|
|
Druids
In England In 1964, Ross Nichols founded the Ancient Druid Order. This man was a historian, artist and poet and started the order that traces it beginnings back to a meeting that took place in London in 1717, which was also when modern freemasonry was founded in London as well. Ross Nichol was well acquainted with the man who introduced Wicca to today’s world, Gerald Gardner. Ross Nichol reintroduced Celtic mythology and with it the eight seasons and celebrations, four of which were very important celebrations for the Druids. He taught others in the order about the different rituals and traditions and also about Bards, Ovates and Priests. He continued for a while and in time Philip Carr-Gomm took charge of the order in 1988. IGLD International Grand Lodge of Druidism Order of White Oak The British Druid Order The Druid Network The Order of Bards Ovates & Druids Druids In the United States Ancient Order of Druids in America Started in 1912, the Ancient Order of Druids of America is a revival of the practices that many were interested to take part in. This group sees the practices as a way to help people connect with the spirit of nature and for personal growth. It brings people together who can follow the spiritual path together. It welcomes both men and women of any cultural background. They honor the earth, nature, and spirits of the ancestors and celebrate all eight important days of the year. Members strive for personal development through meditation, learn healing techniques and are involved in some of the arts. Ár nDraíocht Féin: A Druid Fellowship The Irish words mean “our own Druidism” and is not to be mistaken for neopagan Druidism because they are two different things even though they do have many similarities. It was created by Isaac Bonewits on Prince Edward Island as he was dedicated to reviving modern Druidism. They view nature as sacred, are polytheistic and try their best to continue along the same lines as the ancient Druids did in ritual and ceremony. Members also strive for a higher level of understanding about the world around them and seek spiritual, intellectual and artistic growth. They also work hard at expanding on the knowledge of what the ancient Druids practiced and how they lived. Improvement in how thing are done in order to leave a better world for the next generation to have is also something that this group strives to create and many of their rituals and ceremonies reflect this. Sexism, racisim are non existent. Avalon Center for Druidic Studies The Avalon Center for Druidic Studies is for anyone who would truly like to learn more about the practice of modern Druids. The courses that this center offers include ecological philosophy, Celtic study and sustainable living. Much of what is studied at this center are ceremonies and rituals that have been found to possibly been practiced by the ancient Druids. Along with this, they also believe that the stories, legends and imagination are the key to power and understanding. Love, truth and wisdom are three of the main values this center teaches as well. Henge of Keltria The Henge of Keltria draws greatly on the past of what they know of the ancient Druids. They honor their ancestors and they worship the gods and goddess as well. The Henge of Keltria offers all involved the chance to interact with others involved and help members who are interested in spiritual and mental growth. Reformed Druids of Gaia This group is more focused on reconnecting its members to nature. They work to preserve some of what the ancient Druids practiced while still allowing what they practice to evolve and change in order to keep it current to the times. Despite any slight changes that might occur, there are two important tenets they must continue to follow: 1. “The object of the search for religious truth, which is a universal and never ending search, may be found through the Earth Mother, which is Nature; but this is one way, yea, one way among many.” – Book of Law from the Druid Chronicles. 2. “And great is the importance, which is of a spiritual importance, of Nature, which is the Earth Mother; for is one of the objects of Creation, and with it we do live, yea, even as we do struggle through life are we come face to face with it.” – Book of Law from the Druid Chronicles ©
2008 Druidsology.com
|
  |