Pandora's Kharis is a movement which arose from within the Hellenistic Polytheistic community, and sponsored by Hellenistic Polytheistic organization Elaion. Its goal is to come together as Hellenists--followers of the ancient Hellenic (Greek) Gods--and collect funds monthly to support a worthy cause, decided upon by vote from the members of the group. Donations will be collected throughout the month and provided to the organization on the Noumenia; the religious beginning of the new month, which coincides with the return of the moon after it's just gone through its dark phase. It is a time of hope and promise, and Pandora's remaining gift after the amphora was opened was exactly that. As such, she has been elected to represent what we stand for: to keep an open eye of wonder towards the world, to see the good in it, and to offer hope to those in need.
'Kharis' is an ancient Hellenic word, meaning 'grace', 'pardon', or 'charm'. It refers to the grace of the THEOS (God) Zeus as characterized by his three daughters Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thaleia. KHARIS is the causal element in making something KALON (Good), ORAION (Beautiful) or pleasant. The KHARITĂS simultaneously refers to the 'gifts' of humans and the granting of pardon from a higher authority due to 'love' of the object for the subject. When KHARIS is received it is generally an act which produces a feeling of joy and well-being." [From: The English Lexicon of Standard Terminology for Hellenismos]
Elaion is a religious organization committed to re-establishing the ancient Hellenic religion (known as Dodekatheism, Hellenic Reconstructionism, Hellenismos) to its rightful place in society. Our motto enshrines the values of "piety, tradition and virtue/excellence" as key principles of the organization. We seek to be pious and honorable in our thoughts and actions and virtuous in our relationships with mortals and immortals as we strive for excellence in keeping with traditional Hellenic polytheistic practices.
Elaion is an organisation with a proactive remit and emphasis on traditional ethics and values. The Hellenic revival in the West is growing, and worshippers need organisational support to establish worship groups, connect with other like-minded individuals, and gain greater fulfilment in their spiritual lives.
Our discussion forum is on Facebook and can be found here. The goup is closed to insure the privacy of group members; pitches of worthy causes can get quite personal, and discussions can land on the financial; both of which, Elaion's admins would like to facilitate a safe discussion of.
