ACTION  Samhain  2009 is ready.

It is free to everyone. Anyone
can read it on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment for printing
out at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you this issue.

Article 1

The Krigarenve, Northern European
Martial Arts
Interview with Vincent Enlund

Heathen martial arts? vincent fills me
in on a fighting system using old
fighting methods from Northern Europe

-----------------------------------
Article 2

The Temple of Cybele
Interview with Temple founder,
Priestess Jean

If a goddess gets in touch with you in
dreams and visions, what happens next?
Priestess Jean fills me in on her story with
Cybele and her worship of a  of a single
goddess.

-----------------------------------
Article 3

Creating a Pagan community
Interview with Tammy Bazzle

You are Pagan a feel all alone and discover
others that feel the same. How do you
create a community out of isolated Pagans.
Tammy tell us how she went about it.

--------------------------------------
Article 4

Licensed Professional Counselor, Clinical
Hypnotist, Shamanic Healer, Teacher, Author
Interview with Colleen Deatsman

You are a counselor helping others. But what
happens when you get sick with long term illness
that modern medicine can do little about. It
becomes a case of counselor heal thyself and
creating a whole different type of therapy.

------------------------------------------
Article 5

Witchcraft: superstition or religion?
By Damon Leff

Demon continues the difficult story of Paganism
in South Africa where thousand of innocents are
hurt and killed for allegedly being "Witches" and
where others are trying to say Witches are not
real. So where does that leave neo-Pagans in
South Africa?

-----------------------------------------
Article 6

Wiccan Author, Teacher, Speaker
Interview with Mike Nichols
By Rev. David Reffit

Rev. David interviews one with 30 years experience
in American Wicca, a long time teacher, a popular
speaker, and now the author of "The Witches' Sabbats".

----------------------------------------
Article 7

Wiccan Warrior in a War Zone
Interview with Shadow

In Witches' Voice I found an essay by this Wiccan
Warrior and decided to interview him. Here is his
take on being both Wiccan and a Warrior on the
front lines.

-----------------------------------------
Article 8
Book Review

The Return of the Dead
Ghosts, Ancestors, and the Transparent Veil of
the Pagan Mind
By Claude Lecouteux

Our Heathen ancestors had a very different view
of the dead, who remained part of their family,
living in their tombs and sometimes visiting, not
as ghosts, but  as full bodied powerful and magical
creatures. They could be both powerful allies or
dangerous enemies. This was a view the early
Church had to change as it contradicted their
teachings.

ACTION  Samhain  2009 is ready.

It is free to everyone. Anyone
can read it on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment for printing
out at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you this issue.

Article 1

The Krigarenve, Northern European
Martial Arts
Interview with Vincent Enlund

Heathen martial arts? vincent fills me
in on a fighting system using old
fighting methods from Northern Europe

-----------------------------------
Article 2

The Temple of Cybele
Interview with Temple founder,
Priestess Jean

If a goddess gets in touch with you in
dreams and visions, what happens next?
Priestess Jean fills me in on her story with
Cybele and her worship of a  of a single
goddess.

-----------------------------------
Article 3

Creating a Pagan community
Interview with Tammy Bazzle

You are Pagan a feel all alone and discover
others that feel the same. How do you
create a community out of isolated Pagans.
Tammy tell us how she went about it.

--------------------------------------
Article 4

Licensed Professional Counselor, Clinical
Hypnotist, Shamanic Healer, Teacher, Author
Interview with Colleen Deatsman

You are a counselor helping others. But what
happens when you get sick with long term illness
that modern medicine can do little about. It
becomes a case of counselor heal thyself and
creating a whole different type of therapy.

------------------------------------------
Article 5

Witchcraft: superstition or religion?
By Damon Leff

Demon continues the difficult story of Paganism
in South Africa where thousand of innocents are
hurt and killed for allegedly being "Witches" and
where others are trying to say Witches are not
real. So where does that leave neo-Pagans in
South Africa?

-----------------------------------------
Article 6

Wiccan Author, Teacher, Speaker
Interview with Mike Nichols
By Rev. David Reffit

Rev. David interviews one with 30 years experience
in American Wicca, a long time teacher, a popular
speaker, and now the author of "The Witches' Sabbats".

----------------------------------------
Article 7

Wiccan Warrior in a War Zone
Interview with Shadow

In Witches' Voice I found an essay by this Wiccan
Warrior and decided to interview him. Here is his
take on being both Wiccan and a Warrior on the
front lines.

-----------------------------------------
Article 8
Book Review

The Return of the Dead
Ghosts, Ancestors, and the Transparent Veil of
the Pagan Mind
By Claude Lecouteux

Our Heathen ancestors had a very different view
of the dead, who remained part of their family,
living in their tombs and sometimes visiting, not
as ghosts, but  as full bodied powerful and magical
creatures. They could be both powerful allies or
dangerous enemies. This was a view the early
Church had to change as it contradicted their
teachings.

ACTION  Lammas  2009 is ready.

It is free to everyone. Anyone
can read it on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment for printing
out at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you this issue.

