Paganicon 2017 has ended

Create Your Own Event

Paganicon 2017

The schedule items are final.

1:00pm CDT

2017 Going Deep into the Cycle of One

The year 2017 starts a new nine-year universal cycle; it is a great time to evaluate new beginnings. In this workshop, you will explore the power and magic in the number one. One is the Magus, the Magician, a time when our plans can and should take us anywhere. In a one year, we strike out on our own. We have left the past behind, as we forge our own path within and without. Step through the Looking Glass with pen, paper, curiosity, and humor.

Speakers

Clio Ajana

Our Lady of Celestial Fire - Temple of Olympus

Clio Ajana revels in life explorations as a Death Midwife, an Archiereia of Hellenic Alexandrian Witchcraft & Spiritual Tradition, Devotee of Laima (Romuva -Baltic Indigenous Tradition), a ordained member of the House of Our Lady of Celestial Fire, E.O.C.T.O., a numerologist, educator... Read More →

2017: Going Deep into the Cycle of One 3.17.2017 pdf

Friday March 17, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Terrace 3

1:00pm CDT

From the Wica to Wicca: The Rise and Development of Modern Witchcraft

When Gerald Gardner went public as one of England’s first Modern Witches in 1951 he spoke of being a part of an initiate only “Witchcult” and called the Witches who initiated him “The Wica.” By the end of the 1960’s Gardner’s Witchcraft was known by many as Wicca, and by the end of the 1970’s Wicca was no longer limited to just initiates. How did this all happen and what are the origins of Gardner’s Craft? Just where do Traditional Witches fit into all of this and what sort of impact have they had on Witchcraft traditions today? From Valiente to Cochrane to Ravenwolf it’s an indepth look on where Modern Witchcraft has been and how it got to now.

Speakers

Jason Mankey (he/him)

Jason Mankey read his first book on Witchcraft in the seventh grade, and at age 22 dedicated his life to the Craft. Today, Jason helps run two Witchcraft covens in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife Ari, and writes books, like lots of books. Jason is a popular speaker at Pagan... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

1:00pm CDT

Little Miss Understood

Hekate is often depicted by modern Pagans in ways that would shock or horrify ancient Pagans. Likewise, the Kore, is often seen as a victim instead of a powerful Queen. Learn how ancient worshippers viewed these two important Goddesses and see if those insights add depth to your rituals.

Speakers

Cara Schulz

Writer/Reporter, The Wild Hunt

I'm married, have an adult son, and no tattoos. Author of "Marshmallows & Martinis: A Field Guide to Luxury Tent Camping" and "Almost Foolproof Mead Making."

Friday March 17, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Park 2 Movement

1:00pm CDT

Research without Tears and Thievery for Pagans

We live in the Information Age, where the Internet potentially makes it possible for us to find just about anything we might want. This does not mean that the information is worth its bytes. Or perhaps the material is out of reach, what do we do then? This discussion will cover how to find good, solid material for our spiritual and magical practices without breaking the bank or stealing from authors.

Speakers

Soli Johnson

House of Netjer and La Sosyete Fos Fe Yo We

Soli has been involved in occult, magical, and pagan shenanigans since the early 1990s. She has found her spiritual home in the House of Netjer, a revival tradition of ancient Egyptian religion. She also practices witchcraft, honors Heathen Gods, serves the lwa, and occasionally gets... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Park 1 Music

1:00pm CDT

The Pagan Way of Death: Paperwork Edition

Though it pains us to say it, getting ready to die often involves a lot of paperwork. In the second installment of our "Pagan Way of Death" series, we'll explore advance directives, powers of attorney, wills both magical and mundane, and other documents that can help provide the dying and their loved ones with a map of the threshold.

Speakers

Eli Effinger-Weintraub & Lior Effinger-Weintraub

Upper Mississippi River Reclaiming

Lior Effinger-Weintraub holds a Master of Social Work degree from St. Catherine University and is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker practicing psychotherapy with the LGBTQ+ community in the Twin Cities. Lior uses they/them pronouns and is a member of multiple historically marginalized... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Terrace 2

2:15pm CDT

Pagans with Cancer Roundtable

Pagans, like all people, get cancer. But we don't necessarily see illness through the same lense as society at large. Our methods of healing differ, as well. Ritual, energy healing, plant helpers, spirit guides, goddesses and gods, and more. Integrative therapy is a great first step, but support groups are often monotheistic if there is any spirituality, at all, we are often outsiders. What resources are available that are pagan friendly? What resources are missing? Share your cancer journey, healing rituals and tips. Moderated by Jane Hawkner, Stage IV cancer warrior.

Speakers

Beth Hansen

Beth Hansen Art LLC

Discovering Goddess energy in Nature and expressing it through art and ritual. Join in the community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/harmonygoddesscircle/

Jane Hawkner

Creative Director, Eye of Horus Metaphysical

Yes, I am one of the owners of a certain shop in Minneapolis. But if I have no idea who you are, I will not be your friend. We can connect on the store page: http://Facebook.com/eyeofhorusmpls I'm also a geeky, quirky writer, jewelry maker, artist and musician.

Jhenah Telyndru

Jhenah Telyndru (MA, Celtic Studies) is a priestess, author, and educator. She founded the Sisterhood of Avalon (www.sisterhoodofavalon.org) in 1995, and serves as Academic Dean of the Avalonian Thealogical Seminary. A formally trained Celticist through the University of Wales Trinity... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Terrace 3

2:15pm CDT

Tarot in a Magical Practice

There's more than one way to use tarot-- not just as a divinatory tool, but also as a magical tool! Join us, as we discuss the many ways you can use tarot in your magical practice. From creating spells based on a card pulled to identifying deities to communicating with Spirit. This session is geared toward the intermediate reader, though readers of all skill levels are welcome. Tarot will not be fully explained in this session, but will be used to help enhance your personal practice. Bring your tarot deck if you have one!

Speakers

Ragabash Halcon

Fireborn Alchemy, LLC

Ragabash Halcon is a tarot reader and Usui Reiki Master. She has been an avid diviner since she was 10 and first started learning about palmistry. Since then, her personal divination style and methods have changed, but she has been deeply influenced by divination for most of her life... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Park 1 Music

2:15pm CDT

They Buried us not knowing we're Seeds

A discussion exploring how deities and archetypes from ancient civilizations were shaped, transformed, and demonized by invading cultures and modern day religions. We will also discuss reclaiming these stories and the reawakening of these ancient spirits and belief systems.

Speakers

Kaida Moran

Little Dragon Designs

Kaida is a DruWitch and follower of Irish Folk tradition. They sell costumes and textiles under the name Little Dragon Designs. An avid mycophile, Kaida will discuss mushrooms at the drop of a hat and is determined to learn all they can about fungi! Likewise, they are fascinated by... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Terrace 2

2:15pm CDT

Worshipping the Goddess

This lecture will use the goddess Athena as a model for discovering and learning about any god/dess. Based on the 19th century work of John Ruskin’s Queen of the Air, Prudence will demonstrate this model discussing Her attributes, aspects, symbols, powers, and domains. Prudence has studied the Greek Gods for over 50 years.

Speakers

Prudence Priest

American Ambassadress, Romuva

Amber, pagan carolling, the Baltics, and Romuva, the indigenous Baltic tradition. Currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Circle of Ancient Sisters, and the Daughters & Sons of Yta. In the 60’s Prudence Priest was a proud card-carrying member of W.I.T.C.H. [Women’s... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

3:30pm CDT

From Elder to Ancestor

After the loss of a beloved community leader or organizer, how do we mourn? Further, how do we best honor and integrate their legacy into our own practice? Come enter a discussion on death, ancestors, and the reframing of our relationships with elders and teachers once they can no longer be physically present in our lives.

Speakers

Michelle Belanger

Michelle is an author, occult expert, presenter, singer, media personality, gifted psychic and skilled energy worker. We couldn’t think of a better expert to help us with our Through the Looking Glass: A Journey to the Underworld theme! Michelle has authored more than two d... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Terrace 3

3:30pm CDT

Reclaiming Blodeuwedd

Delving deeply into the Fourth Branch of Y Mabinogi, we will peel back layers of myth, symbolism, and clashing cultural paradigms to reveal the heart of the tale of Blodeuwedd, the Flower Maiden who is transformed into an Owl. We will trace the evolution of the sovereignty motif as found in Irish, Welsh, and Arthurian mythos; make a case for the subtextual mytheme of Seasonality as underscoring the love triangle between Blodeuwedd, Lleu, and Gronw; and as we restore her reputation from Unfaithful Wife to Goddess of Sovereignty, we unearth the lessons she holds for all who seek her wisdom.

Speakers

Jhenah Telyndru

Jhenah Telyndru (MA, Celtic Studies) is a priestess, author, and educator. She founded the Sisterhood of Avalon (www.sisterhoodofavalon.org) in 1995, and serves as Academic Dean of the Avalonian Thealogical Seminary. A formally trained Celticist through the University of Wales Trinity... Read More →

Friday March 17, 2017 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

3:30pm CDT

The Authentic Witch: Crafting a Working Tradition

What does it mean to be an authentic Witch? Who or what sets the bar for authenticity? How can it define or impede your path? In this workshop, we'll look at key elements for crafting an effective practice that works for you, from the perspective of the Modern Traditional Witch.

