On October 9, 2025, The Folk and guests of the Ondheim Theodish fellowship met at the homestead of Chris Thane and his family to celebrate Winternights. The weather was clear, but cool and crisp, as is appropriate for the season. In the tribal meetings of the weeks prior to the gathering, the folk spent time making homemade jar candles to be used in honor of those who had passed beyond the veil. It is our tradition to create candles for the folk who have departed and light them from our needfyr to metaphysically invite them to our ritual gathering.
On the full moon a few days prior to the event, the hunters within the tribe gathered at the homestead of Chris Thane where he performed the traditional Ullr blot and weapon blessing for the hopes of a good hunting season.
The needfyr itself was lit two days prior to the event, as an opening to the meta-ritual in the tradition of our ancestors to hold holytides over the course of multiple days. The needfyr was kept burning for three days in an oil lamp, and on the day of the gathering, the lantern was used to ignite the ritual fire thereby maintaining the fire for the entire time. The gathering began in the early afternoon and was well attended by tribesmen and guests alike. Most of the day was spent strengthening the community bonds that are such an integral part of Theodish belief.
The folk then shared a feast, and as the sun set, we came together for ritual. The ritual was held in honor of the Disir and all the folk who passed beyond the veil, and gifts were given and offerrings made. The ritual was well received, and omens were judged to be good. After a brief break for dessert and more socialization, the symbel began. Coming together in symbel is one of the greatest rituals the folk participate in. The moment when all of our words and deeds flow directly from us into the well of wyrd and are witnessed by Gods, folk, and ancestors alike. It is the most sacred of our rites. Well-wrought words spoken in hall and ancestors and heroes remembered are the path to immortality within our faith.
Glaed Winternights to all!
William Lord
Ondheim Theodish Fellowship
Ondheim.org
Sigrblot was offered, with gifts of tribal made mead brewed by freedmen John and Ali, and a ceremonial spear marked with the runes of the gift cycle and blooded by Lord William. The sacrifice was well received with omens in fire and natural surroundings, and the feast commenced!
Symbel featured many yielps and braggs of accomplishments of the folk, Gods, ancestors and heroes were hailed with words and song. Toasts were given both in English and elder tongues, and a midsummer song was sung by Joanna Karl. Deeds and stories shared and honored, even to the point of tears. It was a powerful and moving ritual honoring the Gods and the folk. The Gods and ancestors plate, as well as the mead over which symbel was spoken was offered on the Horg.
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