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ANTHROPOLOGY OF RELIGION VIRTUAL CONFERENCE PHOTOS BY NATALIE DOWNE, LLYN SMITH, HOWARD G. CHARING, MARC VERAART, RAPHAEL FAUVEAU, AJMER DARGAH, ALEKSANDER DRAGNES, RUSTY STEWART, MCKAY SAVAGE, AND SEIER+SEIER

A Word from the Conference Chair Congratulations on being participants at the annual Anthropology of Religion virtual conference. Thank you for your many wonderful presentations and for providing all of us the opportunity to learn a little about your fascinating work on a vast range of religious beliefs and practices and the complicated ways that religious ideas shape our varied realities..

As scholars in an Anthropology of Religion course (a GE course with majors from all disciplines) we have been able to undertake individual research, explore our interests and grapple with the issues involved in ethnographic representation. Each scholar has been forced to confront how to present a critical glimpse of an aspect of a religious belief system, embedded in a particular culture, and raise questions about the relationship between the two.

Please enjoy this opportunity for intellectual engagement and thoughtful reflection on the cultures and religions here represented in the work of your colleagues.

Comments from Conference Technical Support Welcome to this virtual conference for Anthropology of Religion!

Have fun “strolling the halls” and “dropping in” on the many interesting presentations for our virtual conference. I hope you’ll enjoy this novel approach to learning and take pride in what you helped to create!

--Joan Van Duzer

TABLE OF CONTENTS ANTHROPOLOGY OF RELIGION............................................................................................................................... 1 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE................................................................................................................................................ 1 A Word from the Conference Chair..............................................................................................................................2 Comments from Conference Technical Support..........................................................................................................2 AFRICAN ROOTS........................................................................................................................................................... 5 Yuruba Religion........................................................................................................................................................... 5 Rasatafari: An Interpretation........................................................................................................................................ 5 EARLY EUROPE AND EGYPT....................................................................................................................................... 5 Ancient Greek Mythology............................................................................................................................................. 5 Christian Ritual............................................................................................................................................................ 6 Christianity in Ireland................................................................................................................................................... 6 The Myths and Legends of the Norse Pt.1..................................................................................................................6 The Myths and Legends of the Norse Pt.2..................................................................................................................6 The Relationship of the Catholic Church and the Development of European Culture and World Dominance............6 ASIAN.............................................................................................................................................................................. 7 A Sense of PLace In Tibetan Culture........................................................................................................................... 7 Hmong Rituals and practices....................................................................................................................................... 7 Shinto: Beyond Syncretism.......................................................................................................................................... 7 Taoism: Action THrough NonAction.............................................................................................................................8 BUDDHISM..................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Three Types of Buddhism............................................................................................................................................ 8 The Importance of Symbolism Within Buddhism.........................................................................................................8 Tibetan Budhism and Their Dominant Ritual Process.................................................................................................8 Buddhism and The Non-theistic Approach................................................................................................................... 9 Rituals in Buddhism: A Continuation of Meditation Practice........................................................................................9 PAGANISM & WICCA..................................................................................................................................................... 9 Wicca: Magic or Religion?........................................................................................................................................... 9 An it harm none, do what ye will.................................................................................................................................. 9 How Did Witchcraft and the Devil Become Considered So-called ‘Evil’?..................................................................10 Wicca: A Durkheimian Religion.................................................................................................................................. 10 HINDUISM..................................................................................................................................................................... 10 Hindu Symbolism and Worship of Ganesha..............................................................................................................10 Balinese Hinduism: Intersecting Influences...............................................................................................................11 Learning, Growing, and Living Through the Bhagavad Gita.............................................................................................11 The Impact of Symbolism............................................................................................................................................. 11 ISLAM............................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Understanding Islam in Iran....................................................................................................................................... 12 Baha’i Faith: All Is One.............................................................................................................................................. 12 Islam and Muslim....................................................................................................................................................... 12 JUDAISM....................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Judaism and Christianity............................................................................................................................................ 13 Jewish Rituals: Past v. Present.................................................................................................................................. 13 Islam and Muslim....................................................................................................................................................... 13 NORTH AMERICAN...................................................................................................................................................... 13 Insiders and Outsiders: The Amish Community.........................................................................................................14 Scientology: A modern Religion................................................................................................................................. 14 Mormonism................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Demystifying the Vision Quest Ritual of Native North Americans..............................................................................14 Respectable Change................................................................................................................................................. 15 OTHER SOUTH ASIAN & MIDDLE EASTERN............................................................................................................15 Astrology’s Influence on Religion Of Mesopotamia...................................................................................................15

