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Yule
By Stevee
Preparations
Before beginning the rite, choose three people to represent the Holly King, Robin and Marion. Robin will need a oak or green crown, Holly a holly crown and each a ‘sword’. The alter should be set as normal, preferably in the centre or moved there after the opening. Additionally place a Yule log in a brazier or something heat proof.
The Rite
Everyone sings;
The holly and the ivy, now both are full well grown,
Of all the trees that are in the wood, the Holly bears the crown.
O, the rising of the sun, and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir
Robin and Holly king are crowned by Marion, then dance with her
Everyone chants;
Who’ll hunt the wren cries Robin the bobbin
Robin chases then fights the Holly king
Everyone sings;
Deck the halls with oak and holly, fa la la la la la la la la la
‘Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la..
Sing ye carols, mime ye mummers, fa la la..
Farewell winter, greetings summer, fa la la..
Robin traps Holly and cuts his hat off, holly dies! Marian mourns and walks round the circle seven times, chanting
Maa-ne-rha
She ends at the alter and lights the yule log.
Every one says;
The virgin has brought forth, the light is waxing
The Holly king rises and addresses Robin;
Farewell til summer my brother, I go now to rest in Caer ArrianRhod
Everyone dances and sings;
The holly and the ivy, are dancing in a ring,
Round the berry-bright red candles, and the white and shining King.
O, the rising of the sun, …
Have a feast, have fun, Blessed Be and Happy Yule
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