Have A Blessed St. John’s Eve !

Last updated on: June 23, 2017 at 4:58 am by Lilith Dorsey

Have A Blessed St. John’s Eve ! 2017-06-23T04:58:53-05:00 Lilith Dorsey

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Marie Laveau Painting in the Voodoo Spiritual Temple, New Orleans. Photo by Lilith Dorsey.

Many are familiar with the Solstice blessings that occur this time of year, but there is a Voodoo celebration that takes place during this time as well. That celebration is called St. John’s Eve (June 23rd) and for some it is the holiest day of the year. In my post St. John’s Eve- The Darker Side of Solstice I wrote “Most agree St. John’s eve was made the amazing New Orleans celebration that it is today by Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau. This grand queen performed headwashing ceremonies on this day, either on the Bayou St. John, or Lake Ponchartrain (also called St. John’s lake.) Marie Laveau was widely known for her charity work, so this year consider honoring the fire in your heart and in your soul by donating or giving to those less fortunate.” This post has sparked some confusion lately, mainly because people want to know why I consider this the dark side of Solstice. Well, there are several reasons. First, unlike many of the Celtic celebrations for this time of year that focus on the light, fire and the longest day, this holiday celebrates water and the night. The religion of Voodoo is at it’s core focused on balance in ourselves and in the universe. The nighttime headwashings that occur are designed to cleanse and bless devotees bringing them clarity and protection. Secondly, and it seems obvious to me, this is a holiday originated and still carried out by people with dark skin. I welcome people from all walks of life who come to the religion with respect and honor, but the fact that this is a holiday popularized by people of African-American descent can not be ignored. Lastly the reason I consider this the darker side of things is because to many these traditions and ceremonies have remained secret, due to oppression and persecution. Fortunately we no longer have to hide in the darkness.

Have a Blessed St. John’s Eve everyone ! Get clean, stay bright, and remember the potential that this time of year holds ! As always if you have enjoyed what you read here please remember to share, share, share !

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Marie Laveau

St. John's Eve

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