Boys! Men! Date a Witch!
• New Age (Old Silliness)
Fringe spirituality is on the upsweep in Australia:
Neopaganism:
Many women are turning to witchcraft or paganism as a reaction to the patriarchal nature of traditional Christianity. Academic Dr Philip Hughes, of the Christian Research Association, told a Melbourne seminar on spirituality that "nature" religions rose by 140 per cent between 1996 and 2001.
Small branches of Christianity:
Dr Hughes said growth among Pentecostals had been remarkable, along with ethnically based religions. For example, the Coptic Orthodox church grew 83 per cent between 1991 and 2001.
Probably indicates discomfort with the major faces of the Christian faith. But they still want to believe something. Particularly that the universe cares that they exist.
Single heterosexual men, here's a dating tip:
Ms Tully, a former Catholic, says witchcraft appeals particularly to environmentalists, feminists and those reacting against organised religion but not many men. "Actually, I'm surprised the guys haven't taken advantage because there are so many single women.
Not that I think I could be romantically involved with a neopagan girl or guy. Even with the kindest will in the world such nonsense would grind on my nerves. But you may be more driven by lust.
The power of magic. I sell used books. And people looking for new age books often ask for the 'practical' ones. I guess that will get them a date or a fat bank account. Or maybe they want to put a hex on somebody. I don't ask.
"People are interested to find out about the alleged power magic offers, and it's do-it-yourself you don't need a priest between you and the gods."
While I'd much rather have everyone become an atheist, anything that prospers to the expense of fundamentalism is an acceptable second case.
Comments
Posted by: jennifer | October 22, 2005 10:42 PM
Posted by: tunesmith | October 23, 2005 11:37 PM