It feels like the depth of winter in Ithaca, but in the Celtic world, the first of February is the celebration of Imbolc, the beginning of spring. Brigid, goddess and saint, is the one who ushers in this time of birth and new life. Irish in origin, Imbolc is translated as ‘in the belly (womb),’ ‘first milk,’ or ‘ewes milk,’ because it is the time of year when sheep are with lamb and milk. This Sunday we will explore this spring festival, its connection to Brigid, and the ways in which seeds of new life are seeking to be born in us, hidden though they may be in our frozen habitual ways of perceiving the world. All are welcome to join us after worship to celebrate the return of new life and light!