Paganism

Circles

Submitted by Pashta MaryMoon on behalf of Pagan Federation/Fédération païenne Canada (PFPC) and Pagan Pastoral Outreach (PPO) - both national bodies, although functioning primarily in Ontario and B.C.

Most modern (Neo-) Pagan traditions operate in small intimate circles - coming together only for discussion groups, festivals, or politically-oriented organization concerned with the 'rights' of Pagans (such as PFPC). There is no hierarchical or collective organization of the community as a whole, nor any large defined communal bodies, such as Abrahamic or Buddhist congregations. Within a circle or coven, members are considered 'extended family' - so within a prison group inmates are supported as a sister/brother. If upon release they are fortunate enough to find and be accepted right away into a circle or coven, they would find similar moral support. However, by definition there are no public covens, and public circles tend to be small and casual. It is, therefore, likely that 're-integration into the community', for Pagans, will focus on the inmate's family and building new friendships. It will also focus on issues concerning family/friends not accepting their faith - with support from prison pastoral visitors to whatever extent is possible.