Within mainstream religions there is a history of educational support and pastoral leadership that has become a foundation for those who wish to develop to a higher religious calling by becoming ministers. So, where does one go who wishes to attain the same educational level though being apart of the Pagan religious families? Well, one option is Cherry Hill Seminary in Bethel, Vermont.
Cherry Hill Seminary was established to offer educational opportunities and support for those seeking to become apart of the growing Pagan clergy movement. Through their Public Ministry programs students can learn about community ritual, interfaith development, leadership, administration and pastoral care. The seminary also offers other learning opportunities through its Cultural Studies department.
Cherry Hill Seminary is a privately owned Pagan seminary program based on the Communitarian philosophy of the sacredness of connections and community building. They strive for building a connection between all faiths of the world and are dedicated to train and ordain qualified ministers who are committed to the philosophy of building a sense of community within their chosen Pagan path. Since the popularity of Paganism has become more mainstream there is a call for legitimate and established Pagan teachers and clergy to help foster the educational needs of those who are new to the Pagan families of religion. Cherry Hill Seminary’s goal is to help fulfill this growing need not only in the local Pagan communities but in the larger more established Pagan communities as well.
In June of 2003 Cherry Hill Seminary held its first graduation and has built upon that first year with an ever growing student population at its campus in Bethel. Students can either attend classes at the main campus or chose to start with some online courses, though attendance on campus is required to fulfill certain groups of study. Requirements for admissions include a personal essay and though a baccalaureate degree is preferred, a student’s relevant religious training and background will also be taken into consideration. Some units from other educational outlets may also be transferred for credit at the seminary.
Registrations for the 2008 Spring classes are now closed but registration is still open for the 2008 Winter Intensive.
If you would like to learn more about the Cherry Hill Seminary and the Pagan educational programs that they offer you can contact Barbara J. Graham, the schools Public Information Officer at thistle@cherryhillseminary.org or you can visit their main website www.cherryhillseminary.org for more information.