. It's the dawn of the year. It's the time when a woman who is pregnant begins showing. It's time to creep out of the hibernation of winter, cautiously, like the Ground Hog who supposedly emerges on this day to check his shadow. It's the time of germination. This is a traditional time for new beginnings. In Western Europe, this was the time for preparing the fields for the first planting. This is a significant moment in a community which depends on the earth for sustenance. The fields were purified and offerings were made to the goddess. Some may feel that February 2nd is a bit early to expect springtime signs; but, remember that BEFORE the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, Candlemas fell on February 14th. So, (some) farmers observed Groundhog Day on the 14th because it was closer to the arrival of springtime. Actually, this festival has always been associated with fire. In ancient Armenia, this was the date of the pagan spring festival in honor of Mihr, the God of fire. Originally, fires were built in his honor in open places and a lantern was lit which burned in the temple throughout the year. When Armenia became Christian, the fires were built in church courtyards instead. People danced about the flames, jumped over them and carried home embers to kindle their own fires from the sacred flames. “Candlemas” is the Christianized name for the holiday. In Celtic Traditions, this holy day is called Imbolc and begins at sunset on February 1 continuing through sunset February 2nd. There are several different derivations offered for the name Imbolc: from Ol-melc (ewe's milk) because the ewes are lactating at this time, from Im-bolg (around the belly) in honor of the swelling belly of the earth goddess, and from folcaim (I wash) because of the rites of purification which took place at this time. For in the womb of Mother Earth, hidden from our mundane sight but sensed by a keener vision, there are stirrings. The seed that was planted in her womb at the solstice is quickening and the new year grows. The symbol of the purification has to do with the old custom of “churching women”. It was believed that women were impure for six weeks after giving birth. And since Mary gave birth at the winter solstice, she wouldn’t be purified until February 2. Jewish women went through a purification ceremony 40 days after the birth of a male child (80 days after the birth of a female child). The theme of purification remained a link between Christmas and Candlemas. In Pagan symbolism, this might be retranslated as when the Great Mother once again becomes the young Maiden Goddess. Like many miraculous babies, Jesus is recognized as a future hero from the time of his infancy. One of these recognitions occurs in Luke 2:21 when he is being presented in the temple (at the time of Mary's purification) and a holy man, Simeon, recognizes him as the Christ, calling him “a light for revelation.” The Roman Church was quick to confiscate this symbolism as well, using “Candlemas” as the day to bless all the church candles that would be used for the coming liturgical year. Traditionally, candles and lamps are a symbol of rejoicing. Candlemas in the Middle Ages was the day in which the church blessed candles for the entire year. (Remember, there was no electricity. Candles were necessary for lighting your home in the dark of winter.) During this blessing, a procession of worshipers would hold candles in their hands. It was believed that wherever these candles were then used, they would chase away the devil. The unused candle stubs were saved because they were believed to be good luck charms. Today, in many Roman Catholic countries, the candles that are blessed on Candlemas are believed to have special powers, often being lighted during storms, illness, christenings, funerals etc. In Sicily they are brought out when there is an earthquake or when someone is dying. The candles that are "purified" or blessed on February 2 by the church are also used to bless people's throats on St. Blaise's Day (February 3) to protect them from colds and getting fish bones stuck in their throats. Since Lent can sometimes begin as early as February 4th, some Candlemas customs became associated with Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras) and the beginning of Lent, which is a time of purification. The holiday is also called “Brigit’s Day”, in honor of the great Irish Goddess Brigit. At her shrine, the ancient Irish capitol of Kildare, a group of nineteen priestesses (no men allowed) kept a perpetual flame burning in her honor. She was considered a Goddess of fire, patroness of smithcraft, poetry, and healing (especially the healing touch of midwifery). This symbolism was occasionally expressed by saying that Brigit had two sisters, also named Brigit. (Incidentally, another form of the name Brigit is Bride, and it is thus she bestows her special patronage on any woman about to be married or handfasted, the woman being called “bride” in her honor.) The Roman Catholic Church could not very easily call the Great Goddess of Ireland a demon, so they canonized her instead. Henceforth, she would be ‘Saint’ Brigit, patron saint of smithcraft, poetry, and healing. Brigit’s holiday was chiefly marked by the kindling of sacred fires, since she symbolized the fire of birth and healing, the fire of the forge, and the fire of poetic inspiration. Bonfires were lighted on the beacon tors, and chandlers celebrated their special holiday. Lupercalia is an ancient Roman festival held annually in honor Lupercus [aka Faunus], the Roman god of fertility, woodlands, and pastures. Lupercalia is older than Rome itself. The festivities were run by the Luperci, or "Brotherhood of the Wolf". This took place in the Lupercal, a cave were, according to tradition, the twins Romulus and Remus were reared by a wolf. This cave is located at the base of the Palatin Hill. Since Lupercus was a god of shepherds, and the dog as protector of the flock, two male goats and a dog were sacrificed, and the blood of the goats was smeared on the foreheads of two youths with a knife. The knife was then wiped on wool dipped in milk, and the youths were required to laugh. The Luperci, who administered the rites, were crowned, anointed, and wore only an apron of goatskin. Women would line up along the road to receive lashes from the whips to insure fertility. Bishop [pope] Gelasius replaced the Roman tradition known as Lupercalia with the Feast of the Purification of the Virgin in A.D. 494. Lupercalia was first observed February 15 to honor the corn goddess Ceres and her daughter Proserpine (who was carried to the underworld by Pluto). This observance called for a torchlight parade, to represent Ceres' attempt to search for her daughter all over Sicily. Torches were lighted from the flames of Mount Aetna at night so she could continue searching. Customs of Lupercalia have been carried over into Valentine's Day, Candlemas, Feast of the Nativity and possibly also Carnival. So what does all this blessing of candles have to do with groundhogs and shadows you ask? There was a medieval superstition that all hibernating animals (not just the groundhog) came out of their caves and dens on Candlemas to check on the weather. If they could see their shadow, it meant that winter would go on for another 6 weeks (and they could go back to sleep.) A cloudy day meant that spring was just around the