ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑ

The Political Threat to PHYSIS

2010-07-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I last posted here and many things have been going on in the political world since then. One of the major issues I have taken note of is the increasing political threat to Nature (PHYSIS) herself.

I've been listening to the radio, watching TV, and reading on the Internet about the increasing push by the American Right Wing to continue pressing corporate power over all else. The belief seems to be that we must allow businesses to do what they want so that they can take care of our economy - aka "trickle down economics". Well, we've been doing that since the 1980's and it worked out as long as the people at the top were being responsible, but we have found out that they are NOT responsible people. They have taken our economy down with their gambling failure which then required a ridiculously large taxpayer bailout for them in order to keep this capitalistic economy floating and not dive into a depression.

Now, what does this all have to do with Nature? EVERYTHING. Corporate power when left unchecked as it has been since Reagan was in office, is again threatening both the Earth and our human Freedom. Large oil companies are poisoning the planet, killing animal and human life, and making exorbitant amounts of money with no intention of improving the social welfare of the locales they inhabit. Africa, South America, and now the US is suffering from the irresponsible actions of corporate tyrants.

On top of this, the fundamentalist Christian populist/political machine is mobilizing in a way never before seen since the times of the Crusades lead and/or fueled by people like Sarah Palin, Glenn Beck, Pastor John Hagee, etc...... They conduct wars in the name of God (just like their Muslim brothers by the way), push corporate agendas in the name of God, and exploit Nature as if there was no tomorrow for them. (Perhaps because there is no tomorrow for them due to their Apocalyptic psychology).

I think its time that this new combination of corporate/religious militancy be addressed as a real threat to our planet and to our human freedom. This is not a benign political ideology anymore, but it is becoming a real political movement which needs to be opposed. Nature herself is caught in the middle of wars between extremist religious zealots and unregulated corporate competition. The people behind this often claim that their god is granting them the right to conduct themselves this way at the expense of everyone else.

I don't know about you, but I was never asked about this, nor was I told by ANY god that this was a good thing. I doubt Nature was asked what she thought about it either. In any case, this is no longer something we can ignore.

What will you do about this? I have one idea: reviving an ancient pre-Christian, Hellenic practice on which our country was founded on, its called DEMOCRACY!

2010-03-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

From the FAQ of the Helliniki Hetaireia Archaiophilon:

"In ancient Graeco-Roman Paganism, Priests and Priestesses generally had the responsibility for worship at a particular temple or shrine; in many cases these were civil offices or hereditary positions. On the other hand, ancient Pagans never felt the necessity of clergy interceding with the Gods on their behalf. Anyone who knew the proper rites could lead a sacrifice and prayer to the Gods, and the Gods often appeared to mortals and intervened in their lives. Nowadays many Pagans take a similar view, and we work to come into direct communion with the Gods, without the need for clergy."

For the organization's full FAQ page: http://apollonios.tripod.com/hellenic/eea2.html

Oikos vs. Clergy

2010-02-28T00:23:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me, understands that I am against the idea of having Hellenic clergy. I feel very strongly that the ancient tradition of the OIKOS (home/family) as the center of religious life, with the head of the household as priest, is still valid even in today's modern world. Hellenic religion, in my view, was for the most part, egalitarian in nature which really does away with the need for permanently installed religious experts, such as priests or clergy.

That said, there are people and organizations within the American Hellenic community today, such as Hellenion, who feel that it is desirable if not necessary to have professional clergy. The main argument they present revolves around weddings and funerals. In order to have a legally recognized wedding for example, many States require that a legally recognized member of clergy be the officiant. Funerals are also another event where they would prefer to have a clergy member present in order to conduct a proper funeral rite, rather than have a Christian priest or minister conduct the rite in which it is so common to have happen here in the U.S. This often applies in end of life care facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes.

I can see the validity in the argument for clergy in today's world. Yet, I still feel strongly that there is no need to compromise our values for the sake of convenience or following the established system. The system should conform to us, and if not...we can fight about it.

