About the Church of Thessaly?

I. What is the Church of Thessaly?

The Church of Thessaly is a Hellenic Pagan religious organization that studies and practices the religion and spirituality of ancient Greece (Hellas). Founded in 1994 by Monte Plaisance, it is one of the oldest Hellenic Pagan orders in the United States. The Church aims to perpetuate ancient Hellenic traditions and foster spiritual growth through its teachings and practices.

II. Who founded the Church of Thessaly, and when was it established?

The Church of Thessaly was founded in 1994 by Monte Plaisance and is one of the longest-established Hellenic Pagan religious orders in the United States, dedicated to reviving and practicing the spiritual traditions of ancient Greece.

III. What is the Mission of the Church of Thessaly?

The mission of the Church of Thessaly is to create a spiritual and temperate society by offering seekers the philosophical and spiritual wisdom needed to experience their connection to the gods of ancient Hellas. They aim to help individuals expand their awareness and align themselves with the divine order through the teachings and practices of the church.

IV. What does the Church of Thessaly offer in terms of education and spiritual growth?

The Church of Thessaly offers intensive courses on Thessalian religion and Theurgy, which are divided into graded levels. These courses lead to powerful initiation rituals that mark significant spiritual milestones. The initiations aim to empower the soul, providing deeper insights and understanding of the individual’s place within the divine order.

V. What philosophical orientation does the Church of Thessaly follow?

The Church of Thessaly follows a Neoplatonic philosophical orientation. Their sacred texts include the dialogues of Plato, as well as the teachings of Neoplatonic philosophers like Plotinus, Proclus, and Iamblichus. They also incorporate the literary works of Homer into their teachings.

VI. Who are the deities honored by the Church of Thessaly?

The Church of Thessaly honors the Dodekatheon (the Twelve Olympian Gods) and other ancient deities, heroes, and ancestors. They follow a religious calendar that includes specific rites and practices dedicated to these divine figures, with their sacred Mysteries serving as the pinnacle of their worship.

VII. How is the Church of Thessaly structured?

The Church of Thessaly operates through two branches: the Administrative and the Sacerdotal. This dual structure ensures a balanced and effective collective. The Administrative branch handles organizational duties, while the Sacerdotal branch oversees religious practices and ceremonies.

VIII. What are the main spiritual goals of the Church of Thessaly?

The Church of Thessaly aims to guide its members toward spiritual enlightenment, deeper self-awareness, and communion with the ancient gods of Hellas. The church encourages individuals to experience their connection to the divine world and fosters a sense of spiritual growth and balance.

IX. What are the primary teachings of the Church of Thessaly?

The primary teachings of the Church are rooted in ancient Hellenic religion and Neoplatonism. Members study texts such as Plato's dialogues and the teachings of Neoplatonic philosophers, along with the works of Homer. These teachings focus on understanding the divine order and one’s place within it.

X. How does the Church of Thessaly support personal spiritual transformation?

The Church of Thessaly supports spiritual transformation through its graded courses in Thessalian religion and Theurgy. Each level culminates in a powerful initiation ritual, which serves to empower the individual’s soul and provides deeper insight into their spiritual path. These rituals mark significant spiritual milestones.

XI. How does the Church of Thessaly engage with the ancient Hellenic calendar?

The Church of Thessaly observes a religious calendar that honors the ancient deities, heroes, and ancestors. This calendar includes various rites, festivals, and sacred Mysteries, allowing members to connect with the divine forces throughout the year and mark important religious and spiritual occasions.

XII. What is the significance of initiation rituals in the Church of Thessaly?

Initiation rituals in the Church of Thessaly signify spiritual milestones. These rituals are designed to empower the individual’s soul and provide them with a deeper understanding of their place within the divine order. Each initiation marks the completion of a level of spiritual training and prepares the member for higher levels of spiritual exploration.

XIII. What makes the Church of Thessaly a mystery school?

As a mystery school, the Church of Thessaly offers secretive and transformative spiritual experiences through sacred rituals and teachings. Members are guided through stages of spiritual discovery and initiation, gaining insights into the hidden wisdom of the ancient Hellenic traditions and experiencing personal spiritual revelations.

XIV. What philosophical figures influence the teachings of the Church of Thessaly?

The Church of Thessaly’s teachings are heavily influenced by classical philosophers such as Plato, as well as Neoplatonists like Plotinus, Proclus, and Iamblichus. These figures are central to the church's spiritual and philosophical foundation, guiding its approach to understanding the divine order and the connection between humanity and the gods.

XV. How does the Church of Thessaly foster community among its members?

The Church of Thessaly fosters a strong sense of community through regular worship services like the Koinonia Rites, collective rituals, and educational courses. Members engage in shared spiritual practices and philosophical discussions, creating a supportive environment for those seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment. The dual structure of administrative and sacerdotal branches also ensures a balanced community.

The Thessalian Concept of the Theoi

Here is a video that discusses in detail the Thessalian concept of ones personal Theoi.