corner. In England, France and Canada, the farmers used to watch for the stirring of the "Candlemas Bear" as a sign that springtime was coming. In Ireland, it was the hedgehog. In German it was the badger. The return of hibernating animals meant nature was giving them a sign. A change in seasons was being announced! And, anyone whose livelihood or survival depended on the changing of seasons paid very close attention to all signs. According to a German proverb, "The badger peeps out of his hole on Candlemas Day, and, if he finds snow, walks abroad; but if he sees the sun shining he draws back into his hole." A sunny Candlemas predicts a cold spring. In America the same story is told about the groundhog or woodchuck. When the ground hog emerges from his winter burrow on this day, if he sees his shadow, he returns, and the winter will last for six more weeks. If he does not see his shadow, i.e. the day is cloudy, then he remains outside in anticipation of an early spring. If Candlemas Day be fair and bright, Winter will have another flight; But if it be dark with clouds and rain, Winter is gone, and will not come again. If Candlemas Day be dry and fair, The half o the winter's to come and mair; If Candlemas Day be wet and foul, The half o the winter's gane at Yule. Farmer's Proverbs 'A farmer should, on Candlemas Day, Have half his corn and half his hay.' 'On Candlemas Day if the thorns hang adrop, You can be sure of a good pea crop.' Candlemas Superstitions • A candle which drips on one side when carried in church on Candlemas, denotes a death during the year of someone dear. • Snowdrops are considered to be unlucky if brought into the house before Candlemas Day, representing a parting or death. • Any Christmas decorations not taken down by Twelfth Night (January 5th) should be left up until Candlemas Day and then taken down. • Another superstition is that on this day if a young woman chases the first crow she sees, it would fly in the direction of her future husband, but if the crow should pass a church yard then she would never marry.

Groundhogs, Shadows and Growing Light All things around us change constantly, especially the apparent relationships between what we experience on Earth and what we can observe in the sky. The Sun appears to move and everything on Earth responds. Today we know full well that it is Earth cruising in its orbit that causes seasons, but for centuries it had appeared to earthbound observers that it was the Sun moving in a cycle to increase and decrease its light throughout the year. The most highly publicized dates to celebrate this oscillating light-of-life are the times when the Sun appears to turn on the horizon in its rising and setting points, the summer and winter solstices. In between these are the autumn and spring equinoxes when day lengths are most rapidly changing. Less frequently noted, yet just as interesting, are the mid-way points between solstices and equinoxes, the so called "cross-quarter" dates. As far as the factors that produce weather are concerned, these are times when climatic changes are most pronounced. One of these transitional dates is approaching now. It has an interesting history, starting with astronomy and ending with what many consider to be a lowly creature that spends much of its time underground, but once each year becomes a symbol of the celebration of growing light with the approach of spring. We see in much of Europe the summer solstice is referred to as mid-summer and the winter solstice as mid-winter. Indeed, these extremes in Earth-Sun relationships, when we have longest and shortest days and when, in the northern hemisphere, the Sun's energy is greatest on the one hand and least on the other, are the central times for solar radiation effects that relate to seasons. With this line of thinking, the start of autumn would be the mid-way time between summer solstice and autumnal equinox, currently persisting as Halloween. In this same vane, the start of springtime weather would be the cross-quarter date between winter solstice and vernal equinox, Groundhog Day. The Celts once celebrated it as Imbolg, honoring Brigit, the Earth Mother. Imbolg referred to "ewe's milk" in the lambing season, signaling spring and Brigit was god of fire and fertility for the Celts, but later Christians dedicated the day to Saint Brigit, patron of cattle and dairy farming. Legend says that Saint Brigit was born at sunrise on the threshold, neither inside nor outside of the house. Thus, she represents the transition to spring. She nursed on milk from a supernatural cow, dried her dresses on a clothesline of sunbeams and everything around her glowed as if on fire. This same cross-quarter date was celebrated in Scotland as Candlemas, the legendary day when Christ was first presented in the temple. It was said that Candlemas was the time when the weather pattern for the remainder of the year would be apparent: Candlemas is fair and clear, There'll be twa winters in the year. Thus, people watched the weather on Candlemas to judge how the rest of the year would go. If Candlemas was clear, it signaled to those who clung to this tradition that foul weather was ahead, but if it was cloudy, then one could expect conditions to improve. This contrary theory of weather predicting became associated with hibernating animals, such as bears and hedgehogs, coming out of the ground to see if they cast shadows. Thus, in America, the Irish Imbolg, Saint Brigit's Day and the Scottish Candlemas were transformed into Groundhog Day. Like Candlemas, if the weather is clear, allowing the Groundhog, as he comes out of hibernation on this mythical day, to see his shadow, it is said to signal persisting winter and late spring. If, on the other hand, the day is clouded and no shadow appears, the weather ahead should be warm with early spring. Some weather prophets suggest a basis for this: that clear weather in early February usually results from cold, clear stable air masses which are likely to persist in repeated patterns with the result of sustained cold temperatures. Everything around us seems to inaugurate beauty as we enter the month of February. The stars at eventide are stunning: Canis Major, with Sirius, brightest star in the night; Orion has ruddy Betelgeuse, white Rigel, the three jewels of the belt, and the nebulous sword; two gem-star clusters, Pleiades and Hyades, bedeck the constellation Taurus, along with the pale rose star Aldebaron; Auriga has the sun-yellow star Capella; and the Twins of Gemini remind us of old stories of argonauts and recent ones of astronauts. These are the brightest and most colorful stars in all the heavens, forming some of the easiest patterns to learn. Look high to the south as darkness comes and you will see them. What is most worth applauding this time of year is the combination of factors causing weather change to be so apparent. We have made it through the short dreary days of winter and light lingers longer with each new day. It is easier to get up earlier and go more cheerfully to work, school or play. In our part of the world, light is increasing, promising warmth, north-flying flocks, sprouts springing from wet ground, and feelings of joy being out under the sky, both day and night. Judged by the rapidly changing conditions, Groundhog Day can well be thought of as the beginning of spring. A time of diminishing shadows. A time for celebrating light!

