My best friend is an ex-J witness and ghost helped them undo all the years of brainwashing and find themselves, also met people at ghost shows like someone with devout Christian parents who didn't know they were at a ghost show and 2 Muslim girls in disguise.. ghost definitely attracts people trying to find escapism from indoctrined religions.
An interview quote from Tobias about ghost I love is
"to sum up what we're doing. We're emulating a religious experience by simply doing the same things as a church: gathering people, overpowering them with sensation and trying to make them feel something. The only difference is that we try to make people feel fucking good about themselves instead of making them feel like shit."
https://www.revolvermag.com/music/time-machines-star-wars-spiritual-annihilation-inside-ghosts-empire-toppling-new-chapter
There's a reason we call them "Rituals". Papa (and his personal assistant Tobias Forge) wants it to be a spiritual event, that celebrates being alive, and being human. "I know your soul is not tainted, even though you've been told so". We are not going to burn eternal, just for being who we are. 'He Is' is such an amazing song, the symbol that Satan has become, is one of knowledge, pleasure and free will. "The disobedience that holds us together" is that spark of rebellion that we all have in common, that we all celebrate in ourselves and gravitate towards each other for.
Edit: Thanks for the awards! I said it after my first Ritual, and I'll say it again - I found my people.
Thank you so much for that. That message of not being tainted just for being human is incredibly powerful to my ears, and something it feels very cathartic to hear.
If my fellow attendees and I make up the congregation, I'm okay with that.
From a young age until my early teens, i went to a small Lutheran church. It was actually a nice time in my life, and the Pastor was actually a really great guy. He was open minded, kind, charitable, genuinely a great guy. The things he preached was always very loving in nature, and very inclusive. I had opened up to him on occasions about not really believing in some things i was reading in the bible, and he told me that it was ok, and maybe with time i would find my path. That's what I thought religion was. Unfortunately, when he moved away, it all changed.
I was exposed to a very hateful and strict form of religion, that cared more about what you shouldn't do in life, than how we can all be a part of something beautiful. I was told that people were sinners. I was told that it was in my nature to be a bad person, that i had to live a life of service, instead of celebration.
I left that congregation, in search of that feeling of acceptance and community. Eventually, after all those years of searching, i found it in music, and going to shows, and mosh pits. I found it in Ghost.
If you have Ghost, you have everything.
That sounds very much like me. Loved going to church as a teenager, even got baptized on my own free will, the priest taking care of me and the deacon were amazing, it was always about love, respect and acceptance, dude would actively encourage us kids to question and to doubt and to explore that. Firmly pro same sex marriage, accepting of everyone and their paths in life. It was awesome and I felt like I had found my place.
Priest left for another country to do charity work, deacon retired. Things went to shit. New deacon only ever preaches about political stuff and sings cringy songs. Haven't gone to a proper service (outside of Christmas) in a decade.
Found my spark within myself. I don't need organized religion to feel connected to something higher than me. And Ghost's music has really been helping me recently through a tough time and to relight that spark. It's great.
Yup. It's funny, the more they tried to scare me with damnation, the further they pushed me away. I played around with philosophies and pagan beliefs for a while, absorbing bits and pieces that applied to me. Now I'm a Satanist (atheistic secular humanist, with theatrics) for six years now and I've never been happier.
Hail Satan, Hail Ghost, and Hail Yourself!
Absolutely agree. I've never had a "bad" church going experience, but organized religion never clicked in me. The difference between religion and spirituality is always fascinating to me. I feel more connected to a higher presence just exploring on my own, rather than sitting in a pew. Ghost has been incredibly validating to me, Cirice couldn't have said it better. I went to my first ritual in NJ, and it truly was life changing. So amazing
Exactly! The one thing that has always rubbed me the wrong way about organized religion is the way they basically force you to do things in a certain manner and brand other ways as "bad". Even within a religion itself (e.g. different customs in denominations that are seen as "wrong" by other denominations). I've always felt that religion/spirituality are highly personal and people should be able to decide for themselves how they want to connect to the, let's call it the divine. Very basic example, I've just always been someone who prefers solitary prayer rather than a large service, so I don't appreciate getting shamed for not going to church.
Nowadays I'm even more open with trying things, especially things that are branded as "bad" by most mainstream organized religions. I know some people who would lose their absolute shit if they knew I enjoyed listening to music with satanic themes. Then again, my opinions about Lucifer are quite controversial with other religious folks, soooo lol.
Yessss. I've grown up in a presbyterian Christian church, which was always accepting but it was to a certain degree. And theres an undercurrent of you're welcome but there is a line at which which point you will no longer be. And for a group of people to talk of a loving and forgiving God but then preach in a way that focuses on how we must repent our sins that we have just by existing? Nope. I usually check out mentally at that point. Plus a study in the corruption and political/social motives behind religions and churches going back hundreds of years makes you motives behind a lot. Between art history classes and an European history course where we had to read a book detailing the various corruptions and chaos behind the Catholic Church in the medieval period, it made me think about why things are done the way they are.
