The Yule Log
 
 
     Perhaps one of the oldest of all Pagan Yuletide traditions is the burning of the Yule log. At this, the coldest & darkest time of the year, the burning of the Yule log, expressed in the simplest magickal terms what was needed most:  warmth & light. The power of the Yule log gave its strength to the new born Sun when another solar year was born. Today not everyone has a fireplace in which to burn the Yule lot, but the ancient ritual can still be performed.
     Small logs, particularly of birch, have been especially prepared & decorated and called Yule logs. To prepare such a log, obtain a length of natural log with the bark left on. The log will then need to be split so that it can rest on the flat side, or flattened just enouth on one side to keep it from rolling. A third method is to nail two flat strips of wood to the base. Once the log is steady and secure, drill two or three 3/4 inch holes in the top of the log to receive candles. (Sometimes a florist will sell them with the holes drilled in).
     Prior to your Sabbat Ritual, add the candles to the log (red or white anointed with Yule type of oil), and decorate with fresh holly, fir, pine & yew. At the appropriate point in the Ritual, light the candles and say your prayer.