Pagan Community Notes: Week of June 26, 2025



Cherry Hill Seminary Forge Groundbreaking Interfaith Partnership

COLUMBIA, SCCherry Hill Seminary announces that in a historic step toward interfaith education and mutual understanding, two theological institutions from different spiritual traditions—United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and Cherry Hill Seminary—are partnering to offer selected joint courses beginning this fall.

This collaboration bridges theological divides by inviting students to explore spiritual practices and the rich diversity of sacred traditions in the Pagan faith. “Understanding the Ritual Experience” will be taught virtually by Dr. Robert Patrick, who is an adjunct faculty member at both institutions.

Cherry Hill Seminary academic dean Dr. Margo Wolfe states, “When this opportunity presented itself, students from both schools were enthusiastic about the possibility of working together. At a time when division is too often the norm, such a collaboration affirms the sacred in pluralism. Our students will gain both practical skills and a deeper understanding of spiritual diversity. We hope this is just the beginning of more possible partnerships.”

Students from both schools will have the opportunity to register for these graduate-level courses. (CHS students may now register for the course here.)

Cherry Hill Seminary serves Pagan and Nature-based communities by providing transformative education and empowering students to advance academically and lead spiritually. For more information, contact CHS@cherryhillseminary.org or 1-803-862-9088.



Canada Celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day

OTTOWA –  The Summer Solstice is known as Litha or Midsummer in some Pagan traditions, but Canada also sets the day aside as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  The holiday, officially known as National Indigenous Peoples Day, honors the cultures, contributions, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the country. The date, chosen to coincide with the summer solstice, holds cultural significance for many Indigenous communities. Events held on this day include traditional ceremonies, music, dance, storytelling, and educational activities that highlight the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures. Established in 1996, the day promotes recognition, respect, and reconciliation, inviting all Canadians to reflect on the enduring presence and importance of Indigenous peoples and traditions.

The Office of the Prime Minister, Right Honourable Mark Carney, released a statement reaffirming the nation’s commitment to reconciliation and partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. “There is much more work to do together,” he said, emphasizing shared leadership on issues like health care, housing, education, and climate action. Central to this vision is the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Calls for Justice. “Together, we can build a better future, a stronger economy, and a legacy that future generations can inherit and carry forward,” he wrote.

The CBC reported how communities across Canada marked National Indigenous Peoples Day with vibrant events celebrating Indigenous heritage, culture, and community.

In Ottawa, the Bytown Museum is hosting an Indigenous pop-up market from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitors can browse and purchase works from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists while exploring hands-on demonstrations of traditional crafts and medicines.

Across the river in Gatineau, the newly opened Gatineau-Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre is holding a celebration filled with “sharing, culture and pride.” Guests can enjoy food, art, and cultural displays from various Indigenous nations at the Asticou Centre.

In Kingston, Confederation Park will come alive with performances hosted by the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest in collaboration with the City of Kingston. The event features an Ollin Drum show by St Pierre drummers and singers, traditional grass dancing by The Ward Brothers, and a performance by Tyendinaga pop artist Noelle Maracle.

Meanwhile, Tyendinaga is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na, the region’s Indigenous language school. A parade down Main Street will be followed by games, crafts, music, and the creation of a time capsule to be opened in another 25 years.

These events invite people of all ages to honor Indigenous cultures and deepen understanding through music, art, food, and storytelling.

 



Remembering Stonewall

Many individuals across the Pagan and LGBTQSI+ community will be remembering the Stonewall riots as Pride month comes to a close. Both Pagans and Queer people have faced societal marginalization, legal discrimination, and religious persecution. Pride and Paganism both affirm the sacredness of identity, embodiment, and self-expression as well as ritual acts of reclaiming power and visibility.

Stonewall remains a symbol of defiance against such forces. The Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28, 1969, in New York City, marked a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Sparked by a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, the uprising saw patrons and community members resist harassment and discrimination. Over several nights, protests and clashes spread through the neighborhood, drawing national attention to LGBTQ+ issues. Led largely by transgender women of color like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, the riots galvanized activism and led to the first Pride marches in 1970. Stonewall remains a powerful symbol of resistance and liberation.



Announcements



Congratulations to Sara Amis!

 

Pagan writer Sara Amis publishes first book of poetry

ATLANTA –  Bottlecap Press has published the debut chapbook of poetry by Sara Amis, titled Living Like Lions and Bears.  Amis is a former featured blogger for the Patheos Pagan Channel and a current columnist for Witches & Pagans Magazine, who also has a witchcraft-oriented Patreon under the pseudonym Mayhayley Rainwater.

Along with some previously unpublished poems, the chapbook includes poems that were previously published in feminist speculative poetry anthology The Moment of Change published by Aqueduct Press, Stone, River, Sky: an anthology of Georgia poems published by Negative Capability Press, Datura: an anthology of esoteric poesis published by Scarlet Imprint, and a number of magazines including NonBinary ReviewStirringDevilfish Review, and Witches & Pagans.

