5SPOT
random questions, surprising answers
Dennis Paul Hobson Jr., founder and co-chair of the 700-members-strong Utah Wiccan Alliance (UWA), will join other Wiccans to celebrate summer solstice on Saturday, June 21, at noon at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City.
What’s up with the summer solstice? The summer solstice sabbat is often called Midsummer or Litha. Wiccans may celebrate the sabbat on the evening before, at sunrise on the morning of, or at the exact time of the astronomical event.
Do you perform any bizarre rituals? It is a time for divination and healing rituals. Divining rods and wands are traditionally cut at this time.
Do you feel Wiccans are misunderstood? The most common misconception about Wicca is that we are Satan worshipers. This is impossible due to the fact that in order to worship Satan you would have to recognize Christ and the Christian god. We do not.
Living in Utah, is it difficult for you to be open about your beliefs? I didn’t grow up in Utah, so, personally, no. But I am aware that the majority of the UWA has had difficulty; again, the reason for the UWA is to provide support to all Wiccans.
You were raised Wiccan. What was that like? It was pretty much just like growing up any other way with the exception that we didn’t play with guns or anything like that. The only other difference would be studying our faith and not celebrating the normal holidays.
Do many families practice Wicca? The number is growing. Obviously, as Wiccans get older and have families, they introduce their children to the faith so the number of families that practice Wicca grows every year.
JENNIE NICHOLLS comments@slweekly.com
More from this interview at SLWeekly.com
Speaking of...
-
Monumental Order
Challenging the Antiquities Act of 1906, Trump promises 'tremendously positive things'
- Apr 26, 2017
-
Monday Meal: Pie & Beer Pairings
- Jul 25, 2016
-
Monday Meal: Maltagliati Pasta with Summer Favas
- Jul 18, 2016
- More »
More by Jerre Wroble
-
Donate to City Weekly and keep Salt Lake's local news free, independent and punchy
Opinion
- Dec 20, 2023
-
Utah Shakespeare: So Much Drama
Recapping a visit to Cedar City
- Sep 4, 2023
- More »
Latest in 5 Spot
