Spiritual Ceremony honoring and blessing the ancient cedar trees of Ross Cedars in Northwest Montana.

The ancient symbol of the cedar tree has been found to represent physical and spiritual nourishment, transformation and liberation, strength, union and fertility. They are seen as powerful symbols of growth and resurrection. In many folk religions, cedar trees are said to be the homes of spirits.

Cedar is one of the most important Native American ceremonial plants, used by many tribes as an incense and purifying herb. Cedar is especially associated with prayer, healing, dreams, and protection against disease. Many Salish tribes consider the cedar tree a symbol of generosity and providence, and had special rituals regarding the felling of cedar trees. Cedar is commonly used as part of sweat lodge ceremonies, and is also one of the herbs frequently included in medicine bundles and amulets. Cedar leaves and bark are used as medicine plants in many tribes as well.

The slide show accompanying the music are various pictures of Ross Cedars taken by Debra Scheschy.

Musicians: Debra Scheschy – Happy Flute; and a special thank you to Dan Hendricks – Drum and Kathy Martin – Rattle.