Speakers

Laura Tempest Zakroff

artist, author, dancer, designer, witch

Friday March 17, 2017 3:30pm - 5:00pm CDT
Terrace 2

9:00am CDT

CANCELLED: The Fire of Willpower

THIS SESSION HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

We are Druids, Witches, Mages, and Magicians. We work in the realms of manifestation and mystery. We work our will upon the world. But sometimes the world doesn’t seem to cooperate with our carefully laid sigils and hand crafted incense. Sometimes it’s hard just to get out of bed. In this workshop Rev. Hill will share some history on the idea of willpower, from the Greco-Roman Stoics to the ideas of Aleister Crowley. Then we will discuss modern research on the psychology and some of the counter intuitive ways we can build our willpower muscles.

Speakers

Melissa Hill

Saturday March 18, 2017 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Terrace 3

9:00am CDT

Living the Process: Conscious Creation

The act of consciously creating anything can be life-changing. How much more so can this be when the chosen act is one that involves divine or mystical energies such as creating a tarot deck, a piece of sacred art, or a magickal garden? This workshop explores the wonder and chaos which happens when one chooses to open up to these forces as a deliberate spiritual act. Participants will share in a presentation of images of these spiritual creations as well as a lively discussion of life before, during, and after such a period. Those who have done this themselves as well as those who are curious about it are welcome to join in a multi-media interactive sharing of this process.

Speakers

Tinnekke Bebout

Founder, Temple of Hekate Einalian

Tinnekke Bebout has been published in Askei Kataskei, Goddess, Circle, PanGaia, The Loom, and The Goat and Candle. She is the creator of the Female Mystique Tarot (to be released in June 2017), co-creator of The Hekate Tarot, author of The Dance of the Mystai, and she has also been... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Terrace 4 AV

9:00am CDT

Nordic Roots Workshop

Through song, movement, and staff rhythm, Minnesota volva Kari Tauring teaches her unique version of carrying the staff of her Nordic ancestors. All are welcome to participate!

Speakers

Kari Tauring

Kari Tauring is a Minneapolis based Nordic folk musician, dancer, and storyteller. She is a volva in Old Norse, she “carries the staff” of spiritual tradition within the folkway of her Nordic ancestry through performance, education, and authorship.

Saturday March 18, 2017 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Terrace 2

10:15am CDT

Indunagroana: Heathen Defense of the Earth

Finding inspiration in Heathen and Pagan traditions to protect the Earth, working with Indigenous First Nations and environmentalists from a place of authenticity

Speakers

Shane Orthman

Gothi, Daughters and Sons of Yta

Shane Orthmann is an artist, story teller and spiritual leader, serving as Gothi with the Daughters and Sons of Yta since 2010. From fall 2015-Spring 2016 Shane Orthmann was an artist in residency at the Creek, retelling the Norse Myths with an emphasis on their place in the seasons... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Terrace 3

10:15am CDT

Living in Ilhuicatltonatiuh: Explorations in the Imminent Otherworld

What do the Aztec otherworld and Minnesota have in common? It turns out, absolutely everything! Join Druid and religious scholar Race MoChridhe for an exploration of mythologies–from the Aztec to the Norse to the Christian–in which the otherworld is much less "other" than you may think. Together, we will explore conceptions of the otherworld that place us right in the middle of it here and now, and ask what an "immanent otherworld" means for the way we conceive ourselves, our reality, and the purpose of our lives.

Speakers

Race MoChridhe

Race MoChridhe is an Ovate in the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids, and a widely-published independent scholar of religion. His recent work has focused on intersections between the practice of literary writing and manifestations of contemporary spirituality, particularly in LGB... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Terrace 2

10:15am CDT

What is Remembered Lives: Historical Research for Pagan Practice

A number of Pagan paths remember and honour people who have died before us, as ancestors of blood but also as ancestors of spirit or shared community. However, if we want to honour someone who is older than living memory, we have to rely on historical sources which can be hard to find or difficult to put in context. This discussion will cover possible locations of information about specific people and their communities, the limits of historical research, and how to research and honour individuals ethically in Pagan practice. We'll finish with time to talk through some examples, so please feel free to bring specific questions. About the presenter: Jenett's day job as a librarian includes finding information about specific people associated with a particular community over the last 200 years.