Central/SOUTH AMERICAN.......................................................................................................................................... 16 Making Everything OK: A Colonial and Neocolonial Embedding of Catholocism into the Indigenous Societies of Early Mexico/Aztlan................................................................................................................................................... 16 Spread of Religions in Modern Mexico.......................................................................................................................... 17 Breaking Bread with Aztecs and Mayans.................................................................................................................. 17 Mayan Religion and THeir gods................................................................................................................................. 17 Santisima Muerta....................................................................................................................................................... 17 OTHER.......................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Clear Understanding of Shamanism and Neo-Shamanism.......................................................................................18 Hmong Riruals and Practices.................................................................................................................................... 18 Shamans.................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Voodoo Religion......................................................................................................................................................... 18 Religious Symbolism in Fairytales, Folktales, and Myths..........................................................................................19 Understanding the Role of Symbolic Boundaries in Traveller-Gypsies Lives............................................................19 Kabbalah.................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Politics and Agriculture in the Past............................................................................................................................ 19

AFRICAN ROOTS

oppression of colonial rule and cultural imperialism. This presentation aims to analyze this relationship as well as the methods and rituals utilized by the Rastafari in order to resist losing their identities and being consumed by their colonial rulers.

EARLY EUROPE AND EGYPT

Photo by Timothy Tolle

YURUBA RELIGION Julissa Hernandez ABSTRACT

This presentation examines the Yoruba religion, more specifically their gods and beliefs/practices. One of the Yoruba gods is the god of smallpox, who not only causes smallpox, but is also responsible for a form of madness.

This made me think of how some people from different cultures would blame god for the smallpox, but the Yoruba actually have a god for that. Which leads me to the myth of how the Yoruba of south-western Nigeria have succeeded in neutralizing the power of Death and using art as its weapon. This is an interesting topic, since many people do not know about this religion let alone their beliefs or history. Which the Yoruba religion actually has many similarities between different religions around the world since they share some common beliefs and practices.

RASATAFARI: AN INTERPRETATION Victor Carrillo ABSTRACT

his presentation is an examination of the Rastafari movement that developed in Jamaica starting in the 1930's. The research is focused on the historical events that led to a response by a small group of individuals on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica, a city that has been know for being extremely impoverished and oppressed.

Rastafari is considered a movement against the

ANCIENT GREEK MYTHOLOGY Elysa Weatherby ABSTRACT

This presentation examines the ancient Greek belief system, it’s influence on ancient Greek society, and it’s modern influence. In ancient Greek culture, their belief system was showcased in art, literature, lifestyle, and architecture. From sculptures, epics, history and war, the polytheistic system of belief is shown through a variety of symbols. Modern Western society is influenced by much of ancient Greek society, such as having a democratic government, and many phrases used in the English language are derived from ancient Greek language. By

understanding more about the ancient Greek belief system and culture, we can learn a lot about how our society was influenced. .

THE MYTHS AND LEGENDS OF THE NORSE PT. 1

CHRISTIAN RITUAL

THE MYTHS AND LEGENDS OF THE NORSE PT. 2

Naomi Perkins

Steven Howard

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT My presentation shall examine the myths and legends of the Norse religion. The primary focus of the presentation will be on Yggdrasil, the tree of life, which holds the nine realms together, the nine realms themselves and the Gods that the Norse believed in such as Odin, Freya and Thor.

The presentation will go over each of these and provide information so that the readers may gain a better understanding of the Norse religion.

This presentation examines the depth of the religion of Christianity. Christianity has been around for centuries and is the world’s largest religion. Rituals are sacraments or sacred rites that convey God’s sacred power or grace.

Many Christians covey these rituals every day whether it’s through going to church every Sunday, reading of scripture, daily living, or baptism. All of these rituals are symbolic to Christianity. Christians main rituals for centuries was baptism immerging people in water to purify them and to remove their sins. Rituals bring us closer spiritually, emotionally, physically to the understanding of who God is in our lives and makes life more bearable..

CHRISTIANITY IN IRELAND Robert Malloy ABSTRACT

This presentation examines the history of Christianity in Ireland and focuses on attempting to identify the causes of the conflict and segregation between the modern Catholics and protestants. Few records remain that describe pre­christian Ireland, however it is known that Ireland was never united and people were loosely organized into tribes that each had their own unique religions. Following Martin Luther's "Ninety­Five Theses" and the divergence of Christianity there were few conflicts between the two until the Tudor Conquest in the late 16th century, which led to Ireland falling under the authority of the British crown. The ensuing political scene pit the Catholics and Protestants against each other depending on which religion the crown favored at the time. This has led to the two religions harboring intense distrust of one another that is centuries old and has led to a clear demographic segregation that impacts culture, economics, and politics. By understanding more about this, we may be able to learn more about the Shia/Sunni conflict in the Middle East and take a lesson from our past mistakes so we don't repeat history.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF EUROPEAN CULTURE AND WORLD DOMINANCE Daniel Cole ABSTRACT

My presentation examines the relationship between the strong Catholic Church and the various sovereignties in Europe through the preceding centuries back to The Enlightenment. Has the strength and the unity of the Catholic Church, and the great power exercised by the Church over the competing states of Europe contributed to the culture of these states today? Has the unifying power of the Catholic Church, working through the ages, led these states to world dominance and preeminent greatness today? It is my contention that the Catholic Church provided much more than religious guidance to the people of Europe, and has led to the dominance of Western thought and philosophy in the world we live in today. .

