I was called to the ministry.. I knew that I wanted to be in a life of service when I was a teenager. But, I have never believed in the existence of the Biblical God. That can be a real problem when the vast majority of seminary schools are based on the teachings of the Bible.

Of course, Unitarian Universalist seminaries offer a larger choice of theologically based subjects. However, I am a Pagan, and Paganism is not at the top of the list, even in a U.U. based seminary.

In every ancient culture, there were those who had the calling to be a spiritual leader in their tribes or clans. They did not attend a seminary school, they learned from the elders of their tribe and they learned from the earth itself. They were chosen by their tribe because of their link to the world of spirit.

In today's world ministers are required to have a pedigree in order to be considered valid. They have to go to a seminary, read the proper books, learn the right procedures, and know how to deal with the day to day problems facing their congregations.

But, what if the congregation that the minister wishes to relate to is not based within four walls? What if that congregation meets in sacred circles at full moons, solstices and equinoxes? And, what if that congregation has nothing at all to do with the Bible or God?

There are not many resources for those of us who wish to be legally ordained clergy among the Pagan community. We can do a self-ordination on line, but frankly, even though we may have studied our craft for many years, we are not taken seriously.

I am a self-ordained Pagan clergy. I am also a community minister who works with the homeless and needy in my area. I take the responsibility of being a spiritual leader very seriously. I may not have a pedigree but I have an open mind, an open heart and open hands, and many, many years of intensive study behind me.

Who chose me if it was not God? I don't really know the answer to that. But, I do know that years ago, under a full moon, I pledged my faith to a beautiful and compassionate woman.. who I have come to know as the Goddess.

Learn more about this author, Linda Paul.
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