Symbolism of Imbolc: Purity, Growth and Renewal, Fertility, and dispensing of the old and making way for the new. Symbols of Imbolc: Brideo'gas, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid's Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs. Colors of Imbolc: White, Pink, Red, Yellow, lt. Green, Brown. Hand-Dipped Candles From Lady Morgan Crystal Moonstone's Book of Shadows Supplies: 2-4 pounds of Paraffin Wax (the kind used in canning) or beeswax (which is usually expensive). Candle wick (available at most hobby and craft stores) oils and herbs (for scent and magickal goals) candle dye (also expensive) or crayons (for color) wax paper a wooden spoon a double broiler 1. Begin by melting the wax in a double broiler. If you don't have one, you can use a large pot filled half full of water and a large coffee tin with the wax in it, sitting inside the pot. Heat the water to boiling first and cut up your wax so it will melt quickly. Once the water is boiling, turn the heat down and place the tin of wax inside of it. Keep the water hot enough to keep the wax melted but not so hot that the paraffin catches fire (which it has been known to do over high heat). 2. While the wax to melting, stir with a wooden spoon (never use metal) & make sure it all is completely melted. 3. Also, while the wax is melting, mix the herbs (if more than one) in a small bowl. 4. After the wax is completely melted and been checked, break the crayons up and put them into the wax. Keep stirring until all of the crayons have melted and the color is even and smooth, with no streaks. Keep in mind that the candle will be a shade or so lighter when dry. The more crayons - the deeper and richer the color, so experiment. 5. Next, add the herbs to the wax. Empower with your energy and magickal intention while mixing the wax. Stir with the wooden spoon until it is thoroughly mixed. Next add 10-20 drops of essential oil (please, no synthetics when making candles for magickal or ritual use) to the wax until it smells strongly of the fragrance intended. Now your wax is ready. 6. Start with a long piece of wick - twice the size of your desired candle length plus 3 inches (you will be making 2 candles at once). Bend the wick in the middle and hold it by the bend. Dip the wick into the wax and then lift back out. Getting started is the hardest because the wick will float on top of the wax until it has enough wax on it to weigh it down. Allow it to get completely cold between dippings when you first start. 7. After your candle has started to take shape you can speed up the process a little. I keep a pan of cool water nearby and dip the candles in the water after each dipping in the wax. While this speeds up the process a little, candle making is a slow process but very well worth the time and energy you put into it. 8. Keep dipping the candles and allowing them to cool & then dip again. When you have achieved the proper size, hang them to dry until the wax has set but the candles aren't too hard. Then roll them on the wax paper to smooth out the shape. Once the candle shape is too your liking, dip 1 or 2 more times to make sure your candle is smooth. Trim off any excess wax to make a bottom with a sharp knife. Cut the wick and hang your candles to dry. You are done! Female Fertility Craft This sachet is easily constructed. During the day, it should be carried close to the skin at all times. If it is made small enough, it can be easily and comfortably placed in a bra. At night, or during love-making, it can be placed either under a mattress or under a pillow. In a pink or green cloth bag, combine the following ingredients: 1 Pinch of Hawthorn flowers 1 Pinch of Dried Oak leaves 1 Pinch of Patchouli (or a drop of Patchouli Oil) 1 Pinch of Powdered Mandrake Priapic Wand Materials: Small Tree Branch, Acorn, Thin Brown String or Thread, Yellow, Green, and Gold 1/4" Ribbon, Small Gold/Silver Jingle Bells. Select a small branch about 1/2" to 3/4" in diameter. Cut top end flat. Approx. 1/2" below top score a groove with a sharp knife. Take 1' long piece of string/thread and tie in groove. Take another 1' piece of thread and tie in groove on opposite side of branch. Place acorn at top of branch (flat end) and adhere with some glue. Now pull the string up over the cap and wind once around acorn. Repeat with all 3 other pieces of string. Pull strings back down to the groove in the branch and tie off. This will hold the acorn in place. Decorate the branch by wrapping it with the ribbons, leaving enough length at top for streamers. Tie gold/silver jingle bells to the ends of the ribbons. Use this magical wand to help the sleeping plants and animals wake up and prepare for Spring. Corn Husk Doll to represent the Goddess Brigid Things You Need 12 corn husks, yarn, string or cord Get the husks from 2 or 3 ears of corn. Soak them in water until they are soft and easy to bend. Put together 3 corn husks that are the same length and fold them in half. Tie a string one inch from the fold to make a head. For the arms, cut two corn husk leaves about 5 inches long. Tie strings 1/2 inch from end to make hands Carefully part the husks of the body and slide arms through into place. Tie string around the body just below the arms to hold them in place. Paint or use markers to make a face and clothes on the doll. You may also use scraps of material to make clothes for your doll. Dress the doll in white or blue with a necklace that represents the seasons. Lay it in a long basket to represent the bed, adorned with ribbons, (You can either make your own brides bed, or you can use a basket, but make the bed welcoming, like you expect the Goddess to