neicie

Hmmmmm...I thought this thread was about SpiralScouts, but I see that it has spiraled way off to somewhere else. Anyway, let's move on people. Pack up your soapboxes and go home. You know that no one ever wins or loses in these types of religous debates, so what's the point in continuing?

I am impressed with the responses posted on this thread. I am happy to see it has not become a religious flame war. You moderate yourselves very well. You have shown that you can agree to disagree and leave it at that. FYI.....Paganism includes many religions, and to break it down even more, denominations within those religions. Wicca is a religion within Paganism, with its own denominations. Since Pagans do not proselytize, I will not go on about Paganism, but will answer specific questions off list. There are plenty of Net resources available if you want to research these religions. Old Grey Eagle: You were already forgiven. Thanks for your consideration. Actually, I think poking fun at something you dont understand is a step toward acceptance. At least you are out of denial. Pagans poke fun at themselves, just like many other groups. The Redneck Pagan jokes are some of the best. A word of warning though, many Pagan people DO take offense to this type of humor, so trolling on a Wiccan list is not advised.... Personally, I feel that BSA has shot themselves in the foot with their policy on homosexuals. I left my position as Cub Master because I strongly disagree with this policy. I realize that I cant fight the good ole boy machine that the BSA has become, and others realize this too. As a result, new scout organizations are forming. SpiralScouts International is one of these groups. They have an anti-discriminatory policy, which appeals to many families. As NWScouter mentioned, this subject wont go away. Thanks for everyones comments on the topic.

I am the female Circle Leader of a SpiralScouts Circle in Columbus, Ohio. I come from Girl Scout and BSA backgrounds, having been a Brownie, Junior, and an Explorer in my youth and a BSA Den Leader, Troop Leader, Cub Master and Committee Chair as an adult. I'm married to an Eagle Scout as well. To my knowledge "Scouting" is a BSA copyrighted term. We do not use this word in the SpiralScouts organization. The word "scout" is one that can be used by anyone, since it is a part of our everyday language, and not a copyrighted term. SpiralScouts International is experiencing rapid growth in our new organization. In just under 3 years, we have chartered over 60 Circles here in the USA and more in Canada. Memebership in our Circles is open to boys and girls ages 3 thru 17. We do not discriminate or limit membership in anyway. Although founded by a Wiccan organization, membership is open to anyone. You do not have to belong to one belief system or another to become member. Earth stewardship is our primary focus. If you have done your homework on Paganism, you will find that Pagans live in harmony with the Earth, have respect for all living things and live by Karmic Law. (What goes around, comes around). We do not teach relgion to our SpiralScouts--teaching relgion is the responsiblity of the parents-- but we do teach good citizenship, woodland lore and Earth-friendly habits, like most other scout organizations. One reason SpiralScouts International was started is because the BSA will not recognize Paganism as a formal religion. Pagans, including Wiccans, Druids, Asatru, and others, can not earn a relgious medal. Another reason is, of course, the discrimination shown by the BSA to homosexuals. Most SpiralScouts parent's are not in agreement with BSA policy and found us as a result of seeking alternative programs for their children. All scout organizations serve a similar purpose-- To provide a positive, wholesome and educational youth experience for children and adults. Parents make choices for their children based on their needs, personal beliefs and interests. We all exist because there is a need. I would be happy to anwser questions anyone may have regarding SpiralScouts International. Blessed Be!