This is your chance to make a difference...and even to make history.
My name is Steve McNallen, head of the Asatru Folk Assembly, or AFA. For twenty years our organization has promoted and practiced the native European religion known as Asatru (some call it Odinism or Heathenry). In all this time, we have never had a substantial building to serve as our place of worship, or as our community center. We have gathered in nature, or rented facilities, but we never had a place we could call our own. Recently we found the perfect place! It is an old Grange Hall on about two acres, surrounded by trees, in good condition - and for a real bargain price! Now, trusting in our own hard work, the blessings of the Holy Powers, and your help, we are buying it!
This has been our goal for many years, and we are excited to think it can become a reality - but, more than that, this is a historic event. There has been no temple, shrine, or other structure like this in almost a thousand years...It is a hallmark in the revival of our indigenous European faith!
We need $74, 800 to make this dream a reality: $66,000 to cover the down payment, $6,200 for essential repairs, $1,400 for furniture, and $1,200 for permits and fees. (Neither staff nor anyone associated with this campaign is receiving any of the funds collected.) With this we can purchase the property, finish some repair jobs, and tidy it up for occupation. Eventually, we can make this sweet old building not only functional but beautiful, surrounded by gentle gardens and graceful works of art. It will be a place for the holy rites of our religion, of course, but it will also be a community center, meeting place, and event venue - serving not only our congregation, but the needs of the small town in which it is located as well.
In a world where so many of us are rootless and disconnected, a world where native spiritual paths - especially those of Europe - are struggling to survive, this building and its associated grounds are a permanent reminder of our traditions and our spirit. With this single decisive stroke we are restoring our ancient ways for all the world to see...and YOU can be a part of it! Please donate today, and tell all your friends about us!
Sincerely,
Stephen A. McNallen
PS - To honor your generosity and show our thanks, we have put together a number of gifts in return for your donations. They start with a simple thanks, and escalate to include an array of certificates, T shirts, brass plaques of honor, VIP guest packages at our events, and even elegant Viking drinking horns!
