Imbolc Full Family Ritual and Recipes
Imbolc
Also known as: Candlemas, Imbolg, Imbolgc Brigantia, Lupercus, Festival of lights, Bear day, Brigid's day and Dusting. (4)
The name Imbolc probably means "in the belly" in Gaelic. This Sabbat celebrates the first evidence of the return of life. The Sun is slowly starting to make its return and the very hardiest of plants will begin to grow again from this day forth.
Imbolg is also the holy day of Brigid, who is the Goddess of fire, healing, fertility and is the muse of the poets. It is a fire celebration, but the emphasis is mainly on the light aspect of the fire and not so much the warmth. It is seen as light piercing the dark (the slow return of the sun).
Celebrations during this Sabbat are some of the most beautiful. They tend to include a large amount of candles in addition to the bonfire. There are typically many poems and stories told, in addition to music and art. Many tend to make St. Brigid crosses at this holiday. The crosses tend to be made from straw and usually are of the Celtic variety with 4 equal-length arms.
In the Christian Calendar, this holiday is called Candlemas and all church candles are blessed for the year. (1)
Candlemas, however, falls just before the Feast of St. Blaise -- on whose feast day the candles blessed on Candlemas are used to bless throats of the faithful against choking or other throat/lung disease. Imbolc / Feb 2 / Candlemas is also the feast of St. Brigid (various spellings) who was the druidess / nun who consecrated the goddess energies of Brigid for Christian access. (2)
Imbolc is the Sabbat that celebrates and honors the Goddess as the bride-to-be of the returning Sun God. The soon arrival of the plant life whispering beneath the soil, the full warmth of the Sun God being birthed from the Imbolc Virgin Goddess' womb, the promise of fertility that is celebrated on Beltane, are all honored on this sacred day. Witches typically charge and anoint seeds that are harbored by their hearths until Ostara, the day in which they are planted. Imbolc is also known as Oimelc, Brid's Day and Bride's Day. Imbolc colors are white, pale yellow and silver. Symbols are candles, grain, burrowing animals, ewes and marigolds. Deities for this Sabbat are gods as young men, boys or infants, virgin, maiden or child goddesses. (3)
A time for rebirth, renewal, refreshing, purification, cleaning out the old and preparing for the new, ' spring cleaning', preparing for spring, new hope, new growth, new beginnings, lambs were born around this time.
During the Imbolc ritual it is customary to pour milk (or cream) onto the earth. This is done as an offering in the return of fertility and generosity of the earth to its people (the return of Spring).
Imbolc is the holiday in which we honor Brid (pronounced breed), also known as Brigid, Brigit, or Bride, in her maiden aspect. Brid is the daughter of Dagda (the good God). Brid is the Protector and Preserver, to protect, nurture, and encourage fruitfulness of the land. For the land is the source and foundation of all life.
Imbolc is also a fire festival, with significance placed upon the Light of fire. As many candles as possible are lit now to symbolize the coming of the new light.
Herbs and Incense: basil, myrrh, angelica, and clover
Gemstones: garnet, amethyst, turquoise
Colors: white, pale green
Animals: Sheep, ewes, lambs, goats
Foods: dairy products (goat cheese, milk) seeds, breads, cakes
Things to do to celebrate: spring-cleaning, cleanse and purify your tools and your soul, prepare a new project.
If you had but one tool to use this holiday, then use a candle, focus on the coming springtime as a way to bring in the new. Light the candle and this is symbolic for lighting the way in the dark. For more information on candles, uses and correspondences please visit the candle page. (4)
Some ritual ideas:
Threshold Invocation For Imbolic
This is a Threshold Invocation for the Festival of Imbolc and is to be said at the front door of the house on the eve of Imbolc, 31 January, in the evening.
Midwife of Mystery, open the door,
Infant of the Infinite, come you in.
Let there be welcome to the newborn truth,
Let there be welcome to the Spring of the Year,
In cold and darkness you are traveling,
In warmth and brightness you will arrive.
May the blessed time of Imbolic
Kindle the soul of all beings,
Bringing birth to innocence and integrity
From the depths to the heights,
From the heights to the depths,
In the heart of every soul.
Imbolic Ritual
Candlemas is traditionally the time to celebrate the rebirth of the God after his long winter sleep. This ritual, therefore, is primarily based on Him.
-Cast the circle
-Place a small cauldron or other fireproof container in the snow (if no snow is present, just place the cauldron on the altar and perhaps surround it by some crushed ice).
