How To Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual (for Solitaries)

How To Hold an Imbolc Candle Ritual (for Solitaries)

By Patti Wigington, About.com

Imbolc is a festival of light — celebrate it with candles and flames!

Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.

** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.

Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Varied

Here’s How:

  1. First, set up your altar in a way that makes you happy, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You’ll also want to have on hand the following:
    • Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
    • Something to light your candles with
    • A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
    • Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron

    Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you’re done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite.

  2. If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.

    Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won’t slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:

    Although it is now dark, I come seeking light. In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.

    Light the second candle, saying:

    I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

  3. Light the third candle. Say:

    This light is a boundary, between positive and negative. That which is outside, shall stay without. That which is inside, shall stay within.

    Light the fourth candle. Say:

    I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

  4. Light the fifth candle, saying:

    Like fire, light and love will always grow. Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.

    Light the sixth candle, and say:

    I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth. I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life. I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

    Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.

    Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun, cover me in your shining light. I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am made pure.

  5. Take a few momemnts and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damanged.

    When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.

What You Need

  • Seven candles, white and red, and something to light them with
  • A bowl or cauldron with sand in the bottom
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Setting Up Your Imbolc Altar

Setting Up Your Imbolc Altar

By , About.com

It’s Imbolc, and that’s the Sabbat where many Wiccans and Pagans choose to honor the Celtic goddess Brighid, in her many aspects. However, other than having a giant statue of Brighid on your altar, there are a number of ways you can set up for the season. Depending on how much space you have, you can try some or even all of these ideas — obviously, someone using a bookshelf as an altar will have less flexibility than someone using a table, but use what calls to you most.

Colors

Traditionally, the colors of red and white are associated with Brighid. The white is the color of the blanket of snow, and the red symbolizes the rising sun. In some traditions, the red is connected with the blood of life. Brighid is also tied to the color green, both for the green mantle she wears and for the life growing beneath the earth. Decorate your altar with a white cloth, and drape a swath of red across it. Add green candles in candleholders.

The Beginnings of New Life

Altar decor should reflect the theme of the Sabbat. Because Imbolc is a harbinger of spring, any plants that symbolize the new growth are appropriate. Add potted bulbs — don’t worry if they’re blooming yet — and spring flowers such as forsythia, crocus, daffodils, and snowdrops. If you don’t have much luck planting bulbs, think about making a Brighid’s crown as a centerpiece — it combines flowers and candles together.

Celtic Designs

Brighid is, after all, a goddess of the Celtic peoples, so it’s always appropriate to add some sort of Celtic design to your altar. Consider adding a Brighid’s cross6 or any other item incoporating Celtic knotwork. If you happen to have a Celtic cross, don’t worry about the fact that it’s also a Christian symbol — if it feels right on your altar, go ahead and add it.

Other 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
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Food Blessings, Pagan and Wiccan Style

Food Blessings, Pagan and Wiccan Style

By , About.com

Christianity doesn’t have a monopoly on saying a prayer over food and drink. Many religions celebrate the consumption of food with some sort of prayer of thanksgiving. Many Pagans and Wiccans believe that not only should we thank the gods for our food, but also the earth and the food itself. After all, if you’re eating plants or meat, something had to die so that you could have a meal. It seems rude not to thank your food for its sacrifice.

Any of the following may be said over a meal, a Cakes and Ale ceremony, or any other event where food is served. Feel free to include the names of the deities of your tradition, of you prefer.

  • This Simple Meal Blessing offers thanks to the God and Goddess for a meal.
  • A Prayer to the Earth shows gratitude for the planet’s bounty.
  • If you’re eating a meal that once walked around, offer a prayer Celebrating Meal.
  • Invite the Gods to dine with you.
  • Make an Offering of a bit of your food.
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Imbolc Fire Starters – Make Your Own Fire Starters

Imbolc Fire Starters – Make Your Own Fire Starters

By , About.com

Brighid is a goddess of fire, but let’s face it — sometimes getting a fire lit on a chilly, windy winter evening can be tricky. Put together a batch of simple fire starters to keep on hand, and you’ll be able to get a blaze going at any time!