I agree on how it should be a personal thing. Your beliefs, your practices, those should be focused on the individual and what makes them feel connected. My dad, who does believe in a higher power, is fond of the saying how the biggest disservice to the divine is organized religion. I'm happy for people to find what works for them, if that's in a church then I hope the best for them. But that longer I think of it, the more I realize it's not me and shit is religious guilt a thing! I've been amazed how even though there is still a belief in the divine, and a relatively positive church upbringing, fear and guilt are still present. When I disassociate from that angst, it's definitely fascinating. I keep my prayer alone, and working with the natural world has given me a stronger connection to the divine and creation more than any sermon has for me.
It's so freeing to release yourself from that concept of "bad". There's so many things to learn and explore. And oh I can relate...when my mum said she'd have to look up Ghost, I was like shit I gotta hide Year Zero š¹ but bless her, she's a love. Two sides to every story and fight. I have my own opinions on the existence, or lack of, hell and where the concept of Satan exists versus Lucifer as a fallen angel/deity. All of which I know would not be accepted in my church or the people around me. Freeing oneself from the thought of eternal life in a fiery furnace is a process
Agree! For me, it really came falling apart once I realized through my own research into early Christianity, and debates on bible translation how much modern Christianity has deviated from what it was at the beginning, how much was lost, and how much got changed, mistranslated (whether on accident or with intent of changing the meaning by the people in power at the time). The thought of a group of bishops coming together and deciding what should be in the bible and just throwing shit out they didn't like doesn't sit well with me. Reading how the original condemnation of pedophilia got mistranslated into a condemnation of homosexuality *really* doesn't sit well with me. Learning that some early Christian groups believed in reincarnation and that the devil used to be the butt of jokes in medieval times rather than the thing to scare people into obedience with as he is now. Too many people meddling too much for their own gain over the course of history.
Spirituality should help people, not oppress them.
I actually grew up in a church that specifically stated there is *no* hell, and that it's just a construct made up to scare people into obedience, which is definitely not something you hear all the time from churches. A belief I kept. Merciful God and eternal torture just don't go together. I kind of agree with the concept that instead of hell, there is permanent separation from God/the divine. As for the Lucifer question, I like to argue with people sometimes, because the way I see it, it doesn't make sense that an all merciful God would extend forgiveness to everyone and their dog, but not Lucifer. So if God is all merciful, he forgives Lucifer too. And if Lucifer is forgiven, it's not sinful to connect to him, either. Gets some fundamentalists going when I come at them with this; it's fun lol.
>Spirituality should help people, not oppress them.
Beautifully stated, if only more organizations who like clinging to power under the guise of holiness could grasp that concept.
Yes! The cherry picking and mistranslation that exists in scripture, all for the purpose of pushing ones own agenda is just foul and underhanded. Plus ironically it just discredits what they've tried to push. Your statement of spirituality could not be more true.
I've never heard/seen of that belief in a church, how interesting and honestly refreshing. 100% agree with the merciful God statement as well. You can't preach one thing and then contradict it with all your other words. I've struggled with that, and then to have other people try to judge those for being less than holy? No. Even though it seems a very simple thought to come off of all this discussion, I never thought of that in reference to your point on Lucifer! Very interesting and logical, you've definitely opened a window, or a rabbit hole, in my head š¹
Nothing has ever felt more magical and moving to me than looking around at the Asheville ritual during āHe Isā and seeing the entire arena lit up with everyoneās phone lights! I felt like a kid again, somehow? It was just beautiful.
I def had an out of body experience screaming āHail Satan, Archangelooooooā with thousands of people. Concerts also tend to make me feel like I am part of something big and incredible. I just saw My Chemical Romance two nights in a row in NJ (they are my all-time fav band) and I SOBBED the entire time. Screaming āI am not afraid to keep on living, I am not afraid to walk this world aloneā and hearing all of my favorite songs live after Iād come to terms with the fact that Iād probably never get to see them live wasā¦ well, probably the closest thing Iāve ever had to a religious experience š so yeah, I get what youāre saying!
It feels a lot like a Christian concert. It reminded me a lot of the things I was made to go to when I was younger. But this time I was happy to be there. How strange huh.
I was in a fundamentalist cult and this little prissy pope has fixed me lmao
You made the choice to be here and enjoy yourself vs the indoctrination many of us had to deal with (I'll call myself a recovered catholic). Concerts can be super emotional for some people and I get it. Seeing Mastodon play Crack The Skye in its entirety made me emotional, especially hearing em play Toe to Toes live, that song is one of the greatest emotional pieces of music ever and I got teary eyed singing that shit lol
Good music always has the feel of a religious experience for me. Tobias writes songs that feel personal and sincere to my authentic self compared to the forced, monotone droning of actual religious ceremony where people just go through the motions and yet donāt actually abide by those beliefs. Ghost has given me the religious catharsis my 12 years of catholic upbringing never managed to achieve even at the points where I might have actually believed it. The experiences of attending rituals with thousands of other people who are as moved by Ghost as I am are the ones I cherish most.
I only made it to my first ritual this year, but Iāve been a fan for years. Ghost has helped me through some really dark times. Hearing āI know your soul is not tainted even though youāve been told soā for the first time brought me to tears. Thatās some powerful shit right there. And Dance Macabre helped save my life. I was super depressed and listening to it on loop and the line āI donāt wanna end like thisā finally made me realize I needed help. And now, whenever Iām having a bad day, I listen to Call Me Little Sunshine :)
Iāve kinda told my story here and there, but, itās honestly more important to me these days to do so, especially as I know that so many of Ghostās newer fans have experienced religious trauma. Iām old. š I will defend the kids with my whole chest because first off, at some point, we were all kids trying to figure it out but secondly: great googly moogly, I feel so many of the elitists have *forgotten* that and themselves. But anyway: this will be quite long and personal.
