Welcoming the Light Spell
As the wheel of the year turns and winter begins to wane, we come together to celebrate the Celtic festival of Imbolc. This time-honored tradition marks the promise of spring and the return of light and warmth to the earth. Here is a simple yet meaningful Imbolc family ritual to welcome the light back into our lives and home.
**Note: Throughout this ritual, ensure that children are supervised and safe while lighting candles. Emphasize the importance of fire safety and remind them to handle the candles responsibly.
Welcoming the Return of the Light
Materials Required:
1. Candles: Assortment of candles in different sizes and colors associated with Imbolc. Fake candles for youngest practitioners.
2. Beeswax colors or markers for fake candles
3. correspondences of intentions (colors, shapes, animals, etc.)
5. Storybook about Brigid or Imbolc and a snack
The Ritual:
1. Gather the Children: Create a peaceful environment by gathering the children in a comfortable space. Explain to them the significance of Imbolc, signaling the return of light and fresh beginnings. Place a representation of Brigid, the Celtic goddess of hearth and home, poetry and smithcraft. Take some time to cleanse your altar space, hearth, entryway or anywhere that needs a refresh of energy.
2. Craft Preparation: Lay out the crafting supplies on the altar or a table, ensuring each child has enough space to work. Invite them to take a moment to reflect on their intentions (refer to Yule or New Year intentions, if you like) before they begin decorating their candles.
4. Decorating the Candles: Encourage the children to use their creativity to decorate their candles with the different colors of beeswax, refer to correspondences if needed. They can also wrap herbs around the candle, add anointing oil or carve symbols and patterns onto the surface. Their candles should reflecting their unique hopes and desires.
3. Candle Lighting Ceremony: Once the children have finished decorating their candles, gather around a central table or altar. Invite each child to share their intentions if they feel comfortable doing so. Encourage respect and appreciation for each other's thoughts and dreams.
4. Treats and a Story: Light (or turn on) the candles. While they burn, share Imbolc foods or treats and read a story about the season or Brigid.
5. Closing the Ritual: Take a few deep breaths, acknowledging the energy they have created together. Discuss the importance of nurturing their intentions throughout the coming months, as well as the significance of patience and diligence. Allow the candles to burn all the way down if they are small or a couple hours if the candle is larger (relight when revisiting intentions).
