a spirituality that is both holistic and practical: holistic, because Roman religion acknowledges that spirits of place (genii loci) exist everywhere, along with ancestral spirits (dii manes), spirits of house and home (lares and penates), other, lesser but more mobile minor deities (numina or daimones), as well as a host of gods of tribe and locality (some of which only seem to manifest at certain times of the year, as others are only apparently available in certain localities), besides the internationally-acknowledged gods of the official Roman pantheon. In addition to all these, every human being is a small god in potentiality because within each of us is a genius (possibly best translated as the Higher Self). In other words, the visible and invisible worlds are full of interactive entities, with whom the believer constantly negotiates relationships which it is hoped will be mutually beneficial. - Nick and Carol Ford, 2004
Religio Romana beliefs
- usually polytheist and animist
- belief in spirits of place (genii loci)
- usually focus on one tradition or pantheon
- some do not use magic (moving away from links with the Western Mystery Tradition)
- believe in deities as distinct individuals, not aspects or archetypes
- often believe that our ancestors' way of life is worth reviving
Religio Romana values
Civic virtues, community values, humanitas. Fairness, honour, peace, nobility, piety, decency, reverence, etc.
-- Nova Roma: Roman Virtues
“If it is not right, don't do it. If it is not true, don't say it.” ~ Marcus Aurelius
Religio Romana festivals
- many festivals each month; honouring deities and celebrating the festivals of ancient Rome
- daily honouring of ancestors & deities, lares & penates at the family shrine, or lararium
- offerings of wine, milk, honey, or herbs
- The basic notion included not only the honouring of the gods, but also restrictions on public life: the courts were closed, some agricultural work was restricted, and in some cases holidays given to other workers.
Further reading
by Caroline Tully
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