Questions and Answers
Below are questions and answers that will better explain what Gaol Naofa is about.
How is Gaol Naofa organized?
Gaol Naofa was founded by Tomás Flannabhra, but is as of August 2009 currently administered by Treasa Ní Chonchobhair with the assistance of volunteers who willingly commit their time, energy, and money to sustaining and advancing the organization. The organization supports and interacts with its members both on an individual basis and through local groups.
Do I/we need to be of Gaelic descent to join Gaol Naofa or participate in Fálachus?
Questions of ethnicity or cultural heritage are not included on the membership application and are irrelevant to the membership process altogether. While we maintain that Fálachus is an ethnic tradition rooted in the culture, worldview, values, and character of the Gaelic peoples, we believe only a sincere commitment to Gaelic culture and worldview, and to honor the dé ocus an-dé (“gods and un-gods”) is necessary as a prerequisite to participate in Fálachus.
Do I need to speak a Gaelic language?
Language is the medium through which a culture is expressed and understood, so any serious endeavor to reconstruct and understand the Gaelic cultural traditions should include the study of a Gaelic language. And as Gaol Naofa considers itself not only a spiritual organization but a cultural one as well, dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage, we encourage the study, learning, and use of Gaelic languages as the languages are an intrinsic and vital aspect of our culture, and it is an imperative that it be preserved. However, this is not a prerequisite.
Are you Republicans or Nationalists?
Gaol Naofa does not dictate its members’ political ideology, nor does it promote or associate itself with any political party, ideology, or faction; in short, Gaol Naofa is an apolitical organization.
Do you ordain clergy?
Gaol Naofa does not ordain clergy. The idea has been entertained as something to perhaps think about in the future once the organization has further developed, but only briefly. At this time, neither Gaol Naofa nor Gaelic Polytheism really have the numbers or communities to actually support a clerical class.
Do you host public rituals or other events?
Members are allowed to host public events (rituals, workshops, etc.) under the banner of Gaol Naofa, but after first contacting the administrator with a full detailed description of the event and receiving approval to do so. For more information, please inquire at gaol.naofa (AT) gmail.com.
Are you 501(c)(3) certified?
Not at the moment.