“Cleansing and clearing are two words which suit the essence of Imbolc, as this is February, the Roman month of purification. This can be a cleansing of the self, in undertaking a good ‘detox’, or a clearing and cleansing of the home, in keeping with the tradition of spring-cleaning.” ― Carole Carlton
Before Groundhog Day, there was Imbolc. Admittedly, I grew up knowing nothing about the latter and am only beginning to understand the more deeply rooted pagan and Earth-centered traditions. However, the more I dig into them, the greater appreciation I have for the season we are in. I have found the suggested rituals that surround these traditions to be soothing, especially in a time like this, when easing out of the darkest days of the year.
Imbolc is said to be about cleansing, connecting, crafting, and looking ahead to spring. As we make our way through what is a frigid time in Minnesota, may we remember to care for ourselves by tending to our bodies and spaces, showing up, reaching out, responding to our creative spark, and planting seeds (physically and metaphorically) for the warmer days to come.
This week, I look forward to holding an intergenerational worship service in collaboration with Rev. Melissa Ketchum to kick off the month of February. Our Soul Matters theme is the Path of Love, and it will be a light-hearted and interactive service that I hope feels welcoming to the children in your life. However, if your kids need to play and move elsewhere during service, Diane Langland and Julia Hamann plan to staff our nursery room, and as always, the wiggle room in the rear of the sanctuary is open, too.
The rest of the Sundays this month, we plan to have our typical programming for our children and youth downstairs (meaning, we meet for connection and activities following the tale for all ages).
Next week, on Wednesday, February 8th at 6pm, we have an intergenerational potluck and game night planned. On February 15th at 6:30pm, we plan to have Youth Group. The activities and facilitators this month are to be determined.
As a friendly reminder, we can always use regular and occasional volunteers for the children’s and youth programming. Please contact Director of Children’s Faith Development, Macey Forsyth, by phone or email if you are interested. Thank you!