Now, while I am no personal fan of Timothy J. Alexander, he proposes that people who choose to be ordained for legal reasons, acquire their ordination through a "given upon request" process from institutions that abide by that process (and there are a few that do). This preserves the idea that ANYONE can acquire the status of 'clergymember' without any special religious or institutional process, which is in keeping with the egalitarian notion of Hellenic religion. I think this is an excellent approach for those who choose to go the clergy route.

Now, in doing research while engaged in this debate, I came across some other interesting pieces of information regarding State law as it pertains to officiating weddings. I cannot speak for other states, but it seems the state of California allows ANYONE (friend, relative, etc..) to be "deputized" for a day in order to conduct a legally recognized wedding. I feel that this option is one of the most profound options available to Hellenics in California. It allows traditional Hellenics to have family or friends conduct the wedding and also have it legally recognized. This law is also perfect for people with no particular religious ties to forgoe the need for clergy if they so choose...i.e. atheists or non-demoninationals for example. The brilliance of this law is that it allows for MAXIMUM freedom for MAXIMUM diversity of a population. Now, I realize that not all states have this law, but California state law has now set a precedence which can now be lobbied for in other states.

For those interested in more information regarding California state law and marriage officiants:

http://www.cdph.ca.gov/certlic/birthdeathmar/pages/faqformarriagelicenseceremonyinfo.aspx

Here is Los Angeles County's Deputy Commissioner for Day Program

Deputy Commissioner for a Day Program:

The Registrar/Recorder-County Clerk has a program that allows individuals to be deputized for a day to perform a wedding ceremony. All those requesting to be deputized should fill out the form provided on the web or send in a letter detailing:

the full name of the person to be deputized
the telephone number and address to contact that person
the name of the parties
the date of the wedding
the location of the wedding

The letter or application should be mailed in to the address below with a check or money order for $75, made payable to RR/CC, 2 months prior to the wedding. Applications received less than one month prior to the wedding if accepted, will be subject to a $13 expediting fee. Mail the letter or application to:

Deputy Commissioner For A Day
Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk
12400 Imperial Highway
Room 5001A
Norwalk, CA 90650

Once the letter and fee are received a confirmation letter of approval will be sent to the sender. The confirmation letter will request the individual who is to be deputized to contact our office and make an appointment to be sworn in. Individuals are deputized on Thursdays only, at 11:00a.m. and only by appointment. No appointments will be issued without the fee being paid.

For emergency situations where an individual cannot be deputized on Thursday, accomodations may be able to be made, depending on staff availability. There will be a nominal fee.

Individuals coming in to be deputized should expect to spend an hour here at the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk. Deputies are welcome to bring guest, however because space is limited we ask that they bring no more than one guest.

The $75 is non-refundable; however it can be applied to another deputy appointment within the same calendar year.

Should you have any additional questions please call (562) 462-2081.

So, to me, the OIKOS is still the center of religious life as it was for the ancients. The question is, do we have the courage to demand that our system conform to us, the people, or do we conform to the system? It's obviously easier to conform. Some people have criticized the notion that we 'pagans' cannot change the system or that it changes too slowly. I would argue that if we only fight for ourselves, then it WILL be difficult. But as I see it, this issue extends beyond the pagan community and affects many other groups as well. Minority groups have certainly had a difficult time fighting the system, but when these groups come together, change is inevitable.

Martin Luther King Jr. on Consistency in Justice

2010-01-16T09:14:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be appropriate to post this Facebook response I was inspired to write in response to the idea of happiness and freedom. It began with a quote from Corette Scott King:

"I still hear people say that I should not be talking about the rights of lesbian and gay people... But I hasten to remind them that Martin Luther King Jr. said, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.' I appeal to everyone who believes in Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream to make room at the table of broth...er- and sisterhood for lesbian and gay people." -- Coretta Scott King

Well, I would say that Coretta King's quote speaks more to the moral correctness and consistency with Justice than it does about happiness. There will always be dissatisfaction in some part of the population with any decision (Heraclitus theory of flux and opposites).....that said, we should focus on what is morally and objectively consistent. But as far as I am concerned, the religious dissatisfaction of those who discriminate based on sexual orientation, is less important than the civil (and human) equalities that are at stake here. Our civil laws are not based on religious ideologies, but practical protections of the civil freedoms of all our citizens.