-Place an incense brick or powder in it cauldron.
-Invoke the gods.
-Say the following or similar:
"Great God of the Sun, long have you slept, and now is the time of your re-awakening. Bless me this day, so that I may enjoy your warmth and prosperity during the upcoming summer. Blessed be!"
-Light the incense in the cauldron. As the smoke begins to come out, visualize the God being reborn. See him rising from the sun and coming down. Meditate for a moment on what he means to you.
-Say the following or similar:
"Thank-you, dear God, for all you have given me this day. Thank you for giving of your life so that the circle may continue. Blessed be!"
-Meditate on the circle of life and the rebirth of the God as you watch the incense pour out of the cauldron.
-Thank the gods.
-Close the circle. (8)
Here's another, more in-depth ritual:
******** Imbolc/Candlemas Ritual *********
[Before the ritual begins, the participants place any candles
which they have brought around the room and light them. The participants
also place any Celtic or personal items they have brought upon or around
the altar -- which is in the center of the room. The participants then
circle around the altar. ]
A Priestess:
Mother Earth stirs from her long slumber. The fields and forests hear her
whisper to awake. The creatures of her realms answer her summons.
Everything waits in anticipation for spring. This is the festival of
the maiden who gives to all life the breath of life. This is
a time of waxing light and receding darkness. This is a season of
purification -- a renewing of life. At this time and in this place between
the worlds, we come into the presence of the Lord and Lady that we may gain
wise and truthful counsel. (D.J. Conway)
Envision this room surrounded by a bright white sphere of light as I mark the
circle.
[The priestess circles the room deosil three times with a stick of incense.]
A Reader:
** Blessing and Welcoming of the Elements **
[Faces east]
Blessed be the precious and preserving air,
the breath of life, our inspiration and delight.
[Faces south]
Blessed be the precious and preserving fire,
the blood of life, our warming guest.
[Faces west]
Blessed be the precious and preserving water,
the water of life, our cleansing guest.
[Faces north]
Blessed be the precious and preserving earth,
the flesh of life, our sustainer and our wisdom.
(Caitlin Matthews)
A Reader:
** Invocation of the Season of Imbolc **
Midwife of Mystery, open the door,
Infant of the Infinite, come you in.
Let there be welcome to the newborn truth,
Let there be welcome to the Spring of the Year.
In cold and darkness you are traveling,
In warmth and brightness you will arrive,
May the blessed time of Imbolc,
Kindle the soul of all beings,
Bringing birth to innocence and integrity,
From the depths to the heights,
From the heights to the depths,
In the heart of every soul.
(Caitlin Matthews)
A Reader:
** Song of Imbolc **
I am the unopened bud, and I the blossom,
I am the lifeforce gathering to a crest,
I am the still companion of the silence,
I am the farflung seeker of the quest.
I am the daughter gathering in wisdom,
I am the son whose questions never cease,
I am the dawn-light searching out glad justice,
I am the center where all souls find peace.
(Caitlin Matthews)
[Lisa Thiel's "Candlemas Song" is played from tape while participants
meditate upon Brigit's three gifts --
(1) inspiration,
(2) smithcraft (and all crafts),
(3) childbirth and health.]
A Reader:
** Invocation of Brigit **
"We call on Brigit, the Bright One, whose festival this is, who is said to
have been born at the instant of sunrise, and whose sacred fire was tended
thru the ages by holy women. We are met to celebrate the Festival of Brigit,
midway between the Solstice and the Equinox, the halfway point from the
coldest, darkest part of the year. Winter still rules, but the Wheel
turns. Winter still rules, but it is waning. The days are visibly
longer now, and under the blanket of snow and ice, deep within the
womb of the Earth, comes the first stirring of the seeds.
Hail, Brigit, we welcome thee and invoke thee." (Courtesy Grey Mare)
A Priestess:
** Poem of Brigit **
Brigit they name me,
and three gifts of fire I bring:
first, the flame of inspiration,
frenzy of poet and anguish of artist,
and passion of lover for union with the beloved;
second, the fierce fire of smith-craft,
through whose testing all must pass;
and third, the most precious of all,
which eases the second's pain,
the undying warmth of healing,
the last and greatest gift
of the ever-returning Sun.