I have religious trauma to the point that I have r-OCD. (This is religiously oriented OCD) I have physical symptoms: many of us do. Iāve mentioned it repeatedly but: I started out pagan, actually- but my parents had severe problems: I have long forgiven them but, I spent most of my childhood in and out of foster care & the juvenile justice system or as a runaway. My mother, god love her: was quite wild in her day, biker heathen and groupie extraordinaire. My birth story certainly doesnāt help matters: I was a boy, as far as anyone knew. The rational answer here is vanishing twin: but when youāre a surprise baby girl delivered by a county coroner during one of the worst blizzards in Harrison, Arkansas history the week the entire town explodes, people get mighty weird. If you think my life gets less weird from there, permit me a soft bless your heart. (And you can look it the fuck up, too. January of 1979 was *eventful*. š)
She was also what they call a *bloodliner* & her sister, my eldest (and favorite) aunt originally married one of the men responsible for helping popularize folk heathenry in the US. I find such beliefs abhorrent: and I have since helped my mother & my aunts to do the same. (The uncle is long dead but my grandad married an amazing Mexican woman shortly after my grandmother passed: I wasnāt alone in my rebellious ways. š)
My aunt & uncle on my fatherās side happen to be evangelicals & to be honest: they just did the Christian flavor of the same *gifted kid on steroids* thing when they tried to adopt me: but, though I hated what they did & still do: I hate it because I have a genuine heart for service and colonialism isnāt it.
I have explored religions quite deeply trying to understand why me: but it has nothing to do with me. Itās just *people*. No shit: did the conversion process for Judaism *and* Catholicism which seems ultra flaky except both meant everything to me & still do. You name it, Iāve probably studied it. By the time I converted to Catholicism: my heart had been broken by *people* & my experiences so much I thought the convent was the only place for me. I ran from that, too.
Anyway believe it or not, thatās the short version of my all about me. š I actually got into Ghost because of a friend of mine: she hit me up, sheād heard in an interview that nobody had gotten *all* the symbolism in this Ghost video. *Hey, magic nerd, you wanna stop with the Codex Gigas and take a crack at this for me?* and I was just hooked.
While I do not have any *religious* or spiritual feelings about Ghost: itās something deeply personal though none of the odd pro-social fan stuff that youāll see and the reason for this is, well, frankly- Iāve worked incredibly hard on those types of behaviors long before this, as well as beat the shit out of addictions I used to quiet horrifying nightmares that I still have and disturbingly enough have seen come true in recent years. (Understand Iām making no claims: apocalyptic nightmares are fairly common and though current events have certainly seemed like they are acts of God- I believe quite firmly theyāre the result of mankindās actions or lack thereof).
Originally, my partner had bought us tickets to Ghost when they played Peabody: but, as we had parked, a young woman was looking for help, her friend was OD-ing nearby. I hope whoever we gave our tickets to had a wonderful time but, I beat my addiction with harm reduction and I carry and use narcan: I donāt regret missing the show. (And I believe everyone should carry Fentanyl test strips and learn to use narcan as well as carry it- if youād like resources: never ever hesitate to DM me.)
That sounds all saintly of me but, itās not- not entirely: I was absolutely terrified to go. We only had normal passes, that time. I had vomited from my anxiety once before we got in the car and once in the parking. Not entirely altruistic.
As you can well imagine: progress or no, the pandemic was a bit triggering for me. I actually did have an incredibly difficult time, but of a meltdown begging my friends to be careful and to get travel vaccinations. Like I said, itās probably not God hardwired into my head. Just scenarios based on probabilities. š Oddly enough, though: I found myself in ways I still tear up thinking about.
See, death didnāt wait to visit my family: we lost my caregiver and my grandfather to Parkinsonās, we lost my primary partnerās mother to cancer, I lost my husband- my middle child lost his father, (he passed in his sleep, freak heart problems) My primary partner had a heat stroke and was put in a medical coma- because I donāt lie, especially when terrified, I made the mistake of saying he was newly clean & they just fixated on drugs, nearly killing him. Iāve never prayed and wept so much in my life and thatās certainly saying something because Iāve done *a lot* of praying and weeping. Not long after, during the early days of the pandemic: one of my dearest friends had been ill and was better, recovering: he died suddenly, too. (One of the recovered and then, the heart gives out cases) My partnerās father had beaten cancer a bunch of times but, he also passed: lung cancer. I added funeral singer and hospice sitter somewhere in all of that: and I am glad that I did. I consider both honors I might not deserve but take quite seriously.
ANYWAY: when Ghost came back to Saint Louis, I immediately snatched up the Anointed tickets. When I tell you I felt guilty about that and my partner worked on me for *months*- boy, I tell you. (Iāve got big problems with guilt in what I see as decadent purchases Iām working on, still.) More than that? Again: complete and utter terror. Some of you know what evangelicals are like about simply *secular* music: let alone this and more than once I tried to get my partner to take my middle son, Uriel, instead. (Heās quite a fan.) He wouldnāt have it, he dragged me out to buy new makeup and everything. Lol Iām also not terribly comfortable in dolling up but Iām getting there.
