Faith

Wiccans, Druids, & ‘Earth-Centered Groups’ Get Outdoor Chapel at Air Force Academy

Colorado Springs, CO is seen by many as the center of the Christian evangelical community in the American West. So it is more than ironic that the United States Air Force Academy, also based in Colorado Springs, has just opened a prayer circle and Stonehenge-like area so that its Wiccans, Druids, and “earth-centered groups” have a place to worship.

“This outdoor worship space is something we have created to help people of all religions,” Lt. Gen. Michael Gould, the academy’s superintendent, told The Gazette before a ribbon-cutting on the site.

Wiccans, Druids, & Earth Centered Groups Get Outdoor Chapel at Air Force Academy

Cadets at the new 'earth-centered' chapel at the USAFA. (Photo: The Gazette)

So how many people will this benefit? The Gazette says there are 10 cadets who regularly attend “earth-centered” worship services, which encompasses New Age religion, paganism, Druids, ancient Norse beliefs, and Wicca.

Back in February, Father Jonathan Morris told Fox News the decision was “politically correct cowardice by bumbling bureaucrats,” adding, “behind the smoke and mirrors of the supposed high demand for ‘Earth worship prayer circles’ is a small group of activist atheists in America who seek first to water-down and then to abolish the name and face of God from the public square.”

“This is very important for us, we didn’t have a place to call our own, to be outside in nature,” cadet Nicole Johnson, a member of the earth-centered group, told the paper.

Before getting their own, dedicated worship site, the group did have access to a classroom where members would conduct their services. Now, there chapel sits 7,200 feet above ground on a hill that overlooks the main campus chapel. Apparently worried about security, it is surrounded by security cameras.

The site does have the backing of religious leaders on campus.

“I think its great,” Maj. Joshua Narrowe, a rabbi at the academy, said. “It’s not a big group, but is a religious need.” According to him, chaplains at the academy not only signed off on the the earth-centered chapel, but they pushed for its construction.

At the dedication, some of those chaplains offered prayers for the new side. Lt. Col. Daniel Brantingham said in his prayer: “We stand here in gratitude for a most precious gift from you. The gift of choice.”

But that was trumped by Air Force Reserve Capt. Kelly Ihme, an adviser to the earth-centered cadet religious group: “Heart and tree, earth and stone, nothing but good this place be known.”

Read the rest from The Gazette.

The new chapel comes as atheists are pushing for one of their own to join the chapel corps. From the New York Times:

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — In the military, there are more than 3,000 chaplains who minister to the spiritual and emotional needs of active duty troops, regardless of their faiths. The vast majority are Christians, a few are Jews or Muslims, one is a Buddhist. A Hindu, possibly even a Wiccan may join their ranks soon.

But an atheist?

Strange as it sounds, groups representing atheists and secular humanists are pushing for the appointment of one of their own to the chaplaincy, hoping to give voice to what they say is a large — and largely underground — population of nonbelievers in the military.

Joining the chaplain corps is part of a broader campaign by atheists to win official acceptance in the military. Such recognition would make it easier for them to raise money and meet on military bases. It would help ensure that chaplains, religious or atheist, would distribute their literature, advertise their events and advocate for them with commanders.

But winning the appointment of an atheist chaplain will require support from senior chaplains, a tall order. Many chaplains are skeptical: Do atheists belong to a “faith group,” a requirement for a chaplain candidate? Can they provide support to religious troops of all faiths, a fundamental responsibility for chaplains?

(H/T: FARK)

Comments (317)

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  • the_zazzy
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:56am

    “We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.” – one of the core principles of the LDS faith. If everyone truly lived by this principle, our world would not be in the predicament we are now.

    Report Post » the_zazzy  
  • JGraham III
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:56am

    There is something very disquieting about this. While I have no control over what another wants to believe (nor would I desire that ‘power’), there is foolishness in the government’s rush for “equality” in ‘religious freedom’ because it amounts to an endorsement of that religion. I thought we were scrupulously avoiding the establishment of religion…but of course what the government means is the subtle, low level of persecution of Christianity will be allowed, all under the guise of “separation of Church and State”, all the while giving back-handed endorsement of wicca, islam, yada yada yada…
    The pitfall in this is that because God is a ‘gentleman’; He backs off when man flips Him off. BUT the bitter consequence of this disdain to call God Father all the while rushing to call earth “mother” is that when man needs Him, God may very well tell man to have his false gods bail him out. Not a good place to be when one’s butt is in a ringer. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

    Report Post »  
    • Rapunzel
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:19am

      Well-said.

      Report Post » Rapunzel  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:36pm

      “is foolishness in the government’s rush for “equality” in ‘religious freedom’ because it amounts to an endorsement of that religion. ”

      I would say it is also an abandonment of any discernment between higher and lower religions. The historical pagan religions represented low forms of religion and products of low civilization. Moreover, only the monotheistic religions could give rise to concepts of human equality.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Chet Hempstead
      Posted on May 7, 2011 at 3:23am

      “when man needs Him, God may very well tell man to have his false gods bail him out.”

      Actually, experience teaches us that when man needs him, God remains silent and leaves us to bail ourselves out or not. That seems to be the answer no matter what religion if any you follow.

