Imbolc (February 2), the festival of the Maiden, marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the time of blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools, and the time when the ewes are brought down for lambing. As the world prepares for growth and renewal all maiden Goddesses, but particularly Brighid (also Bridget and Brigit) are honored; the Crone of winter transmutes into the young Maiden of Spring. Since Brighid is the guardian of the sacred flame as well as the Goddess of poetry, candles are lit.

On Imbolc in Ireland they make Brighid's Cross. Also known as Bride's cross, it is sometimes three-legged, a triskele, signifying the fact that she is in fact a Triple Goddess. Often it is an equal armed cross woven from reeds according to ancient patterns.

This Sabbat Ritual is designed to go along with the SIMPLE CIRCLE RITUAL. When one does not have time or space for a full ritual, this mini-ritual is both proven and effective.

In addition to the tools you need for the SIMPLE CIRCLE, you will also need: (1) 4 white candles, 4 to 5 inches tall and 1 inch in diameter (3 for the Altar and 1 for Brighid); (2) Incense sticks, Frankincense, Sandlewood and Cinnamon. You will burn one of each at the same time; (3) Sheep's milk or fruit juice; (4) Plain biscuits or shortbread.

NOTE: You should have on hand a half-dozen candle holders so you have them when you need them. You can find some nice holders that are pentagram shaped. Be sure the holders will accept a 1 inch diameter candle (it's okay to shave the bottom of the candles to fit. Be sure to use your Boline, NOT your Athame).

METHOD

Cast SIMPLE CIRCLE. After raising Power:

Move the candle(s) on your Altar to the Southeast corner of your Altar (leave them lit). Place 3 Imbolc candles in center of your Altar in a triangular shape. Leave room in the middle for Brighid's candle and place the candle holder there. Place one stick of each incense in incense bowl (Frankincense, Cinnamon and Sandlewood) and light them. Light the three Imbolc candles.

Light Brighid candle from one of the Imbolc candles. Hold candle in front of you facing East, and say:

"Lady of Light, Maiden and Goddess, Bless us with your presence here tonight."

Face South, still holding candle outstretched in front of you, and say:

"O, Brighid, as you offered your mantle for sanctuary for the babe, we signify this tonight with this flame of protection, and honor you as bride."

Face West, and say:

"As this flame burns, so let it signify the eternal flame sacred to Brighid."

Face North, and say:

"As Earth returns to earth and dust to dust, It is the time of blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools, and the time when the ewes return for lambing."

Face East, and say:

"Protect us now as the light brightens. We honor your symbol and we honor You forever, O Brighid."

Place candle in center holder. After a moment of meditation, say:

"We share your bounty."

Drink the sheep's milk or fruit juice and eat the biscuits to reaffim community. Always save some of each for libations to the Goddess and God. After the Ritual is complete, place the remaining biscuit at the base of a tree and pour the milk or juice over them with "Blessed Be. And so mote it be."

Close SIMPLE CIRCLE as usual.