What is Martinmas and why is it celebrated in Waldorf schools?

The story is told in many ways by many authors but the main elements are always the same.  On a cold winter night St. Martin, who was a Roman soldier, rode into the walled city of Ameins in northern France, and passed by a beggar huddling in the cold.  Martin, having nothing else to give the man, took off his own scarlet cloak, cut it in two with his sword and gave half to the beggar.  That night Martin was awakened by a vision and this experience confirmed in him his devotion to all humankind regardless of their station in life.  St. Martin was known for his gentleness, his unassuming nature and his ability to bring warmth and light to those who were previously in darkness. 

The Martinmas lantern walk celebrated by Waldorf schools, on or around November 11th, as well as families in the Netherlands, Germany and other parts of Europe is the visible ritual signifying our kindling and protecting of our inner light.  This light was sparked at Michaelmas time and has grown, hand in hand with our courage, into the light of love and faith Martin showed sharing his cloak with the beggar. We protect our little flame in a beautiful lantern and parade it around, singing songs with our brothers, sisters and neighbors.  As the outer light of the sun wanes during these days of late autumn and early winter we take pains to protect our inner light so it can grow.  Children and parents gather as the sun sets.  Handmade lanterns, often decorated with stars, suns and moons, are lit as a symbol for the children of their own individual light.  And if you choose to walk in the evening with your young one(s), family, and friends somewhere this November 11th, hopefully it will give an experience of caring and sharing as we move toward the darkness of winter.

How are you nurturing your inner light in these darkening days?  How are you sharing your light and helping to kindle and protect the lights of others during this season?

-- Jennifer Knighton