NeoNotes — The name thing
❝Yeah, the name thing. Three roots there.NeoNotes are the selected comments that I made on other boards, in email, or in response to articles where I could not respond directly.
First, it wasn't until the mid 1950s when witchcraft (and to a lesser extent paganism) became legal in the UK. To this day, there can be repercussions in certain areas, although not nearly as much as some would have you believe.
Second, much like a Christening or confirmation, taking a separate name shows dedication to your faith when you are initiated. This goes back to the Roman mystery cults.
Third, there is cross-over with the SCA and various RenFaire groups. This definitely stresses the romantic aspects. These days I would put cosplay as another influence.
There's a quote I like, ❛You want your religion taken seriously? Stop treating it like fandom.❜
Before you ask, NeoWayland is not a name, it's a title. It's complicated.
No, it started as an online handle.
My legal name is fairly ordinary.
My ritual name is between me and the Divine.
Titles are a complication that most groups don't need. Most ritual based groups are a dozen people or less.
At the same time, if there are titles, they don't apply to anyone outside that group.
Much of the justification for "establishing" a Greater Pagan Community® is so that certain individuals can get the adoration and deference they believe they deserve.❞
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