Article 1

VA Headstone and Marker Policy Update
Includes Requests for New Symbols of
Religion.
By Susan Granquist

Here is the latest information on the new
rules for  getting emblems of faith
approved.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 2

Hexing the Enemies of Women and Peace
Author: Z Budapest

One of our long time Wiccan feminists
suggests there be might times to fight back
again by using  hexes. She believes some
take Harm None a  bit too far in matters of
defense and justice.
----------------------------------------------------------
Article 3

Henge of Keltria
Interview with Tony Taylor

Here I learn about a Druid tradition from a
cofounder of  it.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Article 4

Asatru For Beginners
Interview with author Erin Lale

What do you do when there are no good
books for beginners? When you are a
knowledgeable Heathen, you write one.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 5

Inkubus Sukkubus
Interview with Tony McKormack

Here I learn about a long running Wiccan
rock band that approaches its 20th
anniversary.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 6

The First Unitarian Congressional Society
in Brooklyn's Gaia Spirit Circle
Interview with Co-chairpersons, Laurel
Rockefeller and Michael L Richardson.

If you found yourself in Brooklyn, NY where
could you find Pagans? I learn of one place.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 7

Asatru Military Family Support Program.
The Hammer Project.
Interview with Judy Floyd

I learn of a new group for supporting Asatru
service men and women, their families and
the vets.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 8

Interview with Mike
A young Wiccan writer.

Wonder where our future Wiccan writers are?
I found one whose essay got more reads then
the adult ones on one issue of Witches' Voice.
--------------------------------------------------------
Article 9 editorial

ACTION is what the readers make it.

A bit about our interactive E-zine
--------------------------------------------------------
Then our cartoon

Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

Once again, Who do you think I should
interview in your Pagan/Heathen/Druid,
Shaman community?

Who should it be? Please include lesser known
people who might be working in the back
ground, as well as better known people in your
area.

Tell me who to interview, what they are doing,
contact information and URL to back ground
material.

I am also for articles written by others that I
can publish, even written by other organizations
as ACTION is meant to help in networking
between our organizations and communities.

Subjects of interest, interfaith work, religious
rights, personal development, skills and talents
  and business in the community. and working
in our faith communities. What are they doing
that might encourage others to try?

Private e-mail me with your suggestions.

Blessed Be,

Christopher

ACTION Beltane 2009 is ready.

It is free to everyone. Anyone
can read it on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment for printing
out at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

ACTION Beltane 2009

Article 1
Steerswoman of the Troth,
Writer and Researcher
Interview with Patricia Lafaylive

Here we interview this Heathen
author and learn a bit about her
activities.

----------------------------
Article 2

Heathen Devotionals and Other Books
Interview with Galina Krasskova

Here is another Heathen author who
may be pioneering the idea for Heathen
devotionals.
---------------------------
Notice
The Asatru Military Family
Support Program site up

A new support group and a new battle
with the VA for recognition of an
emblem of belief.


------------------------------
Article 3

Just an Ordinary Heathen
Interview with Michele White

Not everybody is going to be a famous
member of their community. But it might
surprise people to know what ordinary
people can do.
------------------------------
Article 4

Two separate paths.
Interview with Lisa Morgenstern

Heathenism and Wicca are quite different
so how does one practice both without
mixing or blending them together?

-------------------------------
Article 5

The Rose of Love, Soulful Intentions
Interview with Janet Kelly

A new healing support group for Veterans
using alternative healing methods.

--------------------------------
Editorial
Asatru Military Family Support Program
The Hammer Project.

Some of my thoughts on the Hammer
Project.

--------------------------------
Then our cartoons

Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

The Hammer Project is about getting the
Thors Hammer accepted by the VA as an
emblem of belief. I am already involved
over there and will be publishing a notice
about it in my newsletter and trying to get
support started even from outside of the
Heathen community.

It is the Heathen's community battle but
some of us do have experience in the past
Pentacle Quest, so we can offer our knowlege,
talents, and support the attempt. I hope
Heathens will make use of us. Heathens
helped us when we needed it, and this is
for our vets and military people.


Blessed Be,

Christopher

Posted by permission of author:


Military Family Support Program Site Up

Hail!

The Asatru Military Family Support Program
site sponsored by the Asatru Folk Assembly
- AFA is up and running. A few things still
need to be added, but that will happen over
the next few days. The forums are ready and
already have members. It's time to start talking,
planning and working toward our goal of Thor's
hammer on headstones and working together
to support our military families.

It isn't necessary for a family to all be heathen
to be members and receive the support they
deserve. Non-heathen family members are
welcome as members of the forums. Supporting
the whole military family is our goal.

Take a look at the site, www.hammerproject.org,
and if you have any questions just email and ask. Jfloyd@... .

Judy

Once again, Who do you think I should interview
in your Pagan/Heathen community? Vets and military
people welcome.

Off to a late start in that I just got home from my
  second eye surgery. But I am now ready to start
interviewing for the Beltane issue of ACTION.

Who should it be? Please include lesser known
people who might be working in the back ground,
as well as better known people in your area.

Tell me who to interview, what they are doing,
contact information and URL to background
material.

I am also for articles written by others that I can
publish, even written by other organizations as
ACTION is meant to help in networking between
our organizations and communities.

Subjects of interest, interfaith work, religious rights,
personal development, skills and talents and business
in the community. and working in our faiths
communities.