sleep in it, then leave it in a warm place, as an offering to Her). Light white candles on either side of the basket, and say: "Welcome the bride both maiden and mother; rest and prepare for the time of the seed; cleansed and refreshed from labors behind her; with the promise of spring she lays before me." Imbolc Incense 3 parts Frankincense 2 parts Dragon's Blood 1/2 part Red Sandalwood 1 part Cinnamon A few drops Red Wine To this mixture add a pinch of the first flower (dry it first) that is available in your area at the time of Imbolc (February 1st). Burn during Wiccan ceremonies on Imbolc, or simply to attune with the symbolic rebirth of the Sun --- the fading of winter and the promise of Spring. (The above recipe for Imbolc Incense is directly quoted from Scott Cunningham's book: The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews, page 72, Llewellyn Publications, 1992.) Oil For Sabbat: See OILS Candlemas Ritual Potpourri A small cauldron filled with homemade potpourri can be used as a fragrant altar decoration, burned (outdoors) as an offering to the old Goddess during or after a Sabbat celebration, or wrapped in decorative paper and ribbons and given to a Wiccan sister as a Sabbat gift. 45 drops Myrrh Oil 1 cup Oak Moss 2 cups Dried Heather Flowers 2 cups Dried Wisteria 1 cup Dried Yellow Tulip Petals 1/2 cup Dried Basil 1/2 cup Dried and Chopped Bay Leaves Mix the myrrh oil with the oak moss, and then add the remaining ingredients. Stir the potpourri well and then store in a tightly covered ceramic or glass container. (The above recipe for Candlemas Ritual Potpourri is directly quoted from Gerina Dunwich's book: The Wicca Spellbook: A Witch's Collection of Wiccan Spells, Potions and Recipes", page 161, A Citadel Press Book, Carol Publishing Group, 1994/1995.) Imbolc Oil Put in soap or anoint candles 5 drops frankincense 5 drops rosemary 3 drops cinnamon 2 drops sandalwood Add a piece of rowan and a small hematite, garnet, and clear quartz crystal. A spicy, sunny scent for awakening the earth. Candlemas Candle Wheel Materials: Craft wreath Eight white candles Ivy leaves or vines Glue gun Directions: Either drill thick holes into the wreath so that candles can be placed inside, or just secure them with screw-bottom candleholders or glue gun glue. Place the ivy leaves around in a decorative fashion. Ritual use: The eight candles are symbolic of the eight spokes of the year, and spinning the circle into motion at Imbolc is important. In ritual, the candles can be solemnly lit with a cauldron or bowl placed in the middle of the candle wheel. The cauldron or bowl can have the Wish Tree in the middle of it, with water all around it, and have new pennies thrown into it while cementing the wishes. Also the tree and the candle wheel can be toasted. More Ideas and Activities for Imbolc * Make or decorate candles * Brighid, the Celtic goddess of fire, healing, and poetry is considered the patron Goddess of Imbolc. Read up on her as a Celtic goddess and as her later incarnation, St. Brigit. * Burn the evergreen boughs that decorated your home during the winter holidays in the Imbolc Fires and celebrate the return of the Sun's strength and the Goddess as the Maiden. * Brighid is the goddess of poetry. Write a poem in her honor, and read it aloud during any Imbolc ritual you may have planned. * Cleanse and re-consecrate your ritual tools and clean your altar. * Go through all your herbs and discard those that are more than a year old * Weave "Brigit's crosses" from straw or wheat to hang around the house for protection * Perform rites of spiritual cleansing and purification * Make "Brigit's beds" to ensure fertility of mind and spirit (and body, if desired) * Ritually cleanse your home and start your "spring" cleaning * Make a Crown of Light (i.e. of candles for the High Priestess to wear for the Imbolc Circle, similar to those worn on St. Lucy's Day in Scandinavian countries. * Place a lighted candle in each and every window of the house, beginning at sundown on Candlemas Eve (February 1), allowing them to continue burning until sunrise. Make sure that such candles are well seated against tipping and guarded from nearby curtains, etc. * Buy a "salt lick" block and leave it out for the wild animals. * Make a window garden with seeds, soil, old glass jars or rinse some tuna or cat food cans, and get ready for spring! Easy items are beans, mints, marigolds. Even carrot or pineapple tops and avocado pits are fun to do. * Make a Bride doll * Make a tiny "Candle Garden" by filling a small aluminum pan with fine salt or sand and "planting" birthday candles, Hanukkah candles or even tea lights in the "garden" * Tie tiny strips of fabric in trees near a stream and ask Bride for her influence in your life. Use cotton strips and the birds will use them for nesting or they will bio-degrade over time * Meditate as a group. Have everyone explore what it would feel like to be a seed deep in the Earth, feeling the first stirrings of life. Lie on the floor and put out tendrils. Stretch and bloom. * Have a bardic circle where everyone brings poetry, songs or a short story that they have written to honor Brigid (Brigit/Brigid/Bride was the daughter of Dagda. She was the protector of the poets, the forge and the healing persons.) * Go for a walk. Search for signs of spring. Take off your shoes and socks and squish your toes in the mud! * Lead a group on a parade outside, banging on pots and pans or playing musical instruments to awaken the spirits of the land. * Hold some herb seeds in your hands. Talk to the seeds. Bless them with growth and happiness. Fill them with love. Plant an in-door herb garden.

