Making Candles

Okay, so today is Imbolc and I just found out that Bunny has never made candles, so I just had to show him how it is done.

Since all my regular stuff is in storage (still) I decided that rather than hunting for hours to locate what I needed I'd just buy a kit. While I just simply went to my local AC Moore, you could always order a kit off line. We got the Yaley 150003 Pouring Container Votive Kit for around $25.

The kit comes with almost everything you need to make votive candles: a pouring container, vanilla scent, ivory dye, 1 lb premium wax, 9 votive wicks, 3 votive molds, thermometer, and instructions. You still have to provide a pot big enough to function as double boiler. As you can see in the pictures below, we used my Rachel Ray large pot.

Since the Bunny had never done this project I just kinda sat back & played photographer, while talking him through all the steps.

After the wax melts add the color & scent

Sitting up the votive molds with wicks

Pouring the candles (they honestly looked like little glasses of orange juice)

Solitary Ritual

This Ritual should be performed at dawn or midmorning, or it can be done at dusk. Sweep area, starting in the North and moving deosil, with your magickal broom to cleanse the Circle area and "sweep away" any lingering negative energies. Set up the Quarter candles (North-Green, East-Yellow, South-Red, West-Blue) and/or other items symbolizing the elements at the Four Quarters. Set up your altar as desired, and face it to the North, covering it with a white, red or brown altar cloth. For this ceremony, decorate the altar with white flowers (silk are acceptable), many white candles (as many as you can comfortably fit on your altar - up to 13) or a Candle Wheel, and anything else that feels right. You will also need a Grain Dolly/Corn Dolly dressed as a bride, a Bride's Bed, a Priapic Wand and some acorns or other nuts. Place the Cauldron in the center, with a White candle to the left side of the Cauldron and a Green candle to the right. Along with your usual ritual tools and items, have upon the altar:
White, Red or Brown Altar Cloth Many White Candles (up to 13, in holders) and/or a Candle Wheel Grain Dolly/Corn Dolly - dressed as a Bride (to represent Brigid) A Bride's Bed (a Basket will suffice) Priapic Wand (acorn-tipped) and some Acorns (or other nuts) White Flowers (in a Vase, silk are acceptable) Cauldron - with a White Candle placed to the Left side (in holder)
and a Green Candle to the Right side (in holder)
Imbolc Incense - blends of Frankincense, Myrrh, Jasmine, Camphor, Cinnamon or Lotus
When all is set up, take a shower or bath for purification and don your Ritual Robe or other Ritual attire. Be sure to wear your Magickal jewelry, if you have any. Sit quietly and meditate for a little while - to ground and center. When you feel ready to begin, play some quiet peaceful music for the Ritual.


Cast the Circle... In addition to the God and Goddess candles, light the Candle Wheel. Keep all the other candles out until the appropriate time. Also have the Grain Dolly lying in the Bride's Bed (basket) with the Priapic Wand and the acorns nearby. Sit quietly meditating within the cast Circle for a little while... When you feel ready, begin your ceremony with these words:
"Blessed be this season of Imbolc,
Blessed be the Goddess, waiting Bride of the returning Sun God.
Mother Earth stirs from Her long slumber.
The fields and forests hear Her whisper to awaken.
The creatures of Her realms answer Her summons.
Everything waits in anticipation for Spring."
Tap the altar gently, three times with your Wand, and say:
"This is the Festival of the Maiden
Who gives to all the breath of life.
This is a time of waxing light and receding darkness.
This is the season of purification, a renewing of life.
This is the time of the quickening.
At this time and in this place between the worlds,
I come into the presence of the Lord and the Lady
that I may gain wise and truthful counsel."
Now comes a time of silent meditation while you ask the God and Goddess for inspiration and guidance for the future...
When you feel ready, tap the altar again gently with the Wand, three times and say:
"O Ancient Ones,
I know my life's path is within Your keeping.
Only with Your help and guidance can I hope to avoid any pitfalls
and reach my destination safely."
Light the White Candle on the left side of the Cauldron and say these words:
"I salute the glorious Maiden Goddess,
Preparer of new life out of darkness.
This is Her Season of the Wheel of the Year
when She spreads Her blessings over the land."
Light the Green Candle on the right side of the Cauldron and say these words:
"Behold, the Lord of the Forests
caresses the dreaming Earth.
As there is a renewal within the plants and animals,
so shall there be renewal in my life also."
Take up your athame and touch the tip of it to the heart of the Grain Dolly, and say:
"Groom of Heaven and Earth,
come now to claim your waiting Bride."
Kneel before the altar, and using the Candle Wheel, light all of the many White Candles that are around you. This symbolizes the young Goddess turning the Wheel of the Year back to Spring. Then say:
"From this union comes the Light of the World.
Be fruitful, oh Bride,
and turn our Earth gently again to Spring."
Toss the acorns into the Bed with the Bride. (The nuts are a fertility symbol and are meant to seal the words you have just spoken.) Then gently lay the Priapic Wand across the Grain Dolly, forming an "X", and as you do, saying:
"Blessed be the Sun God, coming back to us this day."
Lift the Candle Wheel and carry it clockwise around the Circle with you at least three times, to symbolize the coming of the Light.
Sit and quietly reflect or meditate on the meaning of this Sabbat to you. When you feel ready, continue by placing the beverage-filled Chalice upon the Pentacle for a few moments, then lift it high, saying:
"O Great Triple Goddess
and Great Horned God,
Make my life fertile with insight,
good health, prosperity, and magickal power.
Honor to Thee, O Ancient Ones!
Merry meet and merry part and Merry meet again.
So Mote It Be!"
Drink from the Chalice, pour a Libation to the Lord and the Lady and save some to be put outside for the little people. When you are finished, proceed with the Cakes and Ale Ceremony. followed by Releasing the Circle in your usual manner.