What are they doing that might encourage others to try?

Private e-mail me with your suggestions.

Blessed Be,

Christopher

Sorry about being  late on announcing this,
but barely had time to get the issue out before
a second emergency eye surgery. Just got back
from a week and two days in a nursing home to
recover from new surgery.

Blessed Be,

Christopher


  ACTION Ostara 2009 is ready.

It is free to everyone. Anyone can read it on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment for printing out at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html


ACTION Ostara 2009

Article 1

The Alexandrian Tradition,
Interview with Maxine Sanders

Here I interview Maxine Sanders cofounder of the
Alexandrian Tradition.

---------------------------------------
rticle 2

Radio Producer, Journalist,  Priestess
Interview with Margot Adler

Here I interview Margot Adler Author of Drawing Down
the Moon and Long time NPR correspondent and
New York Bureau chief.

------------------------------------------
Article 3

The Georgian Tradition
Interview with Zanoni Silverknife

I interview Zanoni Silverknife, one of the founders of
the  Georgian Tradition


-------------------------------------------
Article 4

My Father's Story,
Courage, Wisdom, and Kindness
By Freya Hyatt

Freya tells the story about her father as a European
Ancestral religion/ Heathen.
--------------------------------------------
Article 5

Odin's Servant
Interview with Nik Warrensson

Here I interview Nik Warrenson about being heathen
in New Zealand.

-----------------------------------------

Editorial
Continuous Readjustment to Life
By Christopher Blackwell

An editorial on  the subject of the way of handling
sudden change in life.

ACTION Imbolc 2009 is ready

Please remember ACTION is available to
everyone, free.
To read online:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

To down load a PDF version for print out:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

The Imbolc issue is often a difficult one in
that I have less time to do it and this time
less than normal, but I think you will like
what we have.

Article !

No Stranger in This Strange Land
Interview with Oberon Zell-Ravenheart

From co-founding Church of All Worlds as
the first legal Pagan Church to the present
founding of the Grey School of Wizardry,
Oberon has been part of much of the history
of the Neo-Pagan movement in the United
States. This interview he discusses much of
what he has done within the Pagan Community.

Article 2

Author and the Broom Circuit
Interview with Trish Telesco

Trish is one of our most prolific Pagan authors.
She discusses some of the things important to
her including clearing up some common
misconceptions about Pagan authors.

Article 3

Have Broom Will Travel
Interview with M. Macha Nightmare

With her unforgettable name and a long term
commitment to interfaith working, M. Macha
talks of some of her 30 years experiences as a
Witch and the values that she believes in. This
Witch at large has taken part of American
Wiccan and Witchcraft history and also with the
Cherry Hill Seminary.

Article 4

Cherry Hill Seminary
Interview with Holli S. Emore

As Executive Director of Cherry Hill Seminary,
Holli brings us up to date with what is happening
at the seminary and why it is important to the
Pagan community at this time of our history.

Article 5

Being Heathen in Kentucky
Interview with Jordsvin

I interviewed Jordsvin once before about his
Heathen News website. Now we learn a little of
him as a leader in the Kentucky Heathen
community and some suggestions for Heathens
thinking of taking an active part in their community.

Article 6

A Pagan in the Air Force
Interview with Matt Switzer

I thought it was time to once again talk with one
of our Pagan serviceman about his experiences in
the Air Force as a Pagan.

Once again feel free to give suggestions about who
you would like to see interviewed in the Pagan,
Wiccan, Heathen and Druid communities, be they
well known or working quietly in the back ground.
It is suggestions from readers, and friends, that has
made the last three issues of ACTION be more than
I might have created by myself.

Blessed Be,

Christopher

ACTION Yule 2008 is ready

Well the Yule issue is out and  please remember that anyone,
not just members of AREN, can get ACTION to either read on
line of get a PDF copy for print out hard copy. It is free, so
give it to friends if you like.

ACTION online:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

ACTION PDF copy:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you.

Article 1:
Ravencast Podcast
Spoken Lore Podcast
Interview with David and Sandi Carron

Here I interview the creators of RavenCast podcast a Heathen
Podcast and also Spoken Lore Podcast. Ravencast is a Heathen
place so here is your chance to gain some idea about one of
our communities. Now if  you are interested in the sagas, then
Spoken Lore is the place for you to check out.

Article 2
Celtic Myth Podshow
Interview with Gary and Ruth

Now if it is the Celtic myths that you love, then you will want
to know about Celtic Myth Podshow and Gary and Ruth who
are the founders of this site over in England.

Article 3
Bard and Host of Druid Cast
Interview with Damh the Bard

Damh is a Bard and professional singer who also hosts of Druid
Cast Podcast that is put on by the Order of Bards, Ovates and
Druids over in England. You might want to check out Damh's
songs. I rather liked "Cauldron Born" myself.

Article 4
Interview with Raven Grimassi
Religious Writer, Lecturer and Witch

Raven is the founder of the  of the Aridian Tradition of
Stregheria, an Italian form of Witchcraft. He has taken part in
the old' religion all of his life, taken part in the development
of Wicca and written more than a few scholarly books on both
for the rest of us. Yet he refuses to call himself a scholar but
only a religious writer.

