Glossary - exWitch Australia (formerly 'Born Again Pagan')

PAGAN FEDERATION

The organization founded in 1971 (as the Pagan Front) with the objective of providing information and countering misconceptions about Neo-Paganism. Its aims include the promotion of contact between Neo-Pagan groups and genuine seekers; the promotion of contact and dialogue between the various branches of European Neo-Paganism and other Neo-Pagan organizations worldwide; and the provision of practical and effective information on Neo-Paganism to members of the public, the media, public bodies and the Administration. The Federation works for the rights of Neo-Pagans to worship freely and without censure according to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states:

"Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance."

The Pagan Federation publishes a quarterly journal, Pagan Dawn, and arranges both members-only and public events, while also maintaining correspondence with the wider Neo-Pagan community. It holds an annual conference, and membership is open to all'who agree with the principles and ethics of the organization (see also PRINCIPLES OF PAGANISM), and is based in London.

see also: PRINCIPLES OF PAGANISM

PLEASE NOTE:
One of the major problems with 'defining' Paganism and/or its beliefs and practices is that it is an 'organic' movement, in that it is undergoing constant change and re-evaluation from within, and as such any 'one-size-fits-all' approach to understanding Paganism will be found wanting.

Due to the very 'organic' nature of Paganism, and the many differing Paths and Traditions within it, in many cases no one definition may be universally accepted by all Pagans. Therefore, where such cases of possible conflicting and/or contradictory meanings of certain terms occur I have endevoured to give not only the generally accepted meaning, but also any major 'variations' in belief and/or practice.

Christians who believe this difference in meaning of certain key terms, beliefs and practices to be unique to Paganism need to remember that such conflicts also arise within the Body of Christ - the Church. Take for instance the differing practices amongst Christians concerning Baptism and the different attitudes towards women in the clergy.

- Jean-Luc