‘Peaceful, loving creatures’ gather at Paganfest
There were Wiccans. There were witches. There was even a dog whisperer.
All gathered at the Chippawa Lions Club Saturday to mark the first annual Niagara Region Paganfest.
Co-organizer Cara Henry, who arranged the show with partner Lana Lowartz, says Paganism is the “umbrella” for a variety of beliefs which don’t fall under Christianity. Many, such as Wicca, are based in nature, while others like Shamanism use trancelike rituals to heal and contact the spirit world.
But there’s nothing to be intimidated about, says Henry.
“We are just peaceful, loving creatures of the earth. We don’t cause harm, we just want to live and love.”
In addition to art and tarot card readings, there were workshops and demonstrations at the event. At noon was a ritual circle for the upcoming Summer Solstice on June 21, marking the longest period of daylight on the calendar.
Henry says she was a Christian most of her life but in recent years it “didn’t feel right.” She was introduced to Paganism last year, eventually becoming a Wiccan.
Her life changed dramatically.
“I’m calm. I don’t let things bother me. I just feel so peaceful, I’ve met so many like-minded people.
“Everybody’s made of energy, so we tap into the fire, the water, the earth and the air.”
The first Paganfest attracted about 300 people and 20 vendors.
Whenever she encounters intolerance, Henry says she simply walks away. It’s the Pagan way.
“None of us fight. It’s not like we look for confrontation.”