Speakers

Jenett Silver

I'm a librarian and general geek, particularly interested in research, accessibility, sustainable ritual practices, explaining things more usefully, and making things work better overall. Besides my blog, I have a site of introductory religious witchcraft information called Seeking... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Terrace 4 AV

11:30am CDT

Runic Allies

The Runes are a divination tool and alphabet associated with the Norse and other traditions. They can be intense, fascinating and loyal allies. They offer insight and inspiration to help us connect to our own intuition. In this workshop we will use writing and artwork to explore how connecting with the Runes as allies can help us navigate through our own Underworlds to find our voices, our creativity, our courage and more.
No previous experience with the Runes necessary. All traditions welcome.

Speakers

Karin Levitski

Upper Mississippi River Reclaiming

I am a queer witch in the Reclaiming tradition, active in the Upper Mississippi River Reclaiming community. My practice is strongly rooted in ancestral connection and developing a living relationship with my Nordic and Lithuanian roots.

Saturday March 18, 2017 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Terrace 3

11:30am CDT

Sumbel: Connecting with your gods, your ancestors, and your community

A discussion on Sumbel in modern heathenry. We will briefly cover historical and literary references. The bulk of the conversation will focus on the importance of Sumbel in modern practice. The words we speak over the horn during Sumbel resound in the Well of Mimir. This connects us to our gods, to our ancestors, and to our community. The weaving of words strengthens our bonds as a community and more intimately connects us to those gone before.

Speakers

Todd McCoy

Public Relations Officer, Volkshof Kindred

Saturday March 18, 2017 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Terrace 2

11:30am CDT

The Horned God in the British Isles

For thousands of years, the Horned God has resided in the British Isles in various forms. To the ancient Celts, he was The Horned One, Cernunnos. In the Middle Ages he whispered to his followers in Christian Churches as the Green Man. As Herne, he became an English icon. Learn the real histories behind these powerful figures and how they all fit together. Find out how these three gods became an essential part of Contemporary Paganism, and why their messages still resonate today.

Speakers

Jason Mankey (he/him)

Jason Mankey read his first book on Witchcraft in the seventh grade, and at age 22 dedicated his life to the Craft. Today, Jason helps run two Witchcraft covens in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife Ari, and writes books, like lots of books. Jason is a popular speaker at Pagan... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

1:00pm CDT

Cottage Witchery

This will discuss the methods of kitchen witchery and the hearth and home. How to use the materials and elements around you in everyday life. I will teach how to create magickal lotions, home protection spells, and how to keep your home happy, healthy, and prosperous. I will explain herbs and teach how to use them for healing. I will teach using what mother earth gives us, can enhance your life. No matter what your skill level is, I will help guide you in your education.

Speakers

Jodi Jacobson

Owner, Midwest Witchery and Healing

Hello, I'm Witch Jodi. I've been a practicing witch for over 40 years. I have practiced both solitary and with covens. I have completed Witchcraft I and Witchcraft II under Laurie Cabot in Salem Mass. I am a Priestess and member of the Cabot Kent Hermetic Temple in Salem Mass. My... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 2

1:00pm CDT

Dance with Uranus, wrestle with Jupiter; an experiential approach to the astro-transits of 2017

We take a journey through the looking glass and meet the planets to receive their advice for our path. Through lecture and astro-drama Heather and Teri will share the year’s major transits, then take you on a journey to see for yourself.

Speakers

Heather Roan Robbins

astrologer/ceremonialist, starcodes-heartcodes

Heather Roan Robbins, Astrologer, counselor and ordained ceremonialist with 35+ years experience, writes the weekly Starcodes column for WeMoon Calendar, the Santa Fe New Mexican, The Edge magazine, authored the Starcodes AstroOracle Deck and the books Moon Wisdom and Everyday Palmistry... Read More →

Teri Parsley Starnes

astrologer, Starsdance Astrology

I have been a Witch since the mid-80s and a professional astrologer since the mid-90s. My spiritual roots come from many sources. One primary source is the Reclaiming Tradition. I love to teach about astrology and my spiritual journey. I am a life-long seeker. My practice of astrology... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 3

1:00pm CDT

Finding Nature in the Concrete Jungle

Apply Agrippa's theory of the elements to the modern world using this meditative exercise to connect to nature even in the middle of concrete. Part thought exercise, part imagination expansion, this will help you see your urbanized living space in new ways. Bring your imagination and a computer device to look things up.

Speakers

Diana Rajchel

Spirit Worker, Witch & Author, Golden Apple Metaphysical

Diana Rajchel is the author of Hex Twisting: CounterMagick Spells for the Irritated Witch and Urban Magick: A Guide for the City Witch. She has her hearth with her partner Synty in Kalamazoo, and her heart in San Francisco with Golden Apple Metaphysical, a shop she co-owns with Nikki... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

2:45pm CDT

Nibi Walks Water Ceremony

The Nibi Walks are Indigenous led ceremonial walks along the rivers to pray for the waterways. Virtually all of our waterways are in crisis due to environmental degradation and pollution caused by agricultural run-off, mining, pipelines and development. In Minnesota, the only area of the state with pristine waters is the arrowhead region. Here, we are proposing sulfide mining. What can we do to preserve our waterways? What can we do to ensure we clean up our environment? What is environmental justice?

