I’m currently taking a Comparative Religion class as part of my ongoing theology PD and I’m finding it fascinating having to compare the major world religions with each other. It’s really stimulating exploring the fundamental tenets that uphold each religion and contrasting them with one another. Looking at their developmental history over the last 2000+ years and how and why they each branched off into different denominations and traditions is also really interesting.

As part of my obligations as a Pagan minister and as a marriage celebrant, I’m finding this theology unit really helpful in designing interfaith marriage ceremonies as well, which covers about 90% of the weddings I conduct.

What I find extra fascinating though is watching my own reactions to some of the fundamentals of some of these major religions. I find myself scoffing at some things and then promptly scolding myself for being so judgemental. In contrast, I find myself pondering other tenets and wondering how I could, or already do, incorporate them into my daily practice and worldview.

I guess this highlights the main function on ongoing education,  which is to say that it’s not just so I can provide a professional and empathic clergy and wedding service but so that I can also be responsible for my own spiritual growth and practice. I think it’s all too easy to find yourself wedged in a spiritual rut of comfort where it’s easier to keep doing the same rituals and believe the same principles instead of challenging and stimulating yourself to try new ideas and see where they take you. Obviously I come away from some of this theology content utterly thankful for the divinity of my own existing Wiccan practice and beliefs but I’d like to consider myself open and empathic enough that I can at least understand why people from other faiths feel they way they do about their own beliefs. Perhaps that’s a basis for tolerance that many other closed minded folks might adopt one day? We can but live in hope!
Smiles and blessings, Amethyst