The
season of Yule approaches: for Wiccans and other Pagans all over the world,
Winter Solstice marks the rebirth of the solar deity. The event is celebrated
by giving honor and recognition to the birth of the Sun God and the Magick and
mystery of death and rebirth. It is also the longest night of the year with an
annual date falling circa December 20 to 23. In contrast, in the southern
hemisphere, the dating of Yule occurs circa June 20 to 23. To Witches, the Winter Solstice or Yule
signifies the rebirth of hope and vitality. In the darkest part of the year
comes the pivotal moment when the Mother Goddess gives birth to the Sun God; the
rebirth rekindles hopes, dreams, and simultaneously strengthens all living
things in both a symbolic and literal sense as we all look to the Sun to rise
in power once more.
Yule
is a festive time: it is a lesser sabbat that is best celebrated with loved
ones, family, and friends. We seek comfort and warmth from those we love in the
cold nights of winter, and on this longest night of the year, we look within to
find hope and vitality to carry out our dreams in the coming season,
strengthened by the turning from darkness to light. Yule celebrations may be held at any time of
day on the Solstice, but many prefer to honor the returning of the Sun by celebrating
in the evening. Decorations for Yule include objects representative of the God
aspect of the Divine.
Consider
embellishments that have a gold color for the affiliation with both the God and
Sun. Also a fire festival, candles not
only offer a source of illumination, but they can serve as a symbolic
representation of the Sun God, as well as the promise of the continued increase
of sunlight in the coming season. It is not hard to find remnants of the ancient
Yule festivals still prevalent in some of the more secular or commercial
trappings of the holiday season. The Yule log for example, has its origins in
Pagan celebrations of the Solstice. They can be obtained in stores or made with
relative ease. Other decorations can include seasonally prevalent gifts of the
Earth such as Mistletoe, Holly, Evergreens, pine cones, and other beautiful
accents found in nature.
Yule
festivals are a great time to enjoy comforting foods as well. Hot ciders, stews and other types of hearty
foods can make your Yule celebration nurturing for body and soul. Consider
sharing the joy of cooking by hosting a Pot Luck Yule celebration. A theme can
even be selected to make the preparation for feasting fun. Consider a Solar theme with foods on the
yellow, orange, and red spectrum. Other ideas could include a theme harkening
back to heritage honored in your coven such as a Celtic, Italian, American
Indian or Egyptian themes with foods stemming from these traditions.
Yule
rituals are invigorating, but the fun does not have to stop there. Consider
games or activities for young and old to continue the festivities outside of
circle. These can include games that challenge participants to use their
psychic abilities, telepathy or psychometry games, story telling or
re-enactments of the birth of the Sun God. Be as creative and festive as you
like, but also remember the reason for the celebration itself and do not forget
to give honor, thanks, and blessings to Mother Earth and the Solar God and leave
appropriate libation after the ceremony is held.