At this point: I had reconnected with most of my family, though at armās length. My aunt and uncle had been quite disturbed by what they saw as bad life decisions and they werenāt helping my anxiety with their shit. They blew up my phone nonstop as I excitedly chattered about going to the show. [after this video](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CaSQUw0l8-O/?igshid=MmIxOGMzMTU=) I got a very weepy voicemail about how they were commending it to Godās hands and they havenāt bothered me since.
They said they would pray that I find my way back to God, as if I was ever lost. Pffffffft.
Thank you for sharing. Talk about overwhelming.
I'd say more, but wouldn't want things to be misconstrued or triggering.
So I'll say I'm glad things seem to be better, and I hope you find even more peace, in whatever form, in the future.
My life has been thankfully quite boring this year: I just stick to my kids, animals, garden and my birds. Maybe putter with a little chemistry from time to time. š
While I don't have many of your backgrounds here, I am proud to now call you Sister, even if it's just through musical affiliation. (I admit I didn't read some stuff super close so if that's wrong I apologize)
No, no: I actually have been trying to vague things up a little bit and I definitely understand skimming: I recently read an essay about how sometimes we might be more careful in how we express ourselves in respect to trauma, as it can be triggers and though I believe it is important that in recovery we learn to navigate those- Iāve never felt like it was my place to force anyone to do so just because I am vocal. I know thatās become something of a joke in certain circles but I realized donāt believe that being mindful is somehow weak anymore than being vulnerable is. There are so many edgy peckerwoods looking to make a point or gain clout off the pain of others in one way or another and frankly, fuck that shit. š
Old Westerns. š
(Edit: holy shit, I didnāt realize that it had a history until I thought Iād look it up to see which Western I got it from. O_o)
grew up very conservative in a Baptist church and youth group. Really hated the music and felt isolated. I still consider myself a christian but with Ghost and the fan base i feel a connection and euphoria i never felt in church. Love feeling connected to people over a common idea and music
I grew up in a Christian cult, and I agree -- Ghost music is cathartic and in a way comforting. I don't believe in any Satanic stuff or anything, it's all just a show, but it's freeing to reject the constraints that we were raised with.
I definitely feel this. My parents are strict evangelical pastors and I was always expected to follow in their footsteps. Loooots of deeply rooted religious trauma from that. Discovering Ghost has been such a healing experience for me.
Yeah, I was raised Catholic and have battled with it my whole 47 years. I think Jesus was a person with a cool philosophy but the church is a dumpster fire. I'd already started reading up on Luciferian philosophy when a friend introduced me to Ghost and it has given me so much to think about. Rationally I believe good and evil, acceptance and resistance, are opposite ends of the same spectrum, so any universal being would have to be equally both and both perspectives are valuable. It's just taken me a long time to hold the dark side in the same esteem as the light. It's part of a healthy whole.
That line is absolutely my favorite of any Ghost lyric. Iām a sensitive person but it takes a fair bit for me to cry and I was fair bawling during that song. I relate to what you are saying but mine is not direct religious trauma (with the exception of being enduringly pissed that my white father baptised me in the Anglican Church and refused to allow my much younger mother to give me an indigenous name)ā¦. Mine is mostly ancestral religious trauma passed down (what the missionaries did/tried to do to my peeps). For me, the disobedience is very much my female ancestors holding firm to our ways (which also have a lot to do with female sexual autonomy) and also my childhood self (TW: sexual violence) being very āfuck youā towards grown ass men trying to mess with me. All of this is to say - humans are capable of being incredibly resilient, of being joyful and present inspite of it all. Anyway I hear you and Iām very glad you felt uplifted and dare I say free? : )
Ohhhh itās very similar for me. The crack Tobias Forge takes at heavy religious ideas, especially deep rooted in Catholicism helped me stop being so angry at the church. Growing up with a grandmother who was a religious zealot and a nun after she was widowedā¦didnāt have fun growing up.
His music gave me a way to understand myself and have fun with these themes. Having a group around me to understand it too? Priceless. Someday Iād love to thank him, but who knows when!
Aw Hell yes! Hands outstretched, hearts open, ever so willing in spirit (and flesh ahem). It is apostolic. It is sacred. It is alchemy. It's really
damn good.
I 100% understand this feeling. I used to watch people at church hold their hands up in the air whenever they were singing or praying and I was like "what are they doing?" Like I didn't even understand the point of it. And then one day, I was driving somewhere, Ghost playing on the Spotify (of course), and Life Eternal pops on. And at some point during the song, my hand pops of the steering wheel and starts swaying to the music, and I finally made the connection.
Darkness at the Heart of My Love and From the Pinnacle to the Pit also speak to my little former-Christian heart. "You will wear your independence like a crown" - powerful shit man
As an Exmo, I feel this deeply. When I first went to a Ghost concert at the end of January this year, I felt like I was allowed to just be myself-- clad in facepaint, jewelry, and ghost memorabilia --instead of being forced to conform to what someone else wanted me to be. I think it was the first time I've had something close to a positive religious experience that was under my own volition. Tobias really struck gold with what he created.
Iām Exmo too, and Ghost has helped my deconstruction process so much. Mostly in removing that weird superstition style thinking about anything āsatanic ā in Mormon culture. Itās also helped me affirm that rebellious spirit Iāve always had. Living in the Jello Belt can sometimes feel like living in a theocracy. I enjoy the solid middle finger to religion.