      Islesfordian
      “The historical pagan religions represented low forms of religion and products of low civilization. Moreover, only the monotheistic religions could give rise to concepts of human equality.”

      That’s ridiculous. The Ancient Greeks were pagans. They invented democracy, and achieved a level of civilization that it would take the monotheistic world over a thousand years to regain.

      Report Post »  
  • hucksqr
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:54am

    Wow, love to see the fine examples of tolerance here. And also love to see just who really has no tolerance. Wiccans are a very large group of people within society, as well as several other religions that are based on religions that pre date Christianity. A few of those religious practices are actually unbroken belief systems, in other words, they never stopped being practiced in certain parts of the world. Most of the people that practice them are pretty balanced, productive, caring people, most are staunchly Libertarian or Conservative. Only a few of the really out there types are the green nazis. Just depends on what group, they are a diverse bunch. Most of them, myself included, are NOT anti-Christian, we in fact prefer to get along with Christians that actually practice Christ’s teachings, their morals and values are very much in line with ours. No, we are not a large number, we do not actively attempt to convert people, nor are we violent unless attacked. Most of us in this country are die hard Patriots, and have a better than average understanding of the idea of Natural Born Rights. Our beliefs are really centered around Natural Law. Now you might not believe as we do, and that’s fine with us, but how can you possibly put down another group of people that believe so fiercely in our Creator’s greatest gift to us, our Freedom to choose? We have enough to deal with when it comes to radical Islam, I would prefer not to have Christian’s wanting me dead as well.

    Report Post »  
    • Rapunzel
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:16am

      Who said anything about wanting them dead? I think you are being ultra-sensitive to some of the remarks here – or perhaps just not clear as to which comment you are responding. :-)

      I don’t see anyone disputing the right of anyone to believe what they want to believe and worship how they want to worship. However we who believe the Bible is the revealed word of God also believe that space, time and matter were created by Him. We believe mankind is His special creation and that all will be called to account to God for how we live our lives. We believe it is folly to deny God and equally folly to worship the created rather than the creator. So yes, we think you are wrong to do so, but it is also your choice as our Creator gave you free will.

      Report Post » Rapunzel  
    • Rolm99
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:59am

      Yes, you are correct dirt worship finds it’s roots in Babylon, and if you read and understand the OT you’ll see how God felt about them. To get a good understanding of how God feels today read Romans 1. He talks about people worshiping the creation not the creator, and he really hates that.

      Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:26pm

      “but how can you possibly put down another group of people that believe so fiercely in our Creator’s greatest gift to us, our Freedom to choose?”

      How can you speak of “our Creator” without acknowledging that he is the proper object of worship? How does paganism worship God? How does it believe anything about God?

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
  • ED4237
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:53am

    This PC run amuck on a military campus.

    Report Post »  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 2:42pm

      This is what you get after a good old high school indoctrination from the liberal teachers. Don‘t worry because any of the Cadets that wanted this won’t make it through the academy and if they do will get out of the Military after the first hitch.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
  • StevenL1955
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:49am

    I’m sure God is pleased with this, thats why Commandment #1 says “Worship No Other God’s before Me”

    This whole planet has gone insane, Forgive them Lord, and Me.

    Report Post » StevenL1955  
  • girving
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:47am

    My old D.I. would turn over in his grave if he had any idea what has happened to his Military.

    Report Post » girving  
  • thegreatcarnac
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:45am

    The Air Force academy is tempting God. They make stone circles for witches and turn away Christian speakers because the refuse the Air Force’s rule of omitting the name of Christ in their speeches. That is like having a Chef in to speak but he is not allowed to talk about food. I am not the most religious person in the world…far from it. However, I just cannot help but hope that this sort of anti-Christian response from the Air Force (the rule of not speaking of Jesus) does not translate to the US Air Force falling from grace in the battlefield. When God is asked to leave…he is a gentleman…he leaves. Look at our schools.

    Report Post »  
  • handsoffmystuff
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:41am

    Center ring looks like a great place to have a nice quiet shat.

    Report Post »  
  • cookcountypatriot
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:40am

    where the hell do u get fresh eye of newts way up there?

    Report Post » cookcountypatriot  
  • santramir
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:30am

    the ultimate human kind enemy: antichristianity

    Report Post » santramir  
    • BidBerthaDotCom
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:35am

      Oh good grief. Some folks worship the creator, and some folks worship the creation. Get over it. Neither one has even a shred of proof that their religion is “The Correct Religion” including your own. If one threatens the other, it’s certainly the earth worshipers who have been threatened by the creator worshipers throughout history. Remember the witch burnings? The Inquisition? The First Amendment exists to protect religious freedom of ALL stripes, and as a Deist (Creator worshiper) and Air Force veteran I see this as only a silly distraction from our country’s real problems.

      Report Post » BidBerthaDotCom  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:45am

      Different strokes for different folks. Some people flush their poop. Some people play with it. Who‘s to say what’s right and wrong?

      I feel so much safer now that I can see our military are open to new ideas.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
  • Paul Scipio
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:29am

    I knew Wiccans when I was in the military, most of whom were woman and every last one of them has to one degree or another deep seated physiological problems. Every one of them had bad marriages, were divorced and if they had civilian friends they were mostly homosexual basket cases. An old Marine Corp instructor I had years ago described an exorcism they performed in the field on one of there center earth types back in the early 70′s, during and after the event he was praying to Jesus, no more Satin worshiping from that Marine.

    Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:53am

      Ogden Nash wrote a poem about a woman changing her religion every time she changed her lover.

      Earth worship is for emotionally unhealthy individuals. Not the kind that make te best soldiers.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
  • The Gooch
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:27am

    Yes, I too have often had a difficult time finding a place to call my own outside in nature… unless said place is officially sanctioned by the U.S. govt. and dressed up to be pretty… um… unnatural.
    Ha! Ha! Ha!
    Just another tired “LOOK AT ME!!! LOOK AT ME!!!” act. Playing ‘Lord of the Rings’ with rhyme and robes is NOT a religion. It’s called ROLE PLAYING. It appears we failed our saving throw vs. stupidity.

    One Outdoor Worship Space to fool them all,
    One Outdoor Worship Space to find them,
    One Outdoor Worship Space to bring them all
    and in the idiocy bind them.

    Report Post »  
  • integrican
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:26am

    How many gallons of diesel fuel were burned by the heavy equipment neccessary to complete this job. Was taht heavy equipment ladened with rubber tires? Will the altitude of this place cause any problems for those with asthma? Will sitting on rocks cause lumbar spine issues? Can someone stubb their toe on the rocks being situated in this way?
    I think we may need a Congressional Commitee to study these issues. ASAP, before someone gets hurt!!!

    Report Post » integrican  
  • Zoe
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:25am

    Lead by example…Next.

    Report Post » Zoe  
  • BannedByHuffpo
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:23am

    Am I missing something? Where’s the cauldron?

    Report Post » BannedByHuffpo  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:37am

      Can’t leave it out all the time, it will rust.

      Report Post »  
  • Sinista MACE
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am

    What the hell is wrong with humans…

    Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
  • Not SO Old Yet DI
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am

    who cares…live and let live…I mean afterall, it is the Air Force !

    Report Post » Not SO Old Yet DI  
    • RepubliCorp
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 7:50pm

      True….if they love rocks, so-what
      as long as they are not Muslims

      Report Post » RepubliCorp  
  • TelepromoterNChief
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am

    Men Who Stare at Goats.

    Report Post »  
    • Chet Hempstead
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 5:24pm

      At least our men who stare at goats are staring at the front end of the goat.

      Report Post »  
    • Chet Hempstead
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 5:35pm

      I’m sorry that was beneath me. I realize that no society or culture is more inclined to or immune from bestiality than any other. I don’t usually make remarks that could be seen as promulgating vicious stereotypes. It’s my religion. I’m a Humorist. We are taught “thou shalt not waste a straight line.” This divine dictum transcends all considerations of propriety and good taste.

      Report Post »  
  • runninonempty
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:21am

    This “Christian” has something to say: “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

    Report Post »  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:18am

    Better put up a golden calf as well, so everyone can be happy.

    Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Thatsitivehadenough
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:34am

      You said it.

      Report Post » Thatsitivehadenough  
    • rose-ellen
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:49am

      No Muslim ever killed an american because they wern’t muslim They killed them because our policies there were harming the people there [except the israeli's].They’re freedom fighters and could care less about your religion.You’ve been brainwashed by the genocidal anti-Arab bigots running Fox who want to turn the Mid East into a greater Israel.

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:10am

      What you babbling about now rose-ellen? Take your meds, remember what the doctor told you, you have to take your meds.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:11am

      Rose-ellen, I have only two words to say to your idiocy: Daniel Pearl.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • BetterDays
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:34am

      @ROSE-ELLEN
      Who said anything about Islam? Do Islamize worship Golden Calfs? Because that was the post you responded to you do know this, right? OH, I get it your showing of typicl liberal character trait. YOU talk like a whirlwind, but you don’t listen. Therefor, intelligent, compassionate, loving and GOD fearing conservatives like me have given up trying to talk to you, and now we aren’t listening either. America is a REPUBLIC, not a socialism, go practice your subversive activity somewhere else voluntarily, or involuntarily I no longer care for your ilk. IF we win the three branches of government on the hill, I PRAY that you and your fellow subversives get deported.

      Report Post »  
  • APatriotFirst
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:17am

    Free choice is a good thing, but I am betting now that most christians will have stupid things to say on this.
    I was told once by a christian that his belief was the only true belief. My question, as I walked away, was…..what if everyone is wrong?

    Report Post »  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:30am

      Can man truly understand God? What if God is revealed in different ways to different peoples?

      Report Post »  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:33am

      Can man truly understand God? What if God is revealed in different ways to different people (societies)? No, I can any “God” condoning the murder of people because they don’t believe the way you do.

      Report Post »  
    • gdog1111111
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:54am

      What if water really isn’t wet?

      Report Post »  
    • IAMNOTKNOWING
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:06am

      The Spirit says that in the last days “they shall turn from worshipping the Creator to worshipping creation.”

      god and goddess. Earth, rocks, trees, rivers. Fire, wind, air, etc.

      Who do you think “created” those things?!

      Yeah, ……. that’d be “the Creator.”

