What we are

The Divine Church of Jupiter

There is nothing divine about the Divine Church of Jupiter. We do not have prescribed beliefs (other than not believing in a god or gods). Despite this unbelief, we hold that the forms of religious life - prayer, sacrifice, teaching and the rest - are, on the whole, beneficial and, at their best, enjoyable and life-giving. We just cut the cord with untenable religious belief.

Why Jupiter?

Jupiter was thought of as the most powerful of the ancient Roman gods (who were a pretty nasty bunch). He was also the god whom the most powerful and eminent Romans, such as Caesar and Augustus, sought to please and be a priest for. So why not follow their good example? Jupiter is a tower of strength and success.

What do you do?

Unlike, say, Christianity, pagans have a pretty free hand when it comes to festivals, worship, teaching and the rest. We do, however, observe the usual pagan festivals such as the Saturnalia and the Solstices, but we also have our own Kalendarium of heroes and gods specific to ourselves, who are examples of learning, virtue and achievement. These are things that we seek to honour and, where possible, imitate.

Do you have fun?

Pagans have lots of fun! The sandy, monotheistic religions are not much fun (except for masochists and sadists) whereas, for pagans, the only limits are desire and reason. There is no pleasure after desire is spent, just as where there is no reason, pleasure is at best bestial. We thus seek to cultivate the higher, more lasting pleasures, while enjoying the earthier, fleshier appetites that, though fleeting, are good and wholesome in their place. The Divine Church of Jupiter is about getting the most out of life.

Is your religion true?

In the sense of ghosts, goblins and gods flying about in the air, then most definitely no. The truth of the Divine Church of Jupiter lies in our capacity - however limited - to shed light on virtue and the good life. It's not just about being a good boy (or girl, or whatever), but about embracing the best and worst of life (where you absolutely have to - there's no virtue in pointless misery) and being unbroken by tragedy. Good pagans support each other in good and bad times and the guidance we provide is based in fact and experience.

Any questions? Please email ecclesiajovenensis@gmail.com.

   

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