ASIAN

HMONG RITUALS AND PRACTICES Edward Tedford ABSTRACT

This presentation examines mainly the Hmong rituals and beliefs. More specifically focuses upon the ritual healing and end of life care and death rituals in the Hmong culture. Hmong mental health and identity are situated in a moral space of exchange relationships to significant others, challenging basic assumptions of concepts of the person widely held in psychiatry and beyond. With the end of life care in the Hmong culture, it is vital that others such as gerontological understand the cultural meaning and rituals associated with dying, death, and the bereavement process of Hmong Americans. Critical to this is the structure and role of clan and family as a source of support and their involvement in the decision-making process. By understanding more about this culture and rituals we can learn a lot from the Hmong beliefs.

SHINTO: BEYOND SYNCRETISM Matthew Dombrowski ABSTRACT Photo by Topinambour

A SENSE OF PLACE IN TIBETAN CULTURE Camille Demilito ABSTRACT

This presentation will explore the idea of a sense of place within the Tibetan Culture. For Tibetan Buddhists, the natural world is sacred. It is praised in prayers, and often referred to as being deeply intertwined with the spiritual world and the Gods. Monasteries, villages and pilgrimages are all often strategically situated to create a sense of place fit for the Tibetan Culture, which has deep connections with the physical world. Mountains, for example are looked upon as being the “Abodes of Gods” and often, Tibetans will make offerings to their Mountain Gods for a good crops, or a wet year. This presentation will explore some other terms in the Tibetan culture such as beyul or hidden valleys, and Shortens, small prayer posts around Cultural Tibet. This topic is for those who are interested in an environmental focus within a traditional religion.

This presentation focuses on Shinto, and more specifically the interaction of Shinto and other religions. It is first important to understand that Shinto has a complex history with Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity. The result of this is that the vast majority of the Japanese population identifies as both a Buddhist and a follower of Shinto simultaneously, and just short of a majority of Japanese people also identify as not religiously affiliated.

This is different than in the rest of Asia. This creates a conflict in identity that the average Japanese person resolves by not caring about it..

TAOISM: ACTION THROUGH NONACTION Catherine Sumser ABSTRACT This presentation is about the Taoist belief in action through non action. The belief of action through nonaction is that by not choosing, you are choosing. This extends beyond the idea of simply being passive. This belief has grown from Taoism into the larger culture, including the martial arts form of Aikido. This part of Taoism is interesting because it is a more gentle way to approach conflict resolution, and gives the reality that every choice

is an action. By seeing the power in choosing to opt out of an action, we can approach the world in a much less aggressive way.. .

BUDDHISM

Lisa Drew ABSTRACT This presentation explores the Buddhist religion, more specifically the importance of symbolism. Within Buddhism, there are many symbols, but we will look at physical and mental symbols, and how they effect one’s participation in and devotion to Buddhism. Physical symbols, such as the lotus flower, the Dharma wheel, and Buddha serve as reminders of the principles and ideas of Buddhism. These principles and ideas can be viewed as mental symbols, including mindfulness, compassion, and interdependence, and play a crucial role in connecting the individual to not only Buddha, but the religion as a whole.

This presentation will also examine how these symbols have changed over time and their relation to society and culture..

TIBETAN BUDHISM AND THEIR DOMINANT RITUAL PROCESS Xiaoyue Wang ABSTRACT

Photo by Aleksander Dragnes

THREE TYPES OF BUDDHISM Sarah Franzen ABSTRACT

I’M GOING TO BE CONCENTRATING ON HINAYANA, MAHAYANA, AND VAJRAVANA BUDDHISM WHICH ARE ALL FORMS OF BUDDHISM. THERE WILL BE HISTORY OF EACH TYPE OF BUDDHISM ALONG WITH EXPLANATIONS ON HOW THEY DIFFER FROM EACH OTHER AND RELATE TO EACH OTHER. I FIND IT VERY INTERESTING HOW THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BUDDHISM JUST LIKE THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHRISTIANITY. I HOPE TO EXPLAIN HOW EACH DIFFERS AND COMPARES IN A SHORT BUT DETAILED MANOR. .