Mystical Musings: Imbolc Ritual

Setup
AD White alter cloth
AD Silver glitter
AD Cut out snowflakes
Blessed Water Bowl (not to be confused with bowl for circle cast)
Grouping of colored candles (min 5) at east, south, west, center
Single white candle in cauldron (lit)
Smudge Stick (smudge everyone prior to ritual) - also set up smudge door / jump point
Annoiting Oil
AD Flowers
Milk
Bell
Brighid Candle
Candle Snuffer
CC water bowl
CC Salt
CC Incense
Quarter Candles

---

HPS begins in the circle alone - kneeling next to lit candle - ring the bell 3 times.

"We begin in darkness *snuff candle* in the seed place, the place of deciding, of becoming *pause* the place where nothing is as yet established. The gleaning is over, the Dark Time has ended, the Wheel has turned. *pause* As the sun grows in strength, We turn to face the future. What will the coming year bring? What will we learn? How will we work change into our lives? These are the questions we ponder this Imbolc, knowing it is up to us *pause* to spark the seeds of illumination, here *pause* now *pause* TONIGHT! *pause* Here, in this place that is not a place, in a time not a time, in this place of choice and change, we know that we can create our own transformation, for this is the place where thought begins, where only a glimmer *relight candle* can cast the shadow that defines the difference between light and dark, the place where we can begin to illuminate our own Mysteries *pause* and so we begin"

---

*Take 3 measures of salt and add to the water bowl - stir it deosil, combining water & salt, imbue it with purifying energy. Hand to ____ and have them walk around the perimeter of the circle starting at east, sprinkling the water as they go.*

"The cauldron of the mother her mysteries wise and deep. Rise now as we call you this sacred space to keep. The mother supports us, the consort defends us, the guardians surround us, with a web of golden stars. Above and below, around and about, in and out, we charge this circle."

*Set water bowl down on the alter and walk to desinated quarter*

*Light a measure of incense, imbue it with charging energy. Hand to ____ and have them walk around the perimeter of the circle starting at east.*

"The cauldron of the mother her mysteries wise and deep. Rise now as we call you this sacred space to keep. The mother supports us, the consort defends us, the guardians surround us, with a web of golden stars. Above and below, around and about, in and out, we charge this circle."

*Set incense down on the alter and walk to desinated quarter*

*Hold the athame up to the sky and imbue it with protection energy. Hand to ____ and have them walk around the perimeter of the circle starting at east.*

"The cauldron of the mother her mysteries wise and deep. Rise now as we call you this sacred space to keep. The mother supports us, the consort defends us, the guardians surround us, with a web of golden stars. Above and below, around and about, in and out, we charge this circle."

*Set athame down on the alter and walk to desinated quarter*

---

*Walk to Eastern Quarter*

"Greetings East, By dawn's fresh scent, We welcome the winds of change, Bright morning sky, gentle spring, Which fans the sacred flame. We seek you and we invite you to our sacred space tonight, So that we may know the truth within, By the power of your light. So come OH EAST!"

*Light candle*

"And bless us with the power to undersand. And may blessings return then to you, our source on the morning's gentle wind. Blessed Be. "

*Walk to Southern Quarter*

"Greetings South, By high noon's heat, We welcome the fires of change, Bright summer sky, high noon sun, The earth's most sacred flame, We seek you and we invite you to our sacred space tonight, So that we may know the desire of our will. By the passion that burns so bright, So come OH SOUTH!"

*Light candle*

"And bless us with the power to work our will. And may blessings return then to you, our source, and the sun keep climbing, still. Blessed Be."

*Walk to Western Quarter*

"Greetings West, By twilights stars, We welcome the tides of change, Sweet evening skies of romance true, Which temper the sacred flame, We seek you and we invite you to our sacred space tonight, So that we may honor our truth with love. By the courage you bring to light, So come OH WEST!"

*Light candle*

"And bless us with the power to see and dare.. And may blessings return then to you, our source, upon the misty air. Blessed Be."

*Walk to Northern Quarter*

"Greetings North, By midnight's silence, We are here to learn of change, By cobalt skies and Myteries deep, Which hold the sacred flame, We seek you and we invite you to our sacred space tonight, So that we may manifest the truth. By the power of your might, So come OH NORTH!"

*Light candle*

"And bless us with the power to manifest change. And may blessings return then to you, our source, in their sacred names. Blessed Be."

---

*Walk to Alter - standing before it*

"Fiery Brighid, goddess of the forge, of healing and of poetry, Come! Blessed goddess with the flame-bright hair, who inspires us to greater visions, who is the Lady of Creativity and Eloquence, who fuels the bright flames within. Come! We ask you to our circle tonight that we may see and illuminate our own lives, our own Mysteries. Mighty Brighid, come! Please, we invite you here now! Blessed Be"

*Light Candle*

"Lugh, Bright Lord of the morning skies, of noon and afternoon's heat, Come! Radiant Warrior who saved your people with your bright sword, who is the Celtic god of drive and of action, come! We ask you to our circle tonight that we may learn the truth of the illuminations we seek, that we may act on what we've learned, with courage and strength. Bright Lugh come! We invite you to be here now! Blessed Be"

*Light Candle*

---

*If group ritual - have everyone sit down*

"Today is Imbolc, the day of midwinter. The cold has begun to fade away, and the days grow longer. This is a time in which the earth is quickening, like the womb of Brighid, birthing the fire after the darkness."

*light Brighid candle*

"Bright blessings at midwinter to all! Brighid has returned with the sacred flame, watching over home and hearth. This is a time of rebirth and fertility, and as the earth grows full of life, may you find abundance on your own path. Imbolc is the season of lambing, of new life, and a time to celebrate the nurturing and warmth of Brighid."

---

"Tonight we stand in the seed-place, between the worlds to be certain, but also between the dark and the light. For teh Dark Time has been ended and now the first stirrings of life and light are coming forth. Although all may seem dormant still, there is life teeming under the soil. Even as we go now to explore our own Mysteries, just as Persephone learned in the Underworld, so we know we will return to celebrate truth and light, just as Kore will soon return and warm the earth again."

