Yule was held at the Meadville UU on December 17th, 2011. It was well-attended, with eighteen total attendees. We invited the Frost Giants to be our Gatekeepers, based on their past enthusiasm and excellent handling of the work. Bragi was called for inspiration. There was no specific deity of occasion, and the main ritual offering took the form of a modified souling play assembled and tweaked by a Grove member. It detailed the traditional battle of the Holly King and Oak King for sovereignty of the Winter Season, and was enthusiastically participated in by the bulk of attendees.The omen was taken in runes, and what was received was good, and went as follows (with remarks by Grey)
“Gifu, Laguz, Ingwaz
From the Ancestors, Gifu, A Gift for a Gift as is said. The art of
hospitality goes a long way, and can be both a gift of giving, as well
as receiving
From the Nature Spirits; Laguz; The primordial waters, those we tap into
during the two powers, the waters of earth mother herself. Strong and
powerful, but with respect will mean that we don’t get swept away with
its currents.
From the Shining Ones; Ingwaz; The primordial male powers, growth,
strength in connecting each persons force. bonded together, a force to
be reckoned with.
Using our gifts, gives us the balance of the primordial female and male
powers, in balance. A positive, good omen for Yule. Take the blessings
here, shine in these cold winter months, for there is power there.”