THE IMPORTANCE OF SYMBOLISM WITHIN BUDDHISM

This presentation is about several important ritual processes in Tibetan Buddhism, more specially focuses on their Buddhist prayers and funeral ritual. I think it will be a interesting topic because I lot of people don’t much about the different branches of Buddhism, and the Tibetan Buddhism itself is really mystery and worth to explore.

The materials within the presentation will also base on my own experience for traveling to the Buddhism temples locate at West-southern China. In addition, I would like to make a brief comparison between the Han Buddhism we are familiar with, and Tibetan Buddhism. By exploring the Tibetan Buddhism, I believe the classmate will learn a lot about Buddhism that they didn’t know before..

BUDDHISM AND THE NONTHEISTIC APPROACH Michael Escott ABSTRACT Classifying Buddhism as either a religion, philosophy, or a set of traditions is a difficult task. From the western perspective Buddhism is a major world religion. However, Buddhism doesn't have a theistic component like most remaining major religions. In many ways, Buddhism shares the same ritualistic and spiritual qualities as something like Christianity, for example, but without a deity or deities as the prime mover it's focused instead on the individual. This deviation from a theistic approach creates a fundamental separation from a theistic religion that has proven to be appealing to people across the world.

Understanding this divide and its ramifications can lead to insight into the definition of a religion, and, ultimately, whether or not this distinction even matters.

RITUALS IN BUDDHISM: A CONTINUATION OF MEDITATION PRACTICE Neha Arora ABSTRACT This presentation describes some of the fundamental beliefs that are contained within Zen Buddhism and the paradox of the practice to rid one-self of beliefs. There are daily rituals that Zen monks practice which challenge their beliefs, serve as a break from meditation but also help maintain a continuum to the deeper meditation states.

Rituals also serve as disciplinary tactics to get better at meditation practice, which has a fundamental goal to reach the realization that there is "no goal" to the practice.

By examining the purpose and perspective of these rituals in Zen Buddhism, the beliefs and the meaning are reflected and seem to be means to establish a consistent Zen teaching practice..

PAGANISM & WICCA

Photo by MarcelGermain

WICCA: MAGIC OR RELIGION? Claudia Jimeneez ABSTRACT

This presentation investigates whether Wicca can be classified as a magic or as a religion. Many people are unsure of the classification of Wicca because of the similarities it has to magic. This is an interesting topic because it is not only a common question, but a divisive one. While there are many definitions of both magic and religion, Wicca blurs the line between the two. I think it is important to clarify where Wicca falls on the spectrum, and why, in order to dispel confusion and distrust.

Humans generally cope by categorization, so placing Wicca into a category will, I hope, promote acceptance

AN IT HARM NONE, DO WHAT YE WILL Brianna Mann ABSTRACT

The aim of this presentation is to explore a Pagan faith known as Wicca, or Witchcraft, from it's European origins to it's widespread variations in present day. Using Durkheim's criteria for religion as well as other anthropological concepts that we have learned in this class to recognize or define religion, this presentation will analyze the ways that this faith meets that criteria. Over the course of this analysis, I will also endeavor to represent cultural perceptions and misconceptions concerning Wicca, and speculate how these cultural perceptions have shaped the history of Wicca. In many ways, the persecution and shaming of Witchcraft has reinfoced the solidarity of the group and their status as misunderstood, peaceful pagans.

begin to emerge. The aim of this presentation is to accurately classify modern Wicca as a “Durkheimian” religion.

HINDUISM

HOW DID WITCHCRAFT AND THE DEVIL BECOME CONSIDERED SO-CALLED ‘EVIL’?

Stepanie Swinger ABSTRACT This presentation examines the historical events that led to the belief that "witchcraft" and the "Devil" are evil and/or wrong. The Pagan religion was once considered the most common religion in Europe, it focused worship and love for nature and the environment. There are phases in history that borrow from the Pagan religion and eventually become the newer Christian religion. Along with taking from Paganism and other mythological stories, Christianity creates the "Devil" and soon claims that those that worship him are evil. Unfortunately, those that were believers in "Pan" (which was then turned into the Devil through Christian faith) were those Pagans that refused to convert. I explore the truth, that following or belief in the Devil is actually not evil and neither is so-called witchcraft. .

Photo by Graham Hills

HINDU SYMBOLISM AND WORSHIP OF GANESHA

WICCA: A DURKHEIMIAN RELIGION

Olivia Neu

Samantha del Campo

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT This presentation examines the religion of Wicca, especially in the context of the practice of magic as a defining characteristic of the religion. This is an interesting topic, because famed religious scholar Emile Durkheim argued, in his text, The Elementary Forms of Religious Life, that magic is not a religion. His assertion is based upon his postulate that there is no religion without a Church, and “There is no Church of magic” (45).

