Angelseaxisce Ealdriht

Angelseaxisce Ealdriht is one of several Norse Pagan groups to emerge as Paganism has become established anew among people of Northern European descent residing in North America. Members venerate the deities that were popular in pre-Christian Scandinavia and Germany, referred to collectively as the Aesir and Vanir. They include Woden (or Odin), Ing Frea (Freyr), Tiw (Tyr), Frige (Frigg), and Thunor (Thor). Members value beliefs (or thoth) that build loyalty to the deities, one's ancestors, and fellow Heathen. The swearing of holy oaths and the making of sacred vows are key activities seen as building thoth. Members of Angelseaxisce Ealdriht also see themselves as very modern Pagans. They esteem the past and the values extolled in ancient Pagan society, and they seek to reestablish those values in a modern context.

The basic building block of the Ealdriht is the maethel, a relatively small grouping of Pagans who live in close proximity to one another and who can gather regularly for services and fellowship. Each member of the Ealdriht is a member of only one maethel. Those individuals who live geographically distant from other members are assigned to a maethel until enough members are found who allow a functional maethal to be organized. When a person joins the Ealdriht, a maethel accepts him/her and assumes the responsibility for teaching the Heathen ways. Members with a special interest, be it constructing weapons, learning magic, or creating wine, may join with like-minded individuals in a guild. Guilds provide a place for advancement in the organization as they offer opportunities for the demonstration of knowledge and skills, or for service to the Ealdriht.

Leadership of the Ealdriht is vested in the Witangemot, a council composed of the leader of all the maethels and officers elected by the body of members. Members are currently drawn from across North America, and a headquarters has been established in Missouri. More detailed information may be found at the group's website, http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Delphi/6909/, or from its headquarters at 202 E. Mulbury, Huntsville, MO 65259.

Sources:

Angelseaxisce Ealdriht. http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Delphi/6909/. November 1, 1999.