Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

July 17, 2007

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem? There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I

have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts

about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century. Peter H

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account today.

July 18, 2007

They haven't actually touched the giant so presumably no harm has

been done. The one I was really annoyed about was the Long Man.

Jo

, Peter VV <swpgh01 wrote:

>

> This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only

temporary, so whats the problem?

>

> There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

>

> Aerial footage

>

> Pagans have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away a cartoon

character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne

Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next

to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the

new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the

naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient

spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do

something so ridiculous

>

> Ann Bryn-Evans

> Pagan Federation

>

> The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based

biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann

Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation,

said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed

my mind. " We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash

it away. " She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to do

something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific

interest. " 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the

giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to

promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb,

landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by

the temporary addition to the village. " I think it is different and

unusual, " he said. " We've not heard any complaints here so far, but

I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson

is. " During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised

> to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass

trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate

among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands

of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

>

> Peter H

>

> Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less,

sign up for your freeaccount today.

>

July 18, 2007

Hi Peter

I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility.

I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous

Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation

The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

July 18, 2007

Hi Jo

But I do wonder why there isn't a similar Homer on the walkway to St Paul's

Cathedral....

BB

Peter

-

" heartwerk " <jo.heartwork

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:56 AM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

> They haven't actually touched the giant so presumably no harm has

> been done. The one I was really annoyed about was the Long Man.

>

> Jo

>

> , Peter VV <swpgh01 wrote:

> >

> > This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only

> temporary, so whats the problem?

> >

> > There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

> >

> > Aerial footage

> >

> > Pagans have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away a cartoon

> character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne

> Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next

> to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the

> new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the

> naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient

> spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

> fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do

> something so ridiculous

> >

> > Ann Bryn-Evans

> > Pagan Federation

> >

> > The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based

> biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann

> Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation,

> said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed

> my mind. " We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash

> it away. " She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to do

> something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific

> interest. " 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the

> giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to

> promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb,

> landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by

> the temporary addition to the village. " I think it is different and

> unusual, " he said. " We've not heard any complaints here so far, but

> I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson

> is. " During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised

> > to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

> Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass

> trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate

> among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands

> of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

> >

> > Peter H

> >

> > Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less,

> sign up for your freeaccount today.

> >

>

> To send an email to -

>

July 18, 2007

I’m not a Pagan (my family are

Atheists, which may give Pagans a run for the money as most maligned Belief

group), but all I can say is,

Amen, Peter.

This will be appropriate when I see a

giant picture of “Homer” painted on the Vatican Walls.

Cyn

On Behalf Of metalscarab

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

5:47 AM

Re: Pagans

wish for rain to wash away Homer

Hi Peter

I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to

be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury

would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it

would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But

because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a

problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't

get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to

some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Tuesday, July 17,

2007 9:13 PM

Re:

Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary,

so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas

Giant

Aerial footage

Pagans

have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away a cartoon

character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas

giant.

A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was

painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset,

to promote the new Simpsons film.

Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked,

sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality.

Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

fertility.

I'm amazed they got permission

to do something so ridiculous

Ann Bryn-Evans

Pagan Federation

The painted Simpsons character has been painted with

water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains.

Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The

Pagan Federation, said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I think

I have changed my mind.

" We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the

rain and wash it away. "

She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to

do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest. "

'Different and unusual'

It is not the first time the giant has been used to

advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms,

jeans and bicycles.

Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas,

said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village.

" I think it is different and unusual, " he

said. " We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many

of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is. "

During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised

to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

Since then he has always been visible, receiving

regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years.

There is debate among experts about when the giant

was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th

Century.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign

up for your free account today.

July 18, 2007

Hi Cynthia

I agree...

Although I'm not sure that atheists have a patch on Pagans when it comes to being maligned. I'm not aware of anyone having their children taken away because they are atheist. I'm also not aware of anyone being sent to prison for being atheist (at least not in modern society). Both of these have happened in the UK in living memory, so I think atheists have some way to go to catch up with pagans. Incidentally, there have also been moves recently to re-introduce anti-witchcraft legislation, which would make a large chunk of paganism illegal... I haven't heard anything similar about making atheism illegal.

BB

Peter

-

ckg

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:21 PM

RE: Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

I’m not a Pagan (my family are Atheists, which may give Pagans a run for the money as most maligned Belief group), but all I can say is,

Amen, Peter.

This will be appropriate when I see a giant picture of “Homer” painted on the Vatican Walls.

Cyn

On Behalf Of metalscarabWednesday, July 18, 2007 5:47 AM Subject: Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

Hi Peter

I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

Aerial footage

Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant.

A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film.

Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality.

Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility.

I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous

Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation

The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains.

Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind.

"We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away."

She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest."

