Thaindian News

London, Jun 18 (ANI): Banned from using a social club for their Annual Witches Ball by church leaders, a group of witches are now claiming religious discrimination.

Sandra Davis, 61, High Priestess at the Crystal Cauldron, had reserved Our Lady’s Social Club in Shaw Heath, Stockport, for her Pagan group’s use for 175 pounds.

But when she called up to make payment arrangements, for the ball planned for October, she was told the event could not be held there, despite already having printed tickets.

The Diocese of Shrewsbury has since confirmed witches are not ‘compatible with the Catholic ethos’.

“I’m appalled,” the Telegraph quoted Davis as saying.

“My congregation is shocked that in this day and age there can be such religious discrimination.

“We’re normal people who follow an earth-based religion and want to enjoy ourselves.

“We thought we were bridging the gap with other religions but misconceptions still exist, like we sacrifice animals.

“Does the church check everyone’s beliefs before allowing them in the club?

“Now we need another venue for at least 100 people with a stage for entertainment.

“At this point that’s going to be very difficult,” she said.

But the Reverend John Joyce, from the Diocese of Shrewsbury, said that there was no way the event could go ahead.

“Parish centres under our auspices let their premises on the understanding users and their organisations are compatible with the ethos and teachings of the Catholic Church,” he said.

“In this instance, we aren’t satisfied such requirements are met,” he added. (ANI)