Things to teach at MASS?

Question

Yes, this was phrased the way it was on purpose.

MASS = Metaphysical And Spiritual Society

It's a club I started at school to help teach Pagans and those just curious about Paganism and the Occult about the basics and more.

I named it MASS because a lot of Christian -- and even Jewish -- parents freak out at the word "Occult" or "Magick" or "Pagan". So, they can say to their parents, "I'm sorry, Mom/Dad, I'll be home late because I have to go to MASS."

Anyway, what do you think I should teach?

WARNING: All answers suggesting the Bible or the God of the Book (Allah, God, G-d) will get a thumbs down and will have NO CHANCE of being chosen as the right answer, because that's not what I'm looking to teach to them.

There are two Christian clubs at my school, along with an Islamic club. If people want to learn about Christianity or Islam, they can go to those clubs. Not. Mine.

Thank you.

Answer 1

paganism
The term pagan comes from the Latin term paganus, which simply means "countryman." In its earliest usage, it was applied to those who continued to adhere to traditional Greek and Roman religions even after Christianity became dominant. Because Christianity first gained dominance in the cities rather than the rural areas, the traditional religious beliefs came to be identified with the less cosmopolitan citizens of the empire.

Today, a great many pagans identify themselves as pantheists. Like other pantheists, pagans too believe that divinity is manifested everywhere, yet they are distinctive in that they relate to whatever they conceive of as God primarily through nature. They celebrate solstices, equinoxes and other natural passages, and they typically have a strong environmental ethic and a deep love of the natural world.

Many pagans are straight pantheists, using polytheism as a metaphoric way of approaching the cosmic divinity they believe in. Some people feel the need for symbols and personages to mediate their relationship with nature and the cosmos, and most say that there is no harm in this, as long as the symbols help them to connect to reality and do not block or distort their view of the cosmos. Pantheists can, however, also relate directly to the universe and to nature, without the need for any intermediary symbols or deities.

However, many pagans are literal polytheists and believe in magic, reincarnation, and the irrational. Modern pantheists are not generally polytheistic and do not believe in magic or disembodied spirits of any sort. Most of them also do not believe in a personal afterlife, whether through reincarnation or transport to any kind of non-material "heaven."

Answer 2

Start, at the beginning, with some overview/survey type things - basically, some "intro 101" discussions to answer questions, give people an idea of what you're talking about, etc. If you can get practicioners of some of the religions to give a run-down of what their religion is about, that's helpful. Can also give a few basic classes on "beginner" techniques - meditation, ground & center, etc.

After that, I'd probably say move on to looking at various pantheons, getting an overview of deities and mythology.

Answer 3

I would recommend you start with the PBS series "The Power of Myth" with Joseph Campbell. He addresses the very essence of how and why humans have been involved with metaphysics and magical thinking since the earliest humans walked the earth. He goes into a lot of detail about the Shamanic experience, symbols, etc. It is really excellent and, I think, would be the perfect introduction to the topic.

Best of luck.

Matt

Answer 4

Teach the following; it will be very beneficial:
1. How to get special identity by joining a religion that will raise eyebrows from the traditionalists.
2. How to make sure that you present yourself as a victim of the traditionalists, deluding yourself that you wish people would stop judging you for your religion but secretly relishing it because it gives you the identity and attention you want.
3. Delude yourself into thinking that you're not engaging in the same tired, old religion cliche of special groups that define themselves as different and special when compared to others.
4. Don't read any religious development history because you might break the delusion in #3.

Answer 5

YOu should teach meditation, teach reflection on nature and the cycles of the earth and how they relate to the creatures on earth and us.
Teach about the different types of healing stones.
Teach about the scientific evidence of psychic power and how to tap into your own psychic energy.....
stuff like that I guess. Go in the occult section of your book store, there will be tons of subjects to teach.

Answer 6

Well although many despise Aliester Crowley, he has done extensive research in the metaphysical world. I don't know if you have read up on him, or if you would think it's a good idea. Many thought of him as the Great Beast, and evil incarnate, but I think he has done his research.

Answer 7

Philosophy.

Sociological rites and customs of different societies from a non-comital, non-believing POV. Keep it academic without the belief.