This festival is celebrated between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. As our ancestors winter food stores began to diminish. Rituals were performed to draw in the divine energies. This was to ensure that future crops would be plentiful and strong leading to a good harvest. The celebrations would often incorporate fires which would represent the Suns strength as it steadily increases over the forthcoming months.
This day is also associated with the Celtic Sun Goddess Brigit. She was the daughter of Dagda, she had no mother but was said to have been born as the sun began to glow one morning. She was said to keep bees who`s magical honey would be used to make her sacred candles.
She is said to represent creativity and her light can help to guide you through dark times.
In Celebration
The snowdrop also known as the Candlemas Bell is a flower which represents Brigid and the Christian celebration of Candlemas the day after Imbolc. With the delicate first signs of this flower appearing, we know that spring has begun and the sun is beginning to regain its energy.
On your alter place snowdrops and light candles in the colours of Orange or Yellow to represent the Sun, White for purity and new beginnings. This will aid you, in your work with the Goddess Brigit.
As this is a Sabbat of purification, this is also a good time to clear and cleanse your home.
Take stock….look at your herbs and candles, replenishing if needed.
Look to the year ahead and what you wish to achieve. Start to plan and take the necessary steps that you need to reach your goals.
