Dear Friend,

There are many categories and definitions, containers that have held shape for centuries, which are shape-shifting.

Finally.

The categories of ‘Pagan’ and ‘witch’ have been defined by Christianity as non-Christian and, alongside that, as not-good/evil, for a long time. At least a millennia. 

And with that definition has arisen a lot of suffering. Not least the multi-century European witch hunts.

Today, the term ‘witch’ is being reclaimed by many people. No doubt Harry Potter has helped a great deal.

I keep saying: that the supposed division between Christianity and ‘witchy’ is not inherent to those who are themselves witchy. I have worked closely with both traditions. Many edge-walkers have.

Humans need categories. We need to order and re/arrange our world. The question is, what categories are most helpful to us?

Now is a moment when new categories and definitions are arising. We can lean into this moment, and create the categories we need/want. The ones that enliven, enrich, enthrall.

I’m so delighted to be leading this in-person magical weekend workshop in the Santa Cruz mountains of California at the end of September: If Quakers Were Witches. It’s going to be an exploration of these intersections, which I have been dwelling in for many years, for Quaker and Quaker-adjacent folks. Of course, we are taking a decolonial approach (including learning what that means in this context!)

To be support participants (perhaps you!), I’m doing this with two elders. My own spiritual director, Elaine Emily, herself an elder amongst (Quaker) elders (after decades of practice she wrote a book on it), and my friend/student/colleague Hayley Hathaway, who has been working for Quaker Earthcare witness for many years. The term ‘eldering’ in Quakerism is not just about age - Hayley is younger than I am, and it’s great to be working with multiple generations. all three of us are queer women who have been deeply shaped by both Quakerism and our relationship with Earth.

Several people have been reaching out to me, excited to hear about this workshop. I’m almost surprised. This is a workshop/topic whose time has come.

If you are intrigued, I encourage you to join us. If you know others who might be interested, please invite them/pass along this email.

This workshop is created for Quakers and for people who practice or explore and interweave pagan, animist, or earth-based spiritualities. Catholics, Buddhists, and other mystical traditions that might sometimes find resonance within Quakerism and an eco-sensitivity are welcome to attend.