New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Color of the day: Crimson
Incense of the day: Carnation No one is exactly sure why the Sheila-na-gig is carved over the doorways of Irish churches. It is obviously a Pagan symbol, but it is not something one would think particularly appealing to the average church-goer. After all, her leering face and gaping vagina contrast with a bald head, skeletal body, and wasted flesh. Still, Sheila gives form to the mystery of the elusive and powerful Mother Goddess, from whom all life comes and to whom all life will one day return. Her feast day follows St. Patrick's Day. Patrick is celebrated for driving the snakes, that is to say symbolically speaking the Pagans, out of Ireland. So why did the churchmen carve the Sheila-na-gig over their doorways? We may never know; in this case, the Sheila has the last word-so why question it? Simply decorate your altar with green cloth, green candles, a shamrock plant, and if possible a statue or picture of the Sheila. Play Celtic music all day, and dance to life. |
