In 2025, during the Ostara gathering, it was Midgard that stood in the spotlight as the last of our journeys to the Nine Worlds. Midgard, the world of humankind, the place where we live alongside all that grows, blooms, and breathes. From that awareness came the thought to give something tangible back to Mother Earth, with future generations in mind.
Flame of Frith and Rheingold, the Eldaring Stammtisch Köln, joined hands to raise funds in order to plant a tree. The aim was simple, yet deeply meaningful: to create a living remembrance of connection, peace, and care for the land upon which we live. Donations were given generously, both in money and in offerings, and the willingness of many to contribute made this endeavour particularly special. It soon became clear that this tree would stand not only as a symbol, but as a lasting act of care and responsibility.
At the end of March 2026, the time had finally come. On the land of Burg Ludwigstein in Witzenhausen, Germany, a native elm was planted by Patrick, Thordis, Barbara, Max, and Klaus. The act of planting was not merely practical, but ritual in nature. As a gesture of welcome, the gathered offerings were placed into the planting hole, and libations were poured — an act of honour and gratitude to the earth and to the forces that sustain life.
May the elm grow strong and flourish,
sending its roots deep into the earth,
and its branches towards the heavens.
May peace and plenty thrive
alongside this Tree of Frith.
May it offer shade and shelter to animals,
and become a place where life may gather
and continue in its own time.
The Edda poem The Prophecy of the Seeress tells how the gods brought two tree trunks to life: Ash and Embla. From them came the first human pair. Whilst it remains uncertain whether the name Embla truly refers to a specific tree, some hold the view that it may have been an elm. By planting an elm, we therefore honour not only Mother Earth, but also our tree foremother — a symbolic remembrance of our origins and of the bond between humankind and trees.They are our ancestors. They stood here long before we came, and many will remain long after we are gone. They also grant us a priceless gift: oxygen, without which we could not live. Trees are, quite literally, essential to all life, both human and animal alike. They provide shade, shelter, nourishment, and breath, forming the quiet backbone of life upon this earth.
Planting a tree is a sign of respect for the past and a promise to the future. A tree grows slowly, yet steadily, reminding us that care and attention carry forward across generations.
Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who made the planting of this Tree of Frith possible.