      Have a nice day! Or, Blessed be, you morons.

      Report Post » IAMNOTKNOWING  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:48am

      “if God is revealed in different ways to different peoples?”

      The probllem lies in your passive tense. Who exactly is revealing God? Wouldn’t it be God himself? If he reveals himself differently to different people how then has he truly revealed himself.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
  • poverty.sucks
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:16am

    Of the 10 regular attendees, how many are moles?

    Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • Lesbian Packing Hollow Points
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:01am

      We talking “Morocco Mole”, the star-nosed mole, the common mole, or what?

      Report Post » Lesbian Packing Hollow Points  
    • kickagrandma
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:28am

      @POVERTY ~~~ BINGO. They aren’t CHRISTIANS if they are druids, pagans, etc.

      Joseph Fawcett was right in his prayer.

      Please forgive us GOD.

      Report Post »  
    • Gail_B_Bell
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:35pm

      This question no longer matters on May 21st.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
  • txn4justice
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:16am

    this nothing new

    Report Post »  
    • CornCake
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:23am

      Agreed. This story is over a year old now. Must be a slow news day.

      http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/02/02/neo-pagans-worship-circle-air-force-academy/

      Report Post »  
    • pavnvet
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:39am

      Many don’t realize that a serviceman or veteran buried in a National Cemetery can have a one of over 40 different affiliations as their grave marker. Among these are Wiccan and Atheist.

      Report Post » pavnvet  
    • Gail_B_Bell
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:39pm

      On May 21st it might JUST be wixans and/or atheists and moles-lims left to fly those fighters jets.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • thebarbarian
      Posted on May 7, 2011 at 3:06am

      @ gail
      the reason wht there is a back lash towards some christians is what you posted. there will always be multiple views and beliefs. should’nt the question be directed towards respecttolerance, and good vs. disrespect,intolerance, and evil.
      judge not lest ye be judged. interesting that this very concept was uttered some 500 years before Jesus…Buddha. the truth is the truth nomatter the time,place,or situation. Seek the charictor of an individual: Hessiod.

      Report Post »  
  • Islesfordian
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:13am

    Would this “outdoor chapel” be situated anywhere close to the firing range?

    Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:26am

      Why would you ask such a thing? Are you so intolerant of other people’s religious views (most of whom couldn’t care less how you worship) that you suggest that they need killing. That sounds like the radical Muslim philosophy.

      Report Post »  
    • Non-sequitur
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:35am

      Radicals of any faith aren’t all that different, really. But I‘m going to give him the benefit of the doubt and assume it’s just a real bad joke.

      Report Post »  
    • six6six
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:47am

      Firing range? What church do you go to?

      Report Post »  
    • Robert-CA
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:50am

      I will still salute our troops .
      GOD Bless our troops .

      Report Post » Robert-CA  
    • Rapunzel
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:55am

      @Mannax – why would you assume such a meaning? Are you projecting your own beliefs?

      The sound of firearms being discharged would not be conducive to a religious experience.

      Report Post » Rapunzel  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:09am

      You’re right, it was a bad joke. People can worship how they please.

      But that doesn’t mean we have to pander to the stupid “religions”. The idea of a “chapel” for earth worship in the army a collossally stupid idea. The army is designed to kill people and break things, something I generally think is against the grain with new age “pagan” spirituality.

      This is just another sign that our military is being forced to become as degraded in its culture as the nation it defends.

      Wake me up when they have a Scientology session in bootcamp.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:09am

      Sorry, I am a pagan. I see such comments as “Would this “outdoor chapel” be situated anywhere close to the firing range?” as a suggestion that perhaps they could be included in the firing range.

      So am I putting my religious beliefs in. Yeah. If you look at all of the people here bashing anyone who is “non-Christian” then you might understand why.

      I will stand for anyone to worship their religious beliefs so long as they are not harming someone else, I only ask that you in return do the same for me. You don’t have to agree, you can even, in an intelligent, non-insulting way, try to bear witness to me (I have had it done a lot). I will listen and even talk with you about it. Though insult me or the way I believe, I will walk away from you.

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:17am

      Non-sequitur
      “Radicals of any faith aren’t all that different, really.”
      I would consider Franklin Graham a “radical” Christian. So did the Obama administration when they banned him from the Pentagon prayer day last year. He organizes relief for victims of disasters all around the world in the name of Christ. Radicals of other faiths like to blow things up and cut people’s heads off. I KNOW you can see the difference.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:20am

      Mannax, what goes by the name of “pagan” these days often sound to me like indulgent hippie atheism. Do you actually believe in gods and spirits that commnad you obedience? Do you sacrifice to them? Real sacrifices, the kind that COST you? Is this part of your heritage or just a part of your self-expression? Were you raised a pagan?

      It irritates me how people are treating the military as something that has to coddle their whims and personal lifestyles, as if the military was supposed to bend to accomodate them rather than the other way around. How can we expect real courage from the military when it is forced to surrender to PC idiocy like this?

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:58am

      Let’s be clear about some things. War is a masculine affair. It requires masculine men and women comfortable in a masculine envirnment. Worship of God is worship of the Father. Earth worship is worship of the Mother and an abandonmnet of masculine values.