'Different and unusual'

It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles.

Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village.

"I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is."

During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years.

There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

July 18, 2007

I just dont see it being the same, its not on the same site, its on a piece of land next to it in a different field, so I dont see the comparison to vandalising a mosque or church. There are plenty of churches next to advertising hoardings/signs, so to me its the same thing. If they had done it in the same field or altered the "man" in any way I would agree...... The Valley Vegan................metalscarab <metalscarab wrote: Hi

Peter I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money. BB Peter ----- Original Message

----- Peter VV Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem? There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do

something so ridiculous Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb,

landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century. Peter H Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today. Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free

account today.

July 18, 2007

Is that giant actually a religious site?, sorry my my lack of knowledge, I just thought it was an ancient superstition where women went and sat on the giant whanger in a strange belief that they would then fall pregnant? I still dont see the harm in it, especially as knowing the british weather its probably gone by now. But then I am not the most reverent, and think most things are fair game for ridicule...... The Valley Vegan...............metalscarab <metalscarab wrote: Hi JoBut I do wonder why there isn't a similar Homer on the walkway to St Paul'sCathedral....BBPeter-"heartwerk" <jo.heartwork >Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:56 AM Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer> They haven't actually touched the giant so presumably no harm has> been done. The one I was really annoyed about was the Long Man.>> Jo>> , Peter VV <swpgh01 wrote:> >> > This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only> temporary, so whats the

problem?> >> >> >> > There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant> >> >> > Aerial footage> >> > Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon> character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne> Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next> to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the> new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the> naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient> spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids> fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do> something so ridiculous> >> >> > Ann Bryn-Evans> > Pagan Federation> >> > The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based> biodegradable

paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann> Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation,> said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed> my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash> it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do> something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific> interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the> giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to> promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb,> landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by> the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and> unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but> I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson> is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was

disguised> > to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.> Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass> trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate> among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands> of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.> >> >> >> >> > Peter H> >> >> >> > > > Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less,> sign up for your freeaccount today.> >>>>>> To send an email to - >

July 18, 2007

Hi Peter

It's to do with the positioning. It is *using* a sacred site as an advertisement. It didn't randomly happen to be in the next field - it was placed in the next field precisely because of it's position in relation to the sacred site. I bet they haven't used any other religion in the same way - I don't recall seeing an article showing an image of Homer next to a crucifix in St Paul's Cathedral. If there happened to be an adviertising hoarding near the site which they had used, it would be exactly the same as using an advertising hoarding near a church. It is clearly not the same thing, as one is using places which are designed as advertising space, the other is abusing a sacred site, and showing contempt for people's spiritual feelings, in order to make money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 8:41 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

I just dont see it being the same, its not on the same site, its on a piece of land next to it in a different field, so I dont see the comparison to vandalising a mosque or church. There are plenty of churches next to advertising hoardings/signs, so to me its the same thing. If they had done it in the same field or altered the "man" in any way I would agree......

The Valley Vegan................metalscarab <metalscarab wrote:

Hi Peter

I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility.

I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous

Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation

The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

Peter H

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July 18, 2007

Have to agree to disagree on that one... The Valley Vegan.............metalscarab <metalscarab wrote: Hi Peter It's to do with the positioning. It is *using* a sacred site as an advertisement. It didn't randomly happen to be in the next field - it was placed in the next field precisely because of it's position in relation to the sacred site. I bet they

haven't used any other religion in the same way - I don't recall seeing an article showing an image of Homer next to a crucifix in St Paul's Cathedral. If there happened to be an adviertising hoarding near the site which they had used, it would be exactly the same as using an advertising hoarding near a church. It is clearly not the same thing, as one is using places which are designed as advertising space, the other is abusing a sacred site, and showing contempt for people's spiritual feelings, in order to make money. BB Peter - Peter VV Wednesday, July 18, 2007 8:41 PM Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer I just dont see it being the same, its not on the same site, its on a piece of land next to it in a different field, so I dont see the comparison to vandalising a mosque or church. There are plenty of churches next to advertising hoardings/signs, so to me its the same thing. If they had done it in the same field or altered the "man" in any way I would agree...... The Valley Vegan................metalscarab <metalscarab > wrote: Hi Peter I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money. BB Peter - Peter VV Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem? There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as

diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century. Peter H Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today. Peter H Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today. Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free

account today.

July 19, 2007

Hi Peter

Fair enough... but you must see how the treatment of Pagan sensibilities by the media is generally done with derision, while other religions tend to get respect.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:07 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

Have to agree to disagree on that one...