Throughout history we have persecuted those who practice magic, leading to the early suppression of any such Church of magic. However, as more societies lean towards acceptance and inclusion, Churches of magic

This presentation examines Ganesha, one of the most recognized and worshiped deities in Hinduism. More specifically, the symbols and worship of Ganesha.

Ganesha can be celebrated in a religious or secular manner, making him a rather significant and popular figure in Hinduism. Ganesha encaptures numerous symbols and characteristics. This is an interesting topic because there is so much information that can be unveiled when one digs deeper into studying any of the religious figures in Hinduism. They have complex stories and representations, as well as intricate ways of worshiping

them. With Ganesha, being as popular of an image as he is in a secular context, it is important to understand the true meaning of what he represents.

THE IMPACT OF SYMBOLISM Merritt Schoenhofer ABSTRACT

BALINESE HINDUISM: INTERSECTING INFLUENCES Marina Fittinghoff ABSTRACT

This presentation is a broad overview of Balinese Hinduism, with the more specific focus on the factors which have influenced it. Balinese Hinduism is fluid religion, which has evolved and changed over more than a thousand years. The unique politics of both colonialism, and the foundation of a unified, self-governing, and monotheistic Indonesia, have molded Balinese Hinduism into a form quite different from the Hinduism of India.

This presentation also examines the differences between how religious scholars in Bali view the religion, and how the everyday practitioners experience there religion. In doing so, I hope to paint a brief, but comprehensive, picture of this unique religion..

LEARNING, GROWING, AND LIVING THROUGH THE BHAGAVAD GITA Marisa Finlayson ABSTRACT

This presentation titled "Learning, Growing, and Living through the Bhagavad Gita" examines the background, and religious practices of Hinduism.

Specifically, how the Bhagavad Gita can be viewed as a sacred text within Hinduism, and how it can be used as a guide to practicing the religion. The Bhagavad Gita deals with the most sacred metaphysical science. It holds the knowledge of the ‘self’ and answers the universal questions: “Who am I”, and “How can I lead a happy and peaceful life in this world.” This is an interesting topic, because many of the practices of Hinduism (specifically yoga) are used around the world to better the ‘self,’ and the ‘mind.’ By looking at the Bhagavad Gita through the religion of Hinduism, we can learn why this religion’s practices are used around the world.

This particular presentation examines and portrays the Hindu religion as a whole, and more precisely their belief systems and use of symbols. Symbolism within the Hindu culture has a large impact on their belief system, and in a sense is responsible for what they do and do not believe in. Since the Hindu have many different significant symbols in their religion, there will be a more defined focus on a handful. A few of these include: the bow and arrow, banner, bolt of lightening, conch shell, drums, food, etc. By exploring these different symbols of Hinduism, we will be able to understand the significance they have in creating the belief system that the Hindu people live by.

ISLAM

The Bahá’í Faith is a monotheistic religion that is an offshoot of Islam, whose central idea is to emphasize the spiritual unity of all humankind. The faith has three main pillars surrounding unity of God, unity of religion, and unity in diversity. Followers are spread across the globe, and a good amount can be found here in the US. Additionally, the Bahá’í Faith is persecuted in certain areas of the world, primarily Iran, due to a perceived affront to the fundamentals of Islam. I hope to provide a thorough overview of all the above topics, in order to better educate fellows peers on the history of a fascinating religion.

ISLAM AND MUSLI M Cassidy Novkov ABSTRACT

Photo by seier+seier

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM IN IRAN Nick Segura-Robledo ABSTRACT

I will be going over the core fundamentals of Islam and its followers. I will also discuss the religious laws that are dictated through the Islamic religious text known as the Quran and how they are practiced in Iran. I will introduce how Sharia Law is practiced in a variety of degrees and briefly introduce the Iranian Revolution of 1979 that heavily contrasts a single state that practiced two extremes of Sharia Law.

BAHA’I FAITH: ALL IS ONE Elliott Kane ABSTRACT

This presentation will explain the terms Islam and Muslim, what they mean to each other, and the difference between them. Essentially, this presentation will be exploring all of the key information about the Islamic religion. It will zone in on certain practices, rituals, everyday life, and most importantly, the people. I am also going to focus a lot on the women of this specific culture.

They have a specific and very strict way that they live, and during this presentation you will get to see the interesting aspects of their lives. I know that a lot of people have their opinions and views about this culture, whether they are negative or positive; but by understanding more about this religion and culture, we can begin to learn and respect each other more, resulting in a more peaceful world overall.

JUDAISM

from birth, to death. I will then go into detail about the rituals of the past, versus how they are practiced today in the more modern world. This is an interesting topic because I will be examining how and why certain Jewish rituals came to be. By understanding this, we can learn the importance of how rituals can keep both a culture and a religion alive..