As the good Dr. said, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.'....IMHO, we have to be consistent in our Constitutional values as a Nation for true happiness to exist for all of us.

Equality vs. Freedom?

2009-12-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

It is clear that since the election of the new President, that lines have been drawn in the sand, both politically and culturally....maybe even spiritually. Of course however, as history demonstrates, wars are never black and white, good guys vs. bad guys....there is always a third factor.

It seems to me that both sides of the political spectrum seem to revolve around one question:

Equality or Freedom?

The current health care debate is a good example of this ideological dichotomy. The "liberals", who happen to be in power at the moment, are (were) pushing for social equality in this health care debate by trying to get all Americans covered by some form of medical insurance, while "conservatives" oppose these ideas apparently out of a fear of a "government takeover of medicine". They are worried that they will lose their freedom to choose their medical coverage and that the quality of health care will decrease (for them as well as others). (I realize that a health care reform bill has been passed recently, but I will not comment on that here.)

Now, I do understand that this issue is very complicated in nature, with all the financial and business considerations, but I am a citizen who is willing to pay extra taxes in order to help improve the social welfare of others, because I believe that will pay dividends which would benefit many people, including myself in the long run and on many levels. Personally, I don't see how improving social welfare will impinge on Freedom as the conservatives claim, but perhaps I am ignorant or naive. It is my understanding that the role of government IS to improve and protect the social welfare of its people. Maybe I'm wrong....?

Having said that, I think that the independent spirt inherent in conservatism is certainly good. We should all strive to be independent people as this is healthy. However, for a political group whose ideologies are often rooted in a religion that espouses love for your fellow man, it seems very odd to me that they would not want social equality. (Of course, this changes when it comes to the issue of the application of Justice, that is when they seem to be okay with her being blind.)

So, what is the answer to this complex question of Equality vs. Freedom?

It's quite clear to me when I read the words of our founding fathers what the answer is.

From the Declaration of Independence written by Thomas Jefferson:
(Note: Independence is another word for Freedom)

"We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator, with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."

What does this tell us?

Simple: Man cannot be Free without Equality.....it is not a choice between one or the other.

Apathy and Politics

2009-12-26T08:50:00.000-08:00

Plato once wrote that, "The penalty good men pay for indifferene towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men."

It seems to me that for too long, citizens of my generation (Gen X) have been very indifferent towards politics. The system was so large and convoluted that we didn't think our voice mattered, so we ignored it thinking that we cannot influence the system. When we decided to actually vote in past elections, many of us felt as if our voice was completely ignored due to some dubious issues in the voting system. Many of us gave up.....that is until recently.

The election of the new President has certainly triggered a firestorm of public opinion and passion on all sides of the political spectrum. For a Democracy, this passion is a good thing no matter what side you are on. This passion has also ignited a sentiment among the citizenry to monitor and pay more attention to the political establishment. Now, with the presence of the Internet, a new kind of free press exists....one that allows the average citizen to instantly have their voices heard in public forums. While this has its drawbacks of course, such as giving people the instant ability to publish scrupulous and unsubstantiated claims, it makes people in the government think twice about their actions and words....they know that the people are watching and can call them out on their actions. In a very real sense, it keeps them honest.

Plato was right, it is important for the people to pay attention and not get comfortable. There are things happening everyday in our government that go unnoticed that directly affect us. Some good and some bad. The point is that political apathy is not an acceptable quality in a citizen of the most poweful country in the world. All actions or inaction create an outcome of some kind. These outcomes not only affect us, but those around us well....including people of other nations. So the question now is, what outcome do you want for yourself, for your family, and your nation?

Pay attention and speak up when necessary. Otherwise, it is not our Democracy that fails us as so many of us might feel, it is WE who fail our Democracy.

