Pagans say they're not so different after all

MILFORD — While there were no cloaked witches or tree-hugging hippies, there were 35 genuine pagans at the Northeastern Pa. Pagan Fellowship’s Fall Frolic at Milford’s Camp Netimus last weekend. And as for those unwarranted stereotypes, Wiccan Dave Bryer said, “We’re not some kind of devil worshiper group. We don’t even believe in the devil.” “It’s a bunch of trash,” added Jennifer Transue, Frolic coordinator. “We’re family and community oriented. Just because we have a different set of beliefs doesn’t make us that different from anyone else.” With a weekend of various workshops and vendors, presenters, music and traditional rituals, the Pagan community celebrated Mabon, their harvest festival of the autumn equinox. Believers hailed not only from Pennsylvania, but Delaware, New York, New Jersey and Ohio as well. Festivities began Friday at 11 a.m., and ended with a potluck dinner, icebreaker karaoke and a fellowship fire. On Saturday, over $1,000 was raised at an auction for the Wolf Sanctuary of Pa., before the harvest feast of chicken, pork, vegetables, potatoes, stuffing, soufflés, cake and pie. Sunday concluded with the main Mabon ritual, where pagans give thanks to their God and Goddess for the fruits of the earth, and recognition of the need to share them during the winter months. To keep the children occupied, such workshops as coloring, making rain sticks, necklaces and wands, canoeing and learning about crystals and gems were going on over the course of the three days. Palmistry, Reiki, a Japanese form of touch-energy work, mead making, Herbalism, dice divination and archery were among more advanced workshops. Additionally, entertainment was provided by Music for the Goddess, and author, psychic-clairvoyant and practicing witch, Ellen Dugan, was present. Numerous vendors set up shop on Netimus’ main field. Specifically, The Atomic Elf, Celestial Creations, Endless Mountains Coven, Fantasy Portraits, Gossamer Hawk, Grand Kiva Healing Center, Guardians of the Sacred Grove, Hecate’s Unique Jewelry and Gifts, Shooting for the Moon, Silver Willow, T & E Designs, and Vikings Girls Workshop all displayed their goods. Transue was pleased with the overall event. “The turnout was much higher than I expected. We had 60 total over the weekend, and for our first time I am more than happy about that. It was great to come together as a community, especially in a nice, safe, place where the kids can explore who they are.” Angel Moonsteps, the vector coordinator and high priestess of Guardians of the Sacred Grove, agreed. “We had a very eclectic marketplace. All were amazing people and most will be returning next year- when we’ll be hoping for a higher turnout.”