---

*Take a moment and cleanse your third eye with the salt water, walk around circle and do the same for each member of circle. Have everyone get comfortable, ground and center*

"Go within, sink your roots deep into the earth *** see them going deeper and deeper, down to the very foundations of bedrock, of spirit, of being. *** See your roots probing and exploring your own dark spaces, your own Mysteries, your core *** And as you see and feel these dark spaces opening, know that now it is time to bring some of the more puzzling of these Mysteries to light *** Just not these areas which you would have knowledge of, and remember. Remember, noting all that is still in want of illumination. Know that you are in that seed place, where new clarity and understanding can dawn. As you come up from the depths of meditation, know that you have the power to bring this illumination to your life: you have the will and the desire *** and the skill. Open your eyes where you are ready."

*Wait until everyone returns from the meditation before continuing*

---

"Know that all of the things we would wish to illuminate come from somewhere, some elemental force rules them."

*Each member of the group approaches the altar, and light their candle from the Brighid candle.*

"Come, and allow the warmth of Brighid's hearth to embrace you. Allow the light of her flame to guide you. Allow the love of her blessing to protect you."

*Everyone shoud begin lighting the other candles about the room chanting the below refrain. At each candle state something you would like to enlighten. Continue to chant, letting the power build, dance in a circlular manor.*

"Within, without, To Mysteries dark and deep I shine a light for wisdowm, bringing answer that I seek"

---

Announcements:

• Between Imbolc & Ostara is the perfect time to do a complete house cleansing. 1st physically clean the house and then magically cleanse it.
  
• Clean out older clothes and unused items and donate them to those who are in need.
  
• Plan changes to make in the home this year
  
• Decorate plant pots and drop petals around the dinner table.
  
• Purification ritual
  
• Fasting
  
• Candle making is a very good activity for this time of year
  
• Start making a list of all the things you would like to plant with in yourself, add to it over the coming months.
  
• Light candles for yourself & loved ones this month.
  
• Go on a walk in the forest to search for signs of spring.

---

*offer milk to Goddess - raise cup above head*

"May Brighid give her blessings to you this season."

*Pass cup around the circle - everyone use the same phrase while passing*

*Offer cake to Goddess - raise plate above head*

"May Brighid'slove and light nuture your path."

*Pass plate around the circle - everyone use the same phrase while passing*

"May the coming year bring Joy and happiness to you and me."

---

"Lugh, Bright Lord of the morning skies, we thank you! Radiant Warrior God of drive and of action, we thank you for coming to our circle tonight and helping us learn of the truths we sought. We ask that you continue to guide us, that we may act upon what we've learned, with courage and with strength. Bright Lugh, again we thank you and bless you as you go on your way - but please stay if you will. Blessed Be!"

"Fiery Brighid, Goddess of the Forge, of healing and of poetry, we thank you! Blessed Goddess with the flame bright hair, who inspires us and fuels the bright flames within, we thank you for coming to our circle tonight that we may see and illuminate our lives, our Mysteries. Mighty Brighid, again we thank you! Please stay if you will, but go with our thanks and blessings if you must leave, Blessed Be!"

---

"Farewell North, By midnight's silence. You give us strength to change, By cobalt skies and Mysteries deep, Which hold the sacred flame, We thank you for the gifts you brought to our sacred space tonight. That we may manifest the truth By the power of your might. Blessed Be."

"Farewell West, By twilight stars. You bring the tides of change, Sweet evening skies of romacne true, Which temper the sacred flame, We thank you for the gifts you brought to our sacred space tonight. That we may honor truthwith love, By the courage you brought to light. Blessed Be."

"Farewell South, By high noon's heat. You bring the fires of change, Bright summer sky, high noon sun, the earth's most sacred flame, We thank you for the gifts you brought to our sacred space tonight. That we may know the power to will, By the passion that burns so bright. Blessed Be."

"Farewell East, By dawn's fresh scent. You bring the winds of change, Bright morning sky, gentle spring, Which fans the sacred flame, We thank you for the gifts you brought to our sacred space tonight. That we may know the truths within By the power of your light. Blessed Be."

---

"The circle is open, but unbroken. May the peace of the gods live forever in our hearts. Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again."

*Leave all candles to burn out thus releasing all of the good wishes & intentions out into the universe*

Crafting Corner: Candles

Hand Dipped Candles - You need to obtain the following 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. 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). While the wax to melting, stir with a wooden spoon (never use metal) & make sure it all is completely melted. Also, while the wax is melting, mix the herbs (if more than one) in a small bowl. 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. 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. 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.

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. 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!After picking a large number of violets, spread them on a cookie sheet to dry for a few hours. Then beat an egg white to a froth, paint it on each flower with a fine brush, and (carefully!) pour fine white sugar over the flowers to coat them. You can color the egg white purple for variety if you wish. (Gum arabic can be substituted for the egg whites.)

Ritual

Tools:
Regular Items Plus


A White Altar Cloth

Light Green Taper Goddess Candle

Light Yellow Taper God Candle

13 White 4" Stick Candles

Brideo'ga*

Small Woven Basket with White Flowers

Pentacle Candle Wheel

Handful of Acorns

Cauldron

Snow/Crushed Ice

Small White Pillar Candle

Potpourri Holder

Tea Lite

Basil, Bay, Heather Flowers, Cinnamon and Vanilla Potpourri Blend

Long Wooden Stick Matches

Preparation:
Sweep area, moving in deosil direction. Outline your circle with white cord Angelica leaves. Place Pentacle Candle Wheel in the center of altar. Place the lt. green taper Goddess candle to the top left of altar and the lt. yellow taper God candle to the top right of altar. Put the white flowers in the basket as bedding for the Bride's Bed, then place the Brideo'ga atop the flowers. Place the basket in front of the Goddess candle, to the left of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Place the acorns in front of the God candle, to the right of the Pentacle Wheel. Place the tea lite in the bottom of potpourri holder, and put holder at front center of the alter. Place white pillar candle in the middle of the cauldron, fill cauldron about 1"-2" with snow or crushed ice, and position on floor in front of altar. Put the container with potpourri where it can be reached easily. Place the rest of your tools and props according to personal preference. Bathe or shower for purification. Ground and center. When ready, put on some soothing music associated with this Sabbat and your ritual.

