Pagan Community Notes: Week of February 6, 2025

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OLYMPIA, Washington –  Belladonna Laveau, Matriarch and Archpriestess, and Dusty Dionne, Archpriest, of the Aquarian Tabernacle Church, attended the 50501 protests on February 5, 2025, to support those who are hurting in this moment. They recognize that under a Christian Nationalist agenda, all non-Christians will eventually become targets, and they stand in solidarity with those already under attack. Many people feel lost and disenfranchised, and the presence of clergy offering support, acceptance, and acknowledgment of their struggles can make an immeasurable difference to those who feel rejected by society.

As they stood listening to the speakers attempting to be heard over the chanting, the energy in the crowd was undeniable. The people were loud. They did not need someone to tell them why they were angry or to incite them—they already understood the gravity of the situation.

Both Laveau and Dionne noted a deep sense of unrest.  People have many reasons to be angry, and those reasons have united them against a common threat. They have lost so much that peaceful protest feels like the only path forward. Laveau stated, “We know that in a Christian Nationalist agenda, all non-Christians will soon become a target, so we are standing up for those being attacked.”

Both Laveau and Dionne noted that leaders in the community have an opportunity to make a significant impact—showing younger generations that there is support, that immigrants are welcome, and that people are willing to stand together in the fight for freedom.

For those who are not in leadership roles, they emphasized that “involvement in the community remains crucial.” No matter how small the gesture, unity will strengthen the resistance against the attack on fundamental rights and freedoms.

They also pointed out that Pagans, in particular, carry an ancestral and spiritual awareness of persecution—the trauma of being torn from their homes, burned at the stake, and having their cultures erased from society. Many have taken part in rituals swearing, “Never again the burning times.”

The history of America is one of resistance—of standing up for the weak, fighting for freedom, and rejecting fascism in all its forms. The fight against injustice has always defined those who seek a better world.

Protests are taking place across the country and around the world. Now is the time to channel outrage into action, to show up, and to make voices heard. “If not now, when? If not us, then who?” Laveau asked.

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Pagans stand in solidarity with Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde

Bishop Mariann Budde made headlines after delivering a sermon at the inaugural prayer service that visibly angered President Donald Trump. During the service at Washington National Cathedral, Budde urged Trump to show mercy to marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ youth and immigrants, many of whom fear for their futures under his administration. As Trump and Vice President JD Vance sat in the front pew, Budde’s words drew apparent disapproval. Later, Trump dismissed the service as “not good” and took to Truth Social, calling Budde a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater” while demanding an apology. In response, Budde stated she would continue to pray for the president while strongly disagreeing with his policies.

Budde, 65, is the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, overseeing 86 churches with 38,000 members. She has been an outspoken critic of Trump before, previously condemning his racialized rhetoric and his role in inciting violence on January 6, 2021. In 2020, she expressed outrage when Trump staged a Bible photo-op in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church, which had been cleared of protesters. Budde, who holds degrees from the University of Rochester and Virginia Theological Seminary, previously served as a parish priest in Minneapolis for 18 years.

Budde’s sermon sparked polarized reactions. Progressive faith leaders praised her for speaking truth to power, while conservative evangelicals criticized her message as disrespectful. Prominent Trump supporter Pastor Robert Jeffress posted that there was “palpable disgust” in the audience. The service featured religious leaders from Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions, though conservative evangelicals—Trump’s core religious base—were notably absent from the speaking lineup. Reflecting on the backlash, Budde stood by her words, emphasizing the need for mercy and compassion in leadership.

TWH received a statement from Pagan leaders in solidarity with Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde.

American Pagans stand in solidarity with Christian churches in opposing draconian deportation policies.

Modern Pagans, who embrace a Nature-centered spirituality, comprise a significant constituency in America, with dozens of denominations, hundreds of organizations, and millions of adherents.

The following people from American Pagan organizations stand with the Right Reverand Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington in her invitation for our government to uphold the values of justice, mercy, charity, hospitality, and compassion.

