Gordon for Asheville

In the Celtic tradition, family is praised and honored, and many open gatherings welcome children. Once they reach a certain age they are expected to behave and show respect to the proceedings and rites. It's an important part of a child's education in the traditional sense. Keltic tradition not only honors Ancestor's, but our descendants (the children). They are invited and welcomed to share their place within our society, that they may find pride in their heritage. They obtain self-certainty and by a connection with the land.

The name Celt originated with the ancient Greeks, who called the barbarian peoples of central Europe Keltoi. Rather that being a broad cultural genetic 'race,' the Celts were a broad cultural-linguistic group. The area where they lived became a constantly changing collection of tribal 'nations.' The Celts were never an 'empire' ruled by one government.

They had a preference for rural life. They were close to nature and God's creatures. They loved poetry, music, and art. They were passionate about peace and justice. They included animals, crops, seasons, elements, and the stars in their understanding of God's providence and plan. They were content in simplicity. They valued family loyalty.

Celtic Christians stressed local spiritual unity rather than universal uniformity. They valued personal sanctity more than doctrinal orthodoxy. They believed in the nearness of the spiritual world. The Celtic Church emphasized anamchara, the "soul friend" - a spiritual mentor and fellow traveller on the true path.

Today, there are groups who label themselves as Celtic Reconstructionists. They reconstruct rituals, festivals and conventions. They also provide study courses. Our approach is less formal. We hope to encourage deep spiritual understanding that is rooted within nature. We hope to inspire respect for the land, and the protection of our Earth.