Freedom and Ancient Greek Theology

2009-11-04T17:28:00.000-08:00

To the ancient Greeks, the concept of Freedom (ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑ) was an assumed state of being. It was an inherent aspect of the universe (KOSMOS) and human life (BIOS). For some of the more mystical Hellenic traditions, it is even conceptualized as being a kind of "natural law" or a part of the cosmic order and logic of the universe (LOGOS), not unlike the laws we find in physics. For Hellenics, natural law applies to all things, at all times and while it has the potential to be violated, such a situation is not without its consequences. The Hellenic view of Freedom also goes much farther in scope than the philosophical dilemma of "free will" that many religions seem to struggle with. To Hellenics, there is no debate about the existence of our freedom. The only struggle we deal with is about how to protect this natural law against what the ancients called 'tyrants', those people who want to deny other people their natural freedoms.

Today, religious extremists use their religion to promote intolerance and insist on violating the freedom of others. This can only happen with a worldview that insists that the KOSMOS is inferior to some higher spiritual imperative or dimension. To Hellenics, this idea is completely irrational. In one version of our creation myth, both Creation (THESIS) and Nature (PHYSIS), two of the primeval forces/deities (PROTOGENOI) who are present at the beginning of the KOSMOS are themselves expressions of the highest spiritual imperative. This tells us that everything in the Universe, is inherently sacred, including all of humanity which came later. Logical consistency demands, then, that there are no exceptions to this idea. This requirement for consistency is what binds the Law of Freedom (ELEUFTHERIA) to the notion of Equality (ISONOMIA).

Hellenics also view the idea of diversity (POLYMORPHIA) as a form of natural law that extends from our theology and applies to all areas of the KOSMOS. This concept is reflected in the scientific reality of biodiversity. It is not an opinion or a belief, even though some may choose to view it in that manner, it is still an observable fact of nature, an aspect of LOGOS. Therefore, Hellenic religion requires that Diversity be respected.

At a time where fundamentalism seems to be on the rise and religious theology is used to support the hatred and intolerance of others, it is empowering to know that the concepts of Freedom, Equality, and Tolerance have both theological and philosophical support from an ancient and profound source. For Hellenics, these very ideals are not just words for us, they are direct expressions of the Gods themselves. These are the very things that allow us to improve both ourselves and our societies. They must be expressed, promoted, and vigorously protected when necessary.

The Listening Project and Socrates

2009-10-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching a film called, "The Listening Project". Here is the description taken from the LinkTV website http://www.linktv.org/programs/the-listening-project:

"The Listening Project follows four unique Americans through fourteen countries – from a Shanghai hip-hop club to a war-ravaged Kabul neighborhood to a village at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro – in each place asking, "what do you think of America?" In beautifully-photographed locales, we encounter fascinating and diverse characters who reveal not only the impact of the U.S. on their lives, but also their perspectives on crumbling empires, human fellowship, and what it means to be a citizen in a globalized world."

Commentary

I've always known that people from other parts of the world have very strong opinions about American foreign policy and globalization. But, I've also known that despite the negative opinions about our country, people seem to understand that American citizens are separate from those policies, which are made by our government. In fact, I experienced this perspective during my travels to Greece. The Greek people I met there made it clear that they did not dislike us as people, they disliked our government policies (this was during the Bush administration). It turned out that I agreed with them. So, the film's message (which was the message from other people in the world) was not a revelation for me. However, seeing and hearing what different people had to say about the U.S. was very moving.

Socrates once said, "I am not an Athenian or Greek, I am a citizen of the world." Now, I do not necessarily believe in unrealistic ideas like world unity, world peace, "One Love", etc.... because I believe Strife is an inherent part of the KOSMOS. However, I cannot deny the real interconnection that exists among all of humanity as well as our shared responsibility for the health of our planet. These are things we need to deal with if we expect to progress, if not survive.

Socrates declared himself a citizen of the world. Why? Was that some sort of arrogant statement he was trying to make prior to his state sponsored execution? I don't believe it is. I think Socrates was wise enough to understand, while facing death (or perhaps because of that fact), that human beings are all part of something larger and share a responsibility to each other. This is not some ideological fancy, it is a reality with real consequences. Unfortunately, those consequences are never seen by most Americans because of political maneuvering on the part of our politicians and the sanitizing of our mainstream media. We need to be willing to bite the hand that feeds us and find our own food, so to speak. We now have the ability to search out alternative methods of connectivity and sources of information that allow us to be independent and find out for ourselves what is going on. This film is one of those sources in my opinion.

