Pagan Community Notes: Week of March 6, 2025

Cherry Hill Seminary Begins Fundraising Campaign

COLUMBIA, SC — Today Cherry Hill Seminary announced the launch of a spring annual appeal fundraising campaign, “Our Roots Go Deep.” With a goal of $20,000 in both gifts and pledges, nearly $15,000 has already been committed.

“Last fall I watched as a hurricane felled a large tree behind my house. Despite the fierce winds, the tree remained rooted, only breaking where struck by another tree.” said Executive Director Holli Emore. “Some of you have been around long enough to know that Cherry Hill Seminary has weathered some storms but only gets stronger each year.”

“Why is that important?” Emore continued. “It’s clear to me that the world has gotten even crazier and more unstable. During this turbulent time, the Seminary offers connection and support, along with quality education.” Board chair Dana Doerksen added, “Cherry Hill Seminary is driven by people who understand that in times of need, we rely on each other. We value community care, mutual support, and partnerships. When someone gives to the annual appeal, they are helping us to help you care for and advocate for your communities”

The Our Roots Go Deep appeal will run through April 19, or until goal is reached. Those wishing to contribute may visit this link: https://cherryhillseminary.org/support-us/make-a-gift-to-chs/

Cherry Hill Seminary serves Pagan and Nature-based communities by providing transformative education and empowering students to advance academically and lead spiritually, envisioning a world where people of Pagan and Nature-based spiritualities can receive competent and compassionate spiritual support.

SEATTLE –  Belladonna LaVeau, the Matriarch  and Archpriestess of Aquarian Tabernacle Church, is a prominent member of our community.  She is known for her work in Wiccan clergy training, ritual leadership, and education through the Woolston-Steen Theological Seminary, which she helped establish to provide structured training for Wiccans and Pagans pursuing religious leadership.

LaVeau has been actively involved in expanding the ATC’s outreach, including organizing large-scale public rituals like Spring Mysteries Festival, which re-creates the Eleusinian Mysteries and works with various goddesses including Demeter and Hecate.

She sent us this message to share with the community:

We have Uncertain Times ahead of us. I have been encouraged by Demeter to share the following with you and other leaders.

The most important thing we need to focus on is to have a food preparedness plan for ourselves, but also in cooperation with our immediate neighbors. If anything happens, food is needed. If some people have food and some people don’t there are uncomfortable choices to be made. Plan ahead. If people have a neighborhood food plan, there is a higher chance of survival and a lower chance of violence.

Below is an adaptable food plan outline, that will allow people to get with their local governments and neighborhoods to prepare. This is not about politics; this is about survival. If something happens, whether it is climate or otherwise motivated, we need to have a plan already in place so we know what to do to work together.

We must remember that every person is inherently kind, and wants to give and receive love and approval. While we can’t get along with everyone, we all have value and can contribute. Assessing everyone’s talents, and including everyone in emergency preparedness and solutions is the key to a successful community, and ensures that we won’t be fighting each other over scraps of food.

The Goddess has encouraged us to garden and source our food locally since 2017, and continues to do so. This includes encouraging community gardening and finding creative solutions to urban living. Above ground gardening is available on any flat surface that can reach the sun or a grow light and can receive water.

While we face challenges, people that follow the old ways have long been aware of these times to come. Our value to the community has long been to be aware of the needs to come and help lead the people through dark times. Know the local foods, be prepared to forage and hunt, and then, you will be as ready for whatever is to come. Do not expect disaster, but prepare, because you never know what challenges you might face, and security allows you to live in love and harmony no matter what the conditions.

Talent Assessment Plan for a Large Community During a Disaster

This plan outlines a strategy for rapidly assessing the skills and talents within a large disaster-affected community to effectively utilize resources and aid in recovery efforts.

Phase 1: Rapid Initial Assessment (First 24-72 Hours)

Goal: Quickly identify critical skills and immediate needs.