Article 5
English Author, Speaker, and High Priestess
Interview with Kate West

Kate is a very popular Wiccan author, speaker and high priestess
over in England. The rights to print her books has been bought
up by one of the American publishers so we will be seeing her
  books over here in the States soon.

Article 6
Taking Druidry to the Streets
Interview with Damian Carr and Craig Melia

After you have made you religion work in your life, how do you
put it to use in the greater society? Damian and Craig have started
some very ambitious projects of helping people become the change
they want to see in their community and world. Maybe they might
give you some ideas.

Editorial
Wintertime Thoughts
By Christopher Blackwell

My progress report to you the readers.

Then of course we have our two comics series:

Selena's Dream by Dianne Sasse

and

The Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

If you like what we have here, please let your friends know about
ACTION.

Blessed Be,

Christopher Blackwell
Editor of ACTION

That time again, who do you want me to interview for ACTION?

Last issue, the Samhain issue, we had mostly an Heathen issue,
three interviews of Heathens and one Heathen editorial. That
was the first time we had so much about the Heathen community.

So now I am curious what we will be covering in the Yule issue.
Remember it can be not well known people doing behind the
scenes stuff all the way up to some of our better known people
in the Pagan, Heathen, Druid, Wiccan communities. All of our
active people make our community happen. Or it could be anything
that might affect our communities. But with our readers and friends
pointing out stuff I might miss, ACTION will continue to become
more interesting.

Please send me your ideas names of people or things affecting our
community, E-mail address, or URL to web sites and then I will get
to work on it. meanwhile I will keep on the lookout myself.

Just send a private e-mail to me.

Blessed Be,

Christopher
Editor of ACTION

ACTION Samhain 2008 is ready for your enjoyment

You don't have to be a member of AREN, eight editions
a year, to read ACTION. Online you can read it at:

http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or you can download a PDF copy for print out at :
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html


ACTION is the Official newsletter for Alternate Religions
Educational Network, [AREN]

http://aren.org/

Here is what we have for you in this edition.

Article 1

Heathen Nation
Interview with Jason Godwise

Here I interview the founder of Heathen Nation, a group
founded to help all the various Heathen folk stay in
communication and be able to work together for the good
of the entire Heathen community.
----------------------------------------------
Article 2

Heathen Metal Rock Music
Interview with Hauk

This is my first interview with a Heathen Heavy Metal Rock
musician who has a full classical musical training, and writes
the lyrics, the music and is lead singer of the group Hauk.
Learn how he blends music and his  Heathen  tradition
together. He discusses what each of the other musicians
brought to the group.
----------------------------------------------
Article 3
Runes for Transformation
Interview with Kaedrich Olsen

Author, Godhi, and long time student of the runes, Kaedrich
discusses his newly published book and what he believes to
be a whole new look at the Runes.
------------------------------------------------
Article 4
An Incident in Roswell
Interview with Cindy Wilson

Cindy Wilson lives in Roswell, New Mexico which can be a very
conservative town and there had already one controversy about
the Pentacle. The latest  problem was what the local Catholic
Church was  teaching kids about Wicca that was the focus of her
investigation. Learn how she and local Pagans have worked to
deal with this situation.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Article 5

Discrimination or Not?
Why not all cases get accepted.
Interview with Selena Fox

Selena Fox describes some of the reasons that Pagan
organizations may take on one allege discrimination case  and
not another.. There is a reason why some cases will help the
cause and others might not.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Guest editorial

How do you define "our enemies" though?

Susan Granquist discusses the on going battle for Heathen
Religion religious rights as well as some of the odd combinations
of Heathen and non Heathen groups that have worked for it.

Then our color cartoons:

Selena's Dream by Diana Sesse

The Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

So I hope you will enjoy this edition and thank you for your time
and consideration.

Christopher Blackwell
Editor of ACTION

ACTION Mabon 2008, new interview added.

Article 7
Isaac and Phaedra Bonewits European Tour
Interview with Isaac Bonewits

Isaac discusses many things besides his tour. This
interview came in after I had put out the first Mabon
issue. So a corrected issue is now both on line and
in PDF form for print.

Remember ACTION is free and available to anyone.
So encourage friends and family to read it too please

To read on line:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

To have PDF copy e-mails for print out:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html


Blessed Be,

Christopher

ACTION Mabon 2008 is ready.

This the edition that our readers and friends
from the Pagan, Heathen, Druid, and Wiccan
communities sent suggestions of who to
interview to me. See the difference that cooperative
effort made, the largest edition ever.

Remember ACTION is free and available to anyone.
So encourage friends and family to read it too

To read on line: http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

To have PDF copy e-mails for print out: http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Article 1
Outed Democrat County chair now public Pagan
Convention Delegate

Last we had heard of Rita Moran was when the
  Kennebec County Democrat chairman was outed
as being Wiccan by a so called Christian organization
posted all her contact information. I interview her just
before she left for the Democratic Convention as one
of the few openly Pagan delegates.

Article 2
Filling In the Gap
Interview with Kate Bailey

Sometimes when local Pagan leader leaves and puts up
the only neighborhood Pagan shop for sale another steps
in to keep things going.

Article 3
Stregheria, Arician Tradition
Interview with a Third Degree Priestess

Here I interview Nola, a High Priestess, about a tradition
where men lead the ceremonies for half the year.