There are no easy answers and finding the right or best solutions is often very difficult. But, as someone wise once told me in Greece, progress never comes without struggle.

The Virus of Fundamentalism

2009-10-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of "Atheist fundamentalism"? I did, just this morning on my local public radio station, KCRW. For the actual show, check out the following website:

http://www.kcrw.com/news/programs/tp/tp061201the_new_atheists

The label "atheist fundamentalist" was used by an atheist on the show who comes from the "old school", which believes in religious tolerance and mutual respect, to describe a new movement among atheists which aggressively attacks religion, evangelizes their message, and displays intolerance. So now, there is a schism that exists in the atheist movement between the older movement and this new movement......ironic isn't it?

What really makes this story so illuminating is that it demonstrates two things:

1. Fundamentalism is no longer relegated to the realm of the "ignorant religious population".

2. Atheism is turning into a religion of its own and now has its own leadership and sects.

It saddens me to hear that fundamentalism has now infected both the religious and the scientifically minded alike. The debate is no longer about science vs. religion but fundamentalism vs. moderation. Fundamentalism tramples on the virtues of Respect, Tolerance, and Freedom no matter what label it comes in.

Hellenization vs. Conversion: Which is it?

2009-10-13T20:20:00.000-07:00

When discussing religion, people often talk about conversion. "I converted to (insert name of religion here)." This term, at least in the Western world, has most often been associated with the Christian tradition as well as others. But does this term apply to Hellenic religion? I would argue that the answer is no. Here's why:

Let's begin by looking at the term conversion itself. A quick online search on the website Freedictionary.com yields this definition:

Conversion:

1.a. The act of converting. b. The state of being converted.

2. A change in which one adopts a new religion, faith, or belief.

The term implies a simple change of belief or faith. But is this what really happens when someone discovers Hellenic religion? Do they simply convert to a new set of beliefs or is there something more that happens?

On the surface, this change does occur. People see that the individual has simply gone from religion A to religion B. This person might talk about different deities and myths than they once did, if they did that at all. I would argue however, that what actually happens, based on my experience, is a process akin to receiving a secular education rather than simply receiving a purely religious one. Hellenic religion requires, by its nature, inquiries into science, philosophy, linguistics, history, and politics, aside from theology and mythology. Again, this process is more akin to a secular University education than it is to religion.

So, if its not simply 'conversion', then what term should be used to accurately describe what happens?

I suggest using the term Hellenization. This is actually a term that was used in ancient times to describe the same process I explained above. To become "Hellenized" meant that you would come to understand, not just believe, the universe from a Greek perspective. The ancient Greek worldview was predicated on understanding the natural world as well as honoring the more mysterious aspects of the universe aka the Gods. It meant that the individual was granted, by natural right, freedom of thought, speech, movement, and opinion. Asking tough questions and applying Reason to obtain answers was an inherent quality of the tradition. In essence, the individual did not simply change their beliefs, the individual was educated about the universe.

As modern Hellenists, we are not called to do missionary work of any kind. In fact, going out to people and preaching to them about our methods, beliefs, or views without their consent would be a gross violation of our own values which are based on personal freedom and choice. Our tradition is not interested, shouldn't be anyway, in the number of people we "save" or bring to our Gods. I believe that our Gods prefer free thinking men and women who come to Them on their own accord by way of Reason and Experience, rather than just on Faith alone.

Slavery is not welcome here.

Facebook Group: Positions on the Seperation of Church and State in Greece

2009-10-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

The following information is taken from a recent post on the Yahoo Group: Hellenic Recons.