Cast circle by holding out your right hand and tracing over the cord or leaves in a clockwise direction. As you trace over the outline envision flames of pure white rising up along the perimeter. When the beginning and the end join the circle is complete. Step up to the cauldron and light the white pillar candle, saying:


"Amidst the darkness the Lady is stirring,
Gently awakening from frozen dreams,
All the world has awaited this moment The return of the Maiden,
And Her promise of oncoming Spring."


Call Quarters. As this is a time to honor Mother Earth as she wakes from her winter's recovery of giving rebirth to the Sun King at Yule, start with North, the element Earth. Pick up the container of potpourri, step up to the altar and pour some into the holder, saying:


"Powers of Earth, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light."


Put the container back where it was. Light the white candle at the North point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Continue, by waving your hand over the potpourri as if to create a breeze on which to carry the scent, saying:


"Powers of Air, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light."


Light the white candle at the East point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Light the tea candle in the bottom of the potpourri holder, saying:


"Powers of Fire, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light."


Light the white candle at the South point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Pour some water into the holder with the potpourri, saying:


"Powers of Water, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light."


Light the white candle at the West point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Remove the white candle from the top point of the Pentacle. Since Akasha is the omnipresent, it need not be invoked. Light the candle and invoke the Goddess and the God by lighting the lt. green Goddess candle and the lt. yellow God candle with the white candle. Place the white candle back in the top point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, saying:


"Be with me now, oh Ancients, eternal,
Hear now my prayers, hopes and dreams.
The Goddess has wakened, once more as the Maiden
By loving caresses from the strengthened Sun King."


Light the inner cross points of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, starting with the cross point to the right of the North point. Light all 5 cross points in succession, saying:


"The Earth now grows warmer, as the Wheel again turns
And as each passing day adds strength, To the Sun King's rays
The Maiden, of his gift of life, now silently does yearn."


Take a couple of the acorns from in front of the God candle and place them in the Bride's Bed with the Brideo'ga. Light the three aspects of the Goddess candles. All aspects are white because She is the Triple Goddess appearing as the Maiden, pure, and renewed. Step back from the altar and contemplate the light that is brought about by the re-union of the God and the Goddess saying:


"Behold the God and Goddess,
Lord of the Forest and his Bride,
Once again the Earth is blessed
With life anew inside.
Seeds shall soon begin to sprout
And creatures shall young bear
For this is the Promise, the Cycle of Life
That is born of the love They share."


Now is the time for meditation and any spellworkings. Spellworkings associated with Imbolc include those for fertility, defining and focusing on goals for the future, organization, health, and protection. Next, celebrate with Cakes and Ale (Poppyseed Cakes* and Spiced Tea*) Ceremony, saving some for the wee Folkes, outside. Thank the God and Goddess for Their presence snuff their candles. Thank and release the Quarters, saying:


"Though you leave this circle, tonight,
Water, Fire, Air, and Earth
Your symbols shall linger on a while
Blessing my home and hearth.
The herbs that scent this room tonight,
Were chosen with loving care,
To bless me, my family and my friends,
And my sisters and brothers everywhere."


Snuff each of the white candles at the directional points of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, starting with the candle at the top point first, then the West point and working in a widdershins direction. Snuff the inner cross point candles also in a widdershins direction. Finally snuff the three aspects of the Goddess candles. Step back from the altar and face the cauldron with the white pillar candle still burning brightly saying:


"I honor Thee, Maiden, most blessed Bride
As your candle burns through this night
And thank you for the renewed life you offer us all
As you emerge from the dark to the light."


Release the circle. Clean up, place the cauldron from the floor onto the middle of the alter. Let the candle burn out by itself. Place the potpourri in a spot where its scent and blessings fill the house. You are done.

Crafting Corner: Brigid's Tools

Brigid's Cross - You will need: 9 or more pieces of rush or straw, about 8-12 inches long, floral wire, rubber bands. Soak the rushes for half an hour until they are flexible. Meanwhile, get the rubber bands to hold the ends temporarily. Holding the straw vertically, wrap a second around it with the ends facing right. Hold the center tightly and rotate it to the left. Fold a third straw over the second, to the right. Rotate it all left again, and fold the fourth straw tightly over both the third and first straws, to the right. Continue by turning the cross left each time and adding another straw around the vertical ones. Keep holding the center tightly as you turn and add new straws, until you have used them up. Snug each straw in the center. When all straws are in place, use floral wire to secure the ends.

Brigid Bed -You will need: a basket, wood box, or doll cradle, padding to make receptacle like a bed, figure to represent the goddess Brigit, figure to represent the god and nuts/acorns. Dress up the basket, box, or cradle like a bed, and make it comfortable. Put it by the fireplace or the most desirable, warm spot in the house, as if you were waiting for a visitor to lie in it. Place the Goddess doll (see Seasonal Goddess Doll Project) in the bed. You can make a god figurine by making a fruitwood wand with a pinecone attached to the end, decorated with ribbons, or any male-oriented symbol that works for you. Leave an aromatic, hot snack out for her by the bed. As you invite the spirit of the goddess to inhabit the bed, ask for her blessings of fertility and healing.

Witchy Wednesday: Imbolc Lore & Info

Other Names: Candlemas, Imbolg, Brigit's Day, Feast of Brighid, Lupercus, The Festival of Lights, and the Feast of the Virgin.

Imbolc is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word "oimelc" which means "ewes milk". Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid's snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Groundhog Day), and in many places the first Crocus flowers began to spring forth from the frozen earth.

The Maiden is honored as the Bride on this Sabbat. Straw corn dollies are created from oat or wheat straw and placed in baskets with white flower bedding. Young girls then carry them door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning, the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. Brighid's Crosses are fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.

Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the "water of life" is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.

Symbolism: purity, growth and renewal, the reunion of the Goddess and the God, fertility, dispensing of the old and making way for the new.

Foods: dairy products, curries, onions, chives, seeds, herbal tea, mutton or lamb, poppyseed cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, onions, garlic, raisins, spiced wines.

Herbs: angelica, basil, bay laurel, blackberry, celandine, coltsfoot, heather, iris, myrrh, tansy, violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Incense and oils: angelica, blackberry, iris, myrrh, vanilla.

