What is Paganism?

Generally:

• roots in ancient world religions, particularly of Europe
• ancestral beliefs & values adapted to modern life
• various religions and traditions identify as pagan
• polytheism: multiple separate gods
• pantheism: all is god
• diversity and pluralism encouraged
• awareness of female divinity

Particularly:

• all things are sacred, as expressions of the vast divine energy that makes up the universe
• nature is unchanged expression of the divine, so land and animals are particularly honoured and eco-awareness encouraged
• the rhythms of nature – seasonal changes, celestial tides, etc – teach us about the Divine, and by living in harmony with them, we can learn about the Divine in ourselves
• personal life transitions are celebrated as natural rhythms
• personal spiritual experience is valued, no intermediaries required because we are all part of the Divine
• teachers and leaders are facilitators rather than authorities
• do not seek to convert others as believe all find their own path