Winter

Winter Solstice, is the time the sun reaches the Tropic of Capricorn. It occurs the first day of Winter. On this day (December 21 or 22) in the northern hemisphere the sun is farthest south and the length of time between sunrise and sunset is the shortest of the year. In the pagan tradition the solstice is also know as Yuletide, Alban or the Arthanthis holiday and is celebrated as the rebirth of the Great God who is viewed as the newborn solstice sun. Traditionally one would light a Yule log. It's lighted on the eve of the solstice (it should light on the first try) and must be kept burning for twelve hours, for good luck. It should be made of ash. As time passed the Yule log was replaced by the Yule tree but, instead of burning it, burning candles were placed on it. Evergreen, holly, ivy and the mistletoe were important plants of the season, all symbolizing fertility and everlasting life. Mistletoe was especially venerated by the Celtic Druids, who cut it with a golden sickle on the sixth night of the moon, and believed it to be an aphrodisiac. (Magically -- not medicinally! It's highly toxic!) Other customs of the holiday include weaving 'Brigit's crosses' from straw or wheat to hang around the house for protection, performing rites of spiritual cleansing and purification, making 'Brigit's beds' to ensure fertility of mind and spirit (and body, if desired), and making Crowns of Light (i.e. of candles) for the High Priestess to wear for the Candlemas Circle, similar to those worn on St. Lucy's Day in Scandinavian countries.

Happy Solstice may your Winter be warmth of hearth and spirit.

Peace to all,

Miss. S.