What is Hyperborean Demos?

Hyperborean Demos is a Minnesota chapter of Hellenion, a US-based religious organization dedicated to the revival and practice of Hellenic polytheism (Hellenismos). We are a group who honor the ancient Greek deities, including the Olympians, underworld (chthonic) gods, nature spirits, and heroes/heroines. Our group does not have any hierarchal clergy. While Hellenion is a reconstructionist organization, regulars to Hyperborean Demos run the gamut from Hellenic Reconstructionists to eclectic Neopagans with Hellenic focus. All who want to celebrate the Hellenic deities are welcome.

The name of our local chapter, "Hyperborean," is a reference to a Greek mythological people living in the far north, "beyond the Boreas (north wind)," who played host to the god Apollon in wintertime. Seeing as Hyperborean Demos is in Minne-snow-ta, well, it seemed like a fitting name.

There are many wonderful pages on the internet with general information on both ancient Greek religion and modern Hellenic Paganism. An absolutely excellent guide to Greek mythology can be found at the Theoi Project. Wikipedia's entry on Hellenic Neopaganism is an excellent and straightforward overview of modern Hellenic Pagan revivals. Perhaps the best way to see what all is out there may be to catch a wave on a web ring and just start surfing!

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