With its bright evergreen leaves, holly represents hope in a dreary winter landscape. For the Romans, it was a plant of good fortune. For the Celts, it was a plant of protection that was sometimes planted near their dwellings so the spiky leaves might snag evil spirits before having a chance to enter the home. When brought into the house during the darkest days of winter, the green leaves and bright berries brought cheer to the inhabitants of the home, as they were a reminder that spring would soon come.

Use a holly sprig as an aspergillum to cleanse and bless your home on Christmas Eve. Starting at the main entry of your home, dip your holly sprig into a bowl of fresh water and work your way deosil (clockwise), sprinkling the water around your home. As you do so, say something like this:

With love and light on this darksome night,
Bless this home and all who dwell within.
Negativity away, bright blessings to stay,
For all who enter, both kith and kin.