ISLAM AND MUSLIM Cassidy Novkov ABSTRACT

This presentation will explain the terms Islam and Muslim, what they mean to each other, and the difference between them. Essentially, this presentation will be exploring all of the key information about the Islamic religion. It will zone in on certain practices, rituals, everyday life, and most importantly, the people. I am also going to focus a lot on the women of this specific culture.

They have a specific and very strict way that they live, and during this presentation you will get to see the interesting aspects of their lives. I know that a lot of people have their opinions and views about this culture, whether they are negative or positive; but by understanding more about this religion and culture, we can begin to learn and respect each other more, resulting in a more peaceful world overall.

Photo by Amanda Anderson

JUDAISM AND CHRISTIANITY Rachel Parry ABSTRACT This presentation is an analysis of the similarities and differences between two ancient, correlated religions. We wouldn’t have Christianity without Judaism but currently these two religions couldn’t be more different. Judaism, at the core, believes that they are the chosen ones to follow the commandments of God and that they are waiting for the Messiah. Christians originally are Jews that believe that they Messiah was born, died, and was risen. Although these religions are technically the same in origin, they practice very differently today. Christians and Jews practice their faith in very different ways in prayer, ritual, and holy books.

JEWISH RITUALS: PAST V. PRESENT Samantha Collins ABSTRACT This presentation examines the rituals of the Jewish religion, and more specifically outlines the rituals in stages

NORTH AMERICAN

true to their traditional ways. In concluding notes I will discuss where some Amish communities see their lifestyle going in the foreseeable future.

SCIENTOLOGY: A MODERN RELIGION Jordan Colombo ABSTRACT

My presentation looks into the Scientology religion, mainly how people can believe in a religion that was created in a modern time by someone who was a novelist.

Most religions were created a long time ago, except scientology, which was created in 1955 and has a following of about 30,000 nationwide. Scientology is a religion that is based off the book called Dianetics, which is believed that the spiritual being (Thetan) is immortal and that the Thetan was from an extraterrestrial culture.

The Thetan was sent to earth and resides in the human body. By researching the religion we can understand why people follow this religion in a modern day.

MORMONISM John Aitchison ABSTRACT

Photo by Drew Zanki

INSIDERS AND OUTSIDERS: THE AMISH COMMUNITY Angelina Zometa ABSTRACT

During this presentation I will be discussing the Amish community, or the “plain” lifestyle and the ways in which they embrace the outside world. The Amish community, originating from Switzerland, is a religious society where the members are submersed into a living situation where they do not use modern technology, they do no dress to stand out, and they do not believe that their neighbor is anything less, nor better, than the next neighbor. This presentation explores some history of how this community came to America, some of their most basic practices, some struggles the community has faced here in this country, and how in modern times they are able to comply with the outside world while keeping their beliefs

This presentation examines the Mormon religion, more specifically the examination of the prophet of Mormon religion Joseph Smith and the religious practices that are culturally disdain to our western culture like polygamy.

This is an interesting topic of discussion because Mormonism although being a sect of Christianity is a fairly new belief compared to other religions and its practice of polygamy has been disputed by federal law. Mormonism is a distinct religion whose ideals by many are considered extreme and idealistic to the United States.

DEMYSTIFYING THE VISION QUEST RITUAL OF NATIVE NORTH AMERICANS Logan Smith ABSTRACT

The following presentation examines the variations in rite of passages for young men and women in indigenous North American tribes of the great plains. The discussion will consider how these vision quest rituals challenged young men and women to look inside themselves to find purpose and path in an individual's time on earth. The research will offer analysis to the relationship these rituals have in connecting the subject to his or her environment and people. Through colonization and christianization, these rites of passages have lost a great deal of integrity and form, so I intend to use multiple tribal religious systems to demystify and define what anthropologists mean when they speak of the vision quest ritual..

OTHER SOUTH ASIAN & MIDDLE EASTERN

RESPECTABLE CHANGE Wendy Bojorquez ABSTRACT This presentation focuses on the Amish culture, at first it will begin with the basic and known characteristics of the Amish culture, such as; their devotion to their beliefs and its incorporation to their lifestyle. Then followed with simplistic and non-modernized ways of living and how gradually they have encountered and adapted to change.

Many believe that the Amish are not susceptible to change but what we are learning is that as long as it respects their religion and does not hinder or impose on their beliefs, the Amish are open to listening to the ideas and methods of the outside English world. Furthermore, by understanding the culture and beliefs of the Amish we can learn how to better service their communities.

Photo by AngusKirk

ASTROLOGY’S INFLUENCE ON RELIGION OF MESOPOTAMIA Hailey Donohue ABSTRACT

This research examines the impact that astrology has had towards the basis of the founding principles of religions which originated in the Middle East part go the world.