Amis’ other work ranges from fiction to journalism, and her byline has appeared in Atlanta MagazineThe Saturday Evening Post, and Rolling Stone.

From the back cover:

“A feral Goldilocks gnaws bones given her by Mother Bear, a newly-formed woman escapes her creator by sprouting wings and talons, and android women suspect they are not being told the truth. Fairy tales, myth, science fiction, and memory combine and shapeshift. Each of these poems by Sara Amis is a door, and once you pass through the ground may shift suddenly under your feet or you may wake up and learn that a hundred years passed while you were sleeping.”

Living Like Lions and Bears is available now from Bottlecap Press.

 



Southern California Divination Conference Returns for 2025: A Gathering of Mystics, Practitioners, Spiritual Healers, and Seekers in the Heart of Southern California

LOS ANGELES  –  The Southern California Divination Conference is proud to announce its return for a third magical year! The 2025 Southern California Divination Conference (SCDC) will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 3131 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, California. The conference is returning with mystical insights, spiritual connections, and healing arts from across the region for a day of insight, connection, and transformation.

The 2025 conference builds on the success of its previous years, to include new workshops, vendors, and more opportunities to explore the art and practice of spiritual connections in all its forms—from Tarot and astrology to Qigong, augury, and practical applications of these skills.

“This is more than a conference—it’s a community experience,” says Lilith , one of the founders of the Southern California Divination Conference. “We’re creating a sacred space where people from all backgrounds can gather to learn, grow, and share their gifts.”

Event Highlights Include:

  • Hands-On Workshops with experienced practitioners
  • Inspirational Panel featuring thought leaders in spiritual and metaphysical fields
  • An Expansive Marketplace of metaphysical tools, books, handmade goods, and mystical services
  • Live Readings and demonstrations
  • Community-building rituals and opportunities to network

This event welcomes everyone—from the divination-curious to seasoned readers. Attendees can expect a rich day of learning and connection in an atmosphere grounded in respect, inclusivity, and magical exploration.

Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities
Early bird registration and sponsorship packages are now available. Visit https://www.socaldivcon.com to learn more, secure your spot, and get involved as a presenter, vendor, or sponsor.

About the Southern California Divination Conference
The Southern California Divination Conference was founded to provide an inclusive, educational, and empowering gathering place for the metaphysical and spiritual community. With a focus on personal growth and intuitive practices, the event aims to uplift and celebrate the ancient arts of divination and spiritual exploration.



More Events at our new Events Calendar



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Tarot of the Week by Star Bustamonte

Deck: Tarot of The Golden Wheel, by Mila Losenko, published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

Card: Knight of Wands

This week has the potential to be littered with acts that are the result of impatience and impulsiveness if not kept in check. While there is nothing wrong with getting psyched about an upcoming event or being very passionate about a project, it will be important to know when to rein oneself in. The energy of the week itself can be useful for inspiring others and reminding us all of why any mission banner was taken up to begin with.

In contrast, unbridled enthusiasm coupled with impulsive and restlessness is liable to be a toxic combination. The risk of making terrible choices and decisions is likely to be high, and may even result in long-term issues that will be burdensome. Best advice for the week: Check yourself before you wreck yourself.



Editorial Warning:  The section below describes animal cruelty.

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla.  – Just before publication, media sources in South Florida began reporting around 5:00 PM  today, June 25, 2025, that a 23-year-old man is being held in the St. Lucie County Jail on $600,000 bond following his arrest in connection with the deaths of seven kittens and injuries to an eighth, according to Port St. Lucie Police.

Court documents also indicate that investigators discovered books related to “witchcraft, demonology, sacrifices and ritualistic processes” inside the residence.

Alairic Alec Ramsbott, of the 500 block of Southeast Anchor Lane, was taken into custody on June 25 and charged with eight counts of animal cruelty. The investigation began on June 16 when a concerned individual contacted animal control to request a welfare check on four kittens in Ramsbott’s care, one of which was reportedly suffering from a broken leg.

The same individual told authorities that Ramsbott had previously adopted seven other kittens since March, all of whom allegedly died under suspicious circumstances. According to court records, the deaths were believed to involve drownings and broken necks.

“During some of the incidents, Ramsbott would wear long rubber gloves to protect himself from being scratched by the cats,” police stated. “According to the complainant, Ramsbott had all seven kittens cremated after their deaths.”

On June 19, while Ramsbott was out of the country, police executed a search warrant at his home. Investigators seized a number of electronic recording and storage devices.

“The complainant gave us information that there were recording devices inside the home as part of the security system,” said police spokesperson Sgt. Dominick Mesiti. “We’re hoping that some of the interior cameras captured some of the alleged animal cruelty because it all occurred in the home.”

Mesiti added that Ramsbott had adopted the kittens from various local adoption outlets.

Animal control officials later examined the four surviving kittens, and one was found to have a “mandibular fracture,” police said.  The kittens are being cared for at the local Humane Society.

The Wild Hunt will continue to follow the story.


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