Colors: white, yellow, light green.

Stones: amethyst, bloodstone, garnet, ruby, onyx, turquoise.

Animals: robins, burrowing animals, sheep, lambs, deer

Mythical creatures: firebirds, dragons

Some appropriate Goddesses: all flame and virgin/maiden Goddesses; Anu (Irish), Artemis (Greek), Brigit (Irish), Dahud (Breton), Dumuzi (Sumerian), Frigg/Freya (Norse), Frimia (Teutonic), Gaia (Greek), Hestia (Greek), Inanna (Sumerian), Iduna (Teutonic), Ishtar (Assyro-Babylonian), Juno (Roman), Kebehut (Egyptian), Minerva (Roman), Laufey (Teutonic), Lucina (Roman), Vesta (Roman)

Some appropriate Gods: all flame and love Gods; Adonis (Greek), Bragi (Norse), Cupid (Roman), Diancecht (Irish), Eros (Greek), Februus (Roman), Frey (Norse), Osiris (Egyptian), Tammuz (Assyro-Babylonian)

Decorations: candles, lamps, brooms, yellow flowers, Brighid's Crosses, priapic wands (acorn-tipped), evergreens.

Traditional activities: a besom is placed by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new, candle lighting, searching for signs of spring, making Bride's Beds, making priapic wands, feasting, spring cleaning.

Spell/ritual work: blessing of seeds for this year's garden, fertility and purification, consecration of agricultural tools, initiation, transformation, beginnings.

Imbolc

Supplies
Candles for the quarters, Goddess and God. Tapers, one each for all attending, any color associated with the God, but preferably all the same.

Casting the Circle
We stand between worlds - Where Earth and Sky
Night and day - Life and death are one
The circle is cast - The ritual begun

Quarter Call
Spirits of the East - Wind of enlightenment, and inspiration
Lend your powers to our circle this morning, That our minds may open to new ideas
Light Candle

Spirits of the South - Fire of passion and transformation
Lend your powers to our circle this morning, That our love may sustain the land
Light Candle

Spirits of the West - Water of life and purification
Lend your powers to our circle this morning That our hearts may be strong and whole
Light Candle

Spirits of the North Earth from the beginning of time
Lend your powers to our circle this morning That we may take our place in the endless chain of life
Light Candle

Call of the God & Goddess
Goddess of rebirth
You again bring forth the God and the promise of spring
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the young God
and the growing light
Light Candle

God of love, and protection
You again lead the ever-changing dance of life
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the rising of the Mother
And the fertility of the Earth
Light Candle

The Goddess and God stand together once more
May we feel their presence in our hearts and minds
As easily as we see them in the wider world

Ligth Bearer: Lights taper from God candle on the altar, and proceeds around the circle deosil, lighting each member's candle and directing the following blessing to each in turn.

You are Goddess
You are God
You are the blanket of winter
and the first breath of spring
Be with us, within us
Bless, and be blessed

When finished, returns to her or his place in the circle, now a circle of light.

The light grows strong once more in the land
Under the snow, the pulse of life quickens
Feel the Earth beneath you, the heartbeat of the waking Mother
May we share in the great cycle of rebirth
And blossom with new life and creativity

All:

So mote it be!

Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you.

This is also the time that all in circle should bless the seeds they wish to plant.

Call: Night gives way before the growing God
Respone: We feel the power alive in the world
Call: The Goddess walks the Earth again
Response: And sings us awake with wind and rain
Call: The promise of life is newly made
Response: Our winter's debt to darkness paid
All: Blessed be!

The Simple Feast
Member:Goddess of abundance
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share

Member:God of the harvest
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share

Opening the Circle
Goddess of the brightening day
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all

God of the growing and wild things
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all

Spirits of the North, Thank you for your presence and strength. Both here, today, and in our daily lives. May we live in peace, with you and each other, always.

Spirits of the West, Thank you for your purity and cleansing. Both here, today, and in our daily lives. May we live in peace, with you and each other, always.

Spirits of the South, Thank you for your heat and desire. Both here, today, and in our daily lives. May we live in peace, with you and each other, always.

Spirits of the East, Thank you for your intelligence and communicaton. Both here, today, and in our daily lives. May we live in peace, with you and each other, always.


All: Blessed be!

The circle is open,
but yet unbroken
May the love of the Goddess
be ever in your heart
Merry meet, and merry part
and merry meet again.

All: Blessed be!

Symbols of Brighid

Cauldrons or chalices -- she's often connected to sacred wells and springs
A small anvil or hammer -- Brighid is the goddess of smithcraft
A Brighid corn doll and Priapic wand
Sacred animals such as cows, sheep or swans
A goddess statue
A book of poetry, or a poem you've written -- Brighid is the patroness of poets
Faeries -- in some traditions, Brighid is the sister of the Fae
Healing herbs -- she's often connected to healing rites
Lots of candles, or a cauldron with a small fire in it

Ritual - Family

Call to circle
Child rings bell three times then says
I ring the bell
To cast the spell
Let sacred time begin
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be
Let sacred time begin.
____________________________________________________________________

Circle Cast
High Priestess walks circle with sea salt & water.
High Priest walks circle with fire & incense.
High Priestess walks circle with athame.
Great Mother,
Weave around us
A circle of radiant light
Where we can honor
Our Lord and Lady.
Protect us, guide us and love us.
____________________________________________________________________

Quarter Call
East
East, winds of knowledge,
Bearing your gifts of wit & truth,
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.

South
South, fires of creativity,
Bearing your gifts of courage & heat,
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.

West
West, waters of empathy,
Bearing your gifts of emotion & intuition
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.

North
North, cornerstone of strength,
Bearing your gifts of patience & stability
Grace our morning rite with your presence,
Come to our aide – Be with us now.
____________________________________________________________________

Call to Deities
The Circle has been cast
The Ancient Ones have been called
Now it is time to welcome The Goddess and the God.
Great Mother,
Whose symbol is the bright night moon,
Heavenly father,
Whose symbol is the fiery sun,
We ask you to join our family
For this Imbolc Celebration.
____________________________________________________________________

Ritual

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:
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. 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:
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.

