Yule Renewal and rebirth during winter December 21 Winter Solstice The shortest day of the year. The Goddess gives birth to her Son, the God. Since the God is symbolized by the Sun, this marks the point of the year when the God is reborn as well. Thus, Wiccans light fires or candles to welcome the Sun's returning light. The Goddess, slumbering through the Winter of Her labour, rests after the delivery. Wiccans celebrate the return journey of the Sun, and the life it will bring. Yule is seen as a reminder that death is followed by rebirth Herbs The following can be used as decorations on the altar, around the circle and in the home: Holly, Mistletoe, Ivy, Cedar, Bay, Juniper, Rosemary, Pine, Apples, Oranges, Nutmegs, Lemons,  Cinnamon sticks on the yule tree. Ritual Fires are lit within cauldrons, candles may be carried around the circle, trees or potted Evergreens may be honoured as symbols of continuing fertility of the earth, a Yule log may be lit if a fire is physically within the circle. Symbols, Tools and Colours Green, Red, a wheel symbol which can be made from a wreath or a wreath form, Evergreens, Yule log, small potted tree. Yule Lore A Yule tree, either living and potted or cut. Decorations made from dried rosebuds, cinnamon sticks, popcorn, cranberries and bags of fragrant spices. Quartz crystals wrapped with shiny wire and hung from the tree branches. In ancient times it was customary to use apples, oranges and lemons. The custom of lighting the Yule log: Select a proper log of either Oak or Pine. Carve or chalk a figure of the Sun or the God, using the white handled knife. Then set it alight in the fireplace at dusk on Yule. Food  Nuts, apples, pears,cakes of caraways soaked in cider, wassil, lambswool, hibiscus or ginger tea.   click on the Yule button below to go to Yule message board

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