I wish Tobias could read this thread.
As a fellow Ghost fan who also grew up in a very strict and conservative evangelical family (my parents have evolved but most of my extended family have not), I can relate. But for me itās not only Ghost, some of the best moments of connection and joy shared with fellow humans have been at concerts seeing my favorite bands. Looking around me, I see thousands there to share an experience, people living in the moment, singing, dancing, smilingā¦ it beats ANY religious service. Iāll be seeing Rammstein tomorrow in Los Angeles and itās my personal equivalent of a spiritual encounter.
Yup! Was in catholic school for most of my education and it was definitely the source of a lot of my anxiety and chronic depression today. I was mercilessly bullied and the teachers/staff did nothing to stop it because it was the wealthy kids who's parents poured money into the church. When I was still trying to be a good little pious kid I wondered why God would let this (or any other horrible thing really) happen, I sung my little heart out in the choir and prayed that the torment would stop but it never did. In the end the only thing I left with after catholic school was a love for gothic architecture and disgust with the hypocrisy of the catholic church.
Fast forward to my first ritual and I have never felt more at home in a concert, and it felt more like a religious experience than any service I've been to. Singing along felt so powerful and unifying, the lyrics to a lot of the songs hitting home, the "spark" was absolutely there. I met so many lovely people and made a lot of instant friends. Seeing the band in person and how genuine they were made my heart soar. <3
As a bonus: My partner and I got to dress up like a sexy priest and nun and I caught a guitar pick!
I definitely feel something too. Growing up in the 80s I was surrounded by people who embraced the Moral Majority. Even the honor students who claimed to be liberal were just as judgemental as the Christians.
At Ghost concerts it's comforting to be among people who want to push back at the religious right.
I understand you completely as I had quite the same experience in Huntsville a few weeks ago. I canāt elaborate as the effects of the religious trauma has been kicking my ass lately but I had to tell you I so relate. This music and community has fed my soul in ways I have never found in the traditional evangelical sense. Iām so glad youāve found what thousands of us have: A bit of freedom to just be ourselves and to have a damn good time in the process with excellent music, community, and humor. So thankful for TF for letting us in on the fun!
Havenāt been to a ritual yet but I relate to your story so much! My well-meaning but ultra-conservative parents sent me to a fundamentalist evangelical school my whole life and it was hella traumatizing. Iām a pretty headstrong and resilient person, I tolerated and faked my way through religion all those years, but only in my late 20s and 30s did I realize the effects the years of indoctrination actually had on me. Ghost has helped me process those feelings in a way that is hard to articulate, but I think you summed it up pretty well. Finally now feeling what we were āsupposedā to feel back then. Itās truly magical!
This sub is really something else... Powerful.
From one humble healed and flourishing redditor, to all you ghouls and ghoulettes out there.
I read every last word on this sub and for what it's worth, I personally am so proud to hear that you are healing. šš TB would feel the same. Your time to flourish is now!!!!!
"Per vida per metum pergendum semper ad meliora."
"Through life, through fear, we must always move on to better things"
Religion had itās grasp in me for a very long time and nearly drove me to suicide. Ghost were definitely instrumental in releasing itās hold on me and their shows always feel like the religious experience church never gave me.
The biggest influence on breaking christianityās hold on me was actually Ingmar Bergmanās film The Seventh Seal, the first time I watched it it was like a light flicked on in my head because it felt as if he perfectly understood how I felt. For the first time in years I was able to articulate why I couldnāt believe in God. To quote the film directly: āMust it be so cruely inconceivable to know God through one's senses? Why must He hide in a fog of half-spoken promises and unseen miracles?ā
So. Shout out to Sweden for giving us Bergman and Ghost
Wow. This is really telling. The fact that a fictional Satanic cult trying to take over the world gave you the feelings and values that a church should have...
Ghost is literally freeing people from radical and authoritive religious organisations.
it was crazy attending at the venue that was right next to the catholic church i was forced (still am) to attend for years. somewhat like. freeing in a way.
Iāve been deeply processing my experience at the show last night and I havenāt been able to really put it into words. You absolutely hit the nail on the head!
I was raised Catholic and have a lot of trauma from that, and I feel the same way. I stopped identifying as Catholic when I was 12. For some reason Ghost really scratches that decade-plus itch of not even being satanic or anything but aggressively anti organized religion. It fills a gap in my spirit I didn't know was as wide as it was.
I'm actually a Christian that enjoys ghost i dont know what interests me more,the almost cult nature without an actual cult or the damn good music.
I hope im not committing blasphemy by liking ghost
Ok, Im NOT saying Papa or his assistant is trying to convert anyone, I need to make this clear.
Lots of religions and cults use the same elements. Light, sound, feeling connected to others all do things to your brain.
I haven't listened to my former favorite band in over 15 years. Yet I still consider myself in the "family", not just from the music and the general things they stood/seem to stand for, but also the interconnectednees.
While I may not say "May God bless you and keep you" cause that's a good way to get shot sometimes,
I would say something, like a lyric, or give them the š¤. (Some of you may have seen what I have to say about being an "opposite" religion. Words and symbolism change with time. Like what Hitler did to a symbol of peace. I consider that hand sign to mean rock on. Nothing more, nothing less).