(Traditional Wiccan)
A Participant:
Brigit is the Goddess of creativity and inspiration. Each of us has chosen
a creative endeavor for the Goddess to bless this season. Please pick out a
candle in this room to concentrate on. Now let us join together in chant for
our creative desires to manifest.
Candle Power Chant
Candle of power, candle of might,
Create my desires here on this night.
[Chant repeats for a couple of minutes as participants stare into the
flames of the candles and imagine their creative endeavors being fulfilled.]
[After the chanting is over, participants who have brought modern or ancient
poems (or short stories) with Celtic themes or have Celtic authors read their
poems. Everyone who attends is welcome to bring poems to read.]
Blood of the Ancients Chant
It's the blood of the ancients
That flows through of veins,
And the forms change but the circle of life remains.
A Reader:
[Faces north]
Precious earth, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces west]
Precious water, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces south]
Precious fire, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces east]
Precious air, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces the altar]
Goddess Brigit, we thank thee for your presence and your gifts.
[To the participants]
The circle is open, yet unbroken.
May the peace of the Goddess go in our hearts,
Merry meet and merry part and merry meet again.
Blessed be!
[Wine, cheese, snacks, etc. follows.] (5)
Imbolic Recipes and Crafts
Rose Water and Angelica Wafers
Ingredients:
1 pound flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 capfuls rosewater
2 Tbsp butter
sweet milk
Pinch of angelica
Mix dry ingredients thoroughly, adding sweet milk until stiff dough forms. Roll out the dough very thin and cut this into round cakes, rolling yet again. They should be thin as paper, as they will swell in baking. Dredge them in flour. Put in a well-greased baking pan and bake in a quick oven (about 425 degrees) till lightly brown. Serve with sweet, beaten cream.
Braided Brigid Bread
(from "Circle Round", by Starhawk, Diane Baker, and Anne Hill)
Ingredients:
2 tbsp yeast
1/2 cup warm water
pinch of sugar
1 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp. salt
1 clove garlic, passed through garlic press
1/2 tsp. each dried oregano, thyme, and basil
4 tbsp tomato paste
water
5-6 cups unbleached flour
1 egg yolk, beaten
Dissolve the yeast in warm water sprinkled with the pinch of sugar. Combine the milk, egg, sugar, oil, salt, garlic, and herbs in a large bowl. In a measuring cup, place the tomato paste and add water until it reaches the 1/2-cup point. Pour into the milk mixture and stir well. Add the yeast mixture. Begin adding flour, 1 cup at a time, until the dough can no longer be stirred. Turn out onto a floured board and knead, continuing to add flour the keep the dough barely dry. This is loose and soft dough, so be careful how much flour you add. Don't let it get stiff! Place the dough in an oiled bowl and turn it over to coat both sides. Let it rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to an hour. Then, punch it down. cut the dough in half, divide each half into thirds, and then roll into thick coils. Braid three coils into a loaf and pinch the ends together. Set on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Repeat with the other three coils. When the loaves have doubled in size, paint all surfaces with the egg yolk and bake for 35 minutes in a preheated 375 degrees oven, or until the internal temperature of bread measures 200 degrees.
Imbolc Ritual Cake
(This recipe is great for anyone who doesn't eat milk or eggs)
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4-cup water
3/4-cup sugar
1/4-cup vegetable oil
2 tbs. poppy seeds
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, poppy seeds, 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.
Bride's (Brigid) Bouquet Sachets for Imbolc
Materials:
Imbolc Potpourri (recipe below)
1 Yard White Netting Material
Yellow and Pink 1/8" width Ribbon
Scissors
These sachets can be put in the children's clothing drawers or in rooms of the house that you'd like to smell of Imbolc even after the Sabbat is over.
Potpourri is made with:
1/2 cup dried basil
1/2 cup dried chopped bay leaves,
1 cup dried Heather flowers
1 cup dried Violets
1 cup dried white or pink rosebuds
Blend together in non-metal bowl. Cut netting material into 4"x4" squares. Lay out squares on a flat surface. Place 1 heaping tablespoon of potpourri in the middle of each square. Pull up all the corners to the middle of the potpourri and gather the excess material until potpourri is caught in a "bag". Give bag on twist to the right and tie off with yellow or pink ribbon. Use enough ribbon to make a small bow in the front of the sachet. Tell children how these sachets were exchanged as symbols of good luck and fertility.
-By AmythestRayne
Brigid's Crosses
Materials:
Dried Wheat Stalks, Brown Thread.