1. Centralized Registration Points:
   • Establish easily accessible registration points (e.g., shelters, community centers, online portals).
   • Collect basic information: name, contact, location, and a brief self-assessment of skills.
2. Visual Skill Identification:
   • Utilize color-coded wristbands/stickers/cloth, or other identifiable items to indicate readily identifiable skills (e.g., medical, construction, first aid).
   • Create visual skill boards in central locations, allowing individuals to post their skills.
3. Verbal Skill Surveys:
   • Train volunteers to conduct brief, structured interviews to identify critical skills.
   • Focus on immediate needs: medical, construction, security, communication, logistics.
4. Digital Skill Capture (If Possible):
   • Utilize mobile apps or online forms for skill registration (if internet/power is available).
   • Create a simple database for rapid skill sorting and retrieval.

Phase 2: Detailed Skill Inventory (Days 3-7)

Goal: Build a comprehensive skills database for long-term recovery.

1. Skill-Specific Registration:
   • Establish specialized registration points for specific skill sets (e.g., medical professionals, engineers, childcare providers).
   • Collect detailed information: certifications, experience, availability.
2. Skill Verification:
   • Implement a system for verifying skills and certifications (e.g., visual inspection, reference checks).
   • Prioritize verification for critical skills (e.g., medical, engineering).
3. Community Skill Mapping:
   • Create a visual representation of community skills (e.g., maps, charts).
   • Identify skill gaps and prioritize training needs.
4. Volunteer Coordination:
   • Establish a centralized volunteer coordination center.
   • Match volunteers with appropriate tasks based on their skills.
   • Provide training and support to volunteers.

Phase 3: Ongoing Skill Development (Weeks/Months)

Goal: Build community resilience through skill development and training.

1. Needs-Based Training:
   • Conduct training programs based on identified skill gaps (e.g., first aid, construction, disaster relief).
   • Utilize skilled community members as trainers.
2. Skill-Sharing Workshops:
   • Organize workshops for community members to share their skills and knowledge.
   • Foster a culture of mutual support and learning.
3. Apprenticeship Programs:
   • Establish apprenticeship programs to develop skilled workers for long-term recovery projects.
   • Partner with local businesses and organizations.
4. Community Skill Database Maintenance:
   • Regularly update the skills database with new information.
   • Track skill development and training participation.

Key Considerations:

• Accessibility: Ensure all registration points and information are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
• Privacy: Protect the privacy of personal information collected (if any)during skill assessments.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural differences and avoid making assumptions about skills based on stereotypes.
• Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with the community about skill assessment and volunteer opportunities.
• Flexibility: Adapt the plan based on the evolving needs of the community and available resources.
• Tiered approach: Prioritize skills needed immediately, and then move to skills needed for long term recovery, and then to skills that will build community resilience.

By implementing this comprehensive talent assessment plan, communities can effectively utilize their resources, build resilience, and accelerate the recovery process after a disaster.

Food Preparedness Plan for 600 People

This plan outlines a strategy for providing sustenance to 600 people in a disaster or emergency scenario. It focuses on readily available, shelf-stable, and nutritionally balanced food supplies.

I. Assessment & Planning (1-2 Weeks Prior)

• Determine Needs:
  • Calculate daily caloric needs (average 2,000 calories per person).
  • Consider dietary restrictions, allergies, and special needs (infants, elderly, medical conditions).
  • Estimate duration of preparedness (e.g., 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks).
• Inventory Existing Resources:
  • Assess available food supplies, water, and cooking equipment.
  • Identify potential local suppliers and resources.
• Establish a Team:
  • Designate a food preparedness coordinator and support staff.
  • Assign roles for procurement, storage, distribution, and cooking.
• Develop a Menu:
  • Create a simple, nutritionally balanced menu using shelf-stable foods.
  • Prioritize foods that require minimal cooking and preparation.
  • Consider cultural and religious dietary preferences.
• Water Supply:
  • Calculate water needs (minimum 1 gallon per person per day).
  • Secure a reliable water source (stored water, filtration system, local water supply).