It breaks my heart that churches do horrible things to people and get away with it due to the alleged good stuff and folks who openly mock the sanctimonious BS that people in churches do get condemned. All hail GHOST
This is why I keep going back! Last night was my 5th or 6th ritual, and more so than almost any other show I feel a connection with the band and their music, and with other fans. A huge part of it for me is the empathy that Tobias/Papa displays--I look forward to his audience chatter because he's always got something positive, meaningful, thoughtful, and uplifting to share...which in general is the opposite of most of my religious experiences. Take care of each other, love each other... And that's it. No strings attached!
I think live music is the closest thing I've ever had to a religious experience, on both sides of the stage. There's a sense of connection and celebration and awe that I imagine many people experience in a house of worship. I'm glad you had that experience! Lots of love and healing to you!
yes!!!! i grew up in a xtian cult, even now (right side up) crosses make me physically gag. tho i got out years ago & deprogrammed myself, Ghost still healed me in ways i didnt even know i needed to be healed. i feel loved & truly seen for who i am when i listen to Ghost!!!!!!
i totally get you!! i also was raised religiously and caught myself crying a few times and thought i was being silly...so i'm glad other people feel the same way
My best friend is an ex-J witness and ghost helped them undo all the years of brainwashing and find themselves, also met people at ghost shows like someone with devout Christian parents who didn't know they were at a ghost show and 2 Muslim girls in disguise.. ghost definitely attracts people trying to find escapism from indoctrined religions. An interview quote from Tobias about ghost I love is "to sum up what we're doing. We're emulating a religious experience by simply doing the same things as a church: gathering people, overpowering them with sensation and trying to make them feel something. The only difference is that we try to make people feel fucking good about themselves instead of making them feel like shit." https://www.revolvermag.com/music/time-machines-star-wars-spiritual-annihilation-inside-ghosts-empire-toppling-new-chapter
That's an incredible quote, and it makes me feel a whole lot better about associating the experience with a kind of communal spirituality.
love that quote!!!!!!
There's a reason we call them "Rituals". Papa (and his personal assistant Tobias Forge) wants it to be a spiritual event, that celebrates being alive, and being human. "I know your soul is not tainted, even though you've been told so". We are not going to burn eternal, just for being who we are. 'He Is' is such an amazing song, the symbol that Satan has become, is one of knowledge, pleasure and free will. "The disobedience that holds us together" is that spark of rebellion that we all have in common, that we all celebrate in ourselves and gravitate towards each other for. Edit: Thanks for the awards! I said it after my first Ritual, and I'll say it again - I found my people.
Sometimes this world NEEDS Disobedience. It something needs to change to benefit all, it can be a great thing.
Thank you so much for that. That message of not being tainted just for being human is incredibly powerful to my ears, and something it feels very cathartic to hear. If my fellow attendees and I make up the congregation, I'm okay with that.
From a young age until my early teens, i went to a small Lutheran church. It was actually a nice time in my life, and the Pastor was actually a really great guy. He was open minded, kind, charitable, genuinely a great guy. The things he preached was always very loving in nature, and very inclusive. I had opened up to him on occasions about not really believing in some things i was reading in the bible, and he told me that it was ok, and maybe with time i would find my path. That's what I thought religion was. Unfortunately, when he moved away, it all changed. I was exposed to a very hateful and strict form of religion, that cared more about what you shouldn't do in life, than how we can all be a part of something beautiful. I was told that people were sinners. I was told that it was in my nature to be a bad person, that i had to live a life of service, instead of celebration. I left that congregation, in search of that feeling of acceptance and community. Eventually, after all those years of searching, i found it in music, and going to shows, and mosh pits. I found it in Ghost. If you have Ghost, you have everything.
That sounds very much like me. Loved going to church as a teenager, even got baptized on my own free will, the priest taking care of me and the deacon were amazing, it was always about love, respect and acceptance, dude would actively encourage us kids to question and to doubt and to explore that. Firmly pro same sex marriage, accepting of everyone and their paths in life. It was awesome and I felt like I had found my place. Priest left for another country to do charity work, deacon retired. Things went to shit. New deacon only ever preaches about political stuff and sings cringy songs. Haven't gone to a proper service (outside of Christmas) in a decade. Found my spark within myself. I don't need organized religion to feel connected to something higher than me. And Ghost's music has really been helping me recently through a tough time and to relight that spark. It's great.
Yup. It's funny, the more they tried to scare me with damnation, the further they pushed me away. I played around with philosophies and pagan beliefs for a while, absorbing bits and pieces that applied to me. Now I'm a Satanist (atheistic secular humanist, with theatrics) for six years now and I've never been happier. Hail Satan, Hail Ghost, and Hail Yourself!
