September Ember

🍁 September Ember 🍁

Ember Days, also known as the “fasts of the four seasons”, were said to have been introduced into England by St Augustine of Canterbury as a way of thanking God for the gifts of nature and to cultivate the virtues of moderation and prudence in the use of worldly goods.

In Catholic England, there was a verse to help people remember when they fell: “Fasting days and Emberings be Lent, Whitsun, Holyrood, and [St] Lucie,” or the catchy shorter version: “Lenty, Penty, Crucy, Lucy.”

These days were made optional rather than an official observance following Vatican II in the 1960’s but in the past months as I have deepened my faith and delved into the roots of Catholicism I have come to discover the beauty of the old ways, the Old Mass (The Traditional Latin Mass, Mass in the Extraordinary Form), some traditions which have long been put to the side by the church.

Ember days have been a gateway for me discovering the very deep connection my faith has to nature to the earth, to being thankful for the fruits of the seasons for all we have been gifted by God.

Looking forward to really making Ember days a special observance in our home. Ideas for Ember days going forward for us…

🍁 Walks in nature to collect treasures to decorate the home

🍁 On days where meals are allowed use seasonal produce which has been prepared in a special way and speaks of the season. Do the same for any snacks.

🍁 Making sure nourishing fresh juices are avaliable for sustenance.

🍁 Pick seasonal flowers for the dinner table and ensure at allowed mealtimes the table is set and is a Vision of beauty and thanks.

🍁 Set small seasonal trinkets, alongside a candle for a lovely backdrop to prayer time.