High Day Rituals Performed or Attended

Beltainne – May 1
Beltainne was a bit of a celebration, as it should be.  There was lots of drinking and dare I childish playing about with my girlfriend.  She ain’t pagan but she does not mind having a good time. 

No May pole this year, but lots of candles and flowers and drink.  And most importantly I spent it with my very own May Queen!

This is probably my second favourite holiday after Samhain.

Summer Solstice – June 21^st

Lughnasadh – Eve of Aug 2

Samhain – Eve of 1 November
This has always been my favourite high day.  I have a deep yearning to connect with my ancestors.  For some reason I feel most connected to Mannanan during this time of year, perhaps because my ancestors were sailors, or perhaps because he is the guardian of the gates?

I lit black candles and made prayers to keep my ancestors, and also for those sailors and soldiers who are in harms way around the world, and those who have already made the ultimate sacrifice.

I made offerings of Ale and pork to Mannanan.

We later went to a party to celebrate!

Yule
Home with family this year.  Really just a celebration.  It is difficult to hold a proper rite in Mom’s home... she would freak out! J  But I did find time to reflect and meditate while sitting on the pier by the lake.  Kind of an inner ritual!

Imbolc
My celebration this year was very low key.  I am still not used to being a geographic solitary. 

The rite consisted of lighting of three candles while invoking Brighid. I also placed fresh flowers and wine on the altar as offerings for Brighid.  The remaining time was spent in meditation and prayer.

This was a far cry from the massive celebrations with the 6^th Night Grove, but satisfying in its own way just the same!