| By-Laws of The Dragon Oak Grove |
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| The Dragon Oak Grove By-laws Article I (Secular Charter) Name of Organization The name of the organization shall be: The Dragon Oak Grove and may be abbreviated as T. D.O.G. The address of the organization shall be: C/O The Dragon Oak Grove (T. D. O. G. ) 4809 Algonac Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 or such other location as the Triune Council may, from time to time, establish by resolution. This organization is formed exclusively as a religious, Church Organization and is not organized for the private gain of any person or persons. The Organization has a specific and primary purpose to foster and practice the spiritual, philosophical and cultural teachings of pagan beliefs but welcomes all others. Symbol/Logo of Organization The Logo of the organization shall be: An oak tree, illuminated by lightning, with a sleeping dragon at its base. The dragon's tale wrapped around the base of the tree. Motto of the Organization Three things from which never to be swayed: One's oaths, One's ancestors, One's faith Mission Statement (Statement of Purpose) The Mission of the Order shall be three fold: 1. To honor, live, maintain, research and recreate; when possible, the Old Ways of our Ancestors. 2. To teach the Old Ways to all who may seek this path in life. 3. To provide support and act as a resource to those who walk this path. Article II (Core Beliefs) The beliefs of Neo-Pagans tend to differ slightly from group to group and person to person. That is what makes the modern pagan path inviting to so many people. There should be a great sense of individuality. 1. We believe in many Gods and Goddesses. 2. We believe in honoring our ancestors and seek their knowledge and wisdom on a daily basis. 3. We see ourselves as a vital part of nature, we do not put ourselves above any creature and believe that all life is sacred. 4. We uphold and defend the right of all people to believe and worship their God(s) however they may choose. 5. We believe in the immortality of the soul, each of us have lived countless lifetimes and will live countless more, gaining knowledge and experience each time. 6. We do not believe in "Hell" or any kind of evil entity on which to blame our sins but place it upon ourselves. 7. We believe that the Otherworld and Underworld are accessible and that we may walk the paths of the Sidhe. 8. We observe the eight sabbats (holidays) of our Celtic ancestors any others that our members see fit to honor. 9. We believe our religion to be a way of life, not a once a week worship service. 10. We believe that through the spirit of inspiration, practice and study that some of our ancestors knowledge and wisdom may be recovered. The goal of our studies is enlightenment of the consciousness. 11. We believe the planet Earth is a living being, with thoughts feelings, and powers. We seek to honor and defend her if not for our sake, then for those who come after us. 12. We believe that the Gods/Goddesses can manifest in many ways during our lives. 13. We believe in "magick" which we define as: the ability through proper training, knowledge and intent to work "miracles" to assist us in any circumstance which occurs throughout our lives. 14. The "microcosm" (Humankind) is a miniature of the "macrocosm." (The Universe) or As above, so below. (As the universe, so the soul) 15. We believe that humankind embodies three parts, they being: Body, Mind and Soul and Physical, Mental, Spiritual. We believe that the complete person is one who is the master of these three within him/herself. 16. We believe that our religion must grow as the followers of this path spiritual needs grow. A religion which does not grow will die. 17. We believe that divinity exists in each of us. 18. Because we are all kindred spirits in the search for knowledge and on the path to the infinite; we should cooperate and aid each other whenever possible. We should avoid disputes and violence in our dealings with one another and settle them in a peaceful manner. 19. We recognize that each person is an individual but that we are all kindred spirits and connected Spiritually, Mentally and Physically to the Land, Nature and each other. 20. We see Science, Religion and Magick as wisdom in living, and being aware of and in harmony with the Universe and our place within it. 21. We recognize other "planes of being" than just the physical one on which we reside. This view may take the form of the Three Realms of Existence: Sea (the Past), Land (the Present), Sky (the Future). 22. We practice symbolic rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces. 23. We recognize that our Philosophy gives us a unique responsibility with our environment. And because of this responsibility we seek to live in harmony with Nature. Article III (Sabbats and Holidays) Samhain - "Sah-wen" October 31 to November 1 Mean Giemredh "Mun Geery" (Winter Solstice) December 21 Oimelc "Ee-melk" - January 31 to February 1 Mean Earrach "Mun Eric" (Spring Equinox) March 21 Beltaine "Bell-tin"- April 30 to May 1 Mean Samradh "Mun Som-rah" (Summer Solstice) - June 21 Lughnasadh "Loo-nah-sa"- July 31 to August 1 Mean Foghamhar "Mun Fower" (Fall Equinox) - September 21 For the purpose of these holy days, the date is officially reckoned from sunset to sunset. Article IV (Membership and Organization) Any person who has reached the age of eighteen and accepts these by laws, principles and policies of this organization is eligible for membership. Persons under the age of eighteen must have the written permission of at least one parent or legal guardian. Membership in this organization is open to all regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation or ethnic origin. Discrimination will not be tolerated. Membership in the organization is free. The Triune Council This organization shall hold general council biannually; prior to Samhain and again prior to Beltaine. Under special circumstances the organization may hold general council at other dates. The purpose of the general council shall be to set forth goals, make plans, write policies and any other business of the organization for the coming year. The council may also hear disputes, settle disagreements etc. as needed. The council will be chaired by the 3 Elders. These three members are known collectively as the "Triune Council." Reaching Decisions All decisions effecting the totality of the Grove or the Order shall be put to a vote. All members in good standing have one vote. In a Grove setting the Triune Council shall have the deciding vote in the event of a tie. All votes are taken with a simple majority winning. Any other issues may be brought before the Triune Council, if such issues will effect the members of the Order. A member who wishes to present issues for vote by the Order must present the topic/issue in writing before the Triune Council. The Council will hear the issue and determine if it should be put to the other members for vote. All three members of the Triune council have one vote in such matters. If the member disagrees with the Council's decision he/she can request a Order council be held which will consist of five randomly chosen members to hear the issue. This Order council's decision is final in all matters. Article V (Ethics, Standards of Conduct) Ethics and Accepted Behaviors Though it may be impossible to cover all instances and circumstances where the subject of ethics and morals will be tested or questioned; the following shall constitute the laws and customs relating to good behavior and ethics. We idealize the ancient virtues of our ancestors of "fair play" and honor. Because we set ourselves at a higher standard relating to these ethics and standards of good conduct. We believe that cooperation and consideration are the standards for good community relations. We see ourselves as a family and uphold and defend the rights and privileges of all members. We believe that cooperation, consideration and commitment are the three things which make a Grove survive in the rough seas of life. In addition to the traits and behaviors already discussed in the beliefs and the above paragraphs the following shall apply to all members. 1. Members shall not use illegal drugs while attending a Grove sponsored event, nor shall any member arrive to such events under the influence of a illegal substance. 2. Members shall not put down another person or group based on belief, practice, race, creed, sexual persuasion or social standing. We believe that everyone is entitled to his/her opinion but that such opinions should be stated in a non-derogatory manner. 3. A Druid's word is binding and considered an unbreakable oath. Following through with promises and commitments is the mark of good character. 4. Loyalty to the Grove and its members is paramount. Members are expected to protect and defend fellow Grove members. Members should hold in confidence discussions and events which occur within the Grove, unless such information is deemed to be of a public nature. In short, no gossip. 5. Grove members shall treat each other with kindness and brotherhood. We look after each other and aid each other in times of need. We believe that communication, cooperation and consideration are three virtues which we need to hold close to our hearts. The Virtues We have adopted the following as guidelines for good ethic and manners. These virtues were the life breath of people in good standing within our ancestors community and they shall apply to all members of the Grove. Honor Honor is the saving of face through doing the right thing. The acting and living truthful and with open honesty is a measure of honor. Honor denotes a person's worth, and if the honor is violated certain reparations are due, as given in the Brehon Laws of the Celts. The violation of a persons honor is considered a serious offense. It is deemed worthy to act with honor in all dealings with men, beast, the land and Gods. Loyalty Our ancestors held strong loyalties to their families, tribe, country, king and gods. The unshakable desire to remain is the meaning of loyalty. It is born through trust and the desire to aid others regardless of the returns received by the giver. Hospitality The rules of hospitality were dearly loved and strictly followed by our ancestors. Hospitality is sharing with your fellow members and treating them with kindness and respect. Honesty People who are dishonest in their dealings with each other and society may face retribution from the community (Order) and the divine. They may viewed as being without honor and therefore, in many cases, will be considered outcasts. It is the greatest dishonor of all to tell an untruth. Justice The Brehon laws of the Celts state that all men have worth. The righting of wrongs and accepting responsibility for actions constitute justice. The concept of justice takes into account fairness and respect for others. Courage Standing in the face of adversity and meeting the challenge head on, never surrender. A worthwhile trait to develop. We are the keepers of this ancient tradition and we are honor-bound to accept these principles and live by them. We see these ancient morals and customs as worthy of reverence and still relevant in our time. Whomsoever being properly initiated and recognized as a Member of this Grove shall be bound to uphold the standards of ethical conduct as lawfully established by the Triune Council and these by-laws, shall solemnly swear to do so as part of the Rite of Initiation. Violations of these oaths may result in a decision to dismiss or censure. Such decisions shall be made in a formal hearing of the Triune Council. Ratified on the 3rd day of July 2001 Signed by the members of the TRIUNE COUNCIL Ravenfeather Ombres Nimuna |
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