What is the place of charity in Paganism? Are we MIA or running cloaked? Do Christians have a monopoly on helping the poor or do our sacred stories enjoin us to help? But more importantly, what is the right thing for Pagans to do?
What is the place of charity in Paganism? Are we MIA or running cloaked? Do Christians have a monopoly on helping the poor or do our sacred stories enjoin us to help? But more importantly, what is the right thing for Pagans to do?
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December 11, 2013 at 4:26 pm
In the Vanic Conspiracy we do a ritual gathering for charity twice a year now, at both solstices.
At the Winter Solstice, we have a gift exchange, and then gather money to give to someone in our immediate community who will be substantially aided by it. We ask that everyone present give at least a penny, so as to be included in the ritual act of generosity, because it is also spellwork for plenty for the community, and we want them to be included.
In the summer, after we dance the Stangen, we gather money again, this time to give to a reputable charitable organization that does work in the larger outside world. The parameters for giving are the same, but the Summer is a time for expansion and travel, where the Winter is a time for home, family, and friends.
It is never not time for generosity and community.
–Ember–