Hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors relied upon the sun as their only source of light, the end of winter was met with much celebration. Although it is still cold in February, often the sun shines brightly above us, and the skies are often crisp and clear. As a festival of light, Imbolc came to be called Candlemas. On this evening, when the sun has set once more, call it back by lighting the seven candles of this ritual.

** Note: although this ceremony is written for one, it can easily be adapted for a small group.

1.  First, set up your altar in a way that makes you comfortable, and brings to mind the themes of Imbolc. You'll also want to have on hand the following:

         * Seven candles, in red and white (tealights are perfect for this)
         * Something to light your candles with
         * A large bowl or cauldron big enough to hold the candles
         * Sand or salt to fill the bottom of the bowl/cauldron

     Prior to beginning your ritual, take a warm, cleansing bath. While soaking, meditate on the concept of purification. Once you're done, dress in your ritual attire, and begin the rite.

2.  If your tradition requires you to cast a circle, do so now.

    Pour the sand or salt into the bowl or cauldron. Place the seven candles into the sand so they won't slide around. Light the first candle. As you do so, say:

     Although it is now dark, I come seeking light.
     In the chill of winter, I come seeking life.

     Light the second candle, saying:

    I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
     I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
     I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

3.  Light the third candle. Say:

     This light is a boundary, between positive and negative.
     That which is outside, shall stay without.
     That which is inside, shall stay within.

     Light the fourth candle. Say:

    I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
     I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
     I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

4.  Light the fifth candle, saying:

     Like fire, light and love will always grow.
     Like fire, wisdom and inspiration will always grow.

     Light the sixth candle, and say:

     I call upon fire, that melts the snow and warms the hearth.
     I call upon fire, that brings the light and makes new life.
     I call upon fire to purify me with your flames.

     Finally, light the last candle. As you do so, visualize the seven flames coming together as one. As the light builds, see the energy growing in a purifying glow.

     Fire of the hearth, blaze of the sun,
     cover me in your shining light.
     I am awash in your glow, and tonight I am
     made pure.

5.  Take a few momemnts and meditate on the light of your candles. Think about this Sabbat, a time of healing and inspiration and purification. Do you have something damaged that needs to be healed? Are you feeling stagnant, for lack of inspiration? Is there some part of your life that feels toxic or tainted? Visualize the light as a warm, enveloping energy that wraps itself around you, healing your ailments, igniting the spark of creativity, and purifying that which is damanged.

     When you are ready, end the ritual. You may choose to follow up with healing magic, or with a Cakes and Ale ceremony.

What You Need:

   * Seven candles, white and red, and something to light them with
   * A bowl or cauldron with sand in the bottom