In the light of the moon, about 30 pagans danced, chanted and read poetry in celebration of the changing of the seasons.
Melissa Hill, a member of Green Spiral: MSU’s Eclectic Pagan Network, shared a poem and affirmed her growth in the group.
“It’s changed my life,” said Hill, a horticulture senior. “I love these faces.”
The student group provides a place for student and nonstudent Pagans to meet. The group hosts weekly discussions and organizes workshops and events.
“Green Spiral gives me a home to learn and grow in my spirituality,” said Steven Sarten, a history of art sophomore.
Most of the members practice Wicca, a nature-oriented, polytheistic faith that teaches people to affirm life. Wiccans honor the changing of the seasons and abide by The Wiccan Rede, “An it harm none, do what you will.” According to the rede, Wiccans’ actions must not harm themselves, the environment or others. The rede is supported by the threefold law that says “Whatever kind of energy I send out, will be returned to me threefold.”
Members of the network host Wiccan Journey to educate people about the history, rituals and basics of the religion. Other activities include a drum circle and a Tarot Reading Study Group - that teaches the interpretation of the cards.
“(Wicca) offers some beautiful and different ideas that are pleasing to people.” said Robert McKinley, MSU professor of religious studies. “People want to get away from church rituals and are interested in a back-to-nature religion.”
Sarah Beth Gordon, a family community service junior who attends Wiccan Journey, said she attributes the growth of Wicca to its tolerance and acceptance.
“The people who practice these religions are accepting,” Gordon said, “Many people seek a reunion with the earth and our environment.”
By participating in spells and rituals, Wiccans become one with nature and direct their energies, Gordon said.
Rituals involve a creation of sacred space, a call on the deities, and the sharing of dance, song, food or wine to celebrate Wiccan holidays, Esbats (moon rituals) and life’s transitions.
“I have a love of the drama of ritual. I like the aesthetics, the poetry, the visual symbolism and the mythology,” said Midland resident Teresa Marshall, who attends Green Spiral and is a member of a traditional British coven.
Anne Kuchta, a medical technology senior, said through spellcraft she utilizes energy for change. Wiccans cast spells for personal attainment and are aware of the consequences. Some Wiccans use correspondents that represent their spell, such as oils, spices and rocks to physically represent their goal.
Wiccans need to have intent when casting a spell, Kuchta said.
“You almost have to feel and see what you do,” she said
Kuchta said Wiccans need to be careful with their magic, which should never infringe upon someone else’s rights.
“A love spell can be a disaster, suddenly you’re getting anonymous phone calls and being followed by a stalker,” she said.
Kuchta said the group aims to dispel myths and improve the public perception of pagan religions. Kuchta said people continue to believe in myths that Wiccans run naked through the woods, worship the devil or perform human sacrifices.
Popular culture contributes to people’s misconceptions, she said.
“People think magic is waving a wand and twinkling your nose,” Kuchta said.
Midland resident Edward Ortiz, who attends Green Spiral events, said depictions of witchcraft in movies such “Hocus Pocus,” “The Craft” and “The Wizard of Oz” are pure Hollywood.
“People see the girls in ‘The Craft’ who cast spells to get boyfriends and the witches in ‘Hocus Pocus’ who run amok and believe that’s Wicca,” Ortiz said. “If you don’t separate Hollywood from what’s next door you have bigger problems than witches.”
