Stupid question

[mrgorth]

OK, first I'm not a pagan though I used to practice Asatru. I now go to a Unity church which is a mildly Christian church (just a little more Christian than the Unitarians) church that is not afraid to bring in elements of other belief systems. Anyway, for a while I have felt the need to have a bonfire for the solstice. I would like to incorporate the "yule log" by makeing one large piece of firewood the centerpiece of the fire. I have investigated several belief systems and I find none that celebrate the solstice in such a manner. I mean the norse had the "yule log" but I don't think it was part of an outdoor ceremony. Any thoughts on why I might have this drive? Thanks.

[Maat]

1. I belong to Religious Science ..

which is Unity without so much of a Christian flavor (I think). Both are 'New Thought' churches.

Anyway, both you and love exploring spirituality, and many others in our churches do too.

I don't know the answer to your question, but I know that I feel the same way; I've been very interested in teaching my nine-year-old about the origins of season celebration with the holiday tree.

[roguevalley]

2. because its beautiful. because it is a physical manifestation of your

mood and desire. because its a way to send something to the One. Pagans lit bonfires all the time in the winter for different ceremonies. They relit their household fires with them, blessed their herds, jumped over them for luck. Its a part of your emotional thinking and you should do it. Remember, homecoming games usually begin with a bonfire. :)

[mrgorth]

3. Thanks.

[Dead_Parrot]

4. Sound like you've got a touch of...

Sol Inviticus. I'd see a doctor about that. ;) You're right that the Yule log was an indoor thing, but that's mainly down to the practicality of keeping warm in the middle of winter, and not letting the rain put your fire out. I'd have no qualms about moving it outside if that's where you're going to be - certainly other solar fires (they also turn up at Beltane, Midsummer and Samhain* in various cultures) are generally outside.

Just remember to keep a charred bit afterwards, for lighting next years fire. (Otherwise the sun won't rise, or somesuch).

*I may be over-stating the Samhain fires, since they had a practical purpose in de-lousing cattle, but you get the idea.

Edit: Took the "Norse" out, since the Yule log was found in most European cultures where it gets cold in winter. The Germanic and Slavic cultures were big fans of staying warm...

[mrgorth]

5. Mission accomplished

Felt really good. Even had enough yule log left over to start next year.