Jamesdelphi2000 wrote:

"Objectives / Details of Facebook Group (see link above) with 18,000 signed up "expressions of interest"

Positions:

1. Secularity of government
2. No national religion
3. Stop providing tax money in support of religion
4. The church should not endorse any political figure
5. The state should not prescribe, proscribe, or amend religious beliefs.
6. The state should not express any religious beliefs, or in any publication, speech, or other instruments of state power.
7. Political leaders should not express religious preferences in the course of their duties
8. The church should not interfere in civil political processes or relations between the state and other nations"

These positions are necessary for the Seperation of Church and State.

Theocracy: The Enemy of Freedom

2009-10-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

You don't have to go too far these days to see how theocracy threatens Freedom. The recent Iranian uprising was watched by the entire world via the Internet where hundreds of people who were protesting on behalf of Democracy went missing or were even killed for speaking out. The current situation in Afghanistan where militant Islam has been taking a hold of the country is also a perfect example of a threatening theocracy.

Unfortunately, Greece, the birthplace of Democracy, also exists under a type of theocracy. The Orthodox Christian Church is the official religion of the Greek State. This has placed religious minorities at odds with the State and the Church both socially and legally. Fortunately, there is a movement within Greece that is pushing towards religious freedom. These groups are generally made up of the ethnikoi Hellenes (ethnic Greeks) who are trying to get their traditional religion recognized so that they can worship freely in society. It is certainly a difficult struggle, but it is also absolutely necessary for the sake of Freedom in Greece.

That said, there is unfortunately, a small element of extremism and nationalism that is accompanying this push for Freedom. Many of these Hellenes are understandably angry at the existing religions and ethnic groups that ARE recognized currently, such as the Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Many of these extremists discriminate against these existing groups, which sometimes includes violent rhetoric and physical threats. There is also another element that desires to see an ethnic Hellenic State based on ancient Greek religion. As a Hellenist myself, I think this idea is a beautiful concept, but Reason dictates that it is incorrect to replace one theocracy with another. Consistency demands that it must be Freedom for all, or none.

Religion must be seperated from politics. In this modern era, it is the Separation of Church and State and secularism in society that guarantees Freedom of religion for ALL.

On Religious Freedom in Greece

2009-10-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Freedom of religion is one of the basics rights that we as Americans have enjoyed for over two centuries. Unfortunately, the very birthplace of Democracy, Greece, has been cited by many of its own citizens as well as the European Union as violating the human right to religious freedom. Greece is essentially a theocracy based on the Orthodox Christian Church. Many religious minorities are not allowed the right to worship openly and are unrecognized by the State, which is required for the right towards legal protection. The following is a quote from a Greek polytheist website:

"The right to religious freedom is, unfortunately, not equally afforded to all citizens of Greece, since one must be either Orthodox Christian or else not exist at all. Thus in reality, despite the attitudes and policies towards other rights, it is of little or no value at all for us, because of the revailing attitude towards religion."

Taken from the Committee for the Greek Religion of Dodecatheon website: http://agis10.tripod.com/

Please take some time to check out that link for an in depth look at the issue.

Why should non-Greeks be interested in this issue?

First of all, this is not just a Greek issue, it is a HUMAN rights issue. Greeks who happen to be in the religious minority are not allowed to practice their religion, nor are they recognized as such, because the Greek State is for all intents and purposes, an Orthodox Christian theocracy that only recognizes certain faiths as legitimate. It is ironic that the very culture that gave the world Democracy has now become a theocracy that limits the religious freedoms of its own citizens.

This situation is a gross violation of both human rights and Greece's own ancient heritage. As a Hellenic polytheist, a proponent of human rights, and an American who currently enjoys freedom of religion, this situation is seriously offensive.

What can we do about it?

While most of us outside of Hellas will never have the opportunity to directly influence policy there, we can show our support for the Hellenes who are struggling for religious freedom. As Americans, we must promote and support concepts such as the Separation of Church and State, both at home and abroad. This political concept is what ultimately will allow ALL Greeks, no matter what religion they may be, to have a fair and equal place within the religious landscape of their own country. The stranglehold of theocracy is deadly to the potential of the human spirit and we MUST fight it wherever it rears its ugly head.

SUPPORT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IN GREECE!

