Before the official Parliament opening, Angie Buchanan and Phyllis Curott hosted a Meet and Greet for the Pagan community in their suite. While held in the mid afternoon, it drew Pagans from several countries, and totaled over 50 people. It was so packed it was nearly impossible to count. Nearly every presenter was there including Dr. Michael York, the Entire Earth Spirit Delegation, and David Garland (President of Pagan Awareness Network) to name a few. It was a great time, and a important reaffirmation of why we were all came to the Parliament.

River Higginbotham, a Parliament Ambassador presented the ‘Bridge to the Meeting Place Rattles’. He asked us to rattle them and add our energy. He also explained that they will be handed around and used throughout the Parliament in various ways and rituals. At the end, these rattles will be given to the Council of the Parliament of World Religions, The Melbourne Council of Parliament of World Religions, The Indigenous people of Australia, and the Dalia Lama.

Let me offer the words of the artist in describing this: The Pagan Community has collaborated with talented American Pagan Artist, Julee A. Higginbotham to gift these sacret art objects to the Parliament of the World’s Religions and distinguished leaders; in honor of the indigenous peoples of Australia and in celebration of the Pagan traditions of the world.

Symbolizing the Intention to “bridge” the cultures, traditions and compassion of the world, these beautiful art pieces commemorate a common “meeting place”, where by the People of the Earth can come together, and work together on issues that affect us all, no matter how we choose to worship; world peace, religious and cultural tolerance, survival of our peoples, and sustainability of our planet, Mother Earth.

Over all, we will follow the journey of the rattles and will show as many of the images of people adding energy to them.

Another discussion of importance brought up was that the Pagan Participants at this event really needed to move beyond simply Pagan programming, and to attend other presentations, especially environmental. Angie pointed out that while Pagan presenters are doing ritual, presentations for faith, history and even education, not a single Pagan was asked or given any spaces in the environmental area. Pagans were locked out of this crucial area, and that we need to make our presence felt during these presentations. So yes, while we have come far, we still have a long way to go to have the Pagan Voice heard where we feel our issues are most important.

The Meet and Greet was closed by Mother Tongue, that favorite Pagan Choir, and they favored us with two songs, which we are fortunate to share with you. This was a great pre-event that help us all understand our strengths and our challenges of our events.

Bridge Rattles Created for the Parliament

Rattles Bridge Sacred Objects