Humans have consistently interpreted their views of the universe and it’s power into the platform for religion. Specifically, this paper focuses on religion based out of Mesopotamia and it’s use of myths and legends that stem from astrology. These religions focused on during this study include; Summerian, Hurrians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. The connection between the study of the earth, universe,

luminaries, and humans is what was seen to drive the basic thinking of the start of religion..

CENTRAL/SOUTH AMERICAN

Photo by Leonardo Pallotta

MAKING EVERYTHING OK: A COLONIAL AND NEOCOLONIAL EMBEDDING OF CATHOLOCISM INTO THE INDIGENOUS SOCIETIES OF EARLY MEXICO/AZTLAN Christopher Villa ABSTRACT

This presentation surveys the Catholic religion’s persecution in Britain during the reign of Queen Elizabeth from the years of 1558-1603. This occurred after the reign Bloody Mary the Queen of Britain who

was Catholic and was married to a Spaniard, and persecuted Protestants during her reign whom she burned and beheaded. This was crucial because Queen Mary wanted to unite England with the “universal Christian church…under the bishop of Rome”, which showed her allegiance leaned toward Spain because Spain and The Catholic Church in Rome were in collusion over the colonialization of the Americas (Tarrago 117). This also shows that the Spain and the Catholic church were persecuted by an imperial power and understood that they needed to do what ever it took to never be in that position again, and I’m going to prove that collusion and colonialization with the Catholic church and an imperialism of their own is what helped them escape the karma of that happening to them, or even what they have caused to other socities to be reflected back on themselves. I also want to survey the primary and controlling religion (aztec religion) that was in Mexico before the Catholic Colonialization came. I want to show a bit of the repercussion that the Mexican culture experienced when explaining the Spanish colonlization, and how eventually liberation occurred because of the neocolonialism or the left embedded European idealism and religious discourse that seemed to keep the culture divide between the people who wanted to continue their indigenous ways, those who wanted to move to the big cities for economical and anonymous reasons, and the Chicanos that left to The United States of America. The symbols of the Virgin and the Malinche are the dichotomy of women in the Mexican women and are crucial for the culture when explaining the Spanish colonization. These symbols will not only help me explain the reluctance of the indigenous Mexican peoples, but also the Mexican people that decided to move to the city (modern), and the chicanos (the liminal) and how the Catholic European idealism still brought a neo-colonial prison even after “liberation”. This will then lead me to explain how and why the Pentecostal church is a reach back (decolonialization) to the Mexican people’s indigenous roots. I think this will give an emic and ethnographic sense of Christian colonialism and neo-colonialism, and how the repercussion add to the confusion of what it is to be alive amongst each other besides just prospering off of each other whether we are the commodity ourselves or the consumers, or the colonized or the colonizer.

SPREAD OF RELIGIONS IN MODERN MEXICO Jose Coronado Jr. ABSTRACT

This presentation seeks to explain how religions spread in modern times focusing on protestant religions (La Luz Del Mundo and The church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and their movement throughout Mexico as an analog. The country of Mexico has always been heavily dominated by the Catholic Church however recent decades have seen the rise of other Christian faiths around the country. Their spread as well as interactions within political and cultural contexts are of particular interest. By understanding the spread of religions and to an extant culture one can see why groups of people may respond with embrace or more commonly by fear and backlash for things that deviate from the cultural norm.

BREAKING BREAD WITH AZTECS AND MAYANS Jasmine Montoya ABSTRACT The presentation will examine the cultural world of both the Mayan’s and Aztec’s. Both societies are well known for human sacrifices, and intelligent technological advancements throughout their time. There is also an interesting factor of whether both societies ever knew of one another’s existence, and if so did both ever meet each other, and possibly exchange cultural ideas. Even though many people have learned about the Mayan’s and Aztec’s through textbooks growing up, but it would be interesting to go into depth about both societies and investigate further whether both are considered to have believed in magic or the simple thought of there being a higher power..

MAYAN RELIGION AND THEIR GOD S Yanet Salazar ABSTRACT When people hear the word "Mayan" they immediately think of human sacrifice, death and blood thirstiness. The first thing on their mind isn't why the Mayans would sacrifice animals and humans to their gods or if there were other rituals or ways of worship. Yes, the Mayans did

sacrifice humans in attempts to pacify or to find favor with their gods but that was just a small part of their culture.

There are over 150 gods and goddess in the Mayan religion, each with their own characteristics, purposes and their own way of worship. The Mayans may have sacrificed a lot of humans but religion was at the heart of everything the Mayans did.

SANTISIMA

MUERTA

Andres Alcoer ABSTRACT This presentation is going to give you a better look at Santísima Muerte as most people who worship Santísima Muerte is seen to be worshiping the devil or that this is something that only drug dealer(narcos) pray too which this is not the case by looking at the type of clothing for Santísima Muerte we can tell what her purpose is.

