Structure
I suspect that many of us haven't thought to try and separate the forms of belief from the mechanics of human group interaction thus the debate over the degree of 'structure' we need, desire or try to avoid. How should knowledge be conveyed? What steps should be involved and are they marked or celebrated in any way? How formal is the teacher/student dichotomy or should we avoid differentiations in status altogether?
Unfortunately I have seen pagans assemble themselves into organizations which all too frequently resemble the institutions of mainstream religion. Degrees and study programs, concentric circles and formal priesthoods are not belief-dependent - they are a human construct. I might argue that they may mask simple kernels of understanding with veils of needless mystery and expensive spiritual relief. I do not need an intercessor or necessarily help with assembling meaningful ritual motions. When I hold another's hand in this process it is not to lead or be led but to come together. Is that so hard? Or haven't people progressed to where they can bare their souls without looking sidelong at their fellows?
Paganism has its own equivalents of 'showing off the new Sunday hat' as well as recreating the same old hierarchal structures. I want something new.
Unfortunately I have seen pagans assemble themselves into organizations which all too frequently resemble the institutions of mainstream religion. Degrees and study programs, concentric circles and formal priesthoods are not belief-dependent - they are a human construct. I might argue that they may mask simple kernels of understanding with veils of needless mystery and expensive spiritual relief. I do not need an intercessor or necessarily help with assembling meaningful ritual motions. When I hold another's hand in this process it is not to lead or be led but to come together. Is that so hard? Or haven't people progressed to where they can bare their souls without looking sidelong at their fellows?
Paganism has its own equivalents of 'showing off the new Sunday hat' as well as recreating the same old hierarchal structures. I want something new.