      Modern so-called “pagans” are by their very nature self-emasculating individuals.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:08pm

      @ Mannaxed …..no need to be sorry for being a Pagan

      after all you are worshiping one of the GREATEST things that God created
      and so many people are ignoring it

      Report Post »  
    • ArmyStandard88
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:11pm

      Suggesting that you’d like service members, who, by the way, defend your rights to even say such a thing, killed for their freedom of religon, is sickening. How dare you.

      Report Post » ArmyStandard88  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:22pm

      Pagan (or paganism) is a generic umbrella term to describe any religion that is not of the “God of Abraham”. So any religion other than Christianity, Islam, or Judaism would be considered “pagan” by nature. Paganism includes Wicca, the Odetic faith, most of the earth based new aged religions and by looser definition, Hindu and the “Far East” religions.

      Report Post »  
    • Nick84
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:56pm

      How is it any different than having Christian chapels? Does being Christian make someone good at killing their enemy? Is that what Jesus was all about?

      Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:06pm

      “after all you are worshiping one of the GREATEST things that God created
      and so many people are ignoring it”

      So if you are not worshipping a created thing rather than the creator you are “ignoring it”. I rest my case about the stupidity of “pagan” thinking.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:33pm

      @ Islesfordian
      God created the Heaven and the Earth ….. and all living things except MAN and then he said
      God went on to say .. “”"”“ LET US ””“ make Man in ”“ OUR ””" image, according to ““ OUR ””
      likeness …………… who do you think he was talking too … LOL
      Maybe God was the head guy and he sat around with others in a meeting and said .. Ok guys
      what do you want to create .. humm the Earth.. yup i can do that ..another guy said water, another said plants, another said air .. and on and on .. and since God was the Prezzz he made it happen
      LMBO
      Prove me wrong One who takes the LORD as an avatar
      its a never ending debate ………… and i DON”T rest my case….. who knows for sure

      Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 2:39pm

      “who do you think he was talking too … LOL”

      Really? You think that is a clever question? Do you seriously not know how that has been understood by Jews and Christians?

      “Maybe God was the head guy and he sat around with others in a meeting and said .. Ok guys
      what do you want to create .. and since God was the Prezzz he made it happen”

      What you propose is classic polytheism. I’m sure you are all juiced to see THOR this weekend. :-)

      So who created your pantheon of gods? And why is anyone the “the Prez”?

      Unless all of creation has a common creator there is no unity and no stability. You could never get modern science out of classic paganism. The Greek Philosophers knew it was preposterous. Socrates got killed for saying that but it didn’t stop the forward progress into higher religious understanding until the pagan world was ripe for Monotheism, and Christianity specifically.

      Your kind represent a backward movement into primitivism, but it is only playing around. It is the kind of indulgent nonesense that environmental anti-capitalism is. You want to pretend to live off nature, but you want a tamed nature that is only possible in a montheistic worldview. It is like pretending to go camping by putting a tent up in your backyard. You’d soil yourself if a bear actually came out of the woods.

      Paganism is easy and attractive when you do it in the safety of dominant monotheism. But your and our ancestors gave it up for a reason. It sucks.

      Islesfordian  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 3:48pm

      I was being ( partly ) Facetious O one that takes the Lord image but talks down to people with words like “ Fool and Stupid ” Who is hiding behind the mask” ? why do i feel darkness in his words ?
      Could it be Could it be the anti______ lol
      come on Isles “Paganism is a blanket term it covers many believes” They don’t go around Sacrificing stuff anymore, just like Christians don’t kill infidels anymore
      well then again there are always people like the “”W. B. Church ” so I’m sure there are some Crazzzy Pagans

      “”But your and our ancestors gave it up for a reason. “”
      How do you know ? maybe I’m a Native American.

      like i said there is no end to this debate, and who knows for sure, Just because something is more Popular dose not make it right or real. just makes it normal. and normal being what is popular.

      in my opinion the more Faith in the world the world would be a better place .. and i don’t care what you or anyone else believes as long as its good for humanity ………

      Report Post »  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 3:59pm

      wow Isles…. i just read the rest of your post …lol
      one of my favorite places to camp is about 25 miles into the woods at a place called Spring Lake
      you can still drive there by Truck but where we camped we had to get there by Boat.
      and Night we would lay there and listen to the Bears hoot ( they do that ya know ) Black Bears
      no one even brought a Gun… you see you have to know things about nature to do that.
      wow i wish i could tell you more stuff about nature but you have to learn it for yourself…..

      Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 4:04pm

      “in my opinion the more Faith in the world the world would be a better place ”

      Is this the same world that kills thousands through earthquakes and flood? The world doesn’t care about you. It’s just a thing. God cares about us, and he can save us and remake the world. What faith can paganism produce that gives any greater hipe than that found in God?

      At best paganism tells us to accept the world as it is, savage and heartless.

      And why I use Christos Pantocrator for my avatar? It’s not because I want anyone to think I am equal to him. Of course I am not God. But am I to think people here truly are what their avatars represent. Since God calls me to be like conformed to the image of Christ AND to be his witness to the world what better image should I display? I’m not sayimng “This is me”. I am saying “this is my ideal, this is my model”. I’d much rather have people looking at Jesus than at MY mugg.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 4:07pm

      “and Night we would lay there and listen to the Bears hoot ( they do that ya know ) Black Bears
      no one even brought a Gun… you see you have to know things about nature to do that.”