Pronounced: im-bolk Also known as: Candlemas Northern Hemisphere Date: February 2 Southern Hemisphere Date: August 1 Astrological Sign: 15 degrees Aquarius Primary Focus: New growth, end of winter, rituals of purification, offerings deity, candle rituals Origins: Imbolc originated in Ireland as a holy day for Brigid, the Great Mother Goddess, who was in the form of a bride for the returned Sun God. The word means "in milk." Meaning: This is a Sabbat of purification after the shut-in life of winter through the renewing power of the Sun. It is also a festival of light and of fertility, once marked in Europe with huge blazes, torches, and fire in every form. Fire here represents Witches on illumination and inspiration as much as light and warmth. Myth: Imbolc marks the recovery of the Goddess after giving birth to the God. The lengthening periods of light awaken Her. The God is a young boy but His power is felt in the longer days. The warmth fertilizes the Earth (the Goddess), causing seeds to germinate and sprout. And so the earliest beginnings of spring occur.

Imbolc Foods All Dairy Products, Curries, Onions, Chives, Garlic, Spiced Wines, Seeds, Honey Cake, Sacred Breads, Short Bread, Apple Cider, White Cookies, Iced Spring Water, Buttermilk Bread, Herbal Teas IMBOLC RECIPES IRISH SODA BREAD 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour -- unbleached, enriched 1 1/2 cups Whole wheat flour -- stone-ground 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda 1 1/4 cups Buttermilk Set the baking rack in the center of the oven and place a baking stone (if available) on the rack. Preheat the oven to 375. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Mix to incorporate. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the buttermilk. Mix quickly to incorporate the milk evenly. It may be easier to mix with the hands than with a spoon. Form the dough into a loaf shape and place in a nonstick 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2" loaf pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, until well browned and a skewer inserted in the center comes out dry. Remove from the oven and the baking pan. Place on a wire rack to cool. PANNEKOEKEN (German Pancake) 2 Tablespoons butter 6 eggs 1 cup flour 1/2 teaspoons salt 2 Tablespoons sugar 1 cup milk Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place butter in oven pancake pan. Heat for 2 minutes or until butter melts. Spread evenly in pan. In large bowl, beat eggs slightly. Stir in flour, sugar and salt. Gradually add milk, beating until smooth. Pour into pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325 degrees. Bake 40 - 45 minutes or until it reaches a deep golden brown. Remove from oven and immediately slide pancake onto a serving plate. Fill with fresh fruit and top with confectioners sugar. Serves 6. This recipe is served at The Haddie Pierce House Bed & Breakfast. Imbolc Ritual Cake 13/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup water 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 tbs. poppyseeds 1 tbs. grated lemon peel 1 tsp. baking soda 2 tbs. lemon juice 1/2 tsp. salt powdered sugar This is all done in one pan, so clean up is a breeze! Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour, sugar, poppyseeds, baking soda, and salt with a fork in an ungreased 9"x9"x2" baking pan. Stir in the remaining ingredients, except the powdered sugar. Bake 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Makes 8 servings. Returning Sun Spice Bread 1 1/4 cup flour 1/8 cup poppyseeds 2 tsp. baking powder 3/4 cup raisins, plain or golden 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 cup butter/margarine 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 3/4 cup Karo golden corn syrup 1/2 cup light brown sugar 4 tbs. milk 1 large egg, beaten 1 tsp. mixed spices** **Equal parts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Sift the flour, soda, and baking powder into a non-metal bowl. Add the mixed spice and ginger. Next add the brown sugar and raisins. Mix. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. In a small sauce pan, melt the butter and the syrup over a low heat, then pour liquid into the well in the middle of the flour mixture. Add the beaten egg and the milk, and mix very well. Pour into a well greased 2-lb loaf pan and bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees for 40-50 minutes. This bread can be made the night before as it improves with age. Makes 8-10 servings. GRANNY'S IRISH SCONES 16 ounces Self-Rising Flour 4 ounces Margarine 3 ounces Sugar Milk 2 Eggs 5 ounces Raisins or currants 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Mix flour and margarine together with your fingers until the mixture is fine; add sugar, raisins and baking powder. Beat eggs and add. Pour in enough milk to make mixture into a sticky dough (not too wet). Lift out onto a floured board and flatten out to 1-1/2" in thickness and cut out scones with a biscuit cutter. Place 6 on a greased baking sheet and brush tops with a little beaten egg (this helps them to brown). Bake 15 minutes in preheated 400~ oven. Source: Granny's Kitchen, St. Patrick's Rock, Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland. CANNARICULI (HONEY COOKIES) 4 cups Flour 1 cup Marsala Wine 2 Large Eggs 4 teaspoons Sugar 1 pinch Salt Oil for deep frying Honey Make a well in flour in mixing bowl or on work surface. Add wine, eggs, sugar, and salt. Mix well, until thoroughly blended. Knead dough vigorously until smooth and glossy. If using processor, continue mixing for at least 1 minutes after ingredients are combined. Roll dough to an 1/8" thickness or less. Cut dough into 2" squares, starting with 1 corner, roll each square of dough loosely on the diagonal to form pastry roll about the thickness of a pencil. Meanwhile, heat oil for deep frying. Fry pastries by batches in hot oil until golden brown, being careful not to crowd pan. Use a slotted spoon to remove fried pastries from oil. Drain on paper towels. Transfer to serving platter. Drizzle honey over top or dip Cannariculi into honey. Makes 4 to 5 dozen Maiden Wakes Muffins 2 cups flour 2 Carrots, grated 1/2 cup raisins 1 green apple, peeled, cored, grated 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup almonds, sliced 2 tsp. baking soda 3 eggs 2 tsp. cinnamon 2/3 cup vegetable oil 1/2 tsp. salt 2tsp.vanilla Soak raisins in hot water, in a covered bowl, for 30 minutes. Drain thoroughly. