There are just two weeks to go until The Mediaeval Baebes’ torch-lit procession wends its way with song and dance to All Saints Church in Ryde (Saturday 7th December).
If you plan to be part of the ‘Lighting of the Chalice’ you may wish to know more about the pomp and pageantry.
The Chalice stems from pagan customs and traditions. During Mediaeval times, Christmas was seen as a 12-day holiday of fun, feasting and raucous abandonment. And this was made especially apparent, as it was preceded by Advent, a 40-day period of fasting and piety.
Christmas was always a time of coming together and when elaborate processions and pantomimes were enjoyed. One mediaeval Christmas custom was ‘mumming,’ where people would get dressed in sinister outfits and go door to door to intimidate people into giving them alcohol or other ‘gifts.’
Filling the chalice
Another pagan tradition that endured the transition to Christianity was Wassailing. This orchard based drinking ceremony took place to ensure a plentiful apple harvest, and often morphed into an intoxicated free-for-all. For this important event, households would collect alcohol in a large vessel or chalice, called a Susan, which was frequently decorated with holly and ivy. The partygoers would then not leave until the chalice was empty!
A symbol of connection and community
Over the years, the chalice has remained a part of Christian and pagan ceremonies and customs. It is often viewed as a symbol of connection and community. And, used to create a sense of unity and shared experience.
At Christmas time it can also be seen to represent the abundance that is clearly needed when the days are at their shortest, regardless of era or faith.
‘The Lighting of the Chalice’
As a nod to the chalice, a vessel of communal jubilation, the ceremony of this year’s Mediaeval Baebes experience will commence with ‘The Lighting of the Chalice’. In true mediaeval Christmas tradition, the ceremony will be followed by a torchlight procession led by the chalice bearer to the nearby venue.
This immersive, interactive experience, one of pomp, ceremony and pageantry, will set the tone for the evening of revelry to come. Concert goers are invited to join us on our journey, or to just enjoy the illuminated spectacle as it culminates in the grand entrance into the venue, All Saints’ Church, Ryde.
Book now
Come join the Mediaeval Baebes and be immersed in glorious merriment at All Saints’ Church in Ryde on Saturday 7th December 2024.
Tickets are now available from the Mediaeval Baebes website at a cost of £28.50 each and £13 for a child.
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