Yule/Christmas Ritual

Yule (Dec 24 at sunset through Dec 25 at  sunset*) -

The God's Son is born!  With His arrival He brings His Father's light back to the Earth.  The Goddess begins to awaken and care for Her newborn Child.  The God continues to protect both Mother and Child from above while His plan unfolds on Earth.  On Earth, Mother Mary is consumed with the Holy Spirit who gives her the wisdom to raise and teach Her Child.

*The date on Yule is difficult to place.  Three dates could easily be used: the day of the Winter Solstice, the Catholic day (above), or the Orthodox day which is generally January 7 or 8. Whatever fits your walk the best is the best one to use.

History -

For centuries the return of the light has been celebrated in many religions.  Among the many holidays are Christmas, Hanukkah, and Yule.  All are celebrated at a different time but are celebrated as holidays of light.  In the Christian religion the Light is the Son of God.  In the Pagan religion it is the light of the sun that is returning.  As Christianity started to spread, many Pagan rituals became incorporated as part of Christmas.  The history of Christmas is well documented but a good synopsis is at Wikipedia.  From the Celtic religion there is also the story of the Oak and Holly kings.  The Oak King battles the Holly King and in the end rings a new light to the world.

Decorations -

Traditional decorations for Christmas are evergreens, holly, candles.  The colors of red and green abound.  Pine cones and stars are wonderful decorations as well.  A nativity scene with the Holy Family can be the centerpiece decoration.  A decorated tree is also a tradition. 

Rituals -

There are many rituals that can be observed for Yule.  Gift giving, family dinners, and celebrations all figure into the wonderful meaning of the season which focuses on family.

When decorating with a live tree remember to say a blessing over the tree and thank it for bringing its beauty to you.  An easy blessing would be:

Evergreen that has come to me

Beauty you bring for all to see

Lights upon your branches foretell

Longer days and warmth so well

Thank you for being part

Of the festival in my heart

By earth, air, fire, water

I bless you.

Rituals that focus on family and the home are wonderful this time of year.  A simple family ritual would be to get a cauldron and a small paper for everyone.  Write or draw your wishes for each other.  Light a candle in the cauldron and form a circle around it.  Go around the circle and have everyone tell what they thought of and put the paper in the cauldron.

For a simple solitary ritual get a broom and white candle.

Open a circle as appropriate for your tradition and invite the Lord, Lady, and elements that you wish.

Light the candle and say:

Lady above, out of the darkness you have brought forth light.

While sweeping say:

I gather the darkness and night and sweep them to the light.

Sweep for as long as feels right.  Replace your broom and say:

I welcome back to earth the Son

The love and light that comes from the One

Lady of Love your Child comes this night

Never remove him from our sight

Bless him by earth, water, fire, and air

On this night so fair

Thank the Lord and Lady and elements for attending and close the circle.  Do not hesitate to go to Church to celebrate the birth.