Article 4
The Mother Goose Circle
Interview with TaMara of Salt Lake City, Utah

Here I interview a dedicated story teller about her art.

Article 5
Negotiating with the Forest Service

Here I hunt down a rumor of negotiations  about an incident
between the US Forest Service and a local NM Pagan group
and get Pagan group's report on how it was resolved.

Article 6
Religion and Politics in South Africa
Posted by: "Damon Leff"

Don Leff reports from South Africa on the rise of a political
party that stated it would not allow Satanists and Witches to
exist in South Africa and what the SA Pagans did about it  to
get results. He provides lots of links for those that want to
go into it in greater detail.

Editorial
A Bit of Philosophizing by the Editor

Then our Cartoons:

Selena's Dream by Diana Sasse

The Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

Please remember to send in suggestions about who you would
like interviewed. Tell me who, what they are doing,  provide
some contact detail and I will see if I can get the interview. We
have many unsung heros in our communities. With you help we
will get them some of the recognition they deserve.

In our varied communities of Wiccan, Pagan, Heathen ,and Druids,
there are many unsung heros who  do important things but rarely
get credit.

Who in your community would you like to see interviewed in ACTION?
Tell me who & why, and provide contact information, that is his/ her
e-mail address or URL and I will try my best to interview them.

Please send me a private message, or e-mail me as I would not take
up space of this forum for more than this request.

Blessed Be,

Christopher Blackwell

ACTION Lamas 2008

ACTION Lamas 2008 is ready for your enjoyment.

To read online go to:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

To get a PDF copy for print out go to:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Remember you don't have to be a member of AREN and it is free.
Not that we would not be happy to have you as a member.
Membership is only $15 per year.

Here is what we have this issue:


1st Article:

A Lesson in History and Government
Interview with Debra and Addie Avery

  What if you went to a history lesson and learned an
  ancestor was convicted as a Witch. Watch how a mother and
daughter use it to learn about history, about government and
righting an old wrong.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
      Notice to Druid Armed Services
            Personal and Vets

Letters needed to support request for Awen of VA grave stones
-------------------------------------------------
Article 2

Keeping the Balance
Interview with Sam Hatty

Learn how a Pagan keeps his balance emotionally while dealing
with humans doing their worst and at their worst times.

Article 3

Book Review
By Christopher Blackwell

A Druid's Herbal of Sacred Tree Medicine
by  Ellen Evert Hopman

In her latest book, Ellen Hopman teaches about the Celtic Tree
Ogham, each of the sacred trees, their spiritual meaning, herbal
uses and much more. This will not be a one read but, but one you
will come back to again and again.

Article 4

Editorial
Geezer Musings

Yes, your editor admits to being old enough to use that term.

Then of course our cartoons:

Selena's Dream by Diana Sasse. our longest running cartoonists
second series of here alternate earth Kennedy stories.

The Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

Meanwhile if you know any Pagan, Heathen, Wiccan or Druid, etc,
that you think you would like to be interviewed about what they are
doing just send to me what they are doing, their name and contact
information [E-mail address or URL]. We have a lot of unsung heros
in our community, lets bring their work to light.

Reader feedback is always welcomed. We can always make ACTION
better with your help.

Blessed Be,
Christopher Blackwell
Editor of ACTION

Editorial

The Other Side of Missionary Work
By Christopher Blackwell

In our society when we think of missionaries,
we usually imagine some pious person going
out into the wilderness to bring religion and
civilization to the poor savages, often including
not only modern religion, but education and
medical care.

Certainly the many people that donate to missionary
causes believe that they are a good thing. After all
isn't bringing the wonders of civilization good for
these poor backward people?

There is an arrogance about it because civilized
people assume that they know what is best for tribal
people. They would never considering asking them if
they want or need it. It is often the civilized people
who are ignorant as to what is good for others.

What most of us civilized people fail to realize that
these tribal people and their culture are not nearly
as simple as we think.

All tribal people are people with often thousands
of years of history. They have developed their own
unique customs, rules, taboos and beliefs over time
because they help the people function as a group
and live in their own particular place on the planet.
For a tribal people to function and survive, they must
have very little conflict within the group and there
must be ways to solve what conflicts do come up. Each
person in the tribe needs to know and understand what
is expected of them and is raised with these standards
so they do it automatically. Meanwhile there are respected
elders to help keep order and to explain the way things
have been and need to be.

The missionary comes in with a new set of beliefs that is
often in conflict with everything the tribe believes and with
a religion that is strange and unknown. When some
members of the tribe convert, they have little understanding
of the religion and become dependent on the missionary to
help them understand what they have to do. Their
dependency gives the missionary a place of power over them.
This conflicts with the elders and tribal religious leaders they
would have consulted before. Conflict comes to the tribe and
with it the breakdown of normal order necessary for the tribe
to function.

Invariably the missionary has very different ideas about how
the tribe should act, dress and what activities are proper and
improper, based on his own culture and religious beliefs. Often
this is in direct conflict with the normal needs and mores of
the tribe. The missionary encourages his followers to spread
their newfound religion and also the new cultural ideas. This
creates arguments and breaks down tribal unity.

