About Us
The Society of Ancient Irish Religion, or in Irish ‘Draoithe Senchus’ was inspired by a discussion between the head of the Imperator Scottorum Association, Prince Díolún mac Críostóir and the founder of the Society and Ollamh Erenn, SianLuc Heart. There was a mutual dismay over the fact modern druidic orders, such as the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids and Ar nDriaocht Fein focused on a romanticised and unhistorical vision of Druidic thought rather than the historical truth.
So it was suggested by SianLuc that the Society of Ancient Irish Religion should be formed with the intention of creating a historically accurate representation of the Druids and their thought to better shape and help the Gaelic pagan community.
However early on there was ironically no clear leadership or membership of the Society of Ancient Irish Religion, fearing that the new organisation would gather dust and be counted as a failure SianLuc took over leadership. At first it was a temporary position, however after a year in the position it was decided to make SianLuc’s position more permanent. His leadership has remained since then.
The Society’s main goal and purpose is to help restore Gaelic Paganism in Ireland, not only reinstituting several important religious practises and rites but also the wider theology and philosophy that can be found through the study of Celtic Religion and Irish literature. Most importantly, to show that Paganism is as deep, rich and important as other faiths and that it shouldn’t be mocked or looked down upon by others.
To this end the Society wishes to act as a priesthood, so that there is a group of people who act not only as ritual specialists, theologians, and musicians but also as custodians of Irish Religion, language, history and culture. Much like the ancient Druids and Filidh were for the Irish proudly resisting attempts to bring Ireland into the ‘Modern Age’ and instead help preserve and restore many cultural and religious customs that may very well come from the first people in Ireland.
The Society’s study on theology has already produced many interesting findings, such as religious diets, totemism, ethics and cosmology. With many different rites, beliefs and gods being found and researched to further our understanding of what Gaelic pagans looked like and how to practise it.
There have been many accusations of the Society being orthodoxic or doctrinal. This is true; however it should be remembered that this a priesthood and those who join and call themselves leaders of the faith should be held to a higher standard. Beyond its membership the Society cannot force anyone to drop or adopt any practise if the person doesn’t wish to follow the Society’s beliefs.
As of today, the Society is on very low membership, we are always open for new applicants and volunteers to help rebuild our faith and continue the work of the Society for many years to come. One day we hope to wake to a world where our faith is strong and free to practise how it was done unconfined by the judgment of others. Till then our work isn’t done.