Lammas

For centuries, perhaps dozens of centuries, we have relied on wheat as the primary grain for making bread (and beer).  At this time of year, halfway between the spring solstice and the fall equinox, times would have been hard as food supplies ran low.  It was natural that a celebration was held as the new harvest came in.  It was natural too, that a portion of the new harvest would be given to the landlord and the church.

One of my favourite harvest pictures from last year.

Lammas reflects the continual unfolding of the seasons, but is perhaps one of the most important to recognize.  We have the equinoxes and solstices, but the halfway in between points, Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas and Samhain, are less recognized.  And they all have a touch of paganism about them.

Of these, Lammas is the one I usually remember as it passes by.  The annual harvest is both important and very tangible.  And I do love a nice chunk of freshly baked bread (and a good beer).  So here's to the harvest this year;  we certainly have good weather for it.

In case you hadn't connected the two, we do still have celebrations of the other three mid-point Pagan festivals, much evolved.  Imbolc has become Groundhog Day, Beltane is May Day, and Samhain is Hallowe'en.

And so the seasons continue to unfold.