The College Fix reports the spell was provided by Adrienne Brown who claims she is a "mixed-race black, queer, American writer, community organizer, facilitator, goddess and a witch.”
Christian commentator and author Janice Crouse says the recitation was wholly inappropriate.
“The Bible specifically forbids going to the spirit world. These are things that are not a part of a Christian's life. It's condemned. It's very clearly condemned."
One of the student participants says the recitation from Brown's "Radical Gratitude Spell" took on an "undeniable coven-like feeling," according to The Fix.
According to Brown, the “spell” is to be cast upon meeting a stranger, comrade or friend who is working for social and/or environmental justice and liberation.
Influence of church wanes
Crouse says this orientation exercise is revealing.
“It gives us some indication of one of the reasons why our churches are less influential than they used to be."
The Fix reports students were not informed about Brown's work and her pagan beliefs before participating in the reading.
At least one student felt pressured to participate in the recitation of the spell fearing the risk of social stigma had they chosen to opt out, The Fix reports.