Often through education the tribal people are taught to desire
things they cannot provide for themselves, things that require
the use of money, which they have little or no experience with.
They are taught that their tribal ways are evil or outdated. They
are taught to want what is in the civilized world and what can
be brought in from the outside world.

The unfortunate thing is this new way rarely works as well as
the old ways. This leads to more unhappiness. Eventually they
lose their independence as they are guided into a life they do
not understand.

They become low-paid workers of the new economy, often
having to move away from the land where they have lived to
the growing slums of the cities far away. Violence and crime,
prostitution, drunkenness and drug use become too common
and the people are dissatisfied because they cannot afford the
lifestyle they have been taught to want and desire.

A few may prosper, but that prosperity is not shared with the
rest of their people. Within a generation no one has the old skills
and there is no way to go back to the culture that they once had.
History proves all civilizations come apart, and then who will have
the skills needed to survive afterward?

ACTION Litha 2008
http://aren.org/newsletter/2008-litha/action.php?num=2

Will VA Okay Awen?
By Christopher Blackwell

Organizing Pagans is like trying to herd cats.

The paperwork has been in place for two years, but the VA
says it can't process the request until there's a need for the
symbol – i.e. a dead Druid soldier or veteran.

So when a Druid widow or widower applies, will the VA grant
the Awen as a symbol of belief? We still don't know. What more
might the Druids do to insure success?

There must be proof on file that Druids want the Awen. Proof like
copies of letters from Druid service personnel and vets stating
that they have the Awen as their emblem of belief and want
the VA to add it to the list of emblems used on memorial markers.
There also needs to be a copy of a letter to each Druid veteran's
next of kin that they want the Awen on their VA-supplied
headstone.

Without these letters on file it will be impossible to prove what
the veteran wanted, giving the VA an excuse to deny the request.
Copies of those letters are needed as soon as possible to help
push the VA into taking action.

Ellen E. Hopman (Order of the Whiteoak - Ord na Darach Gile), one
of the Druids that has led the push for the acceptance of the Awen,
has asked for each Druid vet to send copies of these letters to her
at EE Hopman POB 219, Amherst, MA 01004.

Having these letters on hand will help Hopman expedite the requests
that are made later. A copy will also be forwarded to Lady Liberty
League Circle sanctuary.

Selena Fox had included in the settlement with the VA about the
pentacle that she be allowed to work for further emblems to be
added.

In a recent communiqué to various Druids, Fox said, "During our
settlement of the Circle Sanctuary vs. Nicholson lawsuit in April
2007 which resulted in the Pentacle being added to the list, I made
certain that our attorneys (from Americans United for Separation of
Church and State) included a clause in the settlement agreement that
allowed me and Circle Sanctuary to work on behalf of other emblems
of belief being added to the list. When asked about the reason for this
clause by media at the national press club news conference on April
23, 2007, the day the Pentacle was added to the list, I specifically
mentioned the need for the Druid symbol to be added."

Fox went on to state that in recent telephone meetings with VA
officials that no one could yet say when the latest rule revision
process would be completed.
-------------------------------
Editor notes. Sites for more information. Two of the Druid groups
supporting the Awen Quest:

'The Order of the White Oak' - World Druid Council
Ord na Darach Gile - Comhairle Domhanda na nDraoí
www.whiteoakdruids.org

History of Awen quest:
ADF's Involvement in the
The Druid's Awen Quest
A History of Actions
http://www.dragonskeepfarm.com/headstone/

Contact e-mail for Ellen E. Hopman and more information on helping
the Awen Quest: Saille333@...

ACTION Litha 2008 is ready

Read on line at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Or get a PDF attachment sent for printing out hard copy at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Remember ACTION is available for all, not just AREN members.

Here is what we have this issue

Article 1

Pagans and the Military
Interview with Author Stefani Barner

I interview Stefani  about her new book Faith and Magick in the Armed Forces: A
Handbook for Pagans in the Military.

Article 2

Will VA Okay Awen?
New action is needed by Druid military and veterans if they want to show the VA
that
they really do want the Awen on VA provided head stones.

Article 3

Creating a Sanctuary
I interview Eric on his plans for a Pagan sanctuary in Arizona. Last time ACTION
heard
from him was back in Iraq.

Editorial

The Other Side of Missionary Work
What is the down side of missionary work for tribal people world wide.

2nd Editorial

Diversity or Not
Diversity or more of the same for humans

Our two cartoons

Selena's Dream by Diana Sasse

The Many Moons of Astara by Glen Goldentree

This video is interesting. I like the way these people behave
and handle their Pagan roots and only few minutes by train
from Moscow.

However I wonder with the growing political power of the
Russian Orthodox Church if they will face a back lash. The
Russian Orthodox Church is not friendly even to other
Christian groups and is not an advocate of religious freedom,
besides its own.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KIWcMpF9I4

Blessed Be,

Christopher

ACTION BELTANE 2008 is ready.

Remember everyone can read ACTION either
online or have a PDF copy sent to you for print
  out in hard copy.

Read online here:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Have the PDF copy e-mailed to you here:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you.

Article 1
Wiccan Joins Church-State Separation Simulcast

Roberta Stewart took part in a first time 37 theater
simulcast about those who have fought to protect
religious freedom.

