Somber Events of February

Tomorrow is the Kalends of February, a month sacred to Dis Pater. The ancient Romans had several somber observances in the month of February: the Februalia, Parentalia, Feralia, and Caristia. In the Clarian Tradition, we honor these days in accordance with the lunar calendar. The Romans originally had a lunar calendar of which began in March. The month of February was the final month of the year and therefore associated with cleansing, purification, and Dii Inferi, the Infernal Gods.

The Februalia takes place on the fifth day of the second lunar month, and has now passed. It is a time of purification of the home both physically and spiritually. Traditionally grain and salt are scattered about and pine boughs are used to sweep the home clean. One might also consider various herbal infusions for purification, sea-salt and water, and sage as a methods for cleansing. This is a time basically for spring cleaning.

The Parentalia occurs at the full moon of the second lunar month and will be arriving shortly. It is a time for the honoring of the Manes, our ancestors. Traditionally graves are
decorated and offerings made to the Manes. It is a solemn time, and celebrations are not observed during this time, as altar fires are forbidden.

The Feralia occurs at the last quarter of the second lunar month. It is a time for appeasement of those darker powers that might have been stirred up by negative thoughts and deeds. Rites for personal protection, including binding spells, are done if necessary.

The Caristia occurs the day after the Feralia and is a time to honor your living family. The previous holidays were focused primarily on the honoring of dead relatives, so this day is a time to reconnect with your living family.