      Yeah, I’ve seen Grizzely Man. I know how that story can end. Apparently you still haven’t.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 4:25pm

      No Grizzely in my neck of the woods ….gotta travel 1500 miles to maybe see one
      I have lived near nature all my life and yes she can squash you like a bug
      have been in a few situations were my life was on the line
      but more often i have leaned what life nature can give

      Christians believe that the Soul enters you at birth ( so i have heard )
      Natives believe that the Spirit enters you as a child

      I was not taught this but when it happened to me it freak me out
      I told my father about this and he smiled and explained it to me.

      I am a Christian as well …… but i can’t ignore what else i know ……….

      Report Post »  
    • Bhaub
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 6:49pm

      Islesfordian, the world doesn’t cause earthquakes and floods to kill people. The Earth-Devil does that. See? So their worship is perfectly fine.

      The same way your deity totally doesn’t have anything to do with natural disasters, wars, cancer, or plagues. Well, not ALL plagues, anyway. Sometimes he likes to have a little fun. ;)

      But all the OTHER bad stuff’s just the devil, yeah?

      Report Post » Bhaub  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 7:20pm

      BHAUB, if you worship the world it’s very hard to distinguish anything in it or from it as bad and evil. But if you worship God then you see the distinction between the world and God. I suppose you could say that evil spiritis cause natural disasters, but that gets you into even worse territories because then you don’t know if the universe is really good or if the good will win out.

      Without a belief in a God greater than the world you could not say that love rules the universe.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • thebarbarian
      Posted on May 7, 2011 at 2:51am

      that’s just wrong .
      these people have the same enemy as the rest of us do: sataniat and muslims…. but i’m being redundant. i know a lot of Wiccans,Pagans, Druids,and the sort. outside of thier religeous convictions they ar no different than other people. and in some ways a lot more open and tolerant. the Wiccan reed goes as follows…” Do as you will, but harm none.” that sounds a lot like what civil libertarians believe. yes some of them are tes partiers where i live too.
      don’t you think that they ,being in the military, help dispell the libs/progressive’s myths about tea partiers all being white male racists?

      Report Post »  
  • Non-sequitur
    Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:12am

    Seems like the cost of this outdoor chapel was “a bunch of rocks”, so why not.

    Report Post »  
    • the_zazzy
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am

      I wonder if they’ll worship the snow, wind, and -15 degree temperatures next winter?

      Report Post » the_zazzy  
    • wildjoker5
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am

      Hopefully now they won’t keep the Christians from doing their thing.

      Report Post »  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:24am

      Looks like they built a place for the first Radical Muslim Airmen to sacrifice one of the openly gay Airmen. Good idea guys! (our new PC Military).

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:29am

      The devout followers of Wicca, the Odetic faith, and some of the other nature followers will worship no matter what the temp is. (They will make use of the fire pit that is for sure).

      I have the feeling that this will be used more for picnics and just general gathering than for religious services.

      Report Post »  
    • afishfarted
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:29am

      hmm Seems to me the academy uninvited Christan speakers for refusing to omit Christ from their speeches. Yup that’s diversity alright

      Report Post »  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:29am

      I freely admit I don’t know much about Wiccan, Druid etc etc., but debating a circle of rocks seems very trivial considering the fact our country is being destroyed right in front of our eyes.

      Report Post »  
    • chiefparker
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:31am

      Cadets, hmmmm No combat yet. Watch how fast they get religion in theatre

      Report Post » chiefparker  
    • GETLIFE
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:34am

      If you’ve ever been to the Air Force Academy– this place looks like it could be just about anywhere around campus. Really, the whole place is surrounded by the magnificence of Mother Nature. You can have a religious experience just walking to the gym. And those rocks are probably the same ones they moved around so the trucks could get in to move around the rocks. Nice idea, but definitely people wanting to make a political statement, as the 10 worshippers already had their choice of lovely areas from which to choose.

      Report Post » GETLIFE  
    • banjarmon
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:37am

      Freedom of Religion…and it doesn’t have prayer RUGS!

      Report Post » banjarmon  
    • Showtime
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:38am

      Looks more like the setting for a Girl Scout campfire.

      Report Post » Showtime  
    • GETLIFE
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:42am

      BANJARMON, actually, they do in their all faiths chapel.

      Report Post » GETLIFE  
    • GETLIFE
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:43am

      SHOWTIME, I was thinking marshmallows.

      Report Post » GETLIFE  
    • joseph Fawcett
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:43am

      I just have to wonder what God is going to say to those “Chaplains” who supported this. It makes a real Christian wonder about the basic understanding of God do these religious leaders have. God has made it very clear about worshiping other gods and anything of the earth or sky. Wicca is a especially a sore spot with God. Events like this makes me wonder if God will look favorably on our nation? When in his name we are now even supporting evil and making it look good for all to see.