Led by Anishinaabe Grandmothers, Water Walks respect the truth that water is a life giver, and because women also give life they are the keepers of the water. In Anishinaabe religion prophecies were given before contact with light skinned people. The prophecies state that when the world has been befouled and the waters turned bitter by disrespect, human beings will have two options to choose from: materialism or spirituality. If they chose spirituality, they would survive, but if they chose materialism, that choice would be the end of humanity (“The Seven Fires Prophecy”). We choose spirituality and duality with all people who now live on Turtle Island, regardless of their ancestry. We unite with others and walk towards love and a better future for our grandchildren.

Water Walks are focused and implemented in faith: faith in the water spirits, faith in the earth, faith in humankind and faith in the power of love. No amount of money is more powerful than these forces. When we spend time respecting and thanking the water for keeping us alive, it becomes impossible to abuse it. When we spend time praying for the water, we spend time praying for ourselves; in praying for ourselves we pray for all of our relatives.

http://www.nibiwalk.org/about/

Speakers

Sharon Day

Sharon M. Day, is enrolled in the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe. She is one of the founders of the Indigenous Peoples Task Force, formerly known as the Minnesota American Indian AIDS Task Force. IPTF began as a volunteer organization (1987) with all of the work performed by the Board... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Orchard Ritual Space

2:45pm CDT

Past Life Regression

Our past holds many lessons, if only they can be unlocked. In this guided journey, learn to access the Hall of Many Doors within your inner temple. Step through the most inviting door to glimpse a previous life and carry its wisdom back to be integrated into your life today.

Speakers

Michelle Belanger

Michelle is an author, occult expert, presenter, singer, media personality, gifted psychic and skilled energy worker. We couldn’t think of a better expert to help us with our Through the Looking Glass: A Journey to the Underworld theme! Michelle has authored more than two d... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Terrace 3

2:45pm CDT

Six Direction Sovereignty Practice

This daily practice accesses the unique and distinct gift of all six directions - east, south, west, north, up, and down - to help individuals create and maintain a solid energetic container that supports personal sovereignty and centeredness. During this workshop I will guide participants in a process where each participant will receive a gift from all six directions and learn a personal sovereignty and centering practice.

Speakers

Jean Chagnon

Founder/Owner, Anamaura

I am an integrative healer specializing in working with women who are survivors of personal abuse, especially childhood abuse. I integrate somatoenergetics and shamanic practice into my psychotherapy to provide a holistic healing environment. I also work to help other professionals... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Terrace 2

2:45pm CDT

Understanding the Dark Trickster

This workshop explores the journey into the darkness of the self. Do you relate to the role of the Savior in your daily life? Or do you often mistakenly embrace the Savior Complex? We call upon the Trickster God Hermes and a few others to help us realize the Truth within ourselves.

Speakers

Clio Ajana

Our Lady of Celestial Fire - Temple of Olympus

Clio Ajana revels in life explorations as a Death Midwife, an Archiereia of Hellenic Alexandrian Witchcraft & Spiritual Tradition, Devotee of Laima (Romuva -Baltic Indigenous Tradition), a ordained member of the House of Our Lady of Celestial Fire, E.O.C.T.O., a numerologist, educator... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

4:00pm CDT

Cleansing and Clearing

The mystical community is filled with traditions of personal and environmental cleansing of all types. But most of the technologies used are either from new age or progressive-Christian sources. In this class, based on the speaker’s most recent book, learn about nature-based ways to purify your personal space from a witch's’ perspective. From the broom to the bathtub, you’ll leave this session armed with the tools necessary to reclaim power and well being that lasts.

Speakers

David Salisbury

Author of Witchcraft Activism and other titles! Anderson Feri tradition and Thelema initiate doing work that blends ecstatic practice with traditional ritual magic. Bring me a nice whiskey and let’s nerd out about the occult :)

Saturday March 18, 2017 4:00pm - 5:30pm CDT
Terrace 3

4:00pm CDT

Fire In The Head: Igniting the Spark of Awen

The Bards and Druids of the ancient Celts sought the blessings of the Awen, or Divine Inspiration, to illuminate their art, and expand their spiritual sight in service to the Gods and their people. In reclaiming these paths to the Awen today, we look to ancient tools and modern techniques to activate this transformational energy in our lives. This workshop will discuss the lore and symbolism of the Awen, and will present several techniques which lay a foundation for the seeker to directly tap into the Source of Awen and obtain firsthand experience of its soul-changing power.