Santísima Muerte is misunderstood by people as they portray her as evil but in reality she not good nor is she bad.

OTHER

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HMONG RIRUALS AND PRACTICES Edward Tedford ABSTRACT

This presentation examines mainly the Hmong rituals and beliefs. More specifically focuses upon the ritual healing and end of life care and death rituals in the Hmong culture. Hmong mental health and identity are situated in a moral space of exchange relationships to significant others, challenging basic assumptions of concepts of the person widely held in psychiatry and beyond. With the end of life care in the Hmong culture, it is vital that others such as gerontological understand the cultural meaning and rituals associated with dying, death, and the bereavement process of Hmong Americans. Critical to this is the structure and role of clan and family as a source of support and their involvement in the decision­making process. By understanding more about this culture and rituals we can learn a lot from the Hmong beliefs.

SHAMANS James Burmeister Photo by birdfarm

CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF SHAMANISM AND NEOSHAMANISM Jayson McCormick ABSTRACT

This presentation covers the Shamanistic Religion. I go into detail of what the shaman religion is, how one becomes a shaman, the rituals performed, and the animism belief. Animism is the belief that spirits can animate the material universe whether it be a person or object. This leads into anthropologist research on shamans and their use of animism. From shamanism, neoshamanism began to rise. This is interesting because it shows how this religion is developed into a new culture that have adopted shamanistic beliefs. The growth of neoshamanism and the new form of seeking vision and healing. My presentation gives listeners a clear understanding of shamanism, neo – shamanism, and what it really is.

ABSTRACT

This presentation will dissect and examine the roles of the Shaman. Most of the focus will be placed on South American cultures because this is where it is most prevalent. A Shaman is looked upon for guidance,growth, and strength. Throughout this presentation we are going to look out how these Shamans are picked from a young age, the practices and regimen they go through to reach the levels that they reach, and how the effect and help the people in the village or society that they live in. I find this very interesting because so much goes into the shamanic practice and the title itself draws so much respect and gratitude from others..

VOODOO RELIGION Kassidy Martinez ABSTRACT

This presentation will discuss New Orleans Voodoo, particularly its origins and Marie Laveau who was a powerful voodoo queen. This branch of voodoo stems

from Haiti and Saint-Domingue, which stems from religions in West and Central Africa. Enslaved people brought voodoo over to Louisiana, where it closely mirrored the worship of Catholic figures. The other part of the presentation is about Marie Laveau, who healed and protected many people although her life is largely mysterious because of inaccurate records and the fact that she was unable to document her life due to being illiterate. Also the fact that voodoo is kept out of the public's knowledge contributed to this as well. What's interesting about voodoo is that until recently it was looked down upon and as evil. In recent years, its turned into a tourist commodity that has been exploited..

have been around for centuries fighting to keep their way of life distinctly different from that of Gorgio’s.

KABBALAH Cameron Trujillo ABSTRACT No Abstract

POLITICS AND AGRICULTURE IN THE PAS T Mary Krieger ABSTRACT

RELIGIOUS SYMBOLISM IN FAIRYTALES, FOLKTALES, AND MYTHS Samantha Murphy ABSTRACT In the text The Anthropology of Religion: An Introduction, author Fiona Bowie spends a chapter discussing the importance of symbolism to a religious traditions and culture. This research project will focus on the idea of religious symbolism within fairytales, folk tales and myths of different cultures. Primarily, this this project will focus on the religious symbols in Beauty and the Beast by Madame Leprince de Beaumont. Also, the research will look at the ideas presented by The Bhagavad- Gita of the Hindu tradition. And furthermore, look at the religious symbolism between the mythical Greek god Medusa and the book Medusa’s Hair, by Gananath Obeyesekere.

UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF SYMBOLIC BOUNDARIES IN TRAVELLER-GYPSIES LIVES Savanna VanderHeuvel ABSTRACT This presentation examines the lives and practices of Traveller-Gypsies. More specifically, this presentation will focus on the symbolic boundaries practiced by the Travellers to help maintain and protect their inner and outer bodies. Symbolic boundaries are important because they are what protect the inner body from pollution that is present from the Gorgio way of life. By learning about the importance of symbolic boundaries, we can learn a lot about why gypsy practices are what they are and what the meaning is behind these practices that Gorgio’s don’t necessarily understand. This is an interesting topic because often times, Gypsies are stuff of lore, but the reality is that they are a primitive group of people, who

No Abstract

Photo by Belgian Chocolate

You are searching the world for treasure but the real treasure is yourself If you are tempted by bread you will find only bread.

What you seek for you become.

Rumi - Hidden Music