There is a link to see the simulcast yourself on line.

Also note listing of articles in past issues of ACTION
about her part in the Pentacle Quest.
-----------------------------------------
Article 2

Lessons Learned By an Activist
Interview with Roberta Stewart

In this interview Roberta tells or readers some of the
lessons she as learned and her plans for the future.
-----------------------------------------
  Article 3

Wiccan Runs for Office in Great Falls

Many of our long time readers will remember Darla's
battles with the town council of Great Falls and the
lawsuit fought all the way to the Supreme Court.

Read now of her adventures in running for a seat on
the town council.

Newer readers will note a couple of articles listed in
past issues of ACTION
giving back ground of the case.
-----------------------------------------
Article 4

No Place to Hate
Interview with Jerrie Hildebrand

Jerrie is an activist in our community who works mostly
in the background. Read about the project she helps
with in her own town of Salem, MA.
-----------------------------------------
Article 5


Peaceful Demonstration against religious exclusivism at
UN during Pope address to UN on April 18, 2008

While the Pope spoke in the UN there was a group
demonstrating for native religions of the world and telling
of the damage caused to native people by missionary work
among them. Note links to pictures of the march and to the
organization web page for more information about the cause.
-----------------------------------------
Editorial:

Sitting On a News Story
A few of your editor's thoughts.

Feed back is welcome on any article, including suggestions
for new articles.
-----------------------------------------
Then our cartoons.

Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

Selena's Dreams by Diana Sasse, our longest running
cartoonist now in her second series running in Action.

This played in 35 theaters across the country and shows how
your own freedom depends on separation of church an state.
As a Wiccan I am proud that Roberta Stewart took part in this
program to tell of the continued fight to protect everyone's
religious freedom, their right to believe what they believe and
their right to not believe.

Afterward please think of signing the partition to protect religious
freedom.

I watched the entire program on line at:

http://www.firstfreedomfirst.org:80/simulcast-event/watch/?
msource=F3sim032508&tr=y&auid=3533702

or at:

http://tinyurl.com/5ee4bg


Everything You Always Wanted to Know about the Separation of
Church and State … but Were Afraid to Ask!


First Freedom First
P.O. Box 1496
Washington, DC 20013

A partnership of The Interfaith Alliance Foundation
and Americans United for Separation of Church and State

ACTION Ostara 2008 is ready for your enjoyment

Read Online: http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

Down load PDF copy: http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

I have always said that I just wanted to be one of the
writers of this newsletter and this time around I have
had my wish. Also this issue is more international than
usual. Here is what we have for you. Remember anyone
can read ACTION and its free.

Article 1

First Wiccan Minister Invited to Speak to Commission for
Civil Rights

Historic first, Wiccan minister invited to advise the US
  for Civil Rights on problems of Pagan religious
discrimination in US prisons. Included is his complete
presentation.

Article 2 Canada

Wiccan Beauty Queen Denied Right to Judge Pageant

Canadian beauty queen invited to judge a beauty contest
until it is found out that she does Reiki and Tarot. Then
religious bigotry is shown by organizers. Ontario Pagans
respond with protest. Links provide to various articles and
a Youtube of the protest.

Article 3

AREN Canada Response

AREN CANADA responds to the Ontario beauty queen's
rejection with a press release
Article 4  South Africa

South African Pagan religious marriage officers

For the first time a Pagan organization is recognized
officially as a religious organization with rights to marry
people.

Article 5 South Africa

A Pagan Witches TouchStone: Witch Hunts in South Africa

South African Pagans launching advocacy for religious
tolerance and a end of Witch hunts. The 'burning times' still
exist in many Third world countries, including South Africa.
A new Pagan publication details a history of witch hunts
past and present.

Article 6

Demonstration in New York City for Protection of Native
Religions

Parade and demonstration  for the protection of Native
religions and to highlight the damage done by missionary
work. Learn how you can take part in this upcoming  April
18 & 20 event

Article 7 Editorial

Winter's End in the Desert

End of Winter is not gentle out here. See what I mean.

Then our two cartoon series.

Selena's Dream by Dianne Sasse

And

The Many Moons of Astra by Glen Goldentree

ACTION Imbolc 2008 is ready

As editor, I am happy to say the Imbolc edition
is ready. Here is what we have for you this edition.
Remember You do not have to be a member and
there is no cost.

Read online:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

PDF FILE E-MAILED:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html



Article 1
Editor's note: This is a follow-up to our story in
the Yule issue.

Green Bay Nativity Scene Lawsuit
Same city hall that briefly had a pentacle wreath
as well.

Article 2
Why the Ebb or Flow?
Interview with Bill Kilborn of AREN

Article 3

Let Actions, Not Disclaimers Characterize Our
Community!
By Rev. Jeva Singh-Anand
A Pagan response to Pagan crime

Poem
Popollution by Paul Roderski

Article 4
Priestess of the Forest: A Druid Journey
Review of a new novel by Ellen Evert Hopman
Latest book, and first novel, by well known
Druid author

Editor's Note:

The next two articles cover recent activity in Europe
by Pagan Federation International and were published
with permission of their International Coordinator
Morgana from their online newsletter, Pagan Plaza.

