South African PAGAN COUNCIL PAGANISM in South Africa PAGANISM in South Africa An Introduction to the Pagan Religion Prepared on behalf of the South African Pagan Council B. Katzke, M. Fonteleve, D. Leff 2013 Copyright All Rights Reserved. Copyright remains with the original credited authors. CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE South African Pagan Council 3 Pagan Principles 5 Pagan Practices 8 Controversial Issues 13 A History of Paganism in South Africa 15 Pagan Voices 19 Pagan Symbols 23 Pagan Paths & Traditions 26 Pagan Groups, Covens & Organisations 36 Pagan Religious Marriage Officers 37 Pagan Rights Alliance 38 The Pagan Freedom Day Movement 41 Terminology & Phrases 42 Frequently Asked Questions 46 “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Aristotle Greek critic, philosopher and physicist (384 BC – 322 BC) PAGANISM in South Africa 1 A Prayer for Peace Great Goddess, Lady of Peace Who hears our prayers. Come to us as the Maiden, Grant us enthusiasm to forge new beginnings. Come to us as the Mother, Teach us to nurture our growing ground. Come to us as the Crone, Instil in us wisdom to create transformation. Bless us with compassion. Bless us with strength. Bless us with perseverance. Fill our hearts with love and peace So we may come to understand and accept one another. PAGANISM in South Africa 2 South African PAGAN COUNCIL www.sapagancouncil.org.za PO BOX 14812, Nelspruit, 1211
[email protected] Community Based Religious Organisation The SAPC was the first Pagan organization to be listed as an official Pagan Church in Africa.