Everyone shouts:
Brigid is Come! Brigid is Welcome!

HPS then lights the main candle and says:
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 main candle, 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.

Communication
Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you.

Ritual Finish
HPS:Night gives way before the growing God

All: We feel the power alive in the world

HP: The Goddess walks the Earth again

All: And sings us awake with wind and rain

HPS: The promise of life is newly made

All: Our winter's debt to darkness paid, Blessed be!
____________________________________________________________________

Simple Cakes & Ale
Child should pperform this
____________________________________________________________________

Deity Thanks
We thank you God and Goddess
For sharing this special time
With our family.
May we keep you in our hearts,
And follow your path of love
Every day.
Blessed be!

____________________________________________________________________
Quarter Release

North
North, cornerstone of strength,
Thank you for your gifts of patience & stability
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.

West
West, waters of empathy,
Thank you for your gifts of emotion & intuition
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.


South
South, fires of creativity,
Thank you for your gifts of courage & heat.
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.

East
East, winds of knowledge,
Thank you for your gifts of wit & honesty,
We thank you for joining our morning rite,
Go if you must, stay if you might
We love having you in our lives.

____________________________________________________________________

Child rings bell three times then says
I ring the bell,
Release the spell
And Sacred Time will end.
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be,
Until we meet again.
____________________________________________________________________

Circle Dismiss
HP:The Circle is open
And yet it remains a Circle.
Around and through us
Always flow its magical powers.
This ritual is over.

Ritual - Kid Friendly

SUPPLIES: Three small votive candles: white, yellow and green; a bowl of snow, a collection of bells (one for each person at the table) and Brigid's cross, which you'll need to make beforehand. (Directions are posted separately.)



When everyone is ready to sit down for supper help your child go outside to collect a small bowl of snow. (You want it to melt during dinner so don't get too much and keep it loose, not packed down, so it will melt easier. If you live in a warm climate that doesn't have snow, just scrape some frost out of your freezer.) Put the bowl of snow and Brigid's cross on the table.



Begin your ritual by ringing the bell to establish Sacred Space. The child chosen to be Bell Ringer rings the bell three times and says:

I ring the bell
To cast the spell
Let sacred time begin
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be
Let sacred time begin.

Then an Adult casts the Circle by saying:

Great Mother,
Weave around us
A circle of radiant light
Where we can honor
Our Lord and Lady.
Protect us, guide us and love us.

Tell the kids to imagine a silvery-blue light surrounding the table to create a Circle. Explain that this "Circle of Light" means we want to make this a sacred place to honor the Goddess and God. Explain that a Sacred Place doesn't have to be a church. It can be in your dining room, a special spot in the forest, or even at school, as long as you show the respect and honor the Goddess and God deserve by creating your Sacred Space first. Next we "Call the Quarters." Explain that this is asking the Ancient Ones to add their powers to ours to make our Circle stronger. The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the yellow candle and says:

I call to you
Ancient Ones of the East
Guardian Spirits of Air
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle

The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the red candle and says:

I call to you
Ancient Ones of the South
Guardian Sprits of Fire
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle.

The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the blue candle and says:

I call to you
Ancient Ones of the West
Guardian Spirits of Water
To Witness this ritual and guard this Circle.

The child chosen to be Candle Lighter lights the green candle and says:

I call to you
Ancient Ones of the North
Guardian Spirits of Earth
To witness this ritual and guard this Circle.

Next the Adult says:

The Circle has been cast
The Ancient Ones have been called
Now it is time to welcome The Goddess and the God.
Great Mother,
Whose symbol is the bright night moon,
Heavenly father,
Whose symbol is the fiery sun,
We ask you to join our family
For this Imbolc Celebration.

The adult picks up the white candle, explaining that it represents the Spirit of Winter which has descended over the Earth. Now say:

Darkness! The Earth sleeps...
And yet the sleep is ending!

Have the kids ring their bells to represent the snow that has been falling for so many weeks. Again, if you live in a warmer climate, you can adapt this part by explaining how Winter effects other regions of the country. The adult lights the white candle and places it in the snow. If you have two adults at the ritual, let the second one take this part. Raise the bowl of snow and say:

The night is dark and cold
The snow is heavy and deep.
Under Winter's white blanket
The fields and forests are asleep!

They return the bowl to the table. Now the first adult picks up the yellow candle. Tell the children you chose yellow to represent The Sun, the radiant power of God. Place the yellow candle to the right of the bowl and light it. Now the second adult (if there is one) can say:

The Sun is growing stronger
The Sun is shining longer
The days are getting warmer
Spring is on its way!

Have the kids ring their bells again. This time tell them they are the warm, fresh breezes of spring, coming to melt the snow. Let them have fun with it. Remember you want your children to look at ritual as the happy, fun celebration it was to our ancestors! The first adult picks up the green candle, explaining that green represents the Earth and all the growing things. S/he places the green candle to the left of the bowl and lights it. Now the second adult says:

Mother Earth whispers,
"Awake!"
You can't see it
But beneath their blanket of snow
The plants and trees begin to stir!
All the creatures of her realm
Respond to her call
And begin to awake
From their long winter sleep.

One last time, have the kids give their bells a good shake. Tell them they are the voice of Mother Earth, nature's alarm clock, waking the frozen ground and sleeping plants from their winter Slumber. Now you can serve supper. While you eat, talk about the astronomical significance of this cross-quarter day. It's been 6 weeks since Yule and the Sun has been rising higher in the sky every day. We are now only 7 weeks away from the Vernal Equinox, Ostara, which is the first day of Spring. It also makes an interesting comparison if you can show the children that, on the Wheel of the Year, Imbolc lies exactly half a year away from Lughnasadh, August 1st. At Lughnasadh, Fall is still many weeks away and yet, with the First Harvest, we begin to prepare for it. Imbolc is the same. Although Spring might still be many weeks away, we can begin to anticipate it's return! You also want to talk about Brigid, the Lady of Fire and Goddess of the hearth. Explain how in our ancestors' time there wasn't any indoor heat or stoves to cook on, so most of the family's activity revolved around the hearth. Brigid was such a beloved Goddess that, to this day, they celebrate her on February 2nd in Ireland. When supper has ended have the adult take the white candle out of the snow bowl and ask a child to tell what has happened to the snow. The younger ones are especially impressed by the melting! Carefully pass the bowl around the table so everyone can see and touch the water that was once snow. When the bowl return to the adult s/he says:

Winter may freeze us
The cold winds may blow
But the Sun will soon please us
And melt all the snow!!

