I always knew that ADF was not a financial power house in the world. During Druidpalooza it came to me just how true this was. ADF doesn't even own an office space. That's right. It was said that the financial troubles stem from the idea that most pagans feel that religion is free. I am here to say Religion is not free. Spirituality is free. Religion costs money. ADF is a organized religion. Some thing all ADFer's should be aware of. There are a lot of good things that can come from being in an organized religion. Social programs, nice places of worship, training programs, high day celebrations, and community services just to name a few. All of these things cost money. Money that has to come from people like you and me.
In the past 6th months I have come to love ADF and what it is, and what it could be. We share the same dreams...the same goals. I would love to see ADF Nemotons spring up all over the world. Beautiful places of worship. Places of peace. These places will not come for free. If you are like me and you want these things. If you want ADF to have a simple office, if you want to see pagan druidry grow and take it's place in mainstream society, we are going to have to work for it. We...you and me...are going to have to pay for it.
It's very true.
ReplyDeleteI recently gave my grove the idea to have a birthday party for Muin Mound. We came up with a grove wish list then committed to bringing certain items. Usually, the grove organizers, who open their home to us for each high day, provide ritual items. I was bothered by that. It wasn't fair! I think everyone enjoyed bringing gifts for the grove. It's not buying an office space, but it's an example of how everyone needs to pitch in. I've read about too many groves comprised of members who don't want to help in anyway. They show up and expect a show. We need to get away from that attitude!