Christianity

I have been a member of this site for several years (despite a two or three month break recently). In that time, I have gone through a MAJOR personal spiritual transition. This site, and the many thought-provoking discussions I have taken part in, have helped me through the learning process.

Sadly, there are many in the neopagan world (and, even more sadly, the Christian world) that don't really have a proper grasp of what Christianity really is. So, in an effort to open up some dialogue, gain understanding from both sides of the issue, and perhaps educate some who don't know (and gain some knowledge myself), I thought we should discuss this often controversial, and always thought-provoking, topic of....

Christianity.

I consider myself to be a Christian. Some people get irritated by that, I can only imagine why... More specifically, I consider myself an Evangelical Lutheran Christian. In addition to that, I am also a Powwow. For those who don't know, it is a system of folk magic as found within the culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch...a culture I am very much a part of. My magical path is not only common in my area, it is taught within my very own church. It is very much a part of my culture, my state's history, and even the early history of our country (USA, for those who weren't sure). Formerly I dabbled in wicca, Wicca, neo-shamanism, and whatever else, so the transition to Powwow and Christian was not much of a leap for me.

Anyway, back to Christianity. I will start by saying this: IT IS PROBABLY NOT WHAT YOU THINK IT IS. And YES, you can talk about Christianity in an occult forum without fear of anyone trying to convert you. That's not what I do (misconception #1).

With that said, let's begin conversation. What are the common misconceptions? What are the common complaints? How much of what you do, as a modern magical person, comes from Judeo-Christian teachings? How much of what Christianity does comes from what you think is yours?

Let's discuss. And remember, keep the hate to a minimum...

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Permalink Reply by Psyche on September 18, 2012 at 8:27pm

I was brought up as a Catholic and I have a pretty good grasp on Christianity after reading the bible many times. Christianity didn't fit well with me even though I was an alter-girl (yes they have alter girls as well). I respect those who are Christian who are not preaching to me. I don't really have much to add to this discussion. I'm a pagan, I worship Diana and Cernunnos and my spiritual consort is Pazuzu. That is who I am.

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Permalink Reply by Psyche on September 18, 2012 at 8:39pm

I think Catholicism did influence my current religion. I think the rituals and the way homage was given to God. This might really sound strange but even when I was young, Mary called to me one of the faces (to me) of the goddess. Though I fell away from it I still some respect Catholics and Christianity unlike other pagans.

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Permalink Reply by Psyche on September 18, 2012 at 9:21pm

LOL me too! Its still ingrained in me so deeply. I think being a Catholic very much led me to paganism. Though my mother is Catholic and her and I don't see eye to eye on the subject :P

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Permalink Reply by joe soap on October 6, 2012 at 12:47pm

That was probably Isis who appeared too you the real mary of the bible i have lost all faith in christianity and seems the new pope used be a nazi. I have zero faith in it anymore no offence to rob either

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Permalink Reply by Maris Hellfaerie (Maire) on October 6, 2012 at 2:58pm

The pope was in the so called "Hitlerjugend". It was mandatory. If you did not join, things would get ugly. Click the name for details (Wikipedia, neat enough).

All that being said, I don't think a minor (Ratzinger was 14) can be taken serious when it comes to politics, but what do I know, right?

I admire you for your patience, Gaudior. I myself have very little faith in the average Pagan.

Here are a few movies which would help understanding The Reich.

The Wave (full movie); Europa Europa (find the full movie yourself); and for the advanced and smart: The White Ribbon (one needs to put all the parts together by oneself).

I personally do not like everything about each movie I mentioned, but if one wants to understand how The Reich was for young people, and for the last movie, for what made an authoritarian system like that possible even; these films give a very good impression.

I was raised by people who got their heads shaved as a punishment (for girls) and who had to endure physical training to toughen up in ways that we would possibly not survive, and I won't even begin on the hardships from the time between the wars, where people often did not even have paper to write a letter, or 1 pair of socks.

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Permalink Reply by Natasha Morluna on September 18, 2012 at 8:38pm

The word evangelical comes from a greek word (i could look up, but am too lazy atm) which means the good news... it is my understanding that one of the main practices of Evangelical Christianity is to spread, or preach the "good news" to others. i.e. Proselytizing. So is it because of your POWOW influences you don't do this?

I'm also curious of your stance on sin and the like. I don't mean to get too personal, because we have never spoken directly, but if I remember, you are married to a man? I know many, many evangelicals who passionately abhor homosexuality and the like. Which by the way, breaks my heart. Natty loves all people, but I have a special place in my heart for my gays. ((f** hag and proud))

I remember you from many years ago, Robert. I guess I only knew you in your dabbling days. I'm glad you've found the path that speaks to you :)

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Permalink Reply by patience on September 30, 2012 at 3:14pm

'There are better and more appropriate ways to share your faith with people; mostly through works, helping others, etc. It is more important to me to live a good life, learn as much as I can, and share the good things that I've experienced with others. It's not about collecting converts, it's more about sharing what works for me, and that does not always mean something religious or Jesus-y. :P'

i love this -> Not collecting converts, and sharing what works for you -sounds great.

it's great when people understand that it's a learning process on figuring out what is right for you, not what is right for another person. i run into this dilemma a lot in my own life. first off, i have been exploring and people tend to flock and freak out on you (in subversive and not so subversive ways) as well as think they know what is right for you. so i just find it refreshing to see you state...'what works for you'.

peace

peace and blessings

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Permalink Reply by Lotus)0( on September 18, 2012 at 8:41pm

I was never brought to church as a child or young adult, so I don't wish to know anything about it.I believe in the Goddess & Gods,and I believe there is no way I can come to believe that a MAN God formed every thing, it just isn't possible.

I do know that the early Christians were find with the Pagans, until Men wanted ALL to worship their God, and if they didn't they would suffer, be tortured, ETC

Christianity is a MAN made religion.

Paganism is an naturally formed faith.

just my opinion )0(