Speakers

Jhenah Telyndru

Jhenah Telyndru (MA, Celtic Studies) is a priestess, author, and educator. She founded the Sisterhood of Avalon (www.sisterhoodofavalon.org) in 1995, and serves as Academic Dean of the Avalonian Thealogical Seminary. A formally trained Celticist through the University of Wales Trinity... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 4:00pm - 5:30pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

4:00pm CDT

The Magic of Conflict: Communication is Magic

Communication can be some of our most powerful spellwork. When we move through conflicts, how we communicate, how we interact, how we tune into our feelings and needs, and how we present those feelings and needs to others can transform the outcome of situation.

Together we'll explore some of the core concepts of non-violent communication and how they can be worked with magical intent. How self-empathy and empathy for others help us access our feelings so we can speak honestly about them. How a well-crafted "I statement" moves your need and desire into the world. How to choose words that clearly communicate our feelings without triggering harm in others.

Acknowledging that during moments of conflict stress can be at its highest, we will also look at how contemplative practices can help ease our communications.

Speakers

Leora Effinger-Weintraub

Leora Effinger-Weintraub is a mediator and conflict coach, artist, and creator. Through their work with people in conflict they have seen how conflict can transform relationships and communities. Finding the ways for this transformation to be positive and life-affirming is their chosen... Read More →

Saturday March 18, 2017 4:00pm - 5:30pm CDT
Terrace 2

10:00am CDT

Grimoires to the Book of Shadows: A Short History of Magickal Books

Many Modern Witches keep or have inherited a Book of Shadows unique to their tradition, but just how old is the idea behind the BoS? Could it have originated before Modern Witchcraft emerged in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s? Grimoires and other occult books have been an integral part of the Western Magickal Tradition for centuries, and their influence has been felt within a variety of spiritual and magickal traditions, and is still a large part of what many Witches and Pagans practice today. Come learn the histories behind such famous works as “The Key of Solomon” and Agrippa’s “Books of Occult Philosophy” and how the modern Book of Shadows went from being a well guarded secret to a system shared in a variety of popular printed works.

Speakers

Jason Mankey (he/him)

Jason Mankey read his first book on Witchcraft in the seventh grade, and at age 22 dedicated his life to the Craft. Today, Jason helps run two Witchcraft covens in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife Ari, and writes books, like lots of books. Jason is a popular speaker at Pagan... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Terrace 4 AV

10:00am CDT

Minzoku Shinto Concepts of the Afterlife

A tour of the various Japanese concepts of the death, the afterlife, the soul, and ancestors from the shintô, Buddhist and Daoist perspectives.

Speakers

Volkhvy

kannushi, shi-yaku-jin no hokora

With over 55 years of experience in various Neo-Pagan communities, Volkhvy is a poly-atheistic* poly-affiate, with a foot in each the following communities: minzoku NEO-shintô, zen, Daoist, Slavic and Germanic Heathenry, Shamanic, Old Craft, Wiccan, and Druidic. Kind of a Sleipnir... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Terrace 3

10:00am CDT

The Journey of the Sun: Paving the Way Within the World

Existence is a cycle without end. While forms and functions change, the essence remains intact and continues beyond physical representations.

In Kemeticism, this cycle is personified by the journey of the Sun. The Sun rises and travels across the sky, then sinks below the horizon to traverse the Duat. This journey is not from Heaven to Underworld, or even from Earth to Underworld - all realms traveled are within one world that spans the physical and the non-physical, the individual and the Community.

This session will explore the importance of this cycle and other parallel cycles, with the intent of recognizing and applying them in an Interfaith Community and in daily life.

Speakers

Neteruhemta RaShuSet

I am a solitary Kemetic devotee who re-interprets the ritual practices of ancient Egypt with an emphasis on upholding ma'at, reconciling the physical world I reside in with the non-physical world ruled by the Netjeru, and serving the Netjers to whom I have made oaths. My experience... Read More →

Veggiewolf

Sunday March 19, 2017 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Terrace 2

11:15am CDT

Accidental Talismans

A talisman is an expression of a desire, of faith; it is any object that holds a belief. Everyone makes them; they are our wedding bands, the baby pictures of our children, and scrapbooks from a special trip. However we infuse talismans of a darker nature even more easily; they are the creatures that lurk under our beds and the monsters that lie in our closets in the form of boxes, stuff and junk we know we should get rid of…but somehow…it’s attached itself to us. Our junk and clutter are powerful talismans which we have accidentally infused with power. They have taken on a sentient life of their own; feeding off of our life force, depleting our energy, keep us harnessed to the past and holding us back from the possibilities of the future. Described by Magick Radio Chicago host Bishop Lainie Peterson as “one of the most original areas of esoteric magical thinking I’ve ever encountered. It’s not only highly practical; it’s made quite an impact on me.” Participants will learn how our Accidental Talismans affect us physically, psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.