These crosses were exchanged as symbols of protection. They are easy to make and not at all time consuming.
Take eight stalks with sheaves still attached. Place four stalks on flat surface with two sheaves at the top and two sheaves at the bottom. Measure approx. 6" of stalk between the sets of sheaves and cut off excess. Tie all four stalks together with the brown thread, first under the top sheaves, then above the bottom sheaves. Cut off excess thread. Repeat this procedure with the other four stalks, shortening the length between the sheaves to 4". Carefully separate the first set of stalks (two in front and two in back) and slip the second set through approx. 1" from the bottom of the top sheaves. Tie some thread in a knot just under the arms of the cross. Take the excess ends and diagonally wrap the thread over the opposite corresponding arm and back to the knot. Tie off in back and cut off excess ends. Let the children hand these Brigid's Crosses out to guests.
Brideo'gas:
Materials:
1-peice Wooden Clothespin
Red, Yellow, or Brown Yarn
1 White Pipe Cleaner
Several Scraps of White Material
Black and Red Markers
Scissors
Glue
Gold Glitter
Children will enjoy making these little Bride images that can be used later as an alter decoration. Take a scrap of white material, (silk, satin, cotton, etc.), and cut out a 6" circle. In the center of the circle cut a hole large enough to poke the "head" of the clothespin through. Fold the circle in half and cut along the fold from both perimeters to the center hole, leaving approx. 1/8 inch between each slit and center hole. Dab "neck" of clothespin with a very small amount of glue, and push clothespin "head" up through the center hole in the material. Cut appropriate length of pipe cleaner to make arms and slide up through the slit in the clothespin until it is pushed up to the end of the slits on both sides of the material. Gather the material tight around the clothespin just under the arms, and tie off with a small piece of string or yarn. Glue a couple of short pieces of yarn to the clothespin head and make eyes and mouth with markers. Finish with dabs of glue and gold glitter around the white wedding dress. A bridal veil glued to the yarn hair is optional. Explain to the children how the Goddess is a sacred bride, pure and renewed, waiting to be re-united with her consort the God.
Bride's Bed
Materials:
A Box
Colored Construction Paper
White, Yellow, Green, and Red Tissue Paper
White Flowers or Cotton Balls
Glue
Paint Brush
Crayons
Scissors
Glitter.
This is a great little activity for the smaller children in the household, and they two can boast of helping with your alter decor. Paint one side of the box at a time with a bit of glue, not too thick, just enough to adhere green tissue paper. Cover the entire outside of the box with the green tissue paper. Cut a 2" wide strip of colored construction paper the length of the sheet (11"/14"). Let the child draw symbols and pictures that reminds them of spring, the Goddess, brides, and weddings on the strip. Cut the white and yellow tissue paper into 2" diameter circles. While you are doing this, allow the child to draw pictures and symbols on the box with glue, and sprinkle with glitter. Place finger in the middle of a tissue square and draw up tissue around finger. Give a slight twist to crinkle paper into a flower shape. Remove finger and adhere to box and decorated construction paper strip with a dab of glue. Remember to leave about 1-1/2 inches on each end of strip. Attach these ends to the inside of the box with some glue. Let dry. Fill with white flowers or cotton balls. Tell story to children of how the Maiden is a Bride and that the Earth is her Bride's Bed. (7)
Here are a few more crafts (kid friendly) for Imbolc
Crafts of the Season
Wake up early in the morning, take up all the noisemakers you can: pots and pans and whistles, go outside and joyfully make noise to wake up the sleeping Mother Earth. Bang away, wake her up! Little kids love a reason to let loose. Even if she hits the snooze button for several more weeks, you can work up some energy to awaken springtime inside.
· Plant paper white bulbs in a clay pot. They take but three or four weeks to grow into fragrant, delicate harbingers of spring. Bulbs cost about $1.00 each, and three will fit snugly (1/4 inch apart) into a 5-inch wide pot, filled with potting soil, and loosely covered with soil up to where the stem will sprout. Place them in a well-lit but cool window and water occasionally. To keep them going all winter, plant a new one every ten days.
