Pagans and Dialogue: Pagans in Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue

by Prudence Jones – [ Journal of Dialogue Studies Vol 10 ]

Abstract

Pagans have been involved in interreligious dialogue with other faiths and beliefs for nearly four decades but have had considerable difficulty in being recognised formally as participants beyond the local level.  This paper, in three main sections, examines the experience of gaining this recognition and speculates (with evidence) as to the reasons for its difficulty.  First it proposes a working definition of modern Paganism and consider what the latter’s unique outlook brings to the process of interfaith dialogue.  The next section traces the process of Pagan involvement at local, regional and national levels, mostly in the UK; and finally, it discusses the patterns of engagement, the tacit assumptions and the practical solutions that have emerged during this process.