The name “Imbolc” which means ‘in the belly’ has it’s name derived from the Gaelic “oimele” which means “ewes milk” and marks the transition by the winter crone into the spring maiden in the ancient pagan religions. The newly rising Catholic Church, hoping to co-opt the popular pagan goddess Brighid the church canonized her Saint Brigid of Kildare. Saint Brighid has been called the “Foster-Mother of Christ” (Muime Chriosd) and it is said Saint Brigid was the midwife to the Virgin Mary, and is still invoked by women in labor.
The holiday of Candlemas, also known as Imbolc, falls on February 2nd. The ancient Celtic goddess Brigid was honored on this day, and even after she was absorbed into the Church as St. Brigid, celebrations for “Candlemas” have changed very little. It is often referred to as the ‘Festival of Light’ because candles are lit and placed in each window to light the way for the new season
Today, Candlemas is more generally known as Groundhog’s Day.