Speakers

Amy Alice Christensen

Sunday March 19, 2017 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
Terrace 2

11:15am CDT

Building and Expanding the Pagan Homeland

Pagans are, in many ways, people of geography as we have historically defined ourselves in terms of place and where we come from. Unfortunately we do not currently have anything resembling a homeland are inherently held back by not having a place to come from, be buried at, produce and grow life's necessities, and have permanent sacred space. There are a few places that are attempting to establish homeland and this discussion will be about those places and how to expand them and create other spaces that might someday interlock and create a new pagan homeland

Speakers

Wade Mueller

Sunday March 19, 2017 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
Terrace 3

11:15am CDT

It's About Time: Kemetic (Ancient Egyptian) Calendars

Join Egyptologist and Nisut Tamara L. Siuda for a discussion about the ancient Egyptian, or Kemetic, festival calendar. Thousands of years and millions of people celebrated festivals and seasons in accordance with this 12-month liturgical calendar - which served as a major influence on the calendars we used today and is still being used by pharaonic descendants in Egypt as the Coptic Orthodox calendar. We will discuss the major festivals, how they were celebrated in ancient times, and how you can honor them now.

Speakers

Tamara L Siuda (Mambo Chita Tann)

n her own words, Tamara L. Siuda is a curious individual. Encouraged by her parents and a large multicultural, multiracial extended family, she has been involved in many different spheres of life: from the histories and cultures of her Onondaga (Six Nations Iroquois) and various... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

1:00pm CDT

Amber and Baltic Tradition

Prudence Priest, Romuva Ambassadress to the USA, will discuss ‘Baltic gold’ (amber), its history, uses, myths, and relate it to Romuva, one of the last surviving indigenous European traditions. Lithuania was not converted till 1387. She travels annually to the Baltics to buy amber and visit her home and temple in Romuva village near Vilnius. Prudence will have amber, jet & bronze jewellery available in the vendor area and will bring items from her private collection for her workshops.

Speakers

Prudence Priest

American Ambassadress, Romuva

Amber, pagan carolling, the Baltics, and Romuva, the indigenous Baltic tradition. Currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Circle of Ancient Sisters, and the Daughters & Sons of Yta. In the 60’s Prudence Priest was a proud card-carrying member of W.I.T.C.H. [Women’s... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

1:00pm CDT

Connecting to the Urban Spirit

On Connecting to Your Urban Spirit

This guided city-spirit meditation allows you to connect to St. Louis Park and Minneapolis. You can then take this technique back and practice it in your own municipality. Learn how to spot locations that can facilitate finding jobs, places to live, and seed happier neighborhoods. Discover how to find nature in even the most unnatural setting. Your city spirit affects you and your identity - learn how to shape it into a symbiotic relationship. Incorporate the City itself into your workings!

Speakers

Diana Rajchel

Spirit Worker, Witch & Author, Golden Apple Metaphysical

Diana Rajchel is the author of Hex Twisting: CounterMagick Spells for the Irritated Witch and Urban Magick: A Guide for the City Witch. She has her hearth with her partner Synty in Kalamazoo, and her heart in San Francisco with Golden Apple Metaphysical, a shop she co-owns with Nikki... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Park 1 Music

1:00pm CDT

Effective Tylering

The tyler does a job that helps make rituals and events better. Being an effective tyler requires special skills and abilities. Estelle started tylering over 25 years ago, and is still learning. She will demonstrate the technique of walking the perimeter--creating a shield around a space. She will talk about practical ritual considerations--dealing with the non-theological aspects of ritual design and execution. And she will touch upon practical psychic self-defense. All this is just an overview of what it takes to be a tyler. You should get a good idea of what the job is all about, and if it's for you.

Speakers

Estelle Daniels

Estelle Daniels is an astrologer, tarot enthusiast, Wiccan minister, author, teacher and lecturer. She lives in Minneapolis, and is actively teaching and writing about many topics in the Pagan universe. Her latest Book, Practical Tylering: A Field Magic Manual is premiering at Paganicon... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 3

1:00pm CDT

Finding Our Inner Divinity

So many pagan paths include the idea that we are all Divine in some sense. Thou art God/dess is a common way of putting this, but there are many. And all of them point to one central idea - that human is divine.

And yet, we live in a world in which inner divinity is shunted to the side. Things that center upon the self as sacred are decried as selfish. What matters is the bottom line, not the person crushed underneath it.

