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Jennifer's Alternative Religions Blog

By Jennifer Emick, About.com Guide to Alternative Religions since 2002

University Welcomes Pagans, Sacred Items Declared Worthless in Court, Solstice Happenings

Tuesday June 20, 2006
Gathering at Stonehenge, 1923 Scotland's venerable St Andrews University has flung open the doors to Pagans, even providing campus space for rituals and festivals. All this magnaminity comes with an unusual set of restrictions governing campus rituals- no nudity, no necromancy, and no "dark forces." Sounds to me like someone was perhaps watching a bit too much "Charmed."

After losing almost everything he owned when a sheriff's deputy threw his belongings outside in an 'accidental' eviction, an initiate of Santeria sued to recover the value of priceless sacred items, but a judge has decided that a sacred stone acquired during an elaborate (and expensive) initiation is no different in value from an ordinary quarry rock. Thus, items accrued during years of training and initiation are, according to the courts, essentially valueless.

A Christian author contends that Yoga is designed to expose people to demonic influences. So much for "Be still and know that I am God," no?

Ever wondered where vampire hunters go for bulk supplies? (Via J-Walk)

The Fremont, California Guradwara's Guru Granth Sahib gets its own ride.

The Arizona Daily Star profiles a Celtic pagan group as they prepare for a public Solstice celebration, one of numerous papers to cover the Solstice holiday this year.

Speaking of Solstice celebrations, more than 20,000 people are expected to converge upon Stonehenge for the event, even if they are turning up for the wrong Solar festival. (Worried about being late? Here's a gadget that will ensure you show up on time.)

Comments

June 21, 2006 at 5:49 pm
(1) Keith W. says:

A Blessed Midsummer to all!

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