Spangle

To the religious of the True Way , bad habits require constant work to eliminate. During the long days and nights of midsummer Spangle is celebrated as a rejuvination of mind and spirit. Gentle music plays along the streets and alleys which are decorated with white and blue striped banners, and hollow paper stars. Cleanliness and health are popular goals on this day and many make this a time to undergo serious self reflection, and deep home cleaning. In the evenings, folk gather at the churches to absorb wisdom and guidance and then in the dark of night, to observe the night sky. Stars in this context represent the burning away of clutter and sin, and the renewal of holy light within.

History

Spangle is a midsummer holiday that celebrates rejuvination. During spangle, one reflects on bad habits and makes a commitment to break one, or continue to break one. Ceremonies include washing your face and eating a healthy meal. Spangle celebrates the shedding of bad things, and old paperwork is destroyed, along with anything that represents negative influence on a person, like old photos, certain books, old clothing or furniture.

Execution

During the morning of Spangle, participants are encouraged to wash their face and drink fresh water, and have a light healthy breakfast. Some time after noon then, one is expected to choose a bad habit to break, and perhaps destroy a negative item. After dusk, Spangle services are held in churches, featuring hymns, a sermon, music, and finally group stargazing.

Components and tools

A ceremonial silver basin is provided in the church for less priveleged citezens, else one is owned and used at home. The basin is used to wash one's face. A ceremonial hardwood flask is also used to retrieve fresh water throughout the day. Traditional clothing is a white robe or white coverall and a pale blue neckerchief or bowtie. Decorations feature stars, pale blue flames, and blue/white stripes.

Participants

Lower level clergy maintain and set up the decorations and the ceremonial basin and check to ensure a supply of fresh water is available. High ranking clergy facilitate the evening ceremonies and stargazing.

Observance

The longest night of the year in midsummer is when the ceremony is held.

Related Organizations

• True Way