On Friday 20 June, Sjamanistisk Forbund and Holistisk Forbund invite you to Ur-troens dag at Eidsvolls plass in Oslo. The event is a celebration of nature-based spirituality and diverse spiritual traditions. We have spoken with Christoffer S. Eid, chair of the board of Sjamanistisk Forbund, about the background for the day, the collaboration with Holistisk Forbund - and why it is important that everyone who feels a sense of belonging to ancestral faith and nature spirituality shows up on this day.
What is Ur-troens dag, and why are you organizing it?
- Ur-troens dag is an event where we honor the connection to nature, the ancient traditions, and our spiritual roots. It is a day for everyone who feels at home in nature-based spirituality - whether you are a shaman, witch, heathen, pagan, or simply curious about the magic of nature. We want to show that nature-spiritual traditions are a living and important part of Norwegian society, says Eid.
What happens during the event?
- We gather at Eidsvolls plass from 12:00 to 16:00. There will be speeches from representatives of various nature-spiritual directions, including myself, Tittin Foss-Haneborg, and Hege Gideonsen from Norsk Spiritualistisk Trossamfunn. The day culminates in a large drum ceremony, where we encourage everyone to bring their own drums, rattles, or other rhythm instruments. Together we create a community in rhythm and sound, and celebrate our shared cultural heritage. Imagine how beautiful it could be with up to 1,000 drums at once!
What do Sjamanistisk Forbund and Holistisk Forbund have in common?
- We have a lot in common! Both associations work to promote openness, respect, and diversity within belief systems. We share the belief that human beings are part of nature, and that spirituality can be expressed in many ways - without fixed dogmas. Personal freedom, community, and respect for different traditions are central to us both. That is why it is entirely natural that we are now collaborating on Ur-troens dag, says Eid.
Holistisk Forbund has long been an inspiration to us when it comes to building bridges between different belief systems and promoting a more holistic approach to spirituality and worldview. Together we want to create an inclusive space for everyone who seeks a more nature-based and holistic approach to belief.
The importance of meeting - and why everyone should take part
Why is it important that everyone who practices ancestral faith, nature faith, or related spirituality shows up on this day?
- Those of us who belong to ancestral faith, nature faith, and related traditions are still marginalized in society compared to many other faith communities. Ur-troens dag is an occasion to show that we are many, that we have a place in Norwegian society, and that our spiritual heritage is valuable. Standing together, showing ourselves, and celebrating our diversity gives strength both to individuals and to the community. We hope that as many as possible will come - and gladly bring a drum or rhythm instrument. The more of us there are, the stronger the pulse and the sense of community becomes!
What would you like to say to those who are considering taking part?
- This is a day to celebrate the diversity of our traditions and the strength of our shared faith. Feel free to dress in ceremonial clothing or something that expresses your connection to nature. Drum as you are - together we create magic! We hope to see you at Eidsvolls plass on 20 June!
Facts:
Ur-troens dag
Eidsvolls plass, Oslo
Friday 20 June, 12:00-16:00
Organizers: Sjamanistisk Forbund and Holistisk Forbund
The event is open to everyone. Bring a drum, rattle, or rhythm instrument and join the celebration!