II. Procurement & Storage (Ongoing)

• Bulk Purchasing if Possible:
  • Purchase shelf-stable foods in bulk from wholesalers or suppliers.
  • Focus on items like:
    • Canned goods (vegetables, fruits, beans, meats)
    • Dry goods (rice, pasta, oats, grains, legumes)
    • Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods
    • Protein bars and energy snacks
    • Powdered milk and infant formula (if needed)
• Foraging and Hunting:
  • Identify informational sources on local edibles and game.
  • Gather resources for hunting and foraging such as traps, weapons, and foraging containers
  • Focus on items like:
    • Small game
    • Local greens
    • Local tubers
    • Berries and seeds
    • Fishing
    • Birds
    • Large game if possible
    • Finding a source of salt
    • Seeds for planting crops closer to your base
  • Practice conservation techniques to ensure further game, and produce, yields in future seasons.
• Storage:
  • Identify storage techniques that work with your current situation
  • Store food in a cool, dry, and secure location.
  • Use airtight containers to prevent spoilage and pest infestation.
  • Rotate stock regularly to ensure freshness (first-in, first-out).
  • Store in a location protected from flooding.
• Equipment:
  • Acquire necessary cooking equipment (portable stoves, propane, fuel).
  • Identify reusable silverware and flatware and encourage community members to have their own personal set as well
  • Ensure access to sanitation supplies if possible (hand sanitizer, soap, cleaning agents).

III. Distribution & Preparation (During Emergency)

• Centralized Distribution:
  • Establish a designated food distribution area.
  • Implement a system for orderly distribution (e.g., meal tickets, scheduled times).
• Meal Preparation:
  • Utilize a simple cooking method (e.g., boiling water, heating canned goods).
  • Prepare meals in large batches to minimize cooking time.
  • Ensure proper food safety practices (handwashing, sanitation).
• Portion Control:
  • Serve appropriate portion sizes to ensure everyone receives adequate nutrition.
  • Consider providing extra food for those with higher caloric needs.
• Waste Management:
  • Establish a system for collecting and disposing of food waste.
  • Compost food scraps for future gardening needs.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary environment.

IV. Menu Examples (Adapt to Available Resources)

• Breakfast:
  • Oatmeal with dried fruit and nuts
  • Canned fruit and protein bars
• Lunch:
  • Canned beans and rice
  • Canned soup and crackers
• Dinner:
  • Canned chicken or tuna with pasta
  • Vegetable stew with bread
• Snacks:
  • Dried fruit, nuts, energy bars

V. Important Considerations:

• Communication: Establish a communication system to inform people about food distribution and any changes to the plan.
• Security: Enroll the entire community in security measures to protect food supplies and prevent theft.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt the plan based on the specific circumstances and available resources.
• Training: Provide training to team members on food safety, handling, and distribution.
• Mental and Emotional Support: Recognize that food is not just physical sustenance, but also provides comfort. Consider ways to provide emotional and mental support during meal times.

This plan provides a foundational framework. It is essential to tailor it to your specific community, resources, and potential emergency scenarios. Regular drills and updates are essential.

Call of Papers

Magic and Witchcraft Conference 2025
June 24 & 25, 2025, University of York

Theme: What is a Witch?

We are delighted to invite paper proposals for the CREMS (University of York) Magic and Witchcraft Conference 2025. This year’s theme is inspired by conversations begun at a conference on Witchcraft and Authority, held in Copenhagen in October 2024. Drawing together scholars from across Europe and North America, it quickly became clear that while understandings and the prosecution of witchcraft were indisputably bound up with questions of authority, what was meant by a ‘witch’ varied considerably between regions, and even between decades. The result is that, at times, we speak across each other in our research, drawing conclusions based on conflicting definitions and parameters of what we study.

We therefore propose to re-open the discussion on what we, as scholars, mean when we refer to witchcraft. In short: what is a witch?