At the inaugural prayer service at Washington’s National Cathedral on Tuesday, Jan. 21 Bishop Budde said: “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now. … Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger, for we were once all strangers in this land.” –Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde

We offer solidarity with Rt. Rev. Budde’s sentiments and those of other religious bodies opposing President Trump’s campaign of persecution and mass deportation of innocent immigrants seeking asylum in our country. We embrace the poem by Emma Lazarus on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty:

“…Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

Signatures

Ven. Oberon Zell, Founder, Primate, President

Rev. Judith M. Barnett, ThD
Founder, Pagan Preservation
Publisher, Green Egg magazine
Administrator, Church of All Worlds

Rev. Jacqueline “Omi” Zaleski Mackenzie, PhD, Priestess
Ret. Captain Donald James Mackenzie
Church of All Worlds

Jo Carson, Lead Priestess and President of the Board
Feraferia

Ellen Evert Hopman, Founder, Archdruid Emerita
Rob Smith (aka Jazz Smudgeson), Archdruid
Tribe of the Oak (Tuatha na Dara) Druid Order

Orion Foxwood Elder High Priest, Founding Elder of the Foxwood Temple of the Old Religion, Founder of the House of Brigh, Faery Seership Institute

M. Macha NightMare, National Interfaith Representative
Covenant of the Goddess

Cat Gina Cole, Owner/Creator
Haven Sanctuary | Central Point OR

Rev Mary Hawk, Co-Coordinator
Lucia Jameson, Co-Coordinator
Nashville Pagan Pride Day

Melissa Anderson
Aikenhall School
Circle of Ancient Sisters, Inc

Dynion Mwyn, The Association of Cymry Wiccae
Houses of Khemet

Michael York, author of Matter Matters

Jim “Raven” Stefanowicz, Founder & High Priest South Street Circle

Tamara von Forslun
Clan of Boskednan Church of the Old Religion Inc. Australia and US.

Eric Cooper
Forest Moon Grove

Starhawk, author of The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess and The Fifth Sacred Thing

Toni Rotonda & Steven Intermill
Buckland Museum of Witchcraft

Rev. Starr RavenHawk HPs
WitchsFest USA

 

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TWH correspondent, Liz Williams,  released a new book, Compendium of the Occult: Arcane Artefacts, Magic Rituals, and Sacred Symbolism.  The book was praised in a recent article in The Conversation.  Williams examines Western occult traditions from ancient times to the present. It explores how human societies have sought power, protection, and insight through gods and celestial forces, spells and amulets, sacred sites, and enigmatic secret organizations. The book consists of 65 short articles organized into six sections: the origins of Western occultism; divination, rituals, and rites; charms and talismans; curses and hexes; secret societies; and sites of significance.

 

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Cherry Hill Seminary Announces the Publication of Hypatia Dreaming: Stories, Poems & Prayers

Cherry Hill Seminary proudly announces the release of Hypatia Dreaming: Stories, Poems & Prayers, a compelling collection of creative works by its students. Edited by Rev. Diane Gallagher Cacciato, the volume features contributions from Margaret Meggs, Diana Payton, Troy Robinson, and Diane Sontum, who recently completed the year-long Certificate in Writing as a Spiritual Practice (CWSP) program.

The next CWSP cohort begins on February 1, with late enrollments accepted through the end of the first week. To learn more or register, visit the program page: Writing as a Spiritual Practice at Cherry Hill Seminary.

In her preface to the collection, Professor and Editor Rev. Diane Cacciato reflects on the transformative journey that the students undertook over the year:

“This collection of works is the culmination of a year of sweat, struggle, and sleepless nights. It is also the culmination of a year of celebration, understanding, and epiphany. The four students who started this journey have become stronger writers, surprised at what they could accomplish, and have found, I dare say, new inward-looking paths.”

This publication not only celebrates the hard work and creative achievements of the students but also embodies Cherry Hill Seminary’s mission of fostering spiritual growth through the exploration of writing as a sacred practice.

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The International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed annually on February 11, promotes equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, the day highlights the critical role that women and girls play in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and seeks to address the gender disparities that persist in these fields. Historically, systemic barriers, biases, and limited opportunities have hindered women’s progress in scientific careers, making this observance essential in advocating for greater inclusion.

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields, with UNESCO reporting that they make up less than 30% of researchers worldwide. Persistent gender biases, lack of mentorship, and societal expectations continue to discourage women from pursuing scientific careers. However, increasing diversity in STEM leads to better research, innovation, and more inclusive solutions to global challenges. Recognizing and addressing these obstacles is crucial to ensuring that scientific advancements reflect the needs and contributions of all people.