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large non-metal bowl, mix flour, soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in carrots, raisins, apple, and almonds. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, oil, and vanilla until well blended. Stir egg mixture in to the flour mixture until just wet. Grease muffin pan with a little butter or use cupcake/muffin cups. Divide the batter into the cups and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan. Makes 8 servings. White Bean Hummus with Capers and Dill Serve this delightful white bean hummus as an appetizing dip for crisp veggie crudités or toasted French bread slices (crostini). 1 1 lb. can white northern beans, drained and rinsed 4 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup sesame tahini juice of 1 lemon 1 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. dill dash sea salt freshly ground white pepper 1 Tbs. capers, rinsed Place about 3/4 of the white beans into a blender and add minced garlic, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, dill, sea salt and pepper, cover and puree until smooth. Combine the puree with the remaining whole white beans and capers, and mix well. Chill, covered, for 1 hour or more. Serve this creamy dip/spread slightly cool or at room temperature, garnished with a sprig of fresh dill and a few capers. Perfect with crudités, bagel chips or crostini. Serves 6 Potato and Carrot Soup A lovely potato soup to celebrate Brigid's emergence. Laced with sweet carrots and onion, this Celtic country soup warms the heart with the first promise of spring. 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil 1 sweet onion, diced 4 carrots, peeled and sliced 1/2 head white cabbage, cored, thinly shredded dash of nutmeg 1/4 tsp. curry powder 1/2 tsp. fennel sea salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste 5 cups vegetable broth or light chicken broth 6 Yukon Gold (or yellow) potatoes, peeled and cut 1/2 cup milk, or almond milk 1-2 Tbs. light cream, or soy cream fresh chives, chopped, for garnish In a heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil on medium heat, and sauté the onion until softened. Add the carrots, cabbage and spices, sea salt and white pepper, stir and cook for ten minutes. Add in the vegetable broth and potatoes, bring to a boil over high heat, then lower heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20 to 30 minutes. When the vegetables are done, carefully ladle the soup mixture into a blender, reserving about a cup of the whole vegetable pieces in the soup pot. Cover the blender and puree the soup mixture until it is smooth, then pour the pureed soup back into the soup pot, stirring it together with the reserved vegetable pieces. Stir in 1/2 cup milk, and gently heat it through, being careful not to bring the soup to a boil. Add in cream, if desired. Ladle this creamy soup into colorful bowls and garnish with fresh chopped chives. Serves 4-6 Rosemary Cheese Biscuits Old fashioned biscuits are a treat at any season. According to Goddess lore, sprinkling rosemary into the dough helps us to attract love and longevity. 2 cups unbleached, all purpose flour 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 1/2tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. sea salt 1 tsp. fresh rosemary, minced pinch cayenne pepper 1 stick unsalted butter or margarine, chilled 1/2 cup milk (or more if needed) 2-3 Tbs. dry sherry Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl combine the flour, cheese, baking powder, salt, rosemary and cayenne. Cut the chilled butter into pieces and mix into the flour mixture, crumbling the dough. Add the milk and sherry and quickly mix the dough just until the ingredients are moistened.Lightly knead the dough inside the bowl a few times to form a ball, and place on a floured surface. Roll out the dough with floured fingers ( or a floured rolling pin ), to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut out rounds with a cookie cutter or jelly glass and place them on a baking sheet. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, until they are golden brown. Serve warm in a festive basket. Makes about 15 to 18 biscuits. Hazelnut Ice Cream Creamy, and cold as winter snow, with the inviting crunch of hazelnuts, from the hazel tree of the Goddess Artemis. You may make this confection with or without dairy.both ways are delicious. 1/2 cup Half and Half, or non-dairy cream 1 1/2 cups milk, or almond milk 1 cup sugar, or 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup pasteurized egg substitute * see note below 1 tsp. good vanilla extract 1 1/2 tsp. hazelnut extract (optional) 1/4 tsp. xanthan gum (found at health food stores) (optional, it helps to thicken rice or almond milk) 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts Combine the Half and Half, milk, sugar, egg substitute, flavor extracts, and xanthan gum in a blender, cover and puree for 3 minutes, until frothy and creamy. Pour into the freezer of your ice cream maker, and stir in the hazelnuts. Freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. Serves 4-5 *Note - I use a pasteurized egg substitute such as Egg Beaters in my frozen dessert recipes, not only because they are fat and cholesterol free, but safer as well. Raw eggs may contain harmful bacteria. I do not ever recommend including unpasteurized raw eggs in ice cream recipes. Excerpted from the cookbook Recipes from a Vegetarian Goddess: Delectable feasts through the seasons by Karri Allrich. All rights reserved. " May 2000 Llewellyn Publications. Apple Harvest Oatmeal Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup soy milk 1 1/2 cup water 1 1/2 cup old fashioned oats 1+ cup chopped apple (approx. 