Yule altars at the Temple

by Gemma & Alex Hughes

The Male altar at Yule

​The traditional feasting of yule is represented in the light box scene surrounded by mistletoe and holly. This greenery represents life in these dark days indicating good things to come and some traditions believe mistletoe represents / enhances male fertility.

​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 Female altar at Yule

​Mistletoe is believed by some to have healing and protective qualities, and for this reason it adorns the head of the goddess statue. This plant has long been revered by Druids and other traditions as magical and sacred, borne between the earth and the heavens. During the cold winter months its vibrant green leaves and dazzling white berries grow in the bows of leafless trees. Many people hang mistletoe in their home all year round to ward off evils spirits, burning the old sprig and replacing it with a new one each Yule.

​The winter solstice is not only the shortest day but also the longest night. In celebration of the night the spiral doll honours the moon goddess. Above her head she holds a moonstone and on her back the dark swirls represent the shadows on the other side of the moon. 

​The smudge fan represents the element of air, which Is honoured at this time of year by the Wheel of Avalon goddess tradition.

​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.