      O’ Holy Spirit please sort out this mess we are making. I know in these times the people of this world with call evil good and good evil. However, do Your people have to do it? O’ Father thank You for shortening the days so that not all of us will be decieved. Please Father help this nation to wake up and recommit her self to You and stand against this evil. Please open the eyes of Your People and let them see. I am ready to stand against such evil even unto death. Show me how to Lord, I am Yours, and Yours alone!

      http://www.josephfawcettart.com western artist

      Report Post » joseph Fawcett  
    • sissykatz
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:51am

      What do you want to bet when they are in a crisis and get their pants scared off them, they will not be praying to the rocks and trees to save them. I would bet the“ ROCKS” will not even enter their mind in that event. I think we all know who they will be praying to then !!!!!!! Don’t know anything really about these religions but I have yet to see a rock or tree save anyones soul.

      Report Post »  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:52am

      Air Force Chaplains must be able by their designation to minister to any religion, be it Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, or what have you. They for the most part, keep their opinions to themselves as to the religions that they help if they are not part of that religion.

      Sadly, the Christian “bigotry” is showing on this entire story’s responses. Remember, we have a first amendment, freedom of religion. So think about that as you bash the non christians using your other first amendment right.

      Speaking just about the Air Force Academy, those kids are standing up so you can worship how you please, let them do the same as long as no one is getting hurt because of the religious practices.

      Report Post »  
    • sissykatz
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:55am

      Joseph Fawcett

      That was a beautiful Prayer, Thank you and Amen. Have a nice day.

      Report Post »  
    • LAM2
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:02am

      I contend that it takes far more faith to believe there is no God than to believe there is one.
      The atheists want a presence in order to evangelize their faith.

      Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:10am

      I would like to know the cost .. “of a bunch of rocks” … I bet it would surprise you!

      Report Post »  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:12am

      10 followers, but dozens in this photo – wonder how many of the people in the photo wanted to be there and how many were dragged out there just to make it look like a big deal.

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:13am

      I use to chat on Yahoo IM a few years back and met a women from England and she said she was a Pagan, having an open mind I ask her about it and she said.

      Know this … Since the beginning of time, be it 6.000 yrs or 14 Billion, you and all life forms have a direct lime back to that time. Your children to you, you to your parents,your parents to your grand parents and so on.
      This line has survived all wars and sickness that have wiped out complete family’s but your line has survived ,,, this is how special you are :-)

      Report Post »  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:37am

      Just remember the new rules. It’s “bigotry” when you tell a fool that his ideas are stupid.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • Dustyluv
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:42am

      Fron the sky it looks like a dartboard. Hope God throws down some lightening bolts on a wiccan or a warlock..Will be fun! Target practice for God!

      Report Post »  
    • ParishionerUSA
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:46am

      This is outrageous! In order for Christians to practice their faith we now have to condone and encourage Paganism. Do we also have to set up an altar to Satan? Can we take our brains out from where ever we’ve stashed them, please? This is not a Pagan country! If someone is Pagan, that is a shame. We should not be building an altar for the poor lost Pagans. If someone is atheist I pity them too, but we should not build an altar to nothing for them. Our country is being drastically altered by a minority of lost souls and we are allowing it based on a spirit of TOLERANCE. This spirit has been corrupted to ensure our demise. I pray fervently that God sheds his grace upon us.

      Report Post »  
    • LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:54am

      @ Islesfordianse …….please read “” Matthew 5 : 22… it’s not nice to call people names

      But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

      Report Post »  
    • SeasonOfReason
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:57am

      Hail Satan!

      Report Post » GodHatesFigs  
    • Nick84
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:20pm

      WILDJOKER5
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:22am
      “Hopefully now they won’t keep the Christians from doing their thing.”

      Are you people kidding me? Have any of you ever been in the armed forces? I was in the army and it is extremely Christian. We had a mandatory Christmas celebration where a prayer was given to Jesus. We had a christian come pray for us multiple times. Before deployment, we had to see the chaplain. I was asked my religion, and when I said atheist, I got a dirty look and was told “I’ll be here all day if you change your mind”. My first set of dog tags says “no preference” because the sgt making them told me it was “silly” to put atheist on them. I know these are all personal experiences, but I’d be willing to bet most non Christians in the armed forces get the same treatment.

      Report Post »  
    • Nick84
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:36pm

      ISLESFORDIAN
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:37am
      “Just remember the new rules. It’s “bigotry” when you tell a fool that his ideas are stupid.”

      You’re Christian, right? I’m sure you would be ok if they called chrisitanity stupid and banned chapels.

      Report Post »  
    • Nick84
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:38pm

      JOSEPH FAWCETT
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:43am
      “I just have to wonder what God is going to say to those “Chaplains” who supported this. It makes a real Christian wonder about the basic understanding of God do these religious leaders have. God has made it very clear about worshiping other gods and anything of the earth or sky. Wicca is a especially a sore spot with God. Events like this makes me wonder if God will look favorably on our nation? When in his name we are now even supporting evil and making it look good for all to see.”

      So we should only have Christian chaplains in the military? You’re an idiot.

      Report Post »  
    • Nick84
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:41pm

      Sissykatz-

      “Don’t know anything really about these religions but I have yet to see a rock or tree save anyones soul.”

      So you have seen another religion save someone’s soul? What does that look like? Do you need special glasses to see it?

