One issue that's come up a lot here on the blog is the case of campus-connected Pagan groups. They tend to come and go, because members are typically only around for a few years and then they graduate and leave. A number of universities have closed down their Pagan groups - not because they oppose Paganism, but simply because there's no one around to lead them. Missouri's Webster University is the latest campus to give it a shot, with the formation of their new Webster Pagan Grove.
Members meet for a few hours each Saturday, in a herb garden donated by the group. Meetings include drum circles, meditation, and smudging. They also take field trips to local spiritual sites, such as Buddhist temples, and attend other events in the area. Although they've been met with some skepticism from the non-Pagans on campus, the members of WPG say they just want to help educate people. They're even considering buying some Pagan books for the campus library. Good luck to them - I hope their group is a successful one!
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Members meet for a few hours each Saturday, in a herb garden donated by the group. Meetings include drum circles, meditation, and smudging. They also take field trips to local spiritual sites, such as Buddhist temples, and attend other events in the area. Although they've been met with some skepticism from the non-Pagans on campus, the members of WPG say they just want to help educate people. They're even considering buying some Pagan books for the campus library. Good luck to them - I hope their group is a successful one!
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Geat news,
I am happy the Uni. allowed its formation. To help their public image, they could do food, blanket and Red Cross blood donation drives during the harvest festivals. With the proceeds going to the elderly and homeless to better survive winter.
Books to the library would have to be carefully chosen; to be informative, even diplomatic, Vs drama. It is a great idea, because now people can finally learn, instead of react with fear.
All the best,
Rafe
A friend and I formed a group at the campus I attended. The group was strong during the time I was there. Once I left, things went downhill. Now that near everyone has left, there is no group. I have heard that some other students are forming another group. It’s hard to keep something like that going. We kept ours non-campus affiliated to better be able to filter the “bad eggs.” I have to say that that campus attracted all sorts of Pagans and oddballs. I miss it…
I’ve tried to set up pagan groups at a couple schools I’ve gone to, and it’s true student just aren’t there long enough. Some just don’t have the time, and there’s no way to try and plan an event or open ritual during finals.
I think it’s easier in smaller communities to have a pagan group off campus. I attend a community college right now, and the group in the area is starting to get back together after a long hiatus.