Trainee Vicars go to Glastonbury to learn about Wicca and Shamanism

On Wednesday, 7th April, the Isle of Avalon Foundation provided speakers on Wicca and Shamanism for a visit to Glastonbury by twenty trainee vicars who are part of the Southern Theological Education and Training Scheme (STETS).

(PRWEB) April 12, 2004 --On Wednesday, 7th April, the Isle of Avalon Foundation provided speakers on Wicca and Shamanism for a visit to Glastonbury by twenty trainee vicars who are part of the Southern Theological Education and Training Scheme (STETS).

Kevin Saunders, who teaches the Wicca for the 21st Century course, along with Howard and Elsa Malpas, who teach the Warrior in the Heart Shamanic Practitioner course at the Foundation spoke to the trainees about the work they do and their belief systems. The exercise was part of the STETS programme providing a look at a number of alternative contemporary religions. For the Foundation it continues a new innovative programme of education that started last month with a three-day programme of talks and demonstrations by its tutors for a group of religious studies students from Canterbury Christ Church University College.

Isle of Avalon Foundation Director Rick Arrandale, until recently a Senior Lecturer at Canterbury, has been behind setting up these new initiatives.

Mr Arrandale said today: The trips have gone amazingly well and are helping to build an understanding of some of the contemporary 'new age spiritual practices prevalent in Glastonbury as well as helping to build bridges with the established Church. The Foundation is in a unique position to offer this service to Universities and other establishments throughout the country because of the nature and history of mystical Glastonbury."

Kevin Saunders, a High Priest and author of two books on Wiccan Spirituality, said today: Talking to a group of trainee vicars was certainly an unusual audience for me, but they seemed to appreciate the talk immensely and were very respectful of my own beliefs. I hope that it has helped to spread the message that Wicca is a perfectly serious and legitimate form of spirituality and isnt the evil and dangerous practice that is often condemned for."

The Foundation will be extending its new field trips over the coming years. They will help provide an important resource for University religious and social studies units as well as bringing welcome business to the Town.

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For further information contact Kevin Saunders -- telephone: 01458 833933 (office) or 0781 309 5513 (mobile) or email: kevin@isleofavalonfoundation.com

NOTES
The Isle of Avalon Foundation is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee.

www.isleofavalonfoundation.com