· Grown-ups, carve a potato into the shape of an abundant Earth Mother. Let her reflect the plentiful body that springtime will manifest. Pauline Campanelli's indispensable book, The Wheel of the Year (Llewellyn Publications, 1995), illustrates such a carving for harvest time. Children might like to make an Earth Goddess out of clay. (6)
Also known as: Candlemas, Imbolg, Imbolgc Brigantia, Lupercus, Festival of lights, Bear day, Brigid's day and Dusting. (4)
The name Imbolc probably means "in the belly" in Gaelic. This Sabbat celebrates the first evidence of the return of life. The Sun is slowly starting to make its return and the very hardiest of plants will begin to grow again from this day forth.
Imbolg is also the holy day of Brigid, who is the Goddess of fire, healing, fertility and is the muse of the poets. It is a fire celebration, but the emphasis is mainly on the light aspect of the fire and not so much the warmth. It is seen as light piercing the dark (the slow return of the sun).
Celebrations during this Sabbat are some of the most beautiful. They tend to include a large amount of candles in addition to the bonfire. There are typically many poems and stories told, in addition to music and art. Many tend to make St. Brigid crosses at this holiday. The crosses tend to be made from straw and usually are of the Celtic variety with 4 equal-length arms.
In the Christian Calendar, this holiday is called Candlemas and all church candles are blessed for the year. (1)
Candlemas, however, falls just before the Feast of St. Blaise -- on whose feast day the candles blessed on Candlemas are used to bless throats of the faithful against choking or other throat/lung disease. Imbolc / Feb 2 / Candlemas is also the feast of St. Brigid (various spellings) who was the druidess / nun who consecrated the goddess energies of Brigid for Christian access. (2)
Imbolc is the Sabbat that celebrates and honors the Goddess as the bride-to-be of the returning Sun God. The soon arrival of the plant life whispering beneath the soil, the full warmth of the Sun God being birthed from the Imbolc Virgin Goddess' womb, the promise of fertility that is celebrated on Beltane, are all honored on this sacred day. Witches typically charge and anoint seeds that are harbored by their hearths until Ostara, the day in which they are planted. Imbolc is also known as Oimelc, Brid's Day and Bride's Day. Imbolc colors are white, pale yellow and silver. Symbols are candles, grain, burrowing animals, ewes and marigolds. Deities for this Sabbat are gods as young men, boys or infants, virgin, maiden or child goddesses. (3)
A time for rebirth, renewal, refreshing, purification, cleaning out the old and preparing for the new, ' spring cleaning', preparing for spring, new hope, new growth, new beginnings, lambs were born around this time.
During the Imbolc ritual it is customary to pour milk (or cream) onto the earth. This is done as an offering in the return of fertility and generosity of the earth to its people (the return of Spring).
Imbolc is the holiday in which we honor Brid (pronounced breed), also known as Brigid, Brigit, or Bride, in her maiden aspect. Brid is the daughter of Dagda (the good God). Brid is the Protector and Preserver, to protect, nurture, and encourage fruitfulness of the land. For the land is the source and foundation of all life.
Imbolc is also a fire festival, with significance placed upon the Light of fire. As many candles as possible are lit now to symbolize the coming of the new light.
Herbs and Incense: basil, myrrh, angelica, and clover
Gemstones: garnet, amethyst, turquoise
Colors: white, pale green
Animals: Sheep, ewes, lambs, goats
Foods: dairy products (goat cheese, milk) seeds, breads, cakes
Things to do to celebrate: spring-cleaning, cleanse and purify your tools and your soul, prepare a new project.
If you had but one tool to use this holiday, then use a candle, focus on the coming springtime as a way to bring in the new. Light the candle and this is symbolic for lighting the way in the dark. For more information on candles, uses and correspondences please visit the candle page. (4)
Some ritual ideas:
Threshold Invocation For Imbolic
This is a Threshold Invocation for the Festival of Imbolc and is to be said at the front door of the house on the eve of Imbolc, 31 January, in the evening.
Midwife of Mystery, open the door,
Infant of the Infinite, come you in.
Let there be welcome to the newborn truth,
Let there be welcome to the Spring of the Year,
In cold and darkness you are traveling,
In warmth and brightness you will arrive.
May the blessed time of Imbolic
Kindle the soul of all beings,
Bringing birth to innocence and integrity
From the depths to the heights,
From the heights to the depths,
In the heart of every soul.
Imbolic Ritual
Candlemas is traditionally the time to celebrate the rebirth of the God after his long winter sleep. This ritual, therefore, is primarily based on Him.
-Cast the circle
-Place a small cauldron or other fireproof container in the snow (if no snow is present, just place the cauldron on the altar and perhaps surround it by some crushed ice).
