Imbolc 2025
This gathering was everything we hope all gatherings to be: intimate, connective, and meaningful. We were hosted in a beautiful private home in Utah County. Before walking in the front door, we were greeted with colorful ribbons Inside, we were surrounded by vibrant plants, art and color, and the smiles of all in attendance. After walking beneath the blackberry bramble arch, made by our host and dedicated to Brigid, we opened our gathering with song. Alisa led us in singing Brigid’s Kindling Prayer (originally shared with her by Sine McKenna), and Madee presented a land acknowledgement and reminded us of our Community Shared Agreements.
Channing guided the group through an introduction of the Old Norse concept of the Disir, or powerful feminine ancestresses. Using yarn as an interactive element, the group learned about the interconnectedness of all beings and the inheritance of both blessing and responsibilities from our ancestors. Participants further engaged with ancestral re-connection through drawing and sharing their “grandma’s quilt:” a tangible reminder of cultural heritage and belonging.
We feasted on an abundance of food offerings. Homemade soups, including a traditional Guinness Beef Stew, were accompanied by soda breads, compound butters, fragrant salads, and delightful desserts. Mealtime at gatherings is always a highlight: each community member offers what they can, and everyone leaves well-fed. It is it’s own kind of magic.
Following our meal, we set up two stations: one for crafting Witch’s Tapers, and another for weaving Brigid’s Crosses. Alisa taught the traditional method for creating Brigid’s crosses. Participants used plant material foraged locally, as well as colorful paper straws for a modern take on the craft. Madee led the group through making Witch’s Taper candles from dried mullein stalks, beeswax, and dried herbs. Together, everyone was able to create a beautiful ritual items to take home.
At the completion of our stations, we headed outdoors to close our gathering. Together, we burned last year’s Brigid’s Crosses and lit the communal taper candles as offerings: one for the Ancestors, one for the Land, and one for the Community. We sang “Round and Round,” announced birthdays, and shared upcoming offerings for further connection.
An old Brigid’s Cross burning in the fire
Thank you to all the hearts and hands who prepared and participated in this gathering. We’d like to especially thank:
Our host for the time and care poured into preparing their home.
Volunteers who arrived to help with cleaning and set up, those who prepared soups and food offerings, and those who stayed late following the gathering to assist in clean-up.
Participants who brought bread, salads, sides, butters, drinks, and desserts to share, as well as those who brought their own mugs, plates and bowls, and eating utensils to reduce waste and expense.
Facilitators past and present, who gathered and prepared all materials for the gathering, including: mullein stalks, beeswax, Brigid Cross materials, wax warming elements, herbs, and fire supplies.
Those in attendance for the first or second time: Thank you for trusting us and trying something new!
Everyone who showed up with presence and vulnerability in sharing their experiences, thoughts, and kindness.
