The Pagan calendar is a calendar system followed by various Pagan religions and spiritual traditions. It is based on the cycles of nature and the seasons, allowing practitioners to align their rituals and celebrations with the natural world. Unlike the Gregorian calendar that is commonly used today, the Pagan calendar is not fixed and has different variations depending on the tradition and region. It typically consists of eight major holidays known as Sabbats, which are further divided into two groups: the fire festivals and the harvest festivals. The fire festivals include Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, and Lammas. Imbolc, celebrated around February 1st, marks the return of spring and the first signs of new life.
The above language was adopted by CEPP and IPPC in Spring 2020
If a student, supervisor, coach, or faculty member feels the policy is being violated, they should contact the Dean of Faculty Office at 518-580-5705 Palamountain 416 , the Dean of Students Office at 518-580-5760 Case Center 313 , or Human Resources at 518-580-5800 Barrett Center first floor. We recommend starting the process as early as possible, ideally at or before the start of the semester or season, even if you re not absolutely sure yet about religious service times or other details.
Imbolc, celebrated around February 1st, marks the return of spring and the first signs of new life. Ostara, occurring around the vernal equinox, celebrates the balance between light and darkness. Beltane, usually observed on May 1st, marks the beginning of summer and is associated with fertility and passion.
Holidays and Religious Observances
If religious observances cause absence from class, campus employment, athletic practice, and/or game days or necessitates accommodations, students should notify their faculty, coaches, or supervisors prior to the date(s) of their absence. New York State policy and Skidmore College policy mandates that students be allowed to make up academic work and/or campus employment requirements without penalty. These accommodations should not reduce the overall expectations of a course nor unduly burden the student requesting accommodation. Faculty must permit students to take a makeup examination without any penalty if they have to miss an examination due to religious observances. Similarly, faculty must permit students to submit missed assignments by an agreed upon due date, without penalty.
Although not required, the College highly recommends that students submit written notification of the pending religious observances at the start of the semester or at least one week before the date. As an option, students may use this form [here]. Distributing the written notification during the first week of classes, campus employment, or the start of the athletic season gives students, faculty, coaches, or supervisors time to prepare for the absence.
If a student, supervisor, coach, or faculty member feels the policy is being violated, they should contact the Dean of Faculty Office at 518-580-5705 (Palamountain 416), the Dean of Students Office at 518-580-5760 (Case Center 313), or Human Resources at 518-580-5800 (Barrett Center first floor).
The above language was adopted by CEPP and IPPC in Spring 2020
Religious Accommodations FAQs from the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life
The following language is advice from ORSL. The official Conscientious Religious Observance Policy language is above.
- What are accommodations? Accommodations vary depending on your situation but might include things like permission to miss class in order to observe a holiday, or changing a work schedule to align with prayer times. The plan you set with your instructor might include makeup work or other adjustments to assignments.
- When should I request accommodations? We recommend starting the process as early as possible, ideally at or before the start of the semester or season, even if you're not absolutely sure yet about religious service times or other details.
- Am I guaranteed to receive accommodations? Remember that a request to your instructor or supervisor is the start of a conversation. Some types of accommodations are required by law and College policy. However, the exact details of the accommodation may depend on course requirements and other factors (like whether or not there will be makeup work, and whether or not all of your requested dates will be approved).
- Can I travel or go home for a holiday? Or can I arrive late or leave early for the semester? Students are generally expected to be present at Skidmore for the entire semester. Depending on your schedule it may not be possible to travel for holidays or other religious observances. ORSL can assist in identifying on-campus or local options, including connecting with other students who may be missing the chance to be with family and familiar communities at important times.
- Where can I ask questions or get help with this? Not sure about any part of the policy or process? We can help. Email [email protected] or see our staff page for more contact information.
Lammas, occurring around August 1st, celebrates the first harvest and the abundance of the season. The harvest festivals include Mabon, Samhain, Yule, and Litha. Mabon, taking place around the autumnal equinox, represents the second harvest and the gratitude for the gifts of the Earth. Samhain, celebrated on October 31st, is considered the Celtic New Year and is a time to honor the ancestors and the cycle of life and death. Yule, occurring around the winter solstice, marks the rebirth of the Sun and is associated with renewal and hope. Litha, usually observed around the summer solstice, celebrates the peak of summer and the abundance of light. In addition to these eight major holidays, the Pagan calendar also takes into account the cycles of the Moon, with monthly lunar phases being important for spellwork and personal spiritual practices. It allows practitioners to tap into the energy of the different phases, such as the New Moon for new beginnings and the Full Moon for manifestation and completion. Overall, the Pagan calendar provides a framework for Pagan and nature-based spiritual traditions to connect with the natural cycles of the Earth and celebrate the changing seasons. It promotes a deep appreciation for nature and the interconnectedness of all living beings..
Reviews for "The Pagan Calendar and its Influence on Modern Holidays"
- John - 2 stars
I found "What is the pagan calendar" to be quite confusing and difficult to understand. The author did not provide enough background information or explanations, which made it hard for me to grasp the concepts being presented. Additionally, the writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it a chore to get through the book. Overall, I was disappointed with this book as it did not meet my expectations.
- Sarah - 1 star
I couldn't finish reading "What is the pagan calendar" as it was filled with inaccuracies and misinformation. The author seemed to have a limited understanding of the subject matter, and it was evident in the numerous errors throughout the book. Furthermore, the writing style was poor and lacking in cohesiveness. I would not recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about the pagan calendar.
- Michael - 2 stars
I was excited to learn more about the pagan calendar, but "What is the pagan calendar" left me disappointed. The book lacked depth and failed to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic. The author seemed more concerned with pushing their own agenda rather than presenting accurate information. I would advise others to seek alternative sources if they want to gain a thorough understanding of the pagan calendar.