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IMBLOC/CANDLEMAS
Pronounced: EE-Molc
Incense or Oils: Rosemary, Frankincense, Myrrh, Cinnamon
Decorations: Corn Dolly, Besom, Spring Flowers
Colours: White, Orange, Red
This holiday is also known as Candlemas, or Brigid's (pronounced BREED) Day and
is one of the 4 Celtic "Fire Festivals which commemorates the changing of the
Goddess from the Crone to the Maiden. Also called
"Imbolc" (the old Celtic name), this festival delebrates the first signs of
Spring (has anyone seen the Robin yet?) and the return of the sun.
Brigid is the Goddess of Poetry, Healing, Smithcraft, and Midwifery. If you can
make it with your hands, Brigid rules it. She is a triple Goddess, so we honour
her in all her aspects. This is a time for communing with her, and tending the
lighting of her sacred flame. At this time of year, Wiccans will light multiple
candles, white for
Brigid, for the god usually yellow or red, to remind us of the passing of winter
and the entrance into spring, the time of the Sun. This is a good time for
initiations, be they into mystery schools or self-initiations.
IMBOLC LORE
It is traditional upon Imbolc, at sunset or just after ritual, to light every
lamp in the house - if only for a few moments. Or, light candles in each room in
honour of the Sun’s rebirth. Alternately, light a kerosene lamp with a red
chimney and place this in a prominent part of the home or in a window. If snow
lies on the ground outside, walk in it for a moment, recalling the warmth of
summer. With your hand, trace an image of the Sun on the snow.
RITUAL FOR IMBLOC/CANDLEMAS
Supplies: Symbol of the season, such as a white flower, snow in a crystal
container, also needed, an orange candle anointed with cinnamon, frankincense or
rosemary oil (unlit), red candle to represent the elements, and your ritual
supplies.
Arrange the altar, light the candles and censer, and cast the Circle.
Invoke the Goddess and God.
Say such words as the following:
This is the time of the feast of torches,
When every lamp blazes and shines
To welcome the rebirth of the God.
I/we celebrate the Goddess,
I/we celebrate the God;
All the Earth celebrates
Beneath its mantle of sleep.
Light the orange taper from the red candle on the altar. Slowly walk the circle
clockwise, bearing the candle before you. Say these or similar words:
All the land is wrapped in winter.
The air is chilled and
Frost envelopes the Earth.
But Lord of the Sun,
Horned One of animals and wild places,
Unseen you have been reborn
Of the gracious Mother Goddess,
Lady of all fertility.
Hail Great God!
Hail and welcome!
Stop before the altar, holding aloft the candle. Gaze at its flame. Visualize
your life blossoming with creativity, with renewed energy and strength.
If you need to look into the future or past, now is an ideal time.
Works of magic, if necessary, may follow.
Celebrate the Simple Feast.
Thank the Goddess and God.
Release the Circle.
May you all be blessed by the Mother of All Life and Remember that you
are sacred.
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