Papers are invited that address this question, particularly those looking at the period from Antiquity to 1850. Suggested sub-themes include, but are not limited to:

• Legal definitions of witchcraft: intra- and international comparisons particularly welcome
• Folk conceptions of witchcraft: What constituted the crime of witchcraft in popular perception, and who were perceived as its practitioners?
• Maleficium: is real-world harm a necessary component of the definition of a witch?
• Magic beyond the Christian paradigm: is the term ‘witch’ meaningful outside Christian cultures?
• The feminist lens: Does the identification of historical witchcraft as “gender-based persecution” remain applicable to the definition of the historical witch?
• Literary/cultural portrayals of the witch

Abstracts of 200-300 words should be sent to magicwitchcraft2024@gmail.com by the 14th of March 2025. Please include your name, institutional affiliation (if any), and your intention to attend in person or online.

Keynote speakers

• Julian Goodare (University of Edinburgh) – What is a Witch in Scottish Literature?
• Rita Voltmer (University of Trier) – Beyond the Village Witch: The many faces of the witch in European witch trials
• Ceri Holbrooke (University of Hertfordshire) – Unstoppering the Witch Bottle
  Organisers
• Debora Moretti (University of Hertfordshire) and Tabitha Stanmore (University of Exeter)

Events and Happenings

Marshall University’s Humanities Department (Classics, Philosophy, and Religious Studies) is hosting a conference in celebration of 150 years of Classics at the university entitled Goddess at the Crossing Place March 6th- 8th, 2025 in Huntington, WV.

Pagan priestess and Witch Caroline Tully will be presenting a discussion titled Unsubstantiated Personal Gnosis and Hekate.”

Other discussions include: “A Girl’s Transition Through the Various Rituals of Artemis in the Ancient Greek World”, “Crossing the Goddess: the Cosmic Power of Female Anger”, “The Goddess as the Crossing Place: Styx, the Dread River of Oath”, “The Hindu Goddess Comes to America”, as well as a virtual Q&A session with NYT bestselling author Madelline Miller (Circe, Song of Achilles).

More information is available at Marshal Univerity’s Department of Humanities.

Restored Rites of Eleusis to Return for 39th Year at Spring Mysteries Festival

There’s a new Pagan even in town!  Well, actually in Portland, Oregon… 

Spirit Northwest is the West Coast Pagan conference in Portland, May 1 – 4 2025.

Spirit Northwest is a transformative and new format gathering for seekers, offering 90 and 120-minute immersive workshops on Paganism, witchcraft, and natural magick.

We heard from many in the occult community that people longed for in-depth workshops and rituals, hands-on learning, and make-and-takes with well-known speakers, ritualists, and practitioners.

Amy Blackthorn is the award-winning author of the best-selling Blackthorn’s Botanicals series.

J. Allen Cross is an accomplished author and folk magician known for his book American Brujeria: Modern Mexican American Folk Magic and The Witch’s Guide to the Paranormal.

Maria Minnis is a tarot reader of 20+ years who teaches people about blending their spirituality with magic, liberation work, and eroticism in their everyday lives.

We took action and are bringing it to you all in one weekend!

🧙 Opportunities to raise your visibility:

Be a Speaker: Share your wisdom! Applications are closing soon—don’t miss your chance to lead.

Become a Sponsor: Elevate your brand to a highly engaged, diverse audience hungry for magickal tools, insights, and connections. Five sponsorship levels offer options with vendor spaces to hotel suites.

📅 Mark Your Calendar:

• Vendor Applications Open: January 15, 2025.
  Schedule Launch: Coming soon via Sched.
  Hotel Reservations: Available now.
  Saturday Night Entertainment: Stay tuned for the big reveal!
  We are excited to learn and meet you all one-on-one in-person conference for Witches and Magickally-Minded people.

🔮 Let’s make magick together in Portland May 1 – 4th.

Your Hosts: Courtney Weber, Kanani Soleil, Hilary Whitmore, and Silent.

