FAQ
This is not an instruction book on how to be Pagan. It is only meant to inform those with questions about Paganism.
If you wish to learn more about our Society please read our Mission Statement and Constitution.
- Are You For Real?
- What Is Paganism?
- Is Paganism A Religion?
- Do You Sacrifice Small Animals And Babies?
- Do Pagans Worship Devils And/Or Demons?
- Isn’t Paganism All Naked Rituals And Orgies?
- What Kinds Of People Are Pagans?
- Are All Pagans Witches?
- Can One Be Both Pagan And Christian?
- Do You Practice Witchcraft/Spells?
- Where Can I Find Out More?
Are You For Real?
Probably the most common reaction on someone discovering a Pagan. The answer is yes, we are. Mostly this disbelief comes from people thinking that what they see in Charmed and Buffy is what we actually believe. Trust me it’s a lot more down-to-earth than that (pun intended).
So What Is Paganism Then?
“Paganism” is an umbrella term for different spiritual paths, typically earth-spirituality based, outside the Abrahamic monotheistic group of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam and usually without proselytism (the practice of attempting to convert people).
Is Paganism A Religion?
This is a yes and no question. Although some Pagan paths are recognized in Ireland as minority-religions (giving them all the same rights as Judaism, Buddhism, etc.) most Pagans would not describe themselves as part as a religion, at least not in the organized-religion sense.
Do You Sacrifice Small Animals And Babies?
Although some paths that come under the broad definition of Paganism, such as SanterĂa (an Afro-Caribbean religion derived from traditional beliefs of the Yoruba people of Nigeria), do practice the ritual sacrifice of animals, in general it is seen as an inhumane practice of a bygone. Modern Pagans most certainly do not practice human sacrifice.
Do Pagans Worship Devils And/Or Demons?
Although many Pagans assimilate beliefs from other cultures the Devil is a Christian concept so in general no.
Isn’t Paganism All Naked Rituals And Orgies?
Alas no, although some practices do involve nudity this is more to do with symbolism than sex.
What Kinds Of People Are Pagans?
Everyone you could imagine; mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, students, shop owners, military personnel, teachers, biochemists. Paganism open to all.
Are All Pagans Witches?
No. Another popular misconception due to the media. As mentioned above Paganism covers a wide variety of different spiritual paths.
Can One Be Both Pagan And Christian?
Absolutely, Pagans believe that all spiritual beliefs are equal and many Pagans have a collage belief system.
Do You Practice Witchcraft/Spells?
Both Witchcraft and Spells are part of the practices of many Pagan paths. Again it has to be said that what you see on TV and the reality can be very different. Witchcraft and Spells are equivocal to prayer in other forms of spirituality.
Where Can I Find Out More?
There are a number of books in UCDs library on the subject of Paganism. Please visit http://pagansoc.com/resources/ucd-library-booklist for a booklist.
If you have any further questions please email us at ucdpagan@gmail.com.
