A Gateway to Authentic Irish Heritage and Spirituality
I’ve been a student of the Irish Pagan School, founded by Lora O’Brien MA and Jon O’Sullivan, since it came online in 2017. It stands as a beacon of authentic Irish culture and spirituality, offering a unique pathway for those drawn to the ancient wisdom and vibrant traditions of Ireland.
Situated in County Waterford, Ireland, this online institution is not just a school but a community hub, dedicated to providing scholarly yet down-to-earth teachings on a wide range of topics pertinent to Irish history, heritage, folklore, and mythology.
Authenticity and Scholarship at Its Core
At the forefront of the school’s ethos is a commitment to real information and scholarly sources. Lora O’Brien, with a Masters in Irish History, and Jon O’Sullivan, renowned for his depth of knowledge in Irish lore, ensure that each course and content piece reflects their extensive expertise.
They draw from the works of respected scholars like Jaqueline Borsje, David Stifter, Daithí Ó hÓgáin, John Waddell, Andrew Sneddon, and Nora White, guaranteeing that the teachings are not only engaging but academically sound.
A Rich Tapestry of Learning
The school offers an array of courses and content that span from the Tuatha Dé Danann and Irish mythology to the Ogham alphabet, and from Irish Gods and Goddesses to the practices of Folk Magic and Irish Witchcraft.
The teachings delve into the mysteries of the Mórrígan, the wisdom of the Dagda, and much more, all while maintaining a connection to contemporary Irish Paganism and spiritual practices.
Community and Global Outreach
While deeply rooted in Ireland, the Irish Pagan School extends its reach globally, welcoming students and community members who may or may not have Irish ancestral heritage but who share a love and affinity for Ireland.
The school serves as a cultural bridge, bringing the richness of Irish tradition and spiritual practice to a worldwide audience through carefully moderated and curated online spaces and community groups.
They are content producing machines too! There is a YouTube channel, a Podcast, a Blog, and various social media channels including a TikTok which I’m loving!
Approachable and Scholarly
Lora and Jon are known for their friendly and accessible teaching style. Though they model very healthy boundaries with regard to entitlement and cultural appropriation, it is clear that they also believe in making the depth of Irish scholarship and contemporary spirituality available to all, breaking down complex concepts into understandable and enjoyable lessons.
This approachability does not compromise the scholarly nature of the content, however, as every piece of information – from every native teacher at the school – is rigorously researched and presented with academic integrity.
This Review In Summary
The Irish Pagan School is more than just an educational institution; it’s a vibrant community dedicated to preserving, exploring, and teaching the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of Ireland.
With a focus on authenticity, scholarship, and an inclusive community spirit, it offers a unique and deeply enriching experience for anyone looking to connect with the true essence of Irish heritage and paganism.
(I have chosen not to publish my name with this review, due to personal privacy concerns, but if you have any doubts about the authenticity you can check for the reviews on their Facebook Page, or just ask around in groups or at events to find a current student!)
