Yule Lore
A traditional Yule pastime is the creation of a Yule tree. Other Wiccan decorations are strings of rosebuds and cinnamon sticks (or popcorn) for garlands. Hang bags of spices from the boughs of your tree. Quartz crystals can be wrapped in wire and hung from the tree to resemble icicles. Also try to hang apples, oranges, and lemons from the tree. An ancient tradition is the Yule log. This is very symbolic way of representing the Year King who is born again at Yule. The log is usually oak or pine. Try to carve a figure of the Sun or some other symbol onto the log. As the log burns try to visualize the return of the Sun.
A Ritual
Adorn your altar with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, of cedar. The cauldron resring on the altar should be filled with ignitable spirit, or a red candle can be placed within it. Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the circle. Invoke the Goddess and God.
Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it. Say these words:
I sorrow not, though the world is wrapped in sleep,
I sorrow not, though the icy winds blast,
I sorrow not, though the snow falls hard and deep,
I sorrow not, this too shall soon be past.
Ignite the candle or cauldron using long matches or a taper. As the flames leap up say:
I light this fire in Your honor Mother Goddess.
You have created life from death; warmth and cold;
The Sun lives once again; the time of light is waxing.
Welcome, ever returning God of the Sun!
Hail Mother of all!
Circle the altar deosil. Say the following chant for some time.
The wheel turns; the power burns.
Meditate upon the Sun and the hidden energies all over the earth. Say:
Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You, reborn one of the Sun.
Celebrate the Simple Feast and release the circle.