On Hellenic Clergy

2009-10-07T15:14:00.000-07:00

There has recently been a long and fierce discussion about the issue of clergy in Hellenic polytheism. Many, including myself, feel that there is no need for clergy in Hellenic religion. On the other hand, there are many who feel that having clergy is beneficial for the religion and its members. Both sides certainly have good arguments and the reality is that people are taking on the role of clergy in their localities.

Personally, I believe that the home is ultimately the center of worship. This makes each indivdual or head of the household, responsible for their own spiritual management. This was true for our ancestors as well. Naturally of course, there is also public worship which include community rituals and festivals. These types of events obviously require organizational management and leadership. This is where having knowledgable and experienced individuals to lead the rituals and these events is very useful, but these are just facilitator roles, not necessarily clergy.

So, why my opposition to the idea of clergy?

Philosophical Argument

For most of us, the draw to any Nature based religion is the idea of spiritual freedom. We want to have a direct and unrestricted connection to the Gods, Nature, our fellow human beings, and to ourselves. I would argue that this is the natural right of all humans and anything otherwise is simply based on false, man-made constructs. We don't need other people mitigating our relationships with the Gods.

Practical Argument

The role of spiritual leadership has historically been a very sensitive issue. Too many individuals and institutions have taken advantage of the spiritually weak, vulnerable, and ignorant. This reality applies to all time periods and has occurred in all religions. Unfortunately, the community itself often takes a passive role in their spiritual management and allows others, those in leadership, to guide them which leaves them vulnerable in the first place.

So, what role should spiritual leadership play in Hellenic religion?

We must first determine exactly what it is that the community actually needs in terms of spiritual leadership. Here are my views on actual needs and the percieved roles, based on actually having been a part of the spiritual leadership within a local pagan church for several years here in the U.S.:

Actual Needs

A. Ritual facilitation.

This is probably the most significant role. We do need knowledgable and capable people who can facilitate and lead rituals during public worship events. This requires a knowledge of public speaking and group management techniques.

B. Life Events

This is an issue I initially did not support philosophically, however, I do understand the practical necessity for such things. However, I still think that the limitations need to be understood. We do need people who can LEGALLY facilitate weddings, funerals, and other significant life events that may require knowledge of ritual and State law. This is a form of technical expertise, similar to that of a notary public or lawyer and has very little to do with personal spiritual matters.

Percieved Roles

A. Counselors

While Christian clergy often act as counselors to their membership, I believe that it is imperative that Hellenic polytheist spiritual leadership limit their activities regarding spiritual counseling. Why? Simply put, unless that clergy person is a trained psychologist, there are already many secular professionals that are better suited for such work. Often times, individuals who seek spiritual counseling may actually be dealing with issues of mental illness as well. In this case, spiritual counseling may only exacerbate these types of issues. The reality is that most ritual facilitators and/or scholars are simply not trained clinical psychologists and would not be able to recognize many of these issues much less help them.

Assisting a friend or acquaintance with a problem is one thing, but counseling someone from a position of religious authority is a whole other matter.

B. Spiritual Intercessors

This matter is perhaps the most problematic in my opinion. I understand that not everyone is an expert in religious matters. In this matter, people need more experienced and knowledgable individuals to turn to. However, education and spiritual intercession are very different matters. Leaders should be teaching others how to approach the Gods for themselves as opposed to approaching Them on their behalf. Our religion does not promote spiritual laziness and leadership should not encourage such behavior. This is exactly where education becomes the best way to promote personal responsibility in others.

Final Thoughts

My view of spiritual leadership is one that limits individuals to the role of technical facilitation, as it applies to matters of ritual and legal issues. Anything beyond that is dangerous and should be approached very cautiously in my opinion.

This is certainly a complex issue that will not easily be resolved, but if we are to have clergy in our religion, we need to really take time to define their role and limitations within each of our communities. Also, because there are no real checks and balances that can be implemented, (nor should there be necessarily), I would urge that each community hold their leadership to the highest standards and remember that these individuals serve the people and not the other way around.

In order to approach the values of Equality and Freedom that are so fundemantal to our religion, we must first look at ourselves and our own approach towards spiritual self-responsbility.