More information is available on the Spirt Northwest website 

We received the following from the First Polestari of Marion:

We host a Mayday festival every year called Kithaka Dun out at Shelby Forest. Standard adult admission for the weekend is $55, which gets you access to all activities, lodging in the bunkhouses, and 5 meals. Our vendor tables are just $10 extra for a 10×10 space, and a vendor can claim up to 3 spaces. We also ask for an item contributed to our raffle & auction that benefits a local non-profit. This year’s proceeds will go to Friends For All Memphis.

More  information and registration is available at their website https://www.firstpolestari.com/kithaka-dun-2025

New Moon in the Valley invites you to join us for a family-friendly spring equinox ritual! Let’s gather in the community and celebrate the waxing sun and the turning of the wheel.
Participants are invited to bring offerings for our altar, drums, or anything else that moves them.

Post-ritual there will be a community potluck, please bring food to share (label all ingredients). This will be an opportunity to network and connect with local community!
This event is free to the public. Cash donations to offset expenses and the cost of future events are welcome but not mandatory. It is rain or shine, dress for the weather! The UMass Sunwheel can be hard to search on a map, here’s some guidance in locating the event: http://www.umass.edu/sunwheel/pages/directions.html

In the spirit of supporting the larger community, we will be collecting non-perishable food items to donate to the Amherst Survival Center.

🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸🌱 🌸

New Moon in the Valley is inclusive of all life-affirming traditions, paths, perspectives, backgrounds, ages, cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We expect all members and attendees to be open-minded and respectful.

We are a Pagan networking group in Western Massachusetts that seek to build community through public Pagan/Earth-centered holiday celebrations and providing opportunities for workshops to foster personal growth and learning about Pagan traditions.

Our goal is to bring accessible rituals to the general public. If you want to get involved in future events please follow our Facebook page, reach out to a host, or ask us at the ritual!

Tarot of the Week by Star Bustamonte

Deck: Our Tarot, by Sarah Shipman, published by Harper Design, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers.

Card: Ace of Swords (Bessie Coleman first Black and Native American woman to earn an international aviation license, 1921 )

The next seven days are apt of offer up opportunities for clear vision of how to make a plan to achieve goals that are underwritten by a deep sense of purpose. The potential for having an epiphany as to what is needed or desired and knowing exactly what path to follow to accomplish it is highlighted. There may be challenges and sacrifices required to accomplish what is sought, but success is assured for those who say the course.

Conversely, having a poorly-defined idea or plan is less likely to succeed. A key aspect to any project or goal is to make sure there is a clear understanding of what is called for to both accomplish the steps necessary and clarity as it applies to what the end result will be. Without that comprehension, failure is most probable.

A Special Note on Daylight Savings Time 

Stonehenge

Just a friendly reminder that many ancient monuments will be exceptionally busy this weekend, meticulously realigning themselves to accommodate the all-important Daylight Saving Time adjustment on March 9, 2025, at 2:00 AM. If history is any indication, diligent caretakers will have these millennia-old structures properly recalibrated by sunrise—because, of course, the Sun is known to be highly cooperative with modern timekeeping conventions.

The busiest monuments will naturally be in North America, especially those located near the ever-elusive Gulf of America—a place that exists in some indeterminate yet deeply patriotic geography.

Meanwhile, European monuments are taking a more relaxed approach. Their grand realignment is scheduled for later this month, when European Summer Time (Daylight Saving Time) kicks in on March 30, 2025, at 01:00 UTC, moving clocks forward by one hour—except, of course, for Greenland. Despite being geographically North American but politically Danish (for now, anyway), Greenland has opted to join the March 9 crowd which ,we hope, involves only time-keeping.

And then there’s Troll Station, Antarctica, home to approximately 70 deeply rebellious souls ( 6 during winter) who have elected to change their clocks on March 16—a full week after North America but still ahead of Europe. We can only assume this is a bold and deliberate act of defiance against patriarchal timekeeping oppression.

Stay strong, Troll Station. The world is watching.

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