Patheos Watermark

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Ethics and Community



Community Organization

In most settings, contemporary Paganism is a minority religion, which enables Pagans to gather in informal, small-scale communities; many practitioners work as solitaries.

Leadership

Instead of a professional clergy, many Pagan groups have an egalitarian priesthood, open to most practitioners who assume ritual or organizational leadership positions.

Principles of Moral Thought and Action

While moral perspectives within Paganism are as diverse as nature itself, many Pagans adhere to principles such as personal freedom, honor, and respect for the rights of others.

Vision for Society

While Paganism offers no consensus vision for the common good, many adherents believe in caring for the environment and creating a non-sexist, non-homophobic society.

Gender and Sexuality

As a postmodern religious tradition inspired by ancient fertility practices, Paganism generally celebrates freedom and diversity in regard to human sexuality and gender.

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