Irish Pagan School – In Review
During lockdown I had that urge, as many do, to take the opportunity to better myself. One of the things I felt I had fallen behind with is my studies of Irish paganism, which is important to me because of the deities I work with plus my own (fairly recent) ancestry. I came across the Irish Pagan School quite by accident, really, after seeing the school mentioned by a friend on Facebook.
The first course that drew me in was a free course on the Mórrígan, which was only available in May. Now, I’ve done a few free online courses, and I was totally expecting the standard survey-style questions system, with perhaps the opportunity to view a video or two. What I wasn’t expecting was a fully immersive teaching experience including:
- Three recorded video lessons with in-depth yet accessible explanations of each topic
- Guidance on meditation and journeying
- Supporting PDFs
- Advice on accessing and researching the lore
- Tips on effective journaling and time management
- Links to numerous resources and groups
I was so impressed with this free course that I decided to sign up to one of the paid courses. I’ve not quite finished the course as yet, although this is the furthest I’ve got with a course in recent times – thanks in part to the tips in the course itself! Lora O’Brien is the teacher for the bulk of these courses, and she teaches in a style which I find easy to get to grips with. Her methods are really accessible, she is extremely knowledge about authentic Irish culture, spirituality and mythology, and is both direct and down to earth. Some of the teaching videos were recorded with live students and I’ve been massively impressed at how every student’s question is answered with clarity and compassion.
Current courses on IPS include
- An Introduction to Rosc Poetry with Geraldine Moorkens Byrne
- Irish Pagan Practice
- Foundation Cass in Meditation & Guided Journeys
- A Practical Guide to Irish Spirituality
- Varying levels of journeying
There are also seasonal courses that pop up from time to time, so it’s worth checking the course catalogue from time to time.
As well as clear curriculums, excellent teaching videos and resources, the school has its own Facebook group which only accepts students as members. I have found the group supportive and informative, and even been brave enough to share a post myself! Lora also recommends other groups which are specific to the course topic.
I don’t want to say loads about the actual coursework, as that’s unfair to both the school and prospective students! However, I can say that it’s the most genuinely connected to Irish lore that I’ve come across, with plenty to offer for both beginners and advanced students.
I’ve really enjoyed reconnecting with the Mórrígan thanks to the advice and information in these courses. I look forward to seeing where the work will take me next!
Visit the Irish Pagan School here.
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About the Author:
Mabh Savage is a Pagan author, poet and musician, as well as a freelance journalist.
She is the author of A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors & Pagan Portals – Celtic Witchcraft: Modern Witchcraft Meets Celtic Ways.