Everyone should repeat

Melt all the snow

while they joyously ring their bells in celebration of approaching Spring. Now it's time to close the ritual. Explain to the children that the ritual is over. Now it is time to thank the Ancient ones for their help and their guidance.

The Candle Snuffer says:

Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the East
Guardian Spirits of Air
Go in Peace.

( Extinguish the yellow candle.)

The Candle Snuffer says:

Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the South
Guardian Spirits of Fire
Go in Peace.

(Extinguish the red candle.)

The Candle Snuffer says:

Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the West
Guardian Spirits of Water
Go in Peace.

(Extinguish the blue candle.)

The Candle Snuffer says:

Thank you and farewell
Ancient Ones of the North
Guardian Spirits of Earth
Go in Peace.

(Extinguish the green candle.)

Then the Adult says farewell to the Goddess and the God:

We thank you God and Goddess
For sharing this special time
With our family.
May we keep you in our hearts,
And follow your path of love
Every day.
Blessed be!

Now the Bell Ringer rings the bell three times to release the Sacred Space and says:

I ring the bell,
Release the spell
And Sacred Time will end.
1 - 2 - 3
So mote it be,
Until we meet again.

Explain that this is the signal that Sacred Time is over. The Circle has been released and the Sacred Space is no more. That means the dining room goes back to being just a normal dining room. Now the Adult says:

The Circle is open
And yet it remains a Circle.
Around and through us
Always flow its magical powers.
This ritual is over.

Now it is time to take Brigid's cross and set it in its place of honor. In Ireland, Brigid's Cross was hung over the hearth as a sign of protection. We hang ours over the stove, which is the modern day equivalent of the hearth. It is a colorful reminder of the Goddess' place in our every day life! Sweet Brigid, Goddess of Fire Guardian of the Hearth, Bless those who live beneath this cross And keep our home safe throughout the coming year. Set the cross in place on the wall. If you have more than one child and ended up making more than one cross, consider letting the children hang their cross in their bedroom. Besides being a protection against fire, the cross is a way to remind them that the Goddess is watching over them, even when they sleep! If you wish to do a cleansing ritual as part of the purification aspect of Candlemas, you can do that now. I've enclosed our House Warding Ritual separately, for your convenience.

Ritual for a small group

Temple in darkness, apart from the Yule log in the centre. 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:

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:

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:

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.

Ritual for Women

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:

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.

Ritual for a Large Group

Materials

a candle for each covener present.
a MAIDEN, dressed in white.
a Crown of Light, made from three, six, or nine candles.
a BARD/GREEN MAN.
a DARK LORD, dressed in dark clothing, and holding a dark cloak.
The place of ritual should be set up, away from the gathered participants. It is more than a good idea to manage bathrooms and such like before the circle is closed. This Mystery is not something any of the participants should miss out on!

The BARD should stand to the WEST, unless otherwise specified in the ritual.

HPS
Go we now to the sacred place
And stand within the sacred space
Turn your minds to sacred things
And dance with me unto the ring!

HP and HPS lead the coven to the place of ritual by a spiral dance, ending in a circle around the altar. The cauldron should be at the south. The Bard/Green Man dances at the end of the line. A good song to sing here is "Lord Of The Dance."

HPS
Come we forth, with the Spiral Dance
Within the Lady's radiance
To celebrate the Sun's rebirth
To renew life, to warm the Earth

Earth and Water, Fire and Air
I invoke the Goddess there!
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!

HP
Earth and Water, Fire and Sky
I invoke the God on high
This night we are Between the Worlds
To celebrate the year unfurled!

The corners shall be called thusly, that all may hear, but shall not be called until the HPS reaches that corner on her circumnabulation.

EAST
O Guardians of the Eastern Tower,
Airy ones of healing power
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!

Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!

SOUTH
Oh fiery ones of Southern Power
Thus I invite you to this tower
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!

Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!

WEST
Western ones of water's flow
Help to guard us here below
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!

Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!

NORTH
Earthen ones of Northern fame
Bless and guard our Power's fane
I do summon, stir and call you
See these rites and guard this circle!

Come to us and heed our call!
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
Come to us; and Blessed Be!

The HPS shall move to each corner, and say, following each corner's crying as she moves to the next:

HPS
So I cast and consecrate
This Circle of the small and great:
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
By Rock and Earth, by Land and Sea,
By Fire and Water, Earth and Air,
By the Lord, and Lady Fair!
By Love and Joy and Work and Play,
All things harmful cast away!
By lightening's flash, and rain's soft fall,
By the Power that made us all;
By the Power that blesses Thee:
(Cast the Circle: Blessed be!)

On her return to the first corner she shall change the last line above, and say:

The Circle's cast; and Blessed Be!

The callers of the corners shall return their tools to the altar, and then shall join the circle at their corners.

Here begins the Candlemas (Imbolc) Mystery: The Maiden shall step forth, and say:

MAIDEN
This is the time of Brigid, the Patron of Poets and Fire, and of Healing.

HPS
This is the time of new beginnings, when the Mother has become Maiden.

HP
The days have turned, and grow longer, and the Sun-child is growing to His strength.

BARD/GREEN MAN
I have been a wave upon the sea,
And a spark in the firelight.

I have been a fish in the ocean.
I have been a Thought within a Word,
And a Word within a Deed.
I was cast away, and found again.

I have been made of flowers
And of cold steel and brass.
Fire and ice are alike unto me.

I have been the narrow blade of a sword
That kills without cutting.
And the Void is my homeland.

I have been in Caer Sidi
In the Spiral Castle of Glass.
And the letters on the Standing Stones
Are no secret from me.

