From time immemorial, four sacred fires marked the year in Ireland. Traditionally, St. John's Eve fire traditions varied from community to community. The St. John's fire tradition was not initiated or controlled by the church authorities, though many Christian practices were included. In recordings, Irish elders often talk about St. John's fire in an obscure way, emphasizing the importance of tradition without a confident explanation why. Prayer magnifies the fire and the fire magnifies us.

Source: Washington Post June 21, 2022 08:03 UTC