The Birch tree is one of the first to come into leaf and is a pioneer species, often being one of the first plants to colonise new areas. In this way the Birch is connected with fertility and new beginnings. Birch is also a traditional wood used for making a bessom (broom / brush) which would be used for sweeping one’s home, especially at this time during a spring clean where the build-up of dust, dirt would be removed from homes after the winter. This annual purge is still done by many to not only clean the physical but also cleanse the spiritual aspects of one’s home. Silver birch bark has been included on the altar and the Birch tree is represented on the light box.

Other natural spectacles that can be seen in the spring have been included on the altar including daffodils, boxing hares, and frogspawn, each bringing an aspect of new beginnings and hope.

The four different coloured eggs symbolise spring fertility and the balance of the equinox. Each different colour represents a different element. White for air, blue for water, green for earth and yellow for fire, placed together on the altar in perfect union.

At this time of year you may be lucky enough to catch sight of a “Mad March Hare”. Hares, box during the mating season and not as most people believe only the males. Female hares will rebuff unwanted attention from males by raising up on their back legs, stand their ground and engage in “boxing” if he won’t take no for an answer.

March is the time of year when our hibernating reptiles such as slow worms, adders, grass snakes and common lizards, start to wake up. They sluff of their old skins and re-emerge into the warm spring sunshine. In honour of this time of transition from old to new the piece of serpentine has been placed on the altar.

​The shortest day can also represent the rebirth of the sun and the male god figure. On the altar the male deity is represented by Cernunnos “lord of the wild”. 

​The banner behind the altar has been flipped over revealing the oak king winning over the holly king following the biannual battle from the druidic tradition. This banner has been especially made for the temple to allow us to represent more aspects of the male deity.

​The fireplace T-light is a modern interpretation of the burning of a Yule log, a tradition that has its roots ancient times. The light from the fire represents hope and comfort at this dark time it also symbolizes the return of the sun.

​Representation is very important to the Bristol Goddess Temple community as we walk many different paths. If you have any suggestions about different items from different traditions that you would like to see on either of the altars, please feel free to contact us with details about what it is and why it is important. We would appreciate any suggestions well in advance of the celebration your item is connected to, as we will need time to hand make or source it.