-Place an incense brick or powder in it cauldron.
-Invoke the gods.
-Say the following or similar:
"Great God of the Sun, long have you slept, and now is the time of your re-awakening. Bless me this day, so that I may enjoy your warmth and prosperity during the upcoming summer. Blessed be!"
-Light the incense in the cauldron. As the smoke begins to come out, visualize the God being reborn. See him rising from the sun and coming down. Meditate for a moment on what he means to you.
-Say the following or similar:
"Thank-you, dear God, for all you have given me this day. Thank you for giving of your life so that the circle may continue. Blessed be!"
-Meditate on the circle of life and the rebirth of the God as you watch the incense pour out of the cauldron.
-Thank the gods.
-Close the circle. (8)
Here's another, more in-depth ritual:
******** Imbolc/Candlemas Ritual *********
[Before the ritual begins, the participants place any candles
which they have brought around the room and light them. The participants
also place any Celtic or personal items they have brought upon or around
the altar -- which is in the center of the room. The participants then
circle around the altar. ]
A Priestess:
Mother Earth stirs from her long slumber. The fields and forests hear her
whisper to awake. The creatures of her realms answer her summons.
Everything waits in anticipation for spring. This is the festival of
the maiden who gives to all life the breath of life. This is
a time of waxing light and receding darkness. This is a season of
purification -- a renewing of life. At this time and in this place between
the worlds, we come into the presence of the Lord and Lady that we may gain
wise and truthful counsel. (D.J. Conway)
Envision this room surrounded by a bright white sphere of light as I mark the
circle.
[The priestess circles the room deosil three times with a stick of incense.]
A Reader:
** Blessing and Welcoming of the Elements **
[Faces east]
Blessed be the precious and preserving air,
the breath of life, our inspiration and delight.
[Faces south]
Blessed be the precious and preserving fire,
the blood of life, our warming guest.
[Faces west]
Blessed be the precious and preserving water,
the water of life, our cleansing guest.
[Faces north]
Blessed be the precious and preserving earth,
the flesh of life, our sustainer and our wisdom.
(Caitlin Matthews)
A Reader:
** Invocation of the Season of Imbolc **
Midwife of Mystery, open the door,
Infant of the Infinite, come you in.
Let there be welcome to the newborn truth,
Let there be welcome to the Spring of the Year.
In cold and darkness you are traveling,
In warmth and brightness you will arrive,
May the blessed time of Imbolc,
Kindle the soul of all beings,
Bringing birth to innocence and integrity,
From the depths to the heights,
From the heights to the depths,
In the heart of every soul.
(Caitlin Matthews)
A Reader:
** Song of Imbolc **
I am the unopened bud, and I the blossom,
I am the lifeforce gathering to a crest,
I am the still companion of the silence,
I am the farflung seeker of the quest.
I am the daughter gathering in wisdom,
I am the son whose questions never cease,
I am the dawn-light searching out glad justice,
I am the center where all souls find peace.
(Caitlin Matthews)
[Lisa Thiel's "Candlemas Song" is played from tape while participants
meditate upon Brigit's three gifts --
(1) inspiration,
(2) smithcraft (and all crafts),
(3) childbirth and health.]
A Reader:
** Invocation of Brigit **
"We call on Brigit, the Bright One, whose festival this is, who is said to
have been born at the instant of sunrise, and whose sacred fire was tended
thru the ages by holy women. We are met to celebrate the Festival of Brigit,
midway between the Solstice and the Equinox, the halfway point from the
coldest, darkest part of the year. Winter still rules, but the Wheel
turns. Winter still rules, but it is waning. The days are visibly
longer now, and under the blanket of snow and ice, deep within the
womb of the Earth, comes the first stirring of the seeds.
Hail, Brigit, we welcome thee and invoke thee." (Courtesy Grey Mare)
A Priestess:
** Poem of Brigit **
Brigit they name me,
and three gifts of fire I bring:
first, the flame of inspiration,
frenzy of poet and anguish of artist,
and passion of lover for union with the beloved;
second, the fierce fire of smith-craft,
through whose testing all must pass;
and third, the most precious of all,
which eases the second's pain,
the undying warmth of healing,
the last and greatest gift
of the ever-returning Sun.
(Traditional Wiccan)
A Participant:
Brigit is the Goddess of creativity and inspiration. Each of us has chosen
a creative endeavor for the Goddess to bless this season. Please pick out a
candle in this room to concentrate on. Now let us join together in chant for
our creative desires to manifest.