The Valley Vegan.............metalscarab <metalscarab wrote:

Hi Peter

It's to do with the positioning. It is *using* a sacred site as an advertisement. It didn't randomly happen to be in the next field - it was placed in the next field precisely because of it's position in relation to the sacred site. I bet they haven't used any other religion in the same way - I don't recall seeing an article showing an image of Homer next to a crucifix in St Paul's Cathedral. If there happened to be an adviertising hoarding near the site which they had used, it would be exactly the same as using an advertising hoarding near a church. It is clearly not the same thing, as one is using places which are designed as advertising space, the other is abusing a sacred site, and showing contempt for people's spiritual feelings, in order to make money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 8:41 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

I just dont see it being the same, its not on the same site, its on a piece of land next to it in a different field, so I dont see the comparison to vandalising a mosque or church. There are plenty of churches next to advertising hoardings/signs, so to me its the same thing. If they had done it in the same field or altered the "man" in any way I would agree......

The Valley Vegan................metalscarab <metalscarab > wrote:

Hi Peter

I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral? Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

BB

Peter

-

Peter VV

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only temporary, so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

Aerial footage Pagans have pledged to perform "rain magic" to wash away a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility.

I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous

Ann Bryn-EvansPagan Federation

The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains. Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan Federation, said: "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. "We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." She added: "I'm amazed they got permission to do something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest." 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time the giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village. "I think it is different and unusual," he said. "We've not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson is." During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark. Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate among experts about when the giant was created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

Peter H

Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for less, sign up for your free account today.

July 19, 2007

Hi Peter

That is a very good question to ask - obviously it is okay to mock

some things and not others!!!

My thoughts last night were that what with Trinny & Susannah changing

the Long Man into a woman, and then Homer right next to The Giant, it

won't be long before these sites and others like them suffer

vandalism.

BB

Jo

, " metalscarab " <metalscarab

wrote:

>

> Hi Jo

>

> But I do wonder why there isn't a similar Homer on the walkway to

St Paul's

> Cathedral....

>

> BB

> Peter

>

> -

> " heartwerk " <jo.heartwork

>

> Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:56 AM

> Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

>

> > They haven't actually touched the giant so presumably no harm has

> > been done. The one I was really annoyed about was the Long Man.

> >

> > Jo

> >

> > , Peter VV <swpgh01@> wrote:

> > >

> > > This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only

> > temporary, so whats the problem?

> > >

> > > There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

> > >

> > > Aerial footage

> > >

> > > Pagans have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away a

cartoon

> > character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the

Cerne

> > Abbas giant. A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted

> > new Simpsons film. Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the

> > naked, sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient

> > spirituality. Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

> > fertility. I'm amazed they got permission to do

> > something so ridiculous

> > >

> > > Ann Bryn-Evans

> > > Pagan Federation

> > >

> > > The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-

based

> > biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains.

Ann

> > Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan

Federation,

> > said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have

changed

> > my mind. " We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and

wash

> > it away. " She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to do

> > something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific

> > interest. " 'Different and unusual' It is not the first time

the

> > giant has been used to advertise products. He has been used to

> > promote items as diverse as condoms, jeans and bicycles. Mike

Webb,

> > landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his staff were

amused by

> > the temporary addition to the village. " I think it is different

and

> > unusual, " he said. " We've not heard any complaints here so far,

but

> > I'm not sure many of the local people will know who Homer Simpson

> > is. " During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised

> > > to prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

> > Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular grass

> > trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years. There is debate

> > among experts about when the giant was created varying from

thousands

> > of years ago to as recently as the 17th Century.

> > >

> > > Peter H

> > >

> > > Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for

less,

> > sign up for your freeaccount today.

> > >

> >

> > To send an email to -

> >

July 19, 2007

Hi Peter

You are certainly right about the lack of equality of respect.

I really think that after yobs have seen Homer, and the Long 'Woman'

they will think it funny to go and spoil other sacred sites. We

already have had the Rollright stone circle vandalised three or four

times.

BB

Jo

, " metalscarab " <metalscarab

wrote:

>

> Hi Peter

>

> I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be more

important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of

Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral?

Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a

mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's

just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do

with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the

use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people

being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

>

> BB

> Peter

>

> -

> Peter VV

>

> Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

> Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

>

> This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only

temporary, so whats the problem?

>

> There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas Giant

>

> Aerial footage

> Pagans have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away a

cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol - the

Cerne Abbas giant.

> A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to

the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new

Simpsons film.

> Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked,

sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality.

> Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids fertility.

> I'm amazed they got permission to do something so

ridiculous

>

> Ann Bryn-Evans

> Pagan Federation

> The painted Simpsons character has been painted with water-

based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it rains.

> Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan

Federation, said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I

have changed my mind.

> " We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash

it away. "

> She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to do something

so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest. "

> 'Different and unusual'

> It is not the first time the giant has been used to

advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as

condoms, jeans and bicycles.

> Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said his

staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village.

> " I think it is different and unusual, " he said. " We've not

heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the local

people will know who Homer Simpson is. "

> During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to

prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

> Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular

grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years.