  • A cardboard egg carton
  • Drier lint
  • Paraffin wax

Heat the paraffin wax in a double boiler. While it is melting, roll the drier lint into balls and stuff it into the cups of the cardboard egg carton. Squash it down so that you still have cardboard above the top of the lint ball. Pour the melted paraffin wax over the top of the lint-filled cardboard pockets. Allow to cool and harden. Cut the egg carton into separate cups, giving you twelve fire starters. When it’s time to start your fire, simply light one corner of a cardboard cup. The paraffin and lint will catch fire, and burn long enough to get your kindling going.

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Giving Thanks to Brighid – Meal Blessing

Giving Thanks to Brighid – Meal Blessing

By , About.com

 
 
Giving Thanks to Brighid – Meal Blessing
 
This is the season of Brighid,
She who protects our hearth and home.
We honor her and thank her, for keeping us warm as we eat this meal.
Great Lady, bless us and this food,
and protect us in your name.

 

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So Exactly How Do Witches Celebrate the Sabbats?

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments
So how does a Witch celebrate the Sabbats? Hmm, we always take for granted that each of automatically know what they are suppose to do on our Sabbats. Well, at least I did to recently. I was talking to a dear friend and I asked them how was your Yule. Did you do anything special? The reply was, well we did whatever Pagans are suppose to do, whatever that is! It didn’t dawn on me till a few days later. Perhaps we aren’t doing the job I thought we were doing. I decided to make a commitment to all of you. The commitment is before each Sabbat (over a few days) we will give your morning prayers, rituals, spells, activities, the correspondences and the Deities of that Sabbat. You will have the information to celebrate that Sabbat correctly.

I am very glad that my dear friend made this comment. I believe there are others that might be saying or thinking the same but have never told us. So now, we are going to provide you with everything you need. There will be no more wondering what Pagans/Witches do on the current Sabbats as the Wheel turns.

I hope you enjoy the information. If you ever have any questions or concerns about any issue, please contact us. Because if you don’t contact us, we won’t never know where we are lacking in our service to you.

Lady A & The WOTC

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Prayer for Imbolc

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments
Prayer for Imbolc

On this Imbolc day, as I kindle the flame upon my hearth,
I pray that the flame of Brigid may burn in my soul,
and the souls of all I meet today.

I pray that no envy and malice,
no hatred or fear, may smother the flame.
I pray that indifference and apathy,
contempt and pride,
may not pour like cold water on the flame.

Instead, may the spark of Brigid light the love in my soul,
that it may burn brightly through this season.
And may I warm those that are lonely,
whose hearts are cold and lifeless,
so that all may know the comfort of Brigid’s love.

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Night of the White Candles

Imbolc/Candlemas Comments

Night of the White Candles

Night of lit white candles darkness turned into light
“everything she touches changes”
feast of waxing flame
fire of heart and hearth
fire on the mind
flickering of spark
quickening of air
warming into inspiration
thawing in her innocence
snow into desire
“she shines for all of us
she burns within us all”
sipral heat of life
“she shines for all of us
within us all she burns”
the fires to create
“she shines in all of us
she burns us all within”
awakening arising is her need
“she shines for all of us
she burns within us all”
Her candle is our only source

Poem by: Diane Stein
A Collection of Imbolc Poetry
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A Little Humor For Your Day – “What Things On Your Resume Really, Really Mean, LOL!

What Things On Your Resume Really Mean

I KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH STRESSFUL SITUATIONS: I’m usually on Prozac. When I’m not, I take lots of cigarette and coffee breaks.

I SEEK A JOB THAT WILL DRAW UPON MY STRONG COMMUNICATION & ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS: I talk too much and like to tell other people what to do.

I’M EXTREMELY ADEPT AT ALL MANNER OF OFFICE ORGANIZATION: I’ve used Microsoft Office.

I’M HONEST, HARD-WORKING AND DEPENDABLE: I pilfer office supplies.

MY PERTINENT WORK EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: I hope you don’t ask me about all the McJobs I’ve had.

I TAKE PRIDE IN MY WORK: I blame others for my mistakes.

I’M BALANCED AND CENTERED: I’ll keep crystals at my desk and do Tai Chi in the lunch room.

I HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR: I know a lot of corny, old jokes and I tell them badly.

I’M PERSONABLE: I give lots of unsolicited personal advice to co-workers.

I’M WILLING TO RELOCATE: As I leave San Quentin, anywhere’s better.

