Her Hidden Children: The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America

Clifton, Chas S.  Her Hidden Children The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America.  Lanham: AltaMira Press, 2006. Many of us come to Paganism with an interest in ancient history.  We wonder who and how our ancestors worshiped and we attempt to follow in their footsteps.  I can speak for myself when I say that when I began studyingContinue reading “Her Hidden Children: The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America”

A Brief History of the Druids

Ellis, Peter Berresford.  A Brief History of the Druids. New York: Carroll & Graf Publishers, 2003. Each Summer Solstice the news media releases a handful of articles on a modern group of Druids worshipping near Stonehenge.  The photos are of regular looking people wearing long white robes and sometimes white head coverings that look more akin toContinue reading “A Brief History of the Druids”

A History of Pagan Europe

Jones, Prudence, and Nigel Pennick.  A History of Pagan Europe.  New York: Barnes & Noble, 1995.   A side of history that has remained silent for many years is finally revealed in Prudence Jones and Nigel Pennick’s work A History of Pagan Europe.  Through exploring the tomes of history, lore, and archaeology, the authors have put together an impeccableContinue reading “A History of Pagan Europe”

Grey Catsidhe’s 21 Days of Solstice Music!

Another chunk of songs for your Solstice enjoyment! We’ll start with something more serious.  This one was a suggestion from a reader (onelittlepagan) – a Paganized version of “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Craig Olson.  The images of an actual Solstice celebration are beautiful.  What a lovely home!  Thanks for sharing, onelittlepagan!  I had onlyContinue reading “Grey Catsidhe’s 21 Days of Solstice Music!”

In Which I Struggle Through Magic 1

I think I’m finished with exit question 1 of Magic 1.  For now anyway. I now believe that one reason I stalled on the essays is because the first question is, in my opinion, worded so awkwardly.  “Discuss the importance of the action of the magico-religious function as it is seen within the context ofContinue reading “In Which I Struggle Through Magic 1”

The Secret of Kells – A Review

I finally got around to watching “The Secret of Kells,” the animated feature from Cartoon Saloon.  It was recently added to the Netflix Instant Queue and several Druid friends were recommending it on the ADF mailing list. The story is about Brendan, a young brother in the Abbey of Kells in Ireland.  His uncle, theContinue reading “The Secret of Kells – A Review”

On the Evolution of Magic

I’ve been reading Magic in the Ancient World  by Fritz Graf.  While I’m not even halfway through, I’m learning a lot about magic in the Mediterranean world.  The concept changed throughout history, but there was always this concept of the “other” – the enemy or the outsiders – practicing malevolent magic.  Unless I am wayContinue reading “On the Evolution of Magic”

Rolling in Books

A new book arrived for me in the mail today: Magic in the Ancient World by Fritz Graf.  It’s recommended reading for Magic 1 in ADF’s Initiate Program.  I’ve read many titles about the history and folklore of magic in Europe – mostly focusing on the north-eastern parts.  This latest book focuses on the Mediterranean world.Continue reading “Rolling in Books”

The Moon in Modern Druidism

It is well known that Wiccans hold special rituals during the full and new moons.  Many Neo-Pagans and traditional witches observe certain lunar practices.  For example, some spells are thought to be more effective when performed on a specific day of the moon’s cycle.  What did the ancient Druids do and what can/do modern DruidsContinue reading “The Moon in Modern Druidism”