> There is debate among experts about when the giant was

created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the

17th Century.

>

> Peter H

>

> --

----------

> Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for

less, sign up for your free account today.

>

July 19, 2007

Hi Peter

I also know of someone who lost their job as a teacher when it was

found out they were a Pagan.

BB

Jo

, " metalscarab " <metalscarab

wrote:

>

> Hi Cynthia

>

> I agree...

>

> Although I'm not sure that atheists have a patch on Pagans when it

comes to being maligned. I'm not aware of anyone having their

children taken away because they are atheist. I'm also not aware of

anyone being sent to prison for being atheist (at least not in modern

society). Both of these have happened in the UK in living memory, so

I think atheists have some way to go to catch up with pagans.

Incidentally, there have also been moves recently to re-introduce

anti-witchcraft legislation, which would make a large chunk of

paganism illegal... I haven't heard anything similar about making

atheism illegal.

>

> BB

> Peter

> -

> ckg

>

> Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:21 PM

> RE: Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away

Homer

>

> I'm not a Pagan (my family are Atheists, which may give Pagans a

run for the money as most maligned Belief group), but all I can say

is,

>

> Amen, Peter.

>

> This will be appropriate when I see a giant picture of " Homer "

painted on the Vatican Walls.

>

> Cyn

>

> --

----------

>

On Behalf Of metalscarab

> Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:47 AM

>

> Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away Homer

>

> Hi Peter

>

> I dunno - I guess it's funny if you consider consumerism to be

more important than spirituality. I wonder how the Archbishop of

Canterbury would act if a giant Homer was painted on his cathedral?

Or how offensive it would be if one was painted on the side of a

mosque, or a synagogue? But because it's a pagan sacred site, it's

just a bit of fun, and no-one can see a problem. The problem is to do

with equality of respect... which we simply don't get. That, and the

use of sites which have particular spiritual meaning to some people

being used by others as a cheap gimmick to make more money.

>

> BB

>

> Peter

>

> -

>

> Peter VV

>

> Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:13 PM

>

> Re: Pagans wish for rain to wash away

Homer

>

> This made me laugh, sorry Pagans but it is funny, and only

temporary, so whats the problem?

There is debate about the age of the Cerne Abbas

Giant

>

> Aerial footage

>

> Pagans have pledged to perform " rain magic " to wash away

a cartoon character painted next to their famous fertility symbol -

the Cerne Abbas giant.

>

> A doughnut-brandishing Homer Simpson was painted next to

the giant on the hill above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to promote the new

Simpsons film.

>

> Many believe the ancient chalk outline of the naked,

sexually aroused giant to be a symbol of ancient spirituality.

>

> Many couples also believe the 180ft carving aids

fertility.

>

> I'm amazed they got permission to do something so

ridiculous

>

> Ann Bryn-Evans

> Pagan Federation

>

> The painted Simpsons character has been painted with

water-based biodegradable paint which will wash away as soon as it

rains.

>

> Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The

Pagan Federation, said: " We were hoping for some dry weather but I

think I have changed my mind.

>

> " We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and

wash it away. "

>

> She added: " I'm amazed they got permission to do

something so ridiculous. It's an area of scientific interest. "

>

> 'Different and unusual'

>

> It is not the first time the giant has been used to

advertise products. He has been used to promote items as diverse as

condoms, jeans and bicycles.

>

> Mike Webb, landlord of the New Inn in Cerne Abbas, said

his staff were amused by the temporary addition to the village.

>

> " I think it is different and unusual, " he said. " We've

not heard any complaints here so far, but I'm not sure many of the

local people will know who Homer Simpson is. "

>

> During World War II, the Cerne giant was disguised to

prevent the Germans from using him as an aerial landmark.

>

> Since then he has always been visible, receiving regular

grass trimming and a full re-chalking every 25 years.

>

> There is debate among experts about when the giant was

created varying from thousands of years ago to as recently as the

17th Century.

>

Peter H

>

> --

--------

>

> Mail is the world's favourite email. Don't settle for

less, sign up for your free account today.

>

July 19, 2007

Maybe the hoardings are next to the mosque or church because they are

all in towns - not necessarily placed next to the mosque or church on

purpose. Obviously Homer was painted as near to The Giant as

possible otherwise he would have been in one of the many thousand

other fields somewhere else in the country.

Jo

, Peter VV <swpgh01.t21 wrote:

>

> I just dont see it being the same, its not on the same site, its on

a piece of land next to it in a different field, so I dont see the

comparison to vandalising a mosque or church. There are plenty of

churches next to advertising hoardings/signs, so to me its the same

thing. If they had done it in the same field or altered the " man " in

any way I would agree......

>

> The Valley Vegan................

>

> metalscarab <metalscarab wrote: