Embracing Roman Polytheism in Modern London: Building a Community of Cultus Deorum Practitioners

In the bustling, diverse city of London, where the old meets the new in fascinating confluences, there’s a growing interest among spiritual seekers to reconnect with ancient traditions. One such tradition, which is quietly gaining followers, is Roman polytheism—or Cultus Deorum, as it’s traditionally known. This post aims to explore the resurgence of this ancient practice, its relevance in modern times, and the potential for creating a thriving community of like-minded individuals in London.

Understanding Roman Polytheism: A Historical Overview

Roman polytheism, or the ancient Roman religion, was a rich tapestry of beliefs and practices that centered around a pantheon of gods and goddesses. Each deity had specific domains, like Jupiter, the king of the gods, who was associated with the sky and thunder, or Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. This belief system was deeply woven into everyday Roman life, influencing everything from architecture to national policies.

Key Elements of Roman Religion

1. The Pantheon: The Roman pantheon included a plethora of deities, each with unique attributes and stories. These gods and goddesses were integral to understanding the world and were worshipped through various rituals and festivals.

2. Rituals and Festivals: Roman religious life was punctuated by numerous festivals, like Saturnalia, a time of feasting and gift-giving, or the Lupercalia, which was associated with purification and fertility.

3. Ancestor Worship: Like many ancient cultures, the Romans placed significant emphasis on honoring ancestors and believed that deceased family members could influence the living.

4. Household Worship: Romans often had household shrines, known as lararia, dedicated to the Lares and Penates, guardians of the household and family welfare.

Reviving Ancient Practices in a Modern Metropolis

London, a city with a deep historical connection to the Roman Empire, offers a unique backdrop for those looking to revive and practice Roman polytheism. From ancient ruins peeking out amidst modern structures to museums housing Roman artifacts, the city is an ideal environment for rediscovering this ancient faith.

The Relevance of Roman Polytheism Today

1. Spiritual Fulfillment: For many, Roman polytheism offers a tangible, historical path to spiritual fulfillment and a sense of connection to the past. The rituals and celebrations provide a rhythm and structure that can be both comforting and enlightening.

2. Cultural Connection: Engaging with Roman polytheism allows individuals to tap into a cultural heritage that is still visible in modern society, from language and architecture to law and governance.

3. Community Building: In a fast-paced urban environment like London, forming a community around shared beliefs can provide a crucial support system. It offers a platform for sharing experiences, learning from each other, and celebrating together.

Building a Cultus Deorum Community in London

Goals for the Community

1. Mutual Support and Guidance: Creating a space where practitioners, whether seasoned or new to Roman polytheism, can share their experiences and knowledge. This could involve discussions, workshops, and educational sessions about the various aspects of the religion.

2. Rituals and Festivals: Organizing group rituals to mark significant dates in the Roman calendar, such as the Parentalia for honoring ancestors or the Vestalia dedicated to Vesta, goddess of the hearth.

3. Historical Engagement: Planning visits to historical sites in London connected to Roman history, such as the remains of the Roman Wall, Mithraeum, or the British Museum’s Roman collections to enrich our understanding and connection to the faith.

4. Social Gatherings: Hosting casual meetups in relaxed settings, like local parks or cafes, to foster friendships and allow for informal exchanges about personal practices and experiences.

Expanding Beyond London

While the initial focus is on establishing a community in London, there is potential for expansion to other areas. The key is creating a template that can be adapted to other locales, allowing more people to connect and build their own local groups.

Establishing the Community: Steps Forward

1. Gathering Interest: The first step is to identify individuals interested in forming a group. This can be done through online forums, social media, or community bulletin boards.

2. Organizational Structure: Although leadership is not the primary focus, establishing a basic structure for communication and organizing events will be crucial. This could involve appointing coordinators for different activities or events.

3. Event Planning: Begin by planning small, informal gatherings to gauge interest and compatibility among potential members. As the group solidifies, more structured events can be introduced.

4. Online Presence: Creating a dedicated online space, such as a website or social media group, can help in attracting more members and keeping everyone informed about upcoming events and activities.

The Importance of Inclusivity

While building this community, it’s essential to emphasize that Roman polytheism is about practice and belief, not merely reenactment of historical acts. Inclusivity should be at the heart of this initiative, welcoming people from all backgrounds who are genuinely interested in exploring and practicing the ancient religion.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Public Perception: Roman polytheism, like many revived ancient religions, might be viewed with skepticism or misunderstanding. Educating the public about its philosophical and spiritual aspects, rather than it being a niche or cosplay activity, is essential.

2. Diverse Interpretations: As with any faith, practitioners may have differing views on rituals or theology. Encouraging open dialogue and mutual respect will be vital in maintaining harmony within the community.

3. Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Integrating ancient practices into a modern lifestyle requires adaptation and innovation. The community should strive to maintain the essence of the tradition while allowing for contemporary interpretations.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The revival of Roman polytheism in London is not merely about re-enacting the past but about breathing new life into an ancient tradition that still has much to offer today’s spiritual seekers. By forming a supportive, vibrant community, practitioners can enrich their own spiritual journeys while contributing to the fabric of London’s diverse cultural landscape.

If you feel drawn to the ancient Roman gods and goddesses and wish to partake in a collective revival of their worship, consider joining this emerging community. Together, we can build a space that honors the past while embracing the possibilities of the present and future. If you’re interested in participating, share your thoughts, reach out, and let’s embark on this meaningful journey together.