Celebrating this day involves highlighting the achievements of women scientists, encouraging young girls to explore STEM careers, and advocating for policies that promote gender equity in science. Schools, organizations, and institutions can support the cause by hosting events, sharing success stories, and fostering mentorship opportunities for aspiring women in STEM. By raising awareness and taking action, society can work toward a more inclusive and diverse scientific community, ensuring that women and girls have the opportunity to thrive and lead in STEM fields.

 

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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)

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Events and Happenings

 

Note: This is part one of a two-part sharing.  The second part will be a discussion based on this presentation.  But do not worry if you miss this one you can find the recording at   https://www.youtube.com/@earthbasedspirituality.

Milt Markewitz is a longtime Indigenous ally.  Milt understands that we cannot fix a system using the same ideas that caused the problem and offer ideas to help us develop different ways to look at things.

The meeting is via Zoom using the link or via the app enter the Meeting ID: 890 3027 2698 and Passcode: CCL

 

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

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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 

 

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Tarot of the Week by Star Bustamonte

Deck: African American Tarot, by Jamal R., artwork by Thomas Davis, published by Lo Scarabeo

Card: Four (4) of Swords – Akongo (creator god) abandons mankind

The next seven days are liable to indicate the need to take a break and process recent events, especially successes. Running full-tilt all the time can result in either downplaying or failing to appreciate significant progress. Taking time alone and away from others to evaluate individual progress by unplugging and stepping back is emphasized, as well as recognizing and celebrating important achievements.

In contrast, rest is not just advised but is likely required in order to avoid a complete crash. Additionally, recognizing whether a situation is a sprint or a marathon is likely to be key in determining what action is needed. While some issues that arise may require immediate action or intervention, many will not. Understanding the difference between what is needed and taking advantage of opportunities to rest is highlighted this week.

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But wait!  There’s more! 

Our colleagues at The Guardian shared a story about how Elvis is making a comeback and not in the way you might think.

Elvis Presley has been remembered as a rock ‘n’ roll legend, a cultural icon, and a deeply spiritual seeker. However, in The Occult Elvis: The Mystical and Magical Life of the King, author Miguel Conner takes this a step further, arguing that Presley was the greatest occult magician in Western civilization. Drawing from accounts by Priscilla Presley, the Memphis Mafia, and spiritual advisors, Conner presents Elvis as a man profoundly interested in mysticism, esoteric teachings, and supernatural experiences. Presley, he argues, wasn’t just a musician—he was a spiritual visionary, leaving behind a legacy that transcended music.

Presley’s interest in the occult was lifelong and deeply personal. He reportedly owned over 1,000 books on spirituality, from Eastern mysticism to esoteric Christianity, and practiced meditation, numerology, and Kriya yoga. His hairstylist and guru, Larry Geller, claimed Elvis spoke of telepathic visions and UFO encounters, once telling his bodyguard, “If they make contact, we can’t be afraid.” He also allegedly manipulated weather patterns, clearing the sky for friends to play racquetball at Graceland. More astonishingly, Presley confided in fan Wanda June Hill that he hailed from Jupiter’s ninth moon.

Raised in Pentecostalism, Elvis was heavily influenced by faith healing and ecstatic worship, but later rejected his church’s rigid doctrine. Instead, he embraced the belief that God existed within everyone, a view shaped by New Age texts and mystic philosophers like Kahlil Gibran and Manly P. Hall. He also experimented with various spiritual symbols, wearing both a Christian cross and a Jewish chai pendant, joking that he didn’t want to be left out of heaven on a “technicality.”

Elvis’s spiritual awakening, however, was overshadowed by his tragic decline. He died at 42, reportedly reading A Scientific Search for the Face of Jesus. Yet, his presence endures in countless posthumous sightings, elevating him to the realm of mythic figures like Jesus and Sasquatch. Conner suggests that Presley became America’s “egregore”, a supernatural entity shaped by collective belief—forever a rock star, prophet, and magician in the world’s imagination.

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And even more…. 

Never to be outdone, Laday Gaga’s new video Abracadabra is not only reminiscent of “Bad Romance” and “Born This Way”, but brings on its own witchy vibe.  Lady Gaga uses the melody of “Spellbound” by Siouxsie and the Banshees while casting her own spell, “In the magic of the dark moonlight.”

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