Children in Carmarthenshire are taking part in a new project to spread light and hope across the county in these uncertain times.
As an image of hope, Primary School pupils are being urged to produce hand made lanterns, or an image of light, to display in their windows for Candlemas (the Christian festival of light) on 2nd February. The idea is to reach out to others to share strength and positivity in the community when it’s needed most.
The project is part of the Lightbringers Lantern Challenge – inspired by the book The Lightbringers/Y Lanternwyr by Karin Celestine.
The Lightbringers books are described as the first in the series of stories for all ages, offering hope and light in times of darkness. Karin’s handmade needle-felt animals compliment her beautifully written stories, adding life to her the Lightbringers world.
The online launch was in November 2020 through Karin’s website Celestine and the Hare. Karin also launched a social media event called ‘Gather the light’, which is the inspiration for the current activities in Carmarthenshire Schools. The virtual lantern walk aimed to spread joy and connection at a time when we are unable to meet in person.
At the time of the online launch Karin said,
“Originally I had planned to do an event with Kenilworth Books to launch the book. We had an idea of doing a Lantern Walk through the old Abbey Gardens, to get everyone involved in making lanterns, coming along and walking the darkness like the Lightbringers do in the book. Holding our inner light safe through the dark days until the light returns once again.”
Instead, the event was moved online and launched on 11th November 2020, with those taking part sharing their pictures with Karin and the publishers of The Lightbringers.
Karin also runs needlework and copper sculpture workshops which have currently stopped under COVID-19 restrictions. She regularly takes part in book events in schools and libraries for children.
Welsh and English copies of The Lightbringers have recently arrived at Graffeg publishers to be delivered to local schools as soon as possible.
Carmarthenshire County Council say,
“Pupils from Llanmiloe School have already started making their lanterns as part of their home learning. Your school will be able to provide you with more information, so please get involved and share your pictures. Let’s light up Carmarthenshire.”
There are free patterns available on Karin’s website as well as helpful tips on making lanterns.
Find out more here or find Celestine and the Hare on Facebook.