      Report Post »  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:48pm

      Fear not Blazers,

      Even as I write this, Jzs is doing the research, and soon will enlighten us with everything we ever wanted to know about Druids, & Wiccans, etc.

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • Gold Coin & Economic News
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 12:56pm

      It is pagan idol worship and a curse being brought upon our military. God is not pleased with such nonsense.

      Report Post » Gold Coin & Economic News  
    • Gail_B_Bell
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 1:32pm

      Gangsta Witch Propaganda! They Just want tax dollars to disrespect religiousness.
      Replace these evil government FAKE military candy men with REAL bush-era war fighting contractors!

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • the_zazzy
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 2:11pm

      @ MANNAX
      Air Force Chaplains must be able by their designation to minister to any religion, be it Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, or what have you. They for the most part, keep their opinions to themselves as to the religions that they help if they are not part of that religion.
      Sadly, the Christian “bigotry” is showing on this entire story’s responses. Remember, we have a first amendment, freedom of religion. So think about that as you bash the non christians using your other first amendment right.
      Speaking just about the Air Force Academy, those kids are standing up so you can worship how you please, let them do the same as long as no one is getting hurt because of the religious practices.
      ____________________________________________________________________________________
      Very well said…Bravo! If they are not hurting others in their worship, then why do we all care who or how they are worshipping. That is what makes this counrty great. As a Christian, I am well aware that throughout the Bible, the Lord says that there shall be no other God before Him. We cannot force others to worship Him. That is not what this counrty was founded on and I believe He played a big role in the founded of this, the Promised Land.

      Report Post » the_zazzy  
    • HogansHero
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 4:20pm

      We as country are definitely headed in the wrong direction. We as a nation are crumbling little by little, actually now we rapidly fleeing to our own destruction. How can we expect God’s protection when we pursue practices and designs far from him. George Washington continued throughout the Revolutionary War to encourage his men to attend religious services every week, when not personally standing watch and he did the same. Here we stand ready to promote the worship of the Devil and ignore our God.

      Report Post » HogansHero  
    • Chet Hempstead
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 5:20pm

      Jospeh Fawcett
      “Wicca is a especially a sore spot with God. Events like this makes me wonder if God will look favorably on our nation?”

      I’m a little confused here. First you tell us what God thinks, which you couldn’t possibly know well enough to be able to state it as a fact unless he speaks directly and personally to you . Then you wonder what he thinks, which makes me wonder why don’t you just ask him the next time he calls to tell you what to tell the rest of us to think?

      Report Post »  
    • mtnclimberjim
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 6:41pm

      What a bunch of whacked out buffoons

      Report Post » mtnclimberjim  
    • Luke21
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 8:45pm

      @LOOKING_BOTH_WAYS
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 11:54am
      @ Islesfordianse …….please read “” Matthew 5 : 22… it’s not nice to call people names

      But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment….

      Good point, only you overlook one thing, which is key. In order for two to be brothers they must have the same Father.

      Christians & Wiccans (& athiests, & so on) do NOT have the same Father. God said that the fool has said in his heart that there is no God (Ps 14:1 & 53:1). Islesfordianse is simply agreeing w/ God. Fot those that worship the creation rather than the Creator, the Word of God says: Professing to be wise, they became fools, (23) and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things [Romans 1:22-23] .

      So you decide whether it is right to obey men or God… those that know better obey God. [Acts 5:27-29]

      Report Post »  
    • Vixvenom
      Posted on May 6, 2011 at 10:12pm

      Freaking disgusting..people who “claim” these religions ( and I’ve met my fair share) are either trying to be hip or ironic….in short, stupid and lacking enough self esteem to have a mainstream identity. My wife is active Air Force, it shames me….when the USMC does this, I’ll deny my 10 yrs of sevice ever happened….un-freaking-believable. God help them cause I sure don‘t give rat’s a$$ about their fates.

      Report Post »  
    • jzs
      Posted on May 7, 2011 at 12:42am

      Mannax, good comment. The US should not care about personal beliefs as long as that person is willing to fight for our country and isn’t trying to force their beliefs on others.

      Hi Rights of Billy! These days I’m limited to reading the first post or two and then scanning down quickly, but I caught yours. No I didn’t Google Wiccan or whatever other religion. From what I know though those are harmless ideas: love the Earth, make peace with people, sit naked at the summer solstice and watch the sun rise. I might become a Wiccan just for that, depending on who is in the group.

      Report Post » jzs  
    • zteater
      Posted on May 7, 2011 at 3:09am

      Yes atheists are so smart — they “worship” outside, 7000 ft up in the mountains — meanwhile those stupid Christians pray inside a climate controlled building….hrmmm…..

      Report Post »  
    • tower7femacamp
      Posted on May 8, 2011 at 6:32am

      Why does the Blaze delete posts with links to the Bohemian Grove ?
      The truth seems to be offensive here.

      Report Post » tower7femacamp  
    • Secret Squirrel
      Posted on May 8, 2011 at 10:17pm

      …..
      Exactly when did the military have as it’s goal being a social experiment?
      I remember when the military actually killed people.
      Thank god we still have seal team 6.
      Too bad it has to be “off the books”, otherwise it would have to have a quota of gays, druids,
      witches, and slobs.

      Report Post » Secret Squirrel  
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