Lammas 96

Pagans and the Christian Church Burnings - Why Care?

by Charlayne Elizabeth Denney

There has been a rash of church burnings around America this summer. Many congregations have lost their buildings and possessions due to the flames of hatred and intolerance.

There have been a few in the Pagan community that have said, "Why should WE care? Why shouldn't we be glad they have had to suffer this, after all, they burned us during the Burning Times?"

The "us against them" attitude is what is part of the burnings. People who don't agree with others due to intolerance, bigotry, hatred, or plain meanness are behind what is going on.

The burning times were a very long time ago. Yes, let's never forget what happened and strive to keep it from happening again. But wishing ill upon someone for the actions of the long past isn't part of what the Rede says. Those who have suffered the burning of their churches aren't responsible for what happened to those people in the Burning Times. And many of them, while not supporting our religious views, wouldn't want a return to those times. It amounts to an unjust punishment.

How would we feel if it were our homes, temples, groves, or circles that were being burned due to intolerance? Would we shun honest efforts of help to rebuild that which was lost? If it can happen to the Christian community in this country, which is a majority religion here, then it can happen to the Pagan community as well. Who would back us if it came to that?

There has to be a bridge built between the Pagan and Christian communities. We must strive to live together in mutual harmony in this society. Neither group is going to go away, so living together is the only option. Each side has its share of those who would castigate and throw insults (and worse) at the other side. There are also those on both sides who can see the folly in those actions and work for the common good, what's right and just for both. If we don't reach out in friendship and good faith now, who will back us when we are on the receiving end of that prejudice?

Yes, Pagans reach out and sometimes get their hands slapped for that reaching. We keep trying. For each slap we receive, there is another that is touched with understanding of what we stand for. Being a "good" representative of what we believe in is a good start to understanding. Living to "harm none" is an example to be followed.

There is a fund set up to aid those churches rebuild. The address is: Prime Bank/Burning Relief Fund, PO Box 21129, Houston, TX. 77226-1129 If each group sends in ANY contribution, in the name of their group, grove, or circle, with a note about the group, it will be passed on and it helps the community at large.

If you feel that contributing money to such a cause would not be good, you can contribute labor. Bring a hammer and show up during the rebuilding of a church. Many of those churches were poor and cannot afford to rebuild with anything more than volunteer labor. Tell them that you're pagan and that you would like to help them rebuild. Or bring a donation of lumber or nails.

Building bridges to understanding is never easy. But, it has to start somewhere. This may be that time to start.

***Thank you for your letter and suggestions. It's a beautiful idea for Pagans to help heal rifts and misunderstandings in the ways which you suggest. This is especially meaningful when the crime committed is one that stems from ignorance and intolerance. I encourage everyone to contribute in any way they feel comfortable or are able.

If people feel so inclined they may send their donations to us(in check or money order form) made out to the Prime Bank/ Burning Relief Fund and EarthSpirit will send the total amount with a statement about who we all are and our intention to help.

Lets all pray that intolerance and ignorance end soon for the benefit of all of Earth's children - Aine