This international Pagan rights organization has branches
in Australia and Oceana, Europe, North America, South
America, South Africa  and Turkey.

Article 5
NEWS FROM PAGAN FEDERATION INTERNATIONAL –
NOVEMBER 2007
Report from one of the larger international Wiccan and
Witchcraft rights groups activities in Europe

Article 6

WICCA, a modern nature Religion, - the impact and
implications within Europe
Paper given during the R.I.P.E. conference: "Cultural
Diversity and Religious Pluralism.

Selena's Dream, Episode 2 of Diana Sasse's latest
Cartoon series.

Many Moons of Astra, second of the cartoon series
by Glen Goldentree

ACTION Yule 2007 is ready for your enjoyment.

This has been a most unusual issue but it is ready
for you read and you don't have to be a member of
AREN to read it online or download a copy to your
e-mail.

To read on line:
http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

To download a PDF copy to your e-mail:
http://aren.org/newsletter/2007-yule/index.php

Article 1
Beliefnet Sold
Website changes hands.

Article 2
Hassles Continue for Mikey Weinstein
The man who sued the Air Force Academy to end
evangelism at the Academy continues the fight with the
whole military at personal risk.

Article 3
Jihad: We Have Seen This Before! by T. Sheil
History of terrorism in Muslim lands.

Article 4
Indiana Dept. of Corrections approved the pentacle
Interview with one of the people of one of the groups that
brought this about.

Article 5
WICCAN PENTACLE JOINS NATIVITY SCENE
on City Hall in Green Bay, Wisconsin
One of three articles on the rise and fall of Wiccan
pentacle wreath

Article 6
Ruled Unconstitutional
Faith based prison program in Indiana runs afoul with
the Constitution.

Article 7
Wiccan Pentacle Wreath Vandalized, but Yuletide
Celebrations Continue
Second story on the Wiccan pentacle wreath

Article 8
YULETIDE QUEST FOR PEACE & EQUAL RIGHTS FOR
PAGANS
Third story of Wiccan wreath.

Editorial
Yule, Hope and Promise
Your editor's adventures while producing this issue.

Two new cartoon series.

1 SELENA"S DREAM by Diana Sesse. A new Kennedy
series by our regular cartoonist. Same beautiful art
work and interesting story as we expect from her.

2 THEM MANY MOONS OF ASTRA by Glen Goldentree I
did an interview with him some time ago and I got his
permission to show off this romp through some of the
characters we run into in the Wiccan community. Only
a Wiccan could do this cartoon

ACTION Mabon 2007 is ready.

With this issue we finish our third year of existence.
Starting the next issue will be the first of the fourth year.
Thank you for reading ACTION.

For any newcomers, ACTION is free and open to anyone
who wants to read our newsletter.

You can read it online at:
http://aren.org/newsletter/read.html

or you can have a PDF version e-mailed for printing out
yourself at:

http://aren.org/newsletter/send.html

Here is what we have for you this month

President Bush and Roberta Stewart.
Read about a snub and an apology, politics continued

Mpumalanga Witchcraft Suppression Bill 2007
A new anti Witchcraft bill in South Africa and what SA
Pagans did about it.

Ellwood "Bunky" Bartlett and the Mega Millions Lottery
Our most famous Wiccan lottery winner.

Druid News
By Ellen Evert Hopman
Ellen Hopman  brings us up to date on a couple of Druid
projects to benefit both Druid vets. and those still in the
service.

Editorial
Witch City, Burning Times, and alleged Witches
Some of my opinion on the above.

Saturnalia, the comics series by Diana Sesse

As usual I always hope for feedback, even if you disagree.
I am still trying to get information on other happenings
outside of just the Wicca community and always appreciate
leads on important stories in other parts of the Pagan
community

Christopher Blackwell, editor

Roberta Stewart is not a lady you want to forget about accidently,
even if you are the President of the United States. [Grin]

Blessed Be,

Christopher

------------------------------------------------------

Today: August 30, 2007 at 17:5:3 PDT
Bush calls Wiccan widow in Nevada


FERNLEY, Nev. (AP) - President Bush called a Fernley military widow
on Thursday and apologized for her not being invited to a private
meeting earlier this week in Reno, when he met briefly with the
families of fallen Nevada soldiers.
------------------snip--------------------------------------------

Rest of story:
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/nevada/2007/aug/30/083010464.html

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--

Americans United Commends President Bush For Apologizing To
Wiccan War Widow
Thursday, August 30, 2007

President Says Deceased Veteran's Wife Should Have Been Included
In Meeting With Families Of Fallen Service Personnel

Rest of story:
http://www.au.org/site/News2?
JServSessionIdr005=cyrikv51i4.app7b&abbr=pr&page=NewsArticle&id=9349&security=10
02&news_iv_ctrl=1241[b]

Wiccan practitioner's widow not invited to Bush meeting

President talked to family members of other war dead

http://www.lvrj.com/news/9441071.html

AMERICANS UNITED PROTESTS PRESIDENTIAL
SNUB OF WICCAN WAR WIDOW
 
http://www.au.org/site/News2?
JServSessionIdr005=m0u63vuo04.app7b&abbr=pr&page=NewsArticle&id=9345&security=1
002&news_iv_ctrl=1241