Candle Power Chant
Candle of power, candle of might,
Create my desires here on this night.
[Chant repeats for a couple of minutes as participants stare into the
flames of the candles and imagine their creative endeavors being fulfilled.]
[After the chanting is over, participants who have brought modern or ancient
poems (or short stories) with Celtic themes or have Celtic authors read their
poems. Everyone who attends is welcome to bring poems to read.]
Blood of the Ancients Chant
It's the blood of the ancients
That flows through of veins,
And the forms change but the circle of life remains.
A Reader:
[Faces north]
Precious earth, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces west]
Precious water, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces south]
Precious fire, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces east]
Precious air, we bless thee and release thee.
[Faces the altar]
Goddess Brigit, we thank thee for your presence and your gifts.
[To the participants]
The circle is open, yet unbroken.
May the peace of the Goddess go in our hearts,
Merry meet and merry part and merry meet again.
Blessed be!
[Wine, cheese, snacks, etc. follows.] (5)
Imbolic Recipes and Crafts
Rose Water and Angelica Wafers
Ingredients:
1 pound flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 capfuls rosewater
2 Tbsp butter
sweet milk
Pinch of angelica
Mix dry ingredients thoroughly, adding sweet milk until stiff dough forms. Roll out the dough very thin and cut this into round cakes, rolling yet again. They should be thin as paper, as they will swell in baking. Dredge them in flour. Put in a well-greased baking pan and bake in a quick oven (about 425 degrees) till lightly brown. Serve with sweet, beaten cream.
Braided Brigid Bread
(from "Circle Round", by Starhawk, Diane Baker, and Anne Hill)
Ingredients:
2 tbsp yeast
1/2 cup warm water
pinch of sugar
1 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp. salt
1 clove garlic, passed through garlic press
1/2 tsp. each dried oregano, thyme, and basil
4 tbsp tomato paste
water
5-6 cups unbleached flour
1 egg yolk, beaten
Dissolve the yeast in warm water sprinkled with the pinch of sugar. Combine the milk, egg, sugar, oil, salt, garlic, and herbs in a large bowl. In a measuring cup, place the tomato paste and add water until it reaches the 1/2-cup point. Pour into the milk mixture and stir well. Add the yeast mixture. Begin adding flour, 1 cup at a time, until the dough can no longer be stirred. Turn out onto a floured board and knead, continuing to add flour the keep the dough barely dry. This is loose and soft dough, so be careful how much flour you add. Don't let it get stiff! Place the dough in an oiled bowl and turn it over to coat both sides. Let it rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to an hour. Then, punch it down. cut the dough in half, divide each half into thirds, and then roll into thick coils. Braid three coils into a loaf and pinch the ends together. Set on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Repeat with the other three coils. When the loaves have doubled in size, paint all surfaces with the egg yolk and bake for 35 minutes in a preheated 375 degrees oven, or until the internal temperature of bread measures 200 degrees.
Imbolc Ritual Cake
(This recipe is great for anyone who doesn't eat milk or eggs)
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4-cup water
3/4-cup sugar
1/4-cup vegetable oil
2 tbs. poppy seeds
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, poppy seeds, 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.
Bride's (Brigid) Bouquet Sachets for Imbolc
Materials:
Imbolc Potpourri (recipe below)
1 Yard White Netting Material
Yellow and Pink 1/8" width Ribbon
Scissors
These sachets can be put in the children's clothing drawers or in rooms of the house that you'd like to smell of Imbolc even after the Sabbat is over.
Potpourri is made with:
1/2 cup dried basil
1/2 cup dried chopped bay leaves,
1 cup dried Heather flowers
1 cup dried Violets
1 cup dried white or pink rosebuds
Blend together in non-metal bowl. Cut netting material into 4"x4" squares. Lay out squares on a flat surface. Place 1 heaping tablespoon of potpourri in the middle of each square. Pull up all the corners to the middle of the potpourri and gather the excess material until potpourri is caught in a "bag". Give bag on twist to the right and tie off with yellow or pink ribbon. Use enough ribbon to make a small bow in the front of the sachet. Tell children how these sachets were exchanged as symbols of good luck and fertility.
-By AmythestRayne
Brigid's Crosses
Materials:
Dried Wheat Stalks, Brown Thread.
