How to Do Interfaith: Basics For Pagan Beginners, Part 1

[cbayer]

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/wildgarden/2014/03/how-to-do-interfaith-basics-for-pagan-beginners-part-1/

March 16, 2014 By Holli Emore



Someone asked me recently, however did you gain acceptance in South Carolina as a Pagan interfaith leader? Honestly, the story is not much of a mystery, but I’ve learned some things along the way which you may find useful.

1. Show up. Patrick McCollum was asked once what is the key to successfully building Pagan community. His answer was, “Show up.” If you want to be part of something, you have to be there when the action happens. That may mean visiting religious services, meetings, discussion groups and the like. It’s how you get to know people.

2. Indulge your natural curiosity. There’s a world of spirituality and religion out there, many of them being not-so-distant cousins from modern Paganisms. Go enjoy a meditative space while your Muslim friends say their prayers. Share the meal following a Sikh service, clap and sing at an African American worship service, and drop by the Sunday School class of a friend to hear what they are talking about. People really appreciate your sincere interest, which opens the doors of their interest in your religion.

3. Offer to help. Unexpected friendships are born while setting up chairs, putting out refreshments, serving on committees, and generally demonstrating your value as a partner.

more at link

[Fortinbras Armstrong]

1. I'm reminded of Woody Allen's remark

That 80 percent of life is showing up.

[cbayer]

2. Isn't that the truth.

I recently read a study that found that the only personality trait consistently correlated with success was conscientiousness.

When I first started getting involved in political organizations, I found it curious that I kept getting offered positions and promotions.

I quickly found out it was because I showed up and was prepared.

This turned out to be something of a curse after awhile, though, lol.

[Fortinbras Armstrong]

3. A Baptist minister I used to know

Told me that ten percent of his congregation do ninety percent of the work. I told him that, in my experience, the same was true for Catholics. He replied that he would only have been surprised if I had told him that it was any different for Catholics.

[cbayer]

4. I think that's pretty much true for every volunteer organization.

I though they liked and respected me, when it just turned out they saw an opportunity to get someone who would do the work.