Halfway between the Winter Solstice and the spring equinox is a time known in ancient Gaelic traditions as “Imbolc.” Also known as the time when Saint Brigid passes through, those who observe are invited to leave out a blue cloth for Brigid to bless on her journey. At RCWMS we have honored this time by gathering and lighting candles.
Imbolc is all about welcoming and preparing for change: the transition of the season. In my yard, the hyacinth bulbs and snowdrops are beginning to emerge. For me it is a time of gratitude: hardy bulbs are coming back to greet me, the days are beginning to lengthen, and spring is on the horizon.
At RCWMS it is also a time of gratitude. Your support meant we blew the top off our 2022 year-end giving goal and raised $65,000, ensuring that we enter into 2023 with some fuel for the exciting new programming we are offering, , including an African American quilt conference in June, (stay tuned!) and progress on a film we can’t wait to tell you about.
Thank you. Please keep blessing us with your presence in our community.
If you are so moved, leave a cloth out on January 31 for Brigid to bless, and feel the support and gratitude of this beloved community.
Additional Resources:
Ireland now recognizes Saint Brigid’s day as a national holiday. In “Brigit of Ireland: Saint or goddess?“, Dr. Mary Condren of Trinity College, Dublin, explores Brigit through a variety of lenses.
Condren discusses Saint Brigid in a January 2021 WATERtalk with Mary Hunt. View the transcript and recording.
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