Celtic Pagan Groups in Ireland | What to Join in 2025?

A surge of interest in Gaelic Paganism sparks debate among those seeking active communities in Ireland. While some believe a revival is underway, others raise concerns about the current offerings available to practitioners.

The Current State of Gaelic Paganism

Recent discussions reveal a growing frustration regarding organized Paganism in Ireland. Despite a keen interest in pre-Christian roots, many people feel disappointed about the lack of authentic, community-based groups existing today.

Notable Figures and Movements

The most recognized figure is Lora O'Brien, who leads the Irish Pagan School. Critics argue this school prioritizes profit with its paid courses, rather than fostering a genuine spiritual community. One individual stated, "It’s like exploiting the demand for Irish paganism for personal profit."

Others pointed out that unlike strong communal practices seen in Iceland or Lithuania, Ireland's offerings seem lacking. Discussions also mention groups like COIRE SOIS, which previously engaged in community gatherings, though its status currently remains uncertain.

Alternative Groups and Views

Some voices assert the neo-Druid movements feel distant from true Celtic culture, often rooted in Victorian ideals rather than the authentic practices. One commenter noted, "I don’t understand why people don’t like it when someone calls themselves a shaman. Teaching traditions deserves compensation."

The tension is palpable between those wanting to keep traditions alive and those skeptical of commercialized spiritual practices. The need for sincerity and community is evident, with people suggesting solutions that resemble joining covens in other faiths.

Community Sentiment

From the comments, many express mixed feelings:

• Concerns about cultural appropriation in self-labeling.

• Frustration with the commercialization of spiritual teachings.

• Hopefulness for the establishment of more authentic community-driven groups.

"It comes across like exploiting the demand for Irish paganism for personal profit."

Key Takeaways

• ⚡ Community Demand: Many seek genuine Pagan groups but feel let down by current options.

• 💬 Concerns Over Profit: Critics voice worries on commodification in the Pagan scene.

• 🌱 Need for Connection: Calls for more communal engagement and less focus on profit-driven courses.

As 2025 continues, the future of Celtic Paganism in Ireland remains uncertain. Will new groups emerge to foster true community and connection?

Future Pathways for Gaelic Paganism

There’s a strong chance more grassroots organizations may form, as the desire for authentic community-based Paganism persists among people in Ireland. The ongoing discussions about commodification could motivate existing groups to re-evaluate their missions, with a probability of around 60% for some to adopt more communal practices. Additionally, if notable figures in the scene recognize this shift, there could be an increased focus on workshops and events that emphasize connection over profit, potentially leading to a revival of genuine spiritual traditions by late 2025.

Lessons from the Craft Beer Movement

Reflecting on the craft beer movement in the early 2000s offers a unique insight. At that time, many established breweries faced similar concerns over the commercialization of brewing, prompting a wave of local, independent breweries to emerge. Much like the current sentiment in Celtic Paganism, these new entities prioritized community engagement and authenticity over profit, ultimately reshaping the landscape of the industry. This parallel shows how grassroots movements can thrive in response to perceived exploitation, fostering connections that benefit both tradition and community.