Imbolc 2010

This Tuesday, February 2, we celebrate Candlemas or Imbolc, known in Irish as Lá Fhéile Bhríde,(St. Brigid's feast day). Imbolc is one of the greater Sabbats of the Wiccan year. The holiday was traditionally celebrated with bonfires, but an altar aglow with candles can honor the day as well. On this day we celebrate the new shoots of growth that are waiting to be reborn in spring. We use the element of fire to symbolize the return of warmth and renewal of spirit that the coming season promises.
This is also a day to revere the Celtic Goddess Brigid. The ancient triple goddess of the hearth watches over our creative endeavors and grants us the gifts of poetry and healing. She is also known as Saint Brigid, the Goddess who became a saint when the church adopted her lore. Whether Saint Brigid was a mortal woman or a pagan Goddess adopted whole cloth by the church remains a subject for debate. Another way to honor this day is by making Brigid's Cross, thought to protect the home from evil and fire. Directions for making the cross can be found here.
However you mark the day, recognize that there is a season for all things and that the promises of hope and renewal are just around the corner. Happy Imbolc!