Hail Janus!
Hail Juno!
Hail Neptunus!
Hail Pietas!
We honour the gods and seek absolution and purification as we prepare for festal times.
Salve Iane!
Salve Iuno!
Salve Neptune!
Salve Pietas!

 

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The Kalends of December are the first of a three-day tempus nefastum. This period would appear to culminate the relative solemnity of the preceding month of November with its absence of festival activity. With the inclusion of Neptunus, the aquatic indigitation of Janus, the water association is also suggestive of purification in preparation to the approaching Latin yuletide. Pietas also received a temple dedication this day ad circum Flaminium along with that of Neptunus. The virtues belonging to the personification of piety include duty, human respect, love of country and devotion in general.