These crosses were exchanged as symbols of protection. They are easy to make and not at all time consuming.
Take eight stalks with sheaves still attached. Place four stalks on flat surface with two sheaves at the top and two sheaves at the bottom. Measure approx. 6" of stalk between the sets of sheaves and cut off excess. Tie all four stalks together with the brown thread, first under the top sheaves, then above the bottom sheaves. Cut off excess thread. Repeat this procedure with the other four stalks, shortening the length between the sheaves to 4". Carefully separate the first set of stalks (two in front and two in back) and slip the second set through approx. 1" from the bottom of the top sheaves. Tie some thread in a knot just under the arms of the cross. Take the excess ends and diagonally wrap the thread over the opposite corresponding arm and back to the knot. Tie off in back and cut off excess ends. Let the children hand these Brigid's Crosses out to guests.
Brideo'gas:
Materials:
1-peice Wooden Clothespin
Red, Yellow, or Brown Yarn
1 White Pipe Cleaner
Several Scraps of White Material
Black and Red Markers
Scissors
Glue
Gold Glitter
Children will enjoy making these little Bride images that can be used later as an alter decoration. Take a scrap of white material, (silk, satin, cotton, etc.), and cut out a 6" circle. In the center of the circle cut a hole large enough to poke the "head" of the clothespin through. Fold the circle in half and cut along the fold from both perimeters to the center hole, leaving approx. 1/8 inch between each slit and center hole. Dab "neck" of clothespin with a very small amount of glue, and push clothespin "head" up through the center hole in the material. Cut appropriate length of pipe cleaner to make arms and slide up through the slit in the clothespin until it is pushed up to the end of the slits on both sides of the material. Gather the material tight around the clothespin just under the arms, and tie off with a small piece of string or yarn. Glue a couple of short pieces of yarn to the clothespin head and make eyes and mouth with markers. Finish with dabs of glue and gold glitter around the white wedding dress. A bridal veil glued to the yarn hair is optional. Explain to the children how the Goddess is a sacred bride, pure and renewed, waiting to be re-united with her consort the God.
Bride's Bed
Materials:
A Box
Colored Construction Paper
White, Yellow, Green, and Red Tissue Paper
White Flowers or Cotton Balls
Glue
Paint Brush
Crayons
Scissors
Glitter.
This is a great little activity for the smaller children in the household, and they two can boast of helping with your alter decor. Paint one side of the box at a time with a bit of glue, not too thick, just enough to adhere green tissue paper. Cover the entire outside of the box with the green tissue paper. Cut a 2" wide strip of colored construction paper the length of the sheet (11"/14"). Let the child draw symbols and pictures that reminds them of spring, the Goddess, brides, and weddings on the strip. Cut the white and yellow tissue paper into 2" diameter circles. While you are doing this, allow the child to draw pictures and symbols on the box with glue, and sprinkle with glitter. Place finger in the middle of a tissue square and draw up tissue around finger. Give a slight twist to crinkle paper into a flower shape. Remove finger and adhere to box and decorated construction paper strip with a dab of glue. Remember to leave about 1-1/2 inches on each end of strip. Attach these ends to the inside of the box with some glue. Let dry. Fill with white flowers or cotton balls. Tell story to children of how the Maiden is a Bride and that the Earth is her Bride's Bed. (7)
Here are a few more crafts (kid friendly) for Imbolc
Crafts of the Season
Wake up early in the morning, take up all the noisemakers you can: pots and pans and whistles, go outside and joyfully make noise to wake up the sleeping Mother Earth. Bang away, wake her up! Little kids love a reason to let loose. Even if she hits the snooze button for several more weeks, you can work up some energy to awaken springtime inside.
· Plant paper white bulbs in a clay pot. They take but three or four weeks to grow into fragrant, delicate harbingers of spring. Bulbs cost about $1.00 each, and three will fit snugly (1/4 inch apart) into a 5-inch wide pot, filled with potting soil, and loosely covered with soil up to where the stem will sprout. Place them in a well-lit but cool window and water occasionally. To keep them going all winter, plant a new one every ten days.
· Grown-ups, carve a potato into the shape of an abundant Earth Mother. Let her reflect the plentiful body that springtime will manifest. Pauline Campanelli's indispensable book, The Wheel of the Year (Llewellyn Publications, 1995), illustrates such a carving for harvest time. Children might like to make an Earth Goddess out of clay. (6)
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