How do we find our inner divinity? How do we nurture it, celebrate it, live it in daily life? How are we divine humans? How do we celebrate and encourage the divinity in those around us, in our families, our workplaces, our social groups?

It is easy to be Divine in circle. The question is, how do we take our sacred humanity with us when we leave.

Speakers

Genevieve Wood

When I'm not knitting, I'm writing. For that matter, when I'm writing, I'm still knitting! If found without yarn, please check for pulse.I also write a religious humanism philosophy called FlameKeeping, random fantasy fiction, and a political blog where I rant about the politics of... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Terrace 2

2:45pm CDT

Affirming Sacred Sex

Join us for 90 minutes of ASS-affirming sacred sex. We will use embodied magic to explore our sacred yes and our sacred no. With Persephone as our ally, we will delve into the underworld and explore consent in the realm of sacred sex. All bodies, genders, abilities, and sexualities welcome. Despite your wildest hopes or deepest fears, no actual sex or nudity will take place during this workshop.

Speakers

Colleen Cook

Karin Levitski

Upper Mississippi River Reclaiming

I am a queer witch in the Reclaiming tradition, active in the Upper Mississippi River Reclaiming community. My practice is strongly rooted in ancestral connection and developing a living relationship with my Nordic and Lithuanian roots.

Sunday March 19, 2017 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Terrace 3

2:45pm CDT

Egyptian Mysteries: The Amduat and the Cycle of Life and Death

The Egyptian underworld cycle of the Sun God Ra, who descended into the dark world of demons, gods, goddesses and the dead in order to achieve rebirth and renewal is one of the greatest mysteries in the ancient Egyptian world. It is also the proto-type for the resurrection of the Pharaoh, his court, and ultimately all Egyptian people who could afford the cost. The Amduat is a New Kingdom literary invention that encapsulates the mystery of the this passage into the twelve hours of the night. Frater Barrabbas will explore this Egyptian mystery and show how this mythic based cycle is similar to the cycle of initiation in the Western Mystery tradition. He will also show how this cycle of light and darkness, life and death is integral to the magical process of spiritual transformation, and how it emulates the cosmogonic cycle in the Trumps of the Tarot. The Tarot is indeed the lost book of Thoth of ancient Egypt, and Frater Barrabbas will show all of the elements work together to fashion a magical methodology still relevant today.

Speakers

Frater Barrabbas

Founder Order of the Gnostic Star

Frater Barrabbas Tiresius is a practicing ritual magician who has studied magic and the occult for over forty years. He believes that ritual magic is a discipline whose mystery is unlocked by continual practice and by occult experiences and revelations. Frater Barrabbas believes that... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Terrace 4 AV

2:45pm CDT

Off with their Heads: Curses, Blessings, and Words of Power

Mark Reese and EmrysAnu team up again to facilitate a scintillating conversation around some of the hottest topics in Pagan Ethics.

Blessings and Curses. Some have suggested these are two sides of the same coin differentiated only by intent or perception. How do we define a blessing or a curse? In what situations is one or the other an ethically positive choice? What kinds of things should we consider before choosing to bless or curse? Does one or the other require greater reflection? What kinds of energetic and ethical repercussions should we consider? How do we respect our own power through the words we choose?

Words are the interface between intention, desire, action, and manifestation. Put on your thinking caps and come share your thoughts and words on this important topic. We promise you'll leave with food for thought.

Speakers

EmrysAnu

Ethics Maven, Emrys Anu's Ethics Playground

EmrysAnu holds a third degree in both eclectic Alexandrian informed Wicca and Sabbatic Witchcraft. With more than twenty years experience in the local Pagan Community, Emrys has served on the boards of two local Pagan non-profits, volunteered for a number of Pagan organizations, and... Read More →

Mark Engstrom-Reese, MA, LMFT

Mark is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in south Minneapolis specializing in counseling members of Queer communities, Pagans, BDSM/Kinksters, intentionally non-monogamous and/or polyamorous people. He has been involved in the local pagan community... Read More →

Sunday March 19, 2017 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Terrace 2

2:45pm CDT

The Age of the Empath

What is an Empath? What traits or abilities do Empaths have? How do you survive as an Empath in this new cycle we have entered? Chances are, either you are an Empath, or someone close to you is. It seems like more and more people are connecting with other Empaths in their lives. Why? Why now? How do you use this to help yourself, your loved ones, your Mother Earth and your Spiritual Path?
This workshop will discuss what an Empath is, ideas to help hone these skills and ways to incorporate this ability to further your life purpose

Speakers

Michelle Beier

Sunday March 19, 2017 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Orchard Ritual Space