1/4" cubes) 2 Tbls raisins 2 Tbls brown sugar 1/2 tsp cinnamon Method: 1) In medium saucepan, bring soy milk and water to boil. 2) Stir in remaining ingredients and cook until thick. Cover and let stand a few minutes. Basic Dessert Crepes Dessert crepes are delectable, light and tender, and despite their bad press as a fussy food, they are simple to prepare. If you can make ordinary breakfast pancakes, you can make crepes. But they do need to be prepared in a heavy iron pan. Special crepe pans differ from skillets only in that the sides are lower and more slanty; if you don't have a special crepe pan, any small, heavy skillet will do. 7/8 cup Flour 1 tablespoon Sugar 3 Eggs 2 tablespoons Melted Butter 2 tablespoons Cognac 1 teaspoon Vanilla 1/8 teaspoon Salt About 1 1/2 cups Milk Sift dry ingredients and add eggs one at a time, mixing well, until there are no lumps; a mixer at low speed does this well. Add melted butter and flavorings. Gradually stir in milk and mix until batter is consistency of light cream. Let batter rest 1 or 2 hours. Heat a heavy 6-inch pan well and butter it. Pour in about 1 1/2 tablespoons batter and tip the pan so that it covers the entire bottom. Pour any excess batter back into the bowl. Cook crepe until it shakes loose from bottom of pan. Turn with fingers or spatula and brown lightly on reverse side. (Crepes may be kept for several days in the refrigerator or for a month in the freezer.) You may simply squeeze fresh orange juice over the crepe, add a sprinkle of sugar and roll it up. Or for a more elaborate treat: Crepes Suzette Cream 1 cup butter with 1 cup confectioner's sugar. Add the grated rind of 3 oranges, the juice of 1 1/2 oranges, and 5 tablespoons Grand Mariner or other brandy. Melt over low heat in a skillet or chafing dish. Fold crepes in quarters and add a few at a time to the pan. Heat very slowly, spooning the sauce over them until well saturated. Remove to a heatproof platter and keep warm until all are done. Pour the sauce in the pan over the crepes, add 1/4 cup warm brandy, ignite and serve. (The above Basic Dessert Crepes and Crepes Suzette are quoted directly from The Witches' Almanac, page 38, Spring 1995 to Spring 1996 edition, prepared and edited by Elizabeth Pepper and John Wilcock, Published by Pentacle Press, 1995.) Candlemas Crescent Cakes - by Gerina Dunwich 1 1/4 cups Flour 3/4 cup Sugar 1 cup Finely Ground Almonds 3 drops Almond Extract 1/2 cup Butter or Margarine, softened 1 tablespoon Honey 1 Egg Yolk In a large mixing bowl, combine the first four ingredients. Add the butter, honey and egg yolk and mix together well. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and then chill for 1 1/2 to 2 hours in the refrigerator. When ready, pinch off pieces of the dough (about the size of plums) and shape them into crescents. Place the crescents on a well-greased cookie sheet and bake in a 325-degree preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. (This recipe yields about one dozen Candlemas Crescent Cakes.) (The above recipe for Candlemas Crescent Cakes is directly quoted from Gerina Dunwich's book: The Wicca Spellbook: A Witch's Collection of Wiccan Spells, Potions and Recipes, page 166, A Citadel Press Book, Carol Publishing Group, 1994/1995.) Imbolc Salsa 2 very large, very ripe Tomatoes 1 small Onion 1 to 2 canned Seranno Chilies 1 tablespoon Cilantro (fresh Coriander leaves), finely chopped Salt and Pepper to taste A dash Sugar Peel and finely chop the tomatoes. Finely chop the onion. Remove seeds from chili pepper(s) and finely chop. (WARNING: Two will make this quite hot.) Place the first four ingredients into a bowl, season to taste, and let sit, refrigerated, for several hours. Serve cold with tortilla chips. (Serve with chili [vegetarian or con carne], beans and rice.) (The above Imbolc Salsa recipe by Scott Cunningham is quoted directly from Llewellyn's 1993 Magical Almanac, pages 90-91, Llewellyn Worldwide Publications, 1992.)

Feb. 2nd - Candlemas (Imbolc) Tarot Card: The Star Altar Decorations: snowflake cut-outs, white and yellow flowers, a crown of thirteen candles, a sprig of evergreen, Witches broom or Besom, statue of Triple Goddess in her Maiden phase. Herbs: angelica, basil, bay, benzoine, heather, myrrh Incense: basil, myrrh, wisteria Gods & Goddess': Brigid (Celtic Goddess of Fire, wisdom and poetry, calving), Aradia (daughter of Diana) Colors: white, red, pink Gemstones: amethyst, garnet, onyx, turquoise Food: Seeds, poppy, sesame, sunflower, poppyseed breads and cakes, herbal teas Lore: Fertility and growth are celebrated at this time. Initiations into groups or covens are convened at this time. One tradition calls for the lighting of all lamps or candles in the home just for a few moments to honor the suns return. Persephone returns from the pool re-born.

Imbolg 1992 Julia Phillips Temple in darkness, apart from the Yule log in the center. Brigid in her bed on the small altar. Lots of unlit candles in sand pots around the room. All enter as usual, and the Circle is cast in the normal manner. After the central invocations: HP: says: Awake O Earth from your slumbers! Awake O Sun and restore the Earth! Mother - we are in darkness. HPS picks up a jug of water, and pours it into the cauldron saying: HPS: The waters are broken. The ice melting towards Candletime. Blood has been along the track, but now the ways are clear of death. Old and grey I was, but here in the mystery of the waters I am renewed. For I am the one you sought, but could not find. For I was singing to my child unseen, beneath the hills of birch and rowan. HPS takes the asperge, and all circle around her chanting the Witches Rune. She asperges each person as they pass, and on the last round, hands each person a white candle. When everyone has a candle, the circling stops, and HPS lights the main candles and says: HPS: The darkness of winter is passing: the Earth awakens once more from its slumbers; the Virgin walks among us again, and brings Her blessings upon the land and upon our lives. Priest and Priestess step forward and remove the cover from Brigid's bed, revealing the Virgin. Everyone shouts: Brigid is Come! Brigid is Welcome! HPS takes a light from the Yule log and says: HPS: Let the inner light bear fruit in our own lives, even as the Earth bears the first flowers. I am Brigid: She of the Golden Hair; Queen of the White Hills, and rider of the White Swan. I bring three gifts of fire. The first is the flame of creation; of the poet and artist; of the lovers' passion for union with the beloved. The second is the flame of purification and testing, the flame of truth. With this flame all dross and weakness are made clear and cleansed from thee, so thou become like a true and tested sword. The third is the greatest of all, for it is the healing flame born out of the love that gives all, the maker of peace and harmony. But I do not give these gifts one by one; I give them as a whole in the form of the growing Sun. Everyone then lights their candle from the Yule log, and starts to circle deosil, lighting the candles around the room as they go, chanting: Thus we banish winter, thus we welcome spring; Say farewell to what is dead, and greet each living thing. When all the candles are lit, everyone places their candle in a sand pot, and the chanting ceases. HPs and HP bless cakes and wine.