I have been in Annwyn
And Tir na n'Og,
I have danced the Spiral Dance,
And drunk from the Hierlas at daybreak.

I have ridden beneath two ravens
And served in the kitchen,
And all places are alike unto me.

I have been a child
And now I come into my strength!

I invoke the Land, the dear Land,
the Earth our Mother!

MAIDEN
The cycles of the Moon have taken their course, and I am in my Maidenhood. The stars are kindled, and I dance in their light.

DARK LORD
Thy home is with me thru the long months of Winter, and the Earth shall lie fallow and bare.

The HPS shall then light the candles of the Crown of Light, and shall approach the Maiden, who is now standing in the East, and place it upon her head.

She shall now, in company with the Bard/Green Man, circumnabulate the circle, and the coveners shall light their candles from her crown. The Bard/Green Man shall return to his normal place within the circle and the Maiden shall place the Crown of Light on the altar. The Maiden shall then approach the Dark Lord, and kneel before him, and he shall say:

DARK LORD
As it always is, always was, and always shall be. Come to my Kingdom.

Here he shall place the dark cloak around her, and they shall retire to the West. Here ends the Candlemas Mystery.

A normal cone-of-power may be raised, for growth and healing:

HPS
In a ring we all shall stand
Pass the Power, hand to hand.

HP
As the Sun is given birth
Build the Power; root to Earth

HPS
Pass the Power, hand to hand
Bless the Lady, bless the Land

HP
Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies
Bless the Power that never dies!

The above four verses should be repeated three times, (or as many times as needed) and then the HPS should say:

HPS
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree:
Let the Power flow out and free!

All should release, at this point.

Such coven business as must be transacted may be done here. This is a good time to bless candles for use during the coming year. This is also a good time for initiations.

The Circle is opened.

HPS
Thus I release the East and West
Thanks to them from Host to Guest
Thus I release the South and North
With "Blessed Be' I send them forth!
The Circle's open, dance we so
Out and homeward we shall go.
Earth and Water, Air and Fire
Celebrated our desire.
The Sun's returned to banish dark
The Earth awakes to sunlight's spark.
By Fin and Feather, Leaf and Tree,
Our circle's done; and Blessed Be!

COVEN
Blessed Be!

All spiral dance out from the Circle.

Ritual

Imbolc ritual
Tools: Candles for the quarters, Goddess and God. Tapers, one each for all attending, any color associated with the God, but preferably all the same.
Imbolc marks the first whisper of spring. The snow (hopefully) is receding, the seeds begin to stir, and we feel the presence of the Goddess and God in our bodies, as we begin to open up to the light, and stir from our own hibernation. It is a good time to be reminded that we all have a share in the Divine. Goddess and God move within us, as surely as they begin to transform the world outside.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Casting the Circle
Covener:

Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East
Wind of enlightenment, and inspiration
Lend your powers to our circle this night,
That our minds may open to new ideas

Covener:

Guardians of the South
Fire of passion and transformation
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our love may sustain the land

Covener:

Guardians of the West
Water of life and purification
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That our hearts may be strong and whole

Covener:

Guardians of the North
Earth from the beginning of time
Lend your powers to our circle this night
That we may take our place in the endless chain of life

Covener:

Goddess of rebirth
You again bring forth the God and the promise of spring
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the young God
and the growing light

Covener:

God of love, and protection
You again lead the ever-changing dance of life
Be with us this night
As we celebrate the rising of the Mother
And the fertility of the Earth

Covener:

We stand between worlds
Where Earth and Sky
Night and day
Life and death are one
The circle is cast
The ritual begun

The Goddess and God stand together once more
May we feel their presence in our hearts and minds
As easily as we see them in the wider world

Covener: Lights taper from God candle on the altar, and proceeds around the circle deosil, lighting each member's candle and directing the following blessing to each in turn.

You are Goddess
You are God
You are the blanket of winter
and the first breath of spring
Be with us, within us
Bless, and be blessed

When finished, returns to her or his place in the circle, now a circle of light.

The light grows strong once more in the land
Under the snow, the pulse of life quickens
Feel the Earth beneath you, the heartbeat of the waking Mother
May we share in the great cycle of rebirth
And blossom with new life and creativity

All:

So mote it be!

Here, all gathered should be free to join in an open discussion. (Communication is always good, and besides, this will give the ritual a timely quality, and keep it from being the same each time it is performed.) Share your plans for the spring. Discuss projects with the group, if desired. The idea is that there is new life rising within you, too. Have fun deciding what you're going to do with it. Be leisurely here, celebrate the company of those close to you. When you're done, the next bit can be used to close. The form is a simple call and response. Assign lines according to your own preference.

Covener:

Night gives way before the growing God

All:

We feel the power alive in the world

Covener:

The Goddess walks the Earth again

All:

And sings us awake with wind and rain

Covener:

The promise of life is newly made

All:

Our winter's debt to darkness paid

Blessed be!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Simple Feast
The food and drink are raised in turn, then blessed using the following, and passed around the circle, either beginning or ending with the acting priest/ess, according to group tradition.

Covener:

Goddess of abundance
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share

Covener:

God of the harvest
Bless these gifts as you bless us all
Help us to see the Divine in all we share

Feast, sing, dance, play music, whatever feels appropriate. Sometimes simple conversation is enough, since you are already with a special group of people. Remember, though, that you are in sacred space.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Opening the Circle
Covener:

Goddess of the brightening day
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all

Covener:

God of the growing and wild things
We thank you for your presence in our circle,
And ask you to be near us,
While we are apart;
Let your warmth revive us
Your love support us
And your passion inspire us all

Whoever likes can begin in the east. The other directions can then be passed about the circle.

Guardians (spirits, etc...) of the East, South, West, and North
Thank you for your presence and strength
Both here, tonight, and in our daily lives
May we live in peace, with you and each other, always

All:

Blessed be!

It's nice to begin this anywhere, then pass it, line by line, around the circle.

The circle is open,
but yet unbroken
May the love of the Goddess
be ever in your heart
Merry meet, and merry part
and merry meet again.

All:

Blessed be!