The New Jediism Order is a Jedi Church with a small community of members of the Jedi religion (also known as 'Jediism'), founded in 2011 following the establishment of a Council.
Based on the teachings of the fictional Jedi found in the 'Star Wars' saga, this church of Jediism works as a totally open and free community welcoming people from all walks of life.
The New Jediism Order is a church of Jediism that was founded on October 17th, 2011 by Baral Fobre. A council of followers of the Jedi faith was established, elected by the community to take care of administration and the day-to-day running of the NJO.
We currently have a number of council members and volunteer staff members covering the following areas:
- Grand Master, Founder (Baral Fobre)
- Secretary
- Financial and Legal
- Public Relations
- Aims, Ethics & Spirituality (Morten Bay)
- Member Forum Management (Allan Davies)
- Training
- Mentor (David Taylor)
- Recruitment
Although not a 'Star Wars' fanclub, the New Jediism Order does take influence directly from the source of the Jedi Religion: the fictional Jedi Knights in 'Star Was'. It is a known fact that George Lucas researched a number of different religions when writing about the Jedi in his books and films, using Star Wars as a way of promoting the teachings of Joseph Campbell and Buddhism. It is this inspiration that the New Jediism Order use to form its body of beliefs and the Jediism study courses on offer here.
There are also many other Jediism organisations and Jedi churches that exist across the world, however the New Jediism Order is the only one that takes direct influence from the teachings of Star Wars and applies them using free Jediism study courses. The NJO works on an open, free-thinking and non-discriminatory basis with freedom and security as the main traits of our online community.
And no, we do not believe Star Wars is real.
Here are the New Jediism Order's belief on some common topics raised when researching the teachings of the New Jediism Order. If after reading the website you still have unanswered questions, feel free to contact us using the form on the 'contact' page or sign up to our forums and ask fellow members.
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- Illegal/Psychedelic Drugs
- Capital Punishment
- Abortion
- Homosexuality
- Pre-Marital Sex
- Corporal Punishment
- Tattoos
- Medical Practices
Illegal/Psychedelic Drugs
Non-medicinal drugs more often than not have a harmful effect on one's body. Social drugs such as marijuana and cocaine are made appealing by drug dealers, peer pressure and personal downfall, but it is important to take in to account the consequences of taking illegal substances.
Although the judgement of the authority is not always correct, it does usually represent the view of professionals, those who have dedicated their lives to researching the effects of taking drugs. Thus it is clear that although the effects of some drugs, namely marijuana, are questionable in comparison to alcohol and tobacco, their addictive qualities and long-term effects on the body and the all too often overlooked mind are clearly negative.
Under no circumstances should a member of the New Jediism Order knowingly consume an illegal drug. However small the dose, however supposedly "ineffective" the amount taken was, those who fall victim to drug abuse and thus addiction must cease their actions and put themselves on the right track before continuing on any course or involvement with the New Jediism Order.
It is the duty of both NJO staff and its members to ensure illegal drugs are never used in the organisation, their use is frowned upon and any members who are suffering from drug-related problems are helped.
The New Jediism Order will never refuse to help any individual who desires and deserves it. Use of illegal drugs is frowned upon within the New Jediism Order and no member must be allowed to join staff, take part in any services and gatherings or study any course whilst under the influence or possession of illegal drugs.
Capital Punishment
Although the New Jediism Order does not and will not become involved in political matters, some issues require a religious stance in order to provide hope, support and guidance for families and individuals affected by such political matters.
Complete abolition of the death penalty did not occur in most Western countries until the late 20th century, however its effectiveness and ethical standing have been questioned since as early as 747AD, when it was banned in China for several years.
Although the killing of a human should not be wanted, promoted or even considered, there are extreme cases such as that of extreme mass murderers, in which a large number of lives have been lost as the result of actions of an individual or a small group of individuals, where capital punishment may be seen as acceptable.
It is the belief of the New Jediism Order that anyone can be helped, and will be helped, by our courses and services, should they be willing. However, it is ultimately up to individual cases as to whether capital punishment is right or wrong.
Abortion
Abortion is a topic that is highly sensitive for many and indeed questionable in terms of its ethics. Ultimately the New Jediism Order does not take a stance on the topic, however it is the duty of any NJO official to ensure those in difficult situations take in to account both the positives and negatives of each possible route. The decision should be made by the individual - it is their choice and their life that will be affected, though no part of the process should be overlooked.
In some cases, abortion may be best for both the mother and the child, such as due to a medical condition resulting in the death of either person or extreme poverty leading to a poor quality of life for both involved. However choosing to give birth may be best if it is needed in order to develop one's maturity and responsibility levels or if it will result in the greatest good for the greatest number of people involved.
The NJO should support those considering abortion to make a rational, logical decision of their own accord - individuals have the right to make their own choice, but we should of course do our best to make sure that the mother has considered all of the short term and long term consequences of all actions available before making a decision.
Homosexuality
The New Jediism Order does not and will never discriminate on the basis of sexuality. Those who are attracted to others of the same sex are no different to those who are attracted to people of the opposite sex.
Homosexuality has been increasingly accepted in society since the early 20th century and there is no reason why a member of the NJO should be frowned upon due to their sexuality.
Pre-marital Sex
It is our natural curiosities that lead to uncontrollable sexual tension and in some cases actions when growing up. Engaging in sexual activities is part of the process of becoming an adult, and although should not be frowned upon, should only occur between those involved in a relationship. Promiscuity is not accepted within the NJO as sex should be a sign of love and affection, not a casual act with no meaning or passion behind it.
Corporal Punishment
There is a fine line between corporal punishment and abuse, especially when in the case of children and parenting. Many children have been brought up perfectly well without the use of corporal punishment by their parents, however some have shown a need or even desire to suffer pain in order to be told what is right and wrong.
The use of punishment in the form of physical discipline should, if it is needed, be limited to ensure abuse does not occur in the family. No marks or bruises should be left on the child and other methods of taking disciplinary action should be used prior to corporal punishment.
If a parent is finding it hard to control their child(ren) or raise them to differentiate their good from bad actions, this is not the fault of the child and parenting guidance should be sought; a child is only what its parent makes of it.
Tattoos
As with any life-changing decision, it is ultimately up to the individual to make a choice and the New Jediism Order only offers guidance in the form of making sure individuals consider all of the positive and negative effects from taking all possible courses of action prior to making a decision.
Medical Practices
The NJO and its staff are not medical professionals or doctors and thus cannot and do not give medical advice, however it is believed meditation can cure the majority of illnesses from headaches to broken limbs, there are cases to prove its usefulness in any form of injury or illness. Medication should only be taken if it is absolutely necessary; if one is suffering from severe pain or their life is dependent on a medical drug, the NJO would not frown upon its use.
If someone is suffering from a serious illness, they should seek medical advice from a professional and take action based on their judgement.
Communities - We're not alone!
Many other Jediism organisations and Jedi Churches exist across the internet. Most of the major ones are listed below:
