Gathering the Embers: An Imbolc Circle

Imbolc (translated as "in the belly") is an ancient Celtic tradition from Neolithic Ireland and Scotland to welcome the first sparks of light and growth of spring. Celebrating the half-way point between Winter Solstice (Yule) and Spring Equinox, we gather the embers, what Martin Shaw calls the fire seeds, to illumine and guide us in the threshold of the new year. 

Imbolc has long been associated with the Celtic goddess, Brigid, the "fiery arrow," most likely later christianized as Saint Bridget. She's been known by many associations - fire, poetry, wisdom, healing, and domesticated animals. Also the patron saint of midwives and babies, fugitives, blacksmiths, farmers, sailors and scholars. She is a rich archetypal energy for this in-between time. 

We will gather at Hone Quarry - either in a camp site or in the open meadow beyond the picnic area - to sit among and with the trees, stones, waters,…