When I look around the world, I constantly see Pagan traditions and beliefs wherever I look.  Society in general is moving towards a more spiritual outlook and mindset and much of this movement is centered on earth-based spirituality.  Years ago, I had no concept of the difference between spirituality and religion.  I saw them as one.  But through my own journey, both spiritually and emotionally, I realized that these two were not necessarily synonymous.  In many ways our culture is mirroring that same revelation.

     In the United States, religion is part of any good old-fashioned red-blooded American's life.  Going to church on Sunday is the acceptable and expected thing to do.  Compared to other countries, this phenomenon is radical.  The United States is the single most religious country in the world.  However, this practice lacks true spiritual gratification.  Going to church is like having a job to the majority.  It is routine and an obligation.  This of course does not apply to all people, but speaking in generalities and from my own experience, that spiritual zing that I feel when I practice ritual is not there.  That is why Americans are yearning for something personal; some belief-system that lets them have a relationship with Infinite right here in this life.  Hence, culture is turning to Paganism.

     When I go to Barnes and Nobles Bookstore, my favorite section to go to and read in is the New Age section.  Most often when I hear the phrase "New Age" I cringe and think of really bad synthesizers and UFOolgy, but my views about this entire concept are changing.  The New Age Movement as a whole is propelling our society to explore new types of spirituality and beliefs and is creating awareness and tolerance for those practicing them.  People are breaking away from the typical concept of religion.  Just browsing at all the different subject matter and the wide array of spiritual ideas out there is mind-blowing.  Finally we are the point where religion and spirituality can go hand in hand.  Someone can be Christian or even an Atheist and see the divinity in the human community in which we exist and also in the greater community of Mother Earth.

     The point can be further illustrated by the practices of our culture at large.  People are using holistic remedies and medicines more and more often.  The realization (finally) of Pagan traditions in mainstream holidays is being explored.  A deeper understanding of our environment and eco-system is evolving and is pushing us towards respect and care.  All of these things are helping people grasp the sacredness of the cycles of nature and the divinity located within.  And in essence, this is Paganism.

     This concept and movement can also be seen in my own church and youth group.  Young Religious Unitarian Universalists or YRUUers as we call ourselves, have a hard time settling on a spiritual system.  We from the start of our religious education are taught to question and explore diverse beliefs and cultures.  The concept is extremely valuable and worthy.  However, this philosophy makes finding common worship a challenge.  The youth come from many diverse beliefs and backrounds.  That is why much of youth worship in Unitarian Universalists is centered on Pagan and Wiccan traditions.  The themes and messages contained in this branch of earth-based spirituality are universal, meaningful and often politically moving so they fit the passions and beliefs of UU youth very well.  As someone who had planned and led countless worships for local, district and national conferences, I incorporate many Pagan themes.  From chants from Starhawk to celebrating Lughnasad, youth in my church are drawn to and embrace Pagan spirituality.

     In closing, I am enormously excited and fulfilled knowing that our culture is heading toward spiritual fulfillment through Pagan traditions. Of course there is still much work to be done to bring restoration between people from opposite religious standings and true acceptance of all the beliefs in the infinite web.  However, people are making progress.  We are heading into a new time of understanding and peace and earth-centered teachings are guiding us.  May someday we join as one unified people and make all beliefs loved and respected.

Blessed Be.

Ryan McPartland
copyright 2000