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doula, spiritual direction, spiritual director, anam chara, anam cara, spiritual companion
doula, spiritual direction, spiritual director, anam chara, anam cara, spiritual companion
Last night I attended an event at a local event hosted by one of Washington State’s public policy think tanks. Having lived in Chicago for 30 years, I appreciate how much access we have to policymakers and public leaders in Washington State. Religious leaders must stay informed and engaged in an ever-changing world where political decisions can have far-reaching consequences. We will explore the importance of political awareness for Pagan priests and clergy, delving into their role in society, their challenges, and how they can foster political understanding to serve their communities better. Being informed and engaged is different than telling people how to vote or, worse, how to think. As a priest, I teach, guide, bear witness, and do not interfere with free will. As Pagans, we are a religion of clergy. We don't need intervention or someone to petition for us. However, priests accept responsibility for being present, facilitating, and building awareness. We provide spiritual guidance, perform religious rites, and often serve as community leaders. Influence on communities can be profound, and with this influence comes a responsibility to be informed about the political landscape that affects others in our community. In the context of priests, political awareness refers to an understanding of the political environment and its implications for their communities. If one was to build a flowchart, this is where the 🛑 icon comes in. Priests and clergy must be politically aware, as political decisions can impact religious communities in various ways, such as through legislation affecting spiritual practices, funding for faith-based organizations, or social issues that intersect with religious teachings. These are the practical and mundane aspects of what we do. However, they are equally important as your spiritual role. For example, consider a new law's implications affecting religious freedom or allocating resources for faith-based social services. By staying informed about these political developments, we can better advocate for their communities and provide guidance that is relevant to the current context. This involves getting out and meeting legislators, regulators, and policymakers. Be present. It doesn’t require formality or marches. Those have their valid purposes at a time and place. While political awareness is essential, it can also challenge religious leaders. There is the risk of becoming too involved in politics, potentially compromising your spiritual guidance and alienating members of their congregation with differing political views. Be politically neutral on candidates. Consider and support issues. Never let your political views come before your devotion to the Gods. “Speak but little; listen much.” To navigate these challenges, priests and clergy can strive to maintain a balanced and informed perspective. Be aware of the political landscape without becoming overly partisan or entangled in political controversies. This balance allows us to provide relevant and informed spiritual guidance while maintaining their primary focus on the spiritual well-being of their congregations. To become more politically aware, priests can: Stay informed about current events and political developments through reliable news sources. Offer to meet with political leaders. If you invite them to events, offer equal access. You may not like everyone’s views; some may self-select out of your event, but you will have tried. Remember that Pagans vote for issues and not political parties. Being informed helps you have a conversation. Read. Most municipalities have online resources for you to keep up to date. Sign up and review what is happening in your area and your nation. Participate in interfaith dialogues and forums to gain insights from other religious traditions. Vote. In 2016 I created the #AllPagansVote as intention, awareness, and motivation. By fostering political awareness, priests and clergy can better serve their communities and contribute to a more inclusive and informed society. In conclusion, political awareness is a vital aspect of the role of priests. By staying informed about the political landscape, we can provide relevant guidance, advocate for their communities, and navigate the challenges of political engagement. Moreover, as priests continue to foster political awareness, we will be better equipped to serve community and contribute to society. Onward.
In the modern tapestry of spirituality, being a Pagan involves a deep connection to ancient practices and the rhythms of the natural world, integrated with the realities of contemporary society. As a Pagan man, my journey is both a personal exploration and a public declaration of a faith that is often misunderstood in the mainstream. For Pagans, our practice is not merely about following the cycles of the Earth or celebrating the solstices. Still, it embodies a broader worldview that values respect for nature, the importance of ritual, and the interconnectedness of all life. Whether on e identifies with the divine masculine, feminine, or beyond, these tenets are vital, reflecting a spectrum of spiritual expression that honors individual and communal experiences. Technology and urbanization have dramatically reshaped our environments, sometimes creating a sense of disconnection from the natural world. Yet, they also offer new platforms for Pagans to share knowledge, connect across distances, and build supportive communities. Digital spaces serve as contemporary forums for ritual sharing, wisdom exchange, and spiritual support, helping bridge the ancient with the digital. Navigating modernity as a Pagan also brings unique challenges, including confronting misconceptions and stereotypes that can lead to social stigma or misunderstanding., The path requires profound courage to live authentically, and we often need to educate others about our diverse beliefs and practices. This journey is a testament to our strength and resilience. Ethically, Paganism prompts us to act with integrity and responsibility, guiding us in making choices that respect our spirits, the well-being of our communities, and interconnectedness with Nature and the Divine. This ethical stance underpins our interactions, ensuring they are marked by honesty and respect. In essence, being a Pagan today is about finding balance—integrating the wisdom of ancient traditions with the pressures and possibilities of modern life, holding space for the sacred in the mundane, and fostering profound insights into both the self and the universe. It is a path of continuous growth and reflection, a journey that challenges and enriches us, inspiring us to constantly evolve and deepen our understanding.