I’M EXTREMELY PROFESSIONAL: I carry a Day-Timer.

MY BACKGROUND AND SKILLS MATCH YOUR REQUIREMENTS: You’re probably looking for someone more experienced.

I AM ADAPTABLE: I’ve changed jobs a lot.

I AM ON THE GO: I’m never at my desk.

I’M HIGHLY MOTIVATED TO SUCCEED: The minute I find a better job, I’m outta there.

I HAVE FORMAL TRAINING: I’m a college drop-out.

I INTERACT WELL WITH CO-WORKERS: I’ve been accused of sexual harassment.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND CONSIDERATION: Wait! Don’t throw me away!

I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU SOON: Like, I’m gonna hold my breath waiting for your stupid form letter thanking me for my interest and wishing me luck in my future career.

 

Funny Humor

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Daily Feng Shui News for Jan. 31 – ‘Inspire Your Heart With Art Day’

Today’s ‘Inspire Your Heart With Art Day’ offers the perfect excuse to share information about Feng Shui and art. This modality says that having abstract art in your immediate environment can be distracting at best and depressing at worst. Rather, this tradition says to hang art that symbolizes unlimited possibilities, like fields of flowers, horizons, sunsets, things soaring in the air (birds, balloons, rocket ships), or whatever else that makes you feel like anything is possible.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

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Your Charm for January 31 is The Buckle of Isis

Your Charm for Today

The Buckle of Isis

Today’s Meaning:   

Someone who will, or has told a lie about you regarding this aspect will be discovered and the truth will come out. They will suffer for their injustice and you shall prevail.

General Description:   

The blood of Isis, the virtue of Isis, the magic power of Isis, the magic power of the Eye, are protecting this the Great one; they prevent any wrong being done to him. Thus reads a portion of the 156th chapter of the Egyptian Book of the Dead, which was engraved, often with other invocations, on the Buckle of Isis amulets. Great faith was placed in the magic power of this buckle, or tie. It was believed that the wearer would be protected and guarded from every kind of evil for ever and ever.

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Your Animal Spirit for Jan. 31 is The Ant

Your Animal Spirit for Today
January 31, 2014

Ant

Ant is dutiful, patient, industrious and focused. If you ever put an obstacle in the middle of an ant trail, you’ll notice that ant will go over it, around it, or even under it—but ant will NOT let the obstacle drive him backwards. Above all, ant is a team player, and knows that if each member of the team does his assigned task, the team will succeed. Do you have goals that are best met by team effort? If so, get the other players off the bench and let them into your game.

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Your Ancient Symbol Card for Jan. 31 is The Owl

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Owl

The powerful Owl easily makes its way through the darkest night on muted wings. Often it is only their haunting call echoing across the land that lets us know The Owl is near. Because of its amazing night vision, many cultures have attributed wisdom and the ability to uncover even the deepest secrets to the enigmatic, noble Owl. The Owl’s nocturnal prowess has lead many to see them as a messenger between the material and spirit worlds. Cultures as distinct as the African Zulus and ancient Celtics have ascribed magical powers to The Owl made them a revered companion to shaman and wizards.

As a daily card, The Owl marks a moment when wise decisions and actions must be made based upon information known to only a few, or possibly only you. It marks a time when your vision is likely to be clearer, more acute than of those around you. Spiritual revelations may be made. Secrets may be revealed that demand decisive action.

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Today’s Tarot Card for Jan. 31 is Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune

Friday, Jan 31st, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The central theme of what is traditionally called the Wheel of Fortune card is cyclical change. The Wheel keeps on rolling, churning events in a ceaseless progression of ups and downs, either way freeing us from the past. No one can escape its cyclical action, which can feel somewhat terrifying — no matter whether we are rising or falling. When one is balanced on top there is a moment of crystal clarity, but the only part of the Wheel not going up and down is the hub, which is your eternal Self, the Source of Freedom.

Every one of us will occupy all the points on the wheel at some time or another. The cycle of the wheel is its lesson — and we can learn to take comfort in it (as we do when we celebrate our birthday). If you don’t like the look of things right now, just wait — things will change. Of course, if you do like the look of things right now, enjoy it while it lasts, because that will change too!

