Remember the Burning Times this Solstice

Midsummer, Litha, Summer Solstice... whatever its name, the longest day of the year is one celebrated across the segregated divides that are culture, religion and time.  Midway between planting and the harvest, Midsummer [June 21st, 2011] is a time to renew our energy and look toward the shifting wheel of the year with great expectation and humble appreciation. 

Purification rituals intensified by the blooming herbs of the season have always had their place of importance within the many cultures that celebrated Summer Solstice.  Traditions abound of collecting healing and aromatic herbs to toss into bonfires as many believed that herbs picked on this day held the highest power.

So gather your rosemary, lavender, thyme and sage.  Your carnations, vervain, violets and more.

I've read of a Danish tradition of putting a 'witch' made of twisted straw and herbs into bonfires in honor and remembrance of the Burning Times in the 1500 and 1600's.  In consideration of the numerous articles we have all encountered in recent months on the steadily increasing Witchcraft-related deaths in Africa [and elsewhere], I think this is one ritual that we as Pagans can adopt.

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MIDSUMMER PURIFICATION & PROTECTION RITUAL

  *  Collected Herbs     *  Bonfire

  *  Essential Oils: Lavender, Geranium/Anise/Bergamot, Sandalwood

Twist your herbs to form your 'witch'.  If you have essential oils, anoint the herbs [Sandalwood to heal wounds of the past, Lavender to bring peace and Geranium, Anise or Bergamot to offer protection from those that would set out to harm]. 

Toss your herbs in the fire with the following blessing spoken aloud or in your heart:

"Blessed Be those forsaken in days long since gone

and Blessed Be those who now face the fire.

May these herbs heal and protect.

Let be my heart's desire."

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HAPPY SOLSTICE TO ALL.  ENJOY THE STRENGTH AND ENERGY OF OUR SUN.