Nights of Yule - Honoring the Fathers/Alfar

On this night, similar to the first night, we honor the Fathers. These are the male-identifying Ancestors of our hearths, hearts, and homes who have provided for us, taught us, comforted us, and blessed us with strength and purpose. These Ancestors do not have to be blood relatives. The Norse term, “Alfar,” is for male Ancestors. The term can be confusing, because it refers to both the “elves” of nature and of the souls of departed men. Some Norse-Germanic pagans honor Freyr at this time, as well, since he is the Lord of Alfheim.

Devotional/Family Prayer: Honoring the Fathers

Light the first four flames and speak the following:
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On this, the fourth day of Yule, when the darkness begins to ebb once more, we pay honor to those who stood beside us at our new beginnings, who aided us in strength and mind as we pursued our endeavors.
Tonight, we honor the Fathers of Old.
Fathers of our lines, Fathers of our hearts,
Fathers of our Father’s Fathers, we invite you to our fire this day.
Those who celebrated our victories, those who brought determination
and continued motivation in our trials,
Those who kept our homes full of bread,
those who worked hard to make a future for us,
Ancient Fathers, we honor you.
We give you these gifts (offer ale/spirits and bread),
That you may be filled with the fruit of our labors as you taught us to labor for what we sought to build.
Ancient Fathers, accept our offerings.