Branches for St Barbara

It may be the Second Sunday of Advent, but December 4 is the feast St Barbara. This article by Professor Carol tells of the wonderful history of St Barbara and a particularly beautiful tradition that families can enjoy this Advent season. Click the link to read the full article. But here's the beginning excerpt.

Here’s a simple tradition for Saint Barbara’s Day, December 4. Since it falls on Sunday this year, we will look at it one day in advance.

Cut branches from a tree that buds in the spring. Ideal are twigs from cherry, plum, apple, or horse chestnut trees, as well as forsythia, lilac, English hawthorn, or jasmine. Crush or cut the ends of the branches a bit, submerge them in cool (not icy) water for a few hours. Then place them someplace cool in a vase of water. Wait a few days, and as the buds start swelling, bring them into a warmer spot such as a dining table or window sill where everyone can observe. Then watch them blossom and come to life!