01/30/2022
Imbolc, based on Celtic tradition (observed from sunset, February 1, to sunset February 2) is meant to mark the halfway point between winter solstice and the spring equinox. It is the “Midwinter” observance, marking the beginning of the lambing season and signaling the beginning of Spring and the stirrings of new life. It is “Feile Brighde,” the 'quickening of the year'. The original word Imbolg means 'in the belly'. All is pregnant and expectant - and only just visible if at all, like the gentle curve of a 'just-showing' pregnancy. It is the promise of renewal, of hidden potential, of earth awakening and life-force stirring. Here is hope. We welcome the growth of the returning light and witness Life's insatiable appetite for rebirth.
It is time to let go of the past and to look to the future, clearing out the old, making both outer and inner space for new beginnings. This can be done in numerous ways, from spring cleaning your home to clearing the mind and heart to allow inspiration to enter for the new cycle. (Spring cleaning was originally a nature ritual). It's a good time for wish-making or making a dedication.
Imbolc is traditionally the great festival and honoring of Brigid (Brighid, Bride, Brigit), so loved as a pagan Goddess that her worship was woven into the Christian church as St. Bridget. She is a Goddess of healing, poetry and smithcraft. She is a Goddess of Fire, of the Sun and of the Hearth. She brings fertility to the land and its people and is closely connected to midwives and new-born babies.
