Every year... just after the deepest part of winter has past... ancient communities in Ireland celebrated Imbolc (pron. IHM-moulk) together. It is the season for lambing. The stirring of warm Brighid energy through the Earth and within the waters signals the beginning of thaw, and entry into a new growing season of fertility and growth.
To learn more about this upcoming community ritual on February 5th, please join me at the Cutler Library this Saturday (January 28th) at noon. We'll discuss the symbolic and real meanings of Brighid, and prepare for this transformative time together.
I have not observed this time publicly since I've had a herd of goats, but in Brattleboro I was able to bring together a small crowd outdoors each year... by a frozen stream... to celebrate Brighid's new seasonal warmth together. Times are troubled and I'd like to call people together again.
We'll meet this year by the Plainfield Rec Field (down at the confluence of the Winooski and Great Brook) under the full Moon. Please wear warm clothes and good boots, and bring along a flashlight and a candle. Please feel free to email me if you have questions.