Imbolg Ritual -Kalioppe- Two women are selected to represent the Maiden and the Crone. The Priestess will represent the Mother. The members of the group should bring with them the candles which they will use for the year for blessing. The altar is at the Northeast and is covered with a white cloth. Evergreens are used as decoration. A basket filled with tiny bundles of straw or wheat rests on the altar [there should be one bundle for every person participating in the ritual], as well as two (2) white candles. A black ribbon at least twelve (12) inches in length is placed in the basket. A single white flower tied with a white ribbon (to symbolize Bride) and the wand rest together in front of the altar. Four (4) white candles stand between the quarter candles. The cauldron is placed at the South, and a white candle is situated inside. A dark colored scarf or shawl (for the Crone) and a bouquet of flowers (for the Maiden) are on the altar, as well as a single white taper (for the Mother). Full Circle is cast. The two women prepare "Bride's Bed." The MAIDEN and the CRONE pick up the flower and the wand respectively, and take them to the center of the Circle. They place the flower and the wand side by side in the center of the Circle, with the heads toward the altar. They place the altar candles on either side of the "bed" and light the candles. The two women and the Priestess stand around the bed and say together three times: The Maiden comes to bring us light! The Winter dies, and all is bright! The frozen ground shall disappear - And all shall sprout, for Spring is near! The Priestess now summons the two women, and the three of them stand in front of the altar, assuming their Triple-Goddess roles. The MAIDEN kisses the Priestess (MOTHER) on both cheeks and hands her a white candle. The CRONE lights the MOTHER's taper. The CRONE stands to her left. The MAIDEN drapes the shawl over the CRONE'S head and shoulders. The MAID stands to the MOTHER'S right and picks up the bouquet of flowers. The PRIESTESS says: Behold the three-fold Goddess; Maiden, Mother, and Crone; She is one - yet She is three Together and Alone Summer comes not - without Spring Without Summer, comes no Winter chill; Without the Winter, Spring isn't born The Three, life's cycles, fulfill! The Charge of the Goddess is then recited. After the recitation is finished the Priestess says: Now let us celebrate Imbolc! The MAIDEN picks up the besom and makes her way SLOWLY deosil around the inside edges Circle, ritually sweeping it clear of all that which is old, useless and unnecessary. MOTHER and CRONE walk behind her in stately procession. While sweeping, the MAID says: With this besom filled with power Sweep away the old and sour Sweep away the chill of death As Winter draws its last cold breath Round, round, round about Sweep the old and useless out! The Maiden replaces the besom and the women resume their places in front of the altar. The MAIDEN picks up the basket of straw bundles and presents each member of the group with one. The CRONE goes to the South, kneels before the cauldron and lights the candle inside. She explains to the group that the bundles of straw which they have been given are symbolic of Winter and Death, but also that any negativity with which they are charged will be burned along with it. A few moments of silence are allowed so that each person may charge their bundle with their own negative thoughts, habits and shortcomings. The CRONE then collects the bundles, walking widdershins. She then ties the bundles together with the black ribbon, lights the "community straw man" and places him in the cauldron to burn, saying: Crone: Thus we melt the Winter! And warm the breath of Spring! We bid adieu to what is dead, And greet each living thing. Thus we banish Winter! Thus we welcome Spring! The Rite of Cakes and Wine is appropriate at this time. All members have libation, sit and relax and visit amongst themselves. When libation is finished, the MAIDEN collects candles from the coveners to be blessed for use during the coming year, placing them in a basket. The basket is placed on the altar. The PRIESTESS says: I bless thee creatures of wax and light Casting out all negativity Serve your purpose, flaming bright Infused with magic, you shall be Instruments of light and strength Wick and wax though you may be I give you life of needed length To aid in creativity! In the Names of the Lord and Lady, so mote it be! The candles are then redistributed to the coven members. The Priestess says: As we close this celebration of Imbolg, let each of us find joy in the power of the returning Sun! As each new day dawns and the light of day becomes brighter and stronger, remember that your inner light should burn as brightly. Feel the changes in the earth around you, as the chill of Winter recedes and all sprouts in the greeness of fresh, new life. Remember the wonder you felt as you awakened from Maidenhood to Womanhood - from Boyhood to Manhood. Relive the joy of that awakening and heal any emotional scars you may have! Breathe deeply of the harmony of the Earth's new life and and rejoice in your own! Dearest Bride, Maiden of all that is fresh and new, we warmly thank you for attending our Rite of Imbolc. As this Circle is dissolved, we ask that you guide us in our new beginnings and inspire us with the fresh creativity that you bring to all life. Routine dissolution. Outdoor libation to the Lord and Lady.