Pagans Find Purpose In Fighting Stereotypes, Building Community

Sophomore Lauren Kodai decided to become a witch five years ago.

Not in the Hollywood, black cats, bubbling cauldrons sense of the word, but as a follower of the pagan religion Wicca.

"I don't know if anyone seriously believes this, but Wiccans don't ride around on brooms with pointy hats and cackle," Kodai said. "Although that does sound like fun, it's more of a Harry Potter thing than a reality thing."

Pagans do not actually use black magic or voodoo dolls for evil as the movie industry often depicts them doing, said Sarah Pike, professor of religious studies.

But they do believe in a spirit world, and through proper worship and magic have access to it. Full Story

Related: religion, wicca, pagan, spells