A question of etiquette

[brokensymmetry]

I know a few practicing pagans/heathens - good people, all -
and I'd like to cultivate more friendships among those in
the community.

Sounds simple, doesn't it? But my problem is, my belief
system is Christian and I'm not sure of the best forms of
etiquette on my part. Not, I hasten to add, that I advocate
what others should believe. Nor do I think my views are the
only path. I couldn't (and wouldn't) quote bible verses
to anyone.

If I joined others at a solstice gathering, and they decided
to drink toasts to the Gods - should I just keep quiet, mumble
praise of Freja, or...what?

Please understand that I'm pretty ignorant on the subject, and
I'm asking to learn.

[hvn_nbr_2]

1. Depends on several things

If I joined others at a solstice gathering...

What to do depends on several things such as your motivation, the group you're with and their attitudes, what they do, etc.

One thing NOT to do is say things you don't believe (mumble praise of Freja) to try to fit in. Unless it's a very homogeneous group, there will probably be some there who have widely varying beliefs, pantheons, and so on, and they'll likely be accustomed to having others present who don't as pay much attention to Freja or Quetzcoatl or Athena or whoever as they do.

Probably the best people to ask your questions of are the people you'll be with. Let them know that you don't share some of their beliefs but want to participate in a respectful way, or if you're going with friends who already understand, let them introduce you to the others on those terms. Tell them why you're there--is it curiosity to learn about other approaches, is it sociable to be with friends who happen to be pagan, is it to participate in a seasonal celebration even though it's more (or differently) religious to them than it is to you, or whatever? If they know what you're thinking and you just quietly decline to do or say something because it doesn't fit for you, that will likely be just fine with everyone, especially when they know where you're coming from. Pagans are accustomed to having lots of different people with lots of different views, practices, and beliefs.

[brokensymmetry]

2. That sounds like good advice...

As you suggest, it would be partly to be with my pagan friends - and partly for the celebration.

I guess I didn't use the best phrase when I said "mumble praise of Freja". The mumbling would not
be insincere - rather, it would be due to the internal conflicts of involving myself in two
different belief systems. But you're probably right there, too. It's likely best not to
be half-hearted about such things.

Thank you for your thoughts.

[icymist]

3. Indeed. Take the words of hvn_nbr_2 to heart, they are true.

I can only simply add, if you are at a Pagan gathering and genuine magick is occurring, ... Watch. Listen. Hear your experience. Trust your inner instincts. That's the most I can add.

[Marrah_G]

4. Speak to the High Priestess

Be respectful and frank as you have been here. She would know more then anyone what would be appropriate within her group. This will also show that you genuinely care about not upsetting the balance and energy within Her circle.