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Your Daily Horoscopes for Friday, January 31

We’re in such a period of change that it’s challenging to get a handle on our current feelings. Our fantasies run rampant now that cerebral Mercury is in imaginative Pisces. Meanwhile, the emotionally detached Aquarius Moon shifts into Pisces at 10:44 pm EST to further amplify our dreams. And Venus, retrograde since December 21, turns direct today, freeing our desires from the past. However, it may take a few days to notice any real progress.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

There is no need to stress about whether or not you are appreciated by your peers. If you have been meeting your obligations without stirring up too much trouble, then you will likely receive accolades for your efforts. But don’t obsess about being noticed because your desire for immediate recognition could spoil your success before it arrives. Just keep up the good work without engaging in any attention-seeking behavior; your contribution will be acknowledged sooner than you think.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your drive to step beyond preexisting boundaries continues to motivate your current choices. However, there’s no guarantee that impulsive behavior will pay off. To the contrary, it’s accomplishing the long-term goals that should be in the spotlight now because this can bring you the most happiness. Don’t succumb to the temptation of shortcuts. Your most reliable strategy today is to stick to the tried and true when it comes to your future.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Make a commitment to explore the intensity of your shadows; it’s the uncomfortable places within your mind that could offer the most growth now. Given the choice, you often steer clear of the darkness, yet there is a powerful attraction drawing you into your subconscious today. Courage is the key; remember, you will be changed by what you discover. This journey into the unknown can transform your fear into love.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Acknowledging the expectations that others place upon you raises old relationship issues, tempting you to escape from the jaws of commitment. Unfortunately, you might not be in a position to sidestep the promises you made. Thankfully, the tide is turning; if you honor your obligations with a positive attitude, love just might be closer than you think. Don’t let your past define your future.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Although you might feel a sense of urgency to resolve a conflict with a coworker, it’s smarter to let the dynamics play out naturally. Fortunately, you can minimize the pressure by remembering that the current deadlines are arbitrary. Even if your nerves are frayed, the energy will calm down if you fill your day with productive activities. Focusing on the details won’t fix any underlying issues, but it improves your chances of enjoying yourself over the weekend.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Whoever says that you can’t loosen up is missing an important part of your natural expression. While it’s true that many Virgos have difficulty pretending that they are having fun if they’re not, you do know how to kick up your heels when the opportunity arises. Over the days ahead, take a chance and demonstrate another side of your personality; impress others with your spontaneity and charm.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Family obligations seem to be your top priority these days, perhaps even to the extent of avoiding the work that’s expected of you now. Thankfully, you can clearly see the light at the end of the tunnel, motivating you to follow through on your promises. Your willingness to jump in without reserve enables you to get results faster than you expect. More than anything, you want peace at home and this is your chance to make it happen.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your interest in your immediate surroundings continues to grow. Perhaps you have already invested in household items that increase your comfort and beautify your environment. Now it’s time to take the pleasure principle to the next level; give yourself permission to further indulge your senses while the cosmic energies are cheering you on. Taking care of yourself empowers you to make other positive changes in your life.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Although you Archers aren’t typically known for having issues with low self-esteem, sometimes you still face the same insecurities as everyone else. If you have struggled with your self-worth recently, it’s time to complete your process of transformation now so you can get on with your life. Undervaluing your contribution to others limits your development. Take a realistic look at what you do best and focus on that for the next few weeks.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s time to step out from the shadows and let your love light shine now that Venus is turning direct in Capricorn. Thankfully, the Goddess of Love brings the sweet pleasures that were denied or delayed while she was retrograde in your sign over the last six weeks. Review your recent experiences to see what you can learn from them. But don’t linger in the past; follow your heart’s desire as it reveals the numerous possibilities ahead.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might not be able to clearly express what you want with sensual Venus hanging out in your 12th House of Secrets. However, now that the planet of love turns direct, you may begin to feel the urge to open your heart wide enough to share some previously hidden desires. Don’t rush the process; giving yourself enough time to get comfortable with your disclosures increases the likelihood of your message being well received.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You are being shown again and again how important your friends are now and you really appreciate their unwavering presence in your life. However, if you’re seeking new connections, it’s a great time to reach out and make overtures to others to build a network of support. Remember, being friendly is a conscious choice. Going out of your way to create community continues to bring blessings in the weeks ahead.

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