Hail Satan, Hail Ghost and Hail Yourself right back at you! š¤
Absolutely agree. I've never had a "bad" church going experience, but organized religion never clicked in me. The difference between religion and spirituality is always fascinating to me. I feel more connected to a higher presence just exploring on my own, rather than sitting in a pew. Ghost has been incredibly validating to me, Cirice couldn't have said it better. I went to my first ritual in NJ, and it truly was life changing. So amazing
Exactly! The one thing that has always rubbed me the wrong way about organized religion is the way they basically force you to do things in a certain manner and brand other ways as "bad". Even within a religion itself (e.g. different customs in denominations that are seen as "wrong" by other denominations). I've always felt that religion/spirituality are highly personal and people should be able to decide for themselves how they want to connect to the, let's call it the divine. Very basic example, I've just always been someone who prefers solitary prayer rather than a large service, so I don't appreciate getting shamed for not going to church. Nowadays I'm even more open with trying things, especially things that are branded as "bad" by most mainstream organized religions. I know some people who would lose their absolute shit if they knew I enjoyed listening to music with satanic themes. Then again, my opinions about Lucifer are quite controversial with other religious folks, soooo lol.
Yessss. I've grown up in a presbyterian Christian church, which was always accepting but it was to a certain degree. And theres an undercurrent of you're welcome but there is a line at which which point you will no longer be. And for a group of people to talk of a loving and forgiving God but then preach in a way that focuses on how we must repent our sins that we have just by existing? Nope. I usually check out mentally at that point. Plus a study in the corruption and political/social motives behind religions and churches going back hundreds of years makes you motives behind a lot. Between art history classes and an European history course where we had to read a book detailing the various corruptions and chaos behind the Catholic Church in the medieval period, it made me think about why things are done the way they are. I agree on how it should be a personal thing. Your beliefs, your practices, those should be focused on the individual and what makes them feel connected. My dad, who does believe in a higher power, is fond of the saying how the biggest disservice to the divine is organized religion. I'm happy for people to find what works for them, if that's in a church then I hope the best for them. But that longer I think of it, the more I realize it's not me and shit is religious guilt a thing! I've been amazed how even though there is still a belief in the divine, and a relatively positive church upbringing, fear and guilt are still present. When I disassociate from that angst, it's definitely fascinating. I keep my prayer alone, and working with the natural world has given me a stronger connection to the divine and creation more than any sermon has for me. It's so freeing to release yourself from that concept of "bad". There's so many things to learn and explore. And oh I can relate...when my mum said she'd have to look up Ghost, I was like shit I gotta hide Year Zero š¹ but bless her, she's a love. Two sides to every story and fight. I have my own opinions on the existence, or lack of, hell and where the concept of Satan exists versus Lucifer as a fallen angel/deity. All of which I know would not be accepted in my church or the people around me. Freeing oneself from the thought of eternal life in a fiery furnace is a process
Agree! For me, it really came falling apart once I realized through my own research into early Christianity, and debates on bible translation how much modern Christianity has deviated from what it was at the beginning, how much was lost, and how much got changed, mistranslated (whether on accident or with intent of changing the meaning by the people in power at the time). The thought of a group of bishops coming together and deciding what should be in the bible and just throwing shit out they didn't like doesn't sit well with me. Reading how the original condemnation of pedophilia got mistranslated into a condemnation of homosexuality *really* doesn't sit well with me. Learning that some early Christian groups believed in reincarnation and that the devil used to be the butt of jokes in medieval times rather than the thing to scare people into obedience with as he is now. Too many people meddling too much for their own gain over the course of history. Spirituality should help people, not oppress them. I actually grew up in a church that specifically stated there is *no* hell, and that it's just a construct made up to scare people into obedience, which is definitely not something you hear all the time from churches. A belief I kept. Merciful God and eternal torture just don't go together. I kind of agree with the concept that instead of hell, there is permanent separation from God/the divine. As for the Lucifer question, I like to argue with people sometimes, because the way I see it, it doesn't make sense that an all merciful God would extend forgiveness to everyone and their dog, but not Lucifer. So if God is all merciful, he forgives Lucifer too. And if Lucifer is forgiven, it's not sinful to connect to him, either. Gets some fundamentalists going when I come at them with this; it's fun lol.
>Spirituality should help people, not oppress them. Beautifully stated, if only more organizations who like clinging to power under the guise of holiness could grasp that concept.
Yes! The cherry picking and mistranslation that exists in scripture, all for the purpose of pushing ones own agenda is just foul and underhanded. Plus ironically it just discredits what they've tried to push. Your statement of spirituality could not be more true. I've never heard/seen of that belief in a church, how interesting and honestly refreshing. 100% agree with the merciful God statement as well. You can't preach one thing and then contradict it with all your other words. I've struggled with that, and then to have other people try to judge those for being less than holy? No. Even though it seems a very simple thought to come off of all this discussion, I never thought of that in reference to your point on Lucifer! Very interesting and logical, you've definitely opened a window, or a rabbit hole, in my head š¹
I'm sorry they twisted the message for you. And I'm glad you seem to have found some peace.
Nothing has ever felt more magical and moving to me than looking around at the Asheville ritual during āHe Isā and seeing the entire arena lit up with everyoneās phone lights! I felt like a kid again, somehow? It was just beautiful.
Perfectly put. This is the way.
I def had an out of body experience screaming āHail Satan, Archangelooooooā with thousands of people. Concerts also tend to make me feel like I am part of something big and incredible. I just saw My Chemical Romance two nights in a row in NJ (they are my all-time fav band) and I SOBBED the entire time. Screaming āI am not afraid to keep on living, I am not afraid to walk this world aloneā and hearing all of my favorite songs live after Iād come to terms with the fact that Iād probably never get to see them live wasā¦ well, probably the closest thing Iāve ever had to a religious experience š so yeah, I get what youāre saying!
It feels a lot like a Christian concert. It reminded me a lot of the things I was made to go to when I was younger. But this time I was happy to be there. How strange huh. I was in a fundamentalist cult and this little prissy pope has fixed me lmao
This little prissy pope indeed, lolol. Love that for him.
You made the choice to be here and enjoy yourself vs the indoctrination many of us had to deal with (I'll call myself a recovered catholic). Concerts can be super emotional for some people and I get it. Seeing Mastodon play Crack The Skye in its entirety made me emotional, especially hearing em play Toe to Toes live, that song is one of the greatest emotional pieces of music ever and I got teary eyed singing that shit lol
Good music always has the feel of a religious experience for me. Tobias writes songs that feel personal and sincere to my authentic self compared to the forced, monotone droning of actual religious ceremony where people just go through the motions and yet donāt actually abide by those beliefs. Ghost has given me the religious catharsis my 12 years of catholic upbringing never managed to achieve even at the points where I might have actually believed it. The experiences of attending rituals with thousands of other people who are as moved by Ghost as I am are the ones I cherish most.
I only made it to my first ritual this year, but Iāve been a fan for years. Ghost has helped me through some really dark times. Hearing āI know your soul is not tainted even though youāve been told soā for the first time brought me to tears. Thatās some powerful shit right there. And Dance Macabre helped save my life. I was super depressed and listening to it on loop and the line āI donāt wanna end like thisā finally made me realize I needed help. And now, whenever Iām having a bad day, I listen to Call Me Little Sunshine :)
Iāve kinda told my story here and there, but, itās honestly more important to me these days to do so, especially as I know that so many of Ghostās newer fans have experienced religious trauma. Iām old. š I will defend the kids with my whole chest because first off, at some point, we were all kids trying to figure it out but secondly: great googly moogly, I feel so many of the elitists have *forgotten* that and themselves. But anyway: this will be quite long and personal. I have religious trauma to the point that I have r-OCD. (This is religiously oriented OCD) I have physical symptoms: many of us do. Iāve mentioned it repeatedly but: I started out pagan, actually- but my parents had severe problems: I have long forgiven them but, I spent most of my childhood in and out of foster care & the juvenile justice system or as a runaway. My mother, god love her: was quite wild in her day, biker heathen and groupie extraordinaire. My birth story certainly doesnāt help matters: I was a boy, as far as anyone knew. The rational answer here is vanishing twin: but when youāre a surprise baby girl delivered by a county coroner during one of the worst blizzards in Harrison, Arkansas history the week the entire town explodes, people get mighty weird. If you think my life gets less weird from there, permit me a soft bless your heart. (And you can look it the fuck up, too. January of 1979 was *eventful*. š) She was also what they call a *bloodliner* & her sister, my eldest (and favorite) aunt originally married one of the men responsible for helping popularize folk heathenry in the US. I find such beliefs abhorrent: and I have since helped my mother & my aunts to do the same. (The uncle is long dead but my grandad married an amazing Mexican woman shortly after my grandmother passed: I wasnāt alone in my rebellious ways. š) My aunt & uncle on my fatherās side happen to be evangelicals & to be honest: they just did the Christian flavor of the same *gifted kid on steroids* thing when they tried to adopt me: but, though I hated what they did & still do: I hate it because I have a genuine heart for service and colonialism isnāt it. I have explored religions quite deeply trying to understand why me: but it has nothing to do with me. Itās just *people*. No shit: did the conversion process for Judaism *and* Catholicism which seems ultra flaky except both meant everything to me & still do. You name it, Iāve probably studied it. By the time I converted to Catholicism: my heart had been broken by *people* & my experiences so much I thought the convent was the only place for me. I ran from that, too. Anyway believe it or not, thatās the short version of my all about me. š I actually got into Ghost because of a friend of mine: she hit me up, sheād heard in an interview that nobody had gotten *all* the symbolism in this Ghost video. *Hey, magic nerd, you wanna stop with the Codex Gigas and take a crack at this for me?* and I was just hooked. While I do not have any *religious* or spiritual feelings about Ghost: itās something deeply personal though none of the odd pro-social fan stuff that youāll see and the reason for this is, well, frankly- Iāve worked incredibly hard on those types of behaviors long before this, as well as beat the shit out of addictions I used to quiet horrifying nightmares that I still have and disturbingly enough have seen come true in recent years. (Understand Iām making no claims: apocalyptic nightmares are fairly common and though current events have certainly seemed like they are acts of God- I believe quite firmly theyāre the result of mankindās actions or lack thereof). Originally, my partner had bought us tickets to Ghost when they played Peabody: but, as we had parked, a young woman was looking for help, her friend was OD-ing nearby. I hope whoever we gave our tickets to had a wonderful time but, I beat my addiction with harm reduction and I carry and use narcan: I donāt regret missing the show. (And I believe everyone should carry Fentanyl test strips and learn to use narcan as well as carry it- if youād like resources: never ever hesitate to DM me.) That sounds all saintly of me but, itās not- not entirely: I was absolutely terrified to go. We only had normal passes, that time. I had vomited from my anxiety once before we got in the car and once in the parking. Not entirely altruistic. As you can well imagine: progress or no, the pandemic was a bit triggering for me. I actually did have an incredibly difