She Brings Me Water
An aeclectic look at the nearby worldArchive for January 31, 2008
February Eve~ Imbolc
Today (in this hemisphere and Time Zone!) is February Eve, also known as Imbolc. From Chalice Center:
“The First of February belongs to Brigid, (Brighid, Brigit, Bride,) the Celtic goddess who in later times became revered as a Christian saint. Originally, her festival on February 1 was known as Imbolc or Oimelc, two names which refer to the lactation of the ewes, the flow of milk that heralds the return of the life-giving forces of spring. Later, the Catholic Church replaced this festival with Candlemas Day on February 2, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and features candlelight processions. The powerful figure of Brigid the Light-Bringer overlights both pagan and Christian celebrations.”
I encourage you to go to this article at Chalice Center to learn more about Imbolc; it’s beautifully written and detailed. Anything that heralds the return of light and spring and warmth is welcome! As for us, we’ll be lighting white candles and browsing heirloom seed catalogues in preparation for this year’s garden. And trying to keep warm while awaiting spring.