Does OSU Really Need a Pagan Student Association?
Members claim that organization has many benefits

Brad Katzman
Observer Writer

The Pagan Student Association (PSA) is perhaps one of the most misunderstood organizations at the University. This organization, which has a current membership of 20 people, has many benefits for its members.

Most people on campus have misconceptions of what paganismis, believing, for instance, that paganism is a cult of devil worshippers. Faith Stallsmith, a current member of the PSA explained that this couldn't be further from the truth. Stallsmith told The Observer that paganism is actually a combination of religions that are bound together by a set of basic concepts.

First of all, pagans believe that the Earth is sacred, and that nature must be preserved. Therefore, most pagans are activists on environmental issues. Pagans also adhere to the "rule of 3." This means that anything done to another person will return to that person times 3. This is a rule that is comparable to the Golden Rule, not extremist rhetoric of a group of devil worshippers.

As for the devil, pagans are far from being worshippers of the Prince of Darkness. In fact, most do not even believe that such a being even exists. Most pagans, according to Stallsmith, believe in a god and goddess system, though this is not the set standard for all pagans.

Stallsmith claims that "the club has a lot of benefits for its Members." The PSA, which meets Tuesdays at 8pm in the Drake Union, is a haven for those who believe in different aspects of mysticism and mythology. The meetings sometimes consist of workshops, as well as theological discussions. The organization does not discriminate against any type of religious sect and welcomes members of all beliefs.

Hopefully, students on campus will recognize that this organization is not one of devil worship, but rather of religious toleration and inclusion. Stallsmith also claimed that "the club has a lot of benefits for its Members."


The Observer, Volume 2, Issue 2, March 1999, page 4.

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