Candlemas ~ Imbolc ~ February 1st.

(A Victorian Grimoire ~ Patricia Telesco ~ Llewellyn Publishing 1996 ~ PPS 59-60)



Imbolc is a period of rest and a time when we should replenish the well of self for magick. It is the season for contemplation, inspiration, healing and contacting the muse. Take some time to work on your Book of Shadows: Think about creating new rituals or spells: Tend to your physical needs with devotion, and take a deep cleansing breath before spring chores are knocking at your door once more.


          Invocation


I am the cup

The chalice of life

Ever filled, ever flowing

Molded by what I hold

Shaping what I pour

I am the water of creation


I am the sword

Giver of death and spring

Ever sharp, ever piercing

Edged by what is true

Cutting off what is not

I am the fire of rebirth


I am the censer

Keeper of the air

Ever fresh, ever blowing

Scented by what I touch

Moving with my will

I am the wind of change


I am the salt

Purifier of Earth

Ever seasoned, ever healing

Birthed by what is rock

Growing with the world

I am the spice of Mother





I am the pentacle

Circle of the Void

Ever changing, ever returning

Pointed by the elements

Beginning with my end

I am the essence of Magick


This invocation is meant to help you center yourself, on your senses and bring heightened awareness. Although it is written for the solitary changing I to We can easily change it for group use. The five elements are represented; four cardinal points, then the center (the center is your altar). Light the candles at the watchtowers while speaking each verse.


          Activities


Have a large candle or fire set up. As each person enters the circle, they bring with him/her a candle and light it from the original, sharing with the group a need they have. The energy of this night can be released in your rites, bringing light to any dark clouds hanging over you. Find a place to safely leave the candles burning until you have finished your ritual work, then blow them out as a symbol of completion and fulfillment.


      Tools and Ritual Components


Incense

Bay and basil for vision, courage, and meditation.

 

 

Ritual Soap

Heather to bring a greater sense of yourself and your place in the Universe.

 

 

Anointing Oil

Sandalwood and Vanilla, to bring greater concentration, increase psychic ability, and help any magickal working. Touches of Jasmine and balm are also nice.

 

 

Ritual Cup

Angelica tea to encourage good fortune and health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Altar Decorations

 

 

 

Except for candles, the altar is unadorned at this time of year to signify rest. Should you desire, amethyst may be brought into the sacred space for peace of mind, and jet can be used for heightened intuition and Inner sight

 

 

Clothing

A white robe to match the candles makes for a beautiful ritual, accenting the increasing brightness of the days ahead

 

 

Cakes

Something light and simple, perhaps rose water and some angelica wafers or biscuits.