The Spirit of Brigid - Celtic Goddess and Saint

We will gather to honor the Celtic goddess Brigid, who was later canonized as Saint Brigid, on the quarter-day fire festival that bears her name, also known as the festival of Imbolc. Imbolc is celebrated February 1-2 to recognize the early arrival of spring, the midway point between Winter solstice and Spring equinox. Imbolc literally means "in the belly," and referred to the beginning of lambing season.

The ancient myths of the goddess Brigid present her as a daughter of the chief of the gods, who was known as a goddess of healers, poets, smiths, childbirth and inspiration. The canonized Saint Brigid is the patron saint of many people groups, including blacksmiths and boatmen, midwives and babies, and MANY more. One obscure group that sticks out is "children whose mothers are mistreated by the children's fathers." To honor the spirit of Brigid, we are asking our community to bring an offering to our gathering for this particular group of women which will be delivered to First Step in Harrisonburg, a shelter for abused women, and their children, who are fleeing domestic violence. We will bless these offerings and hold ceremony around the gifts of Brigid and what she might call us to today.

Here's a list of needed items: New underwear, socks, & bras New pillows Paper towels & toilet paper Coffee, tea, sugar, & creamer Cleaning supplies (Bona solution, shower cleaner, etc.) Laundry detergent pods (Tide Pods) Sensitive skin detergent pods (All Free Clear Pods) Snacks for children’s groups (crackers, chips, fruit cups, etc.) Small toys for young children

For our gathering, please come with items to donate as well as a folding chair and reuseable mug if you'd like hot chocolate (we'll try to remember to bring some disposable cups we have left over.) Please dress very warm! Remember to drive very carefully down Hone Quarry Rd with its huge potholes/craters. The campground sign is clearly marked just past the picnic area on the left. If you cross the bridge over the creek you've gone too far! We will intend to set up in camp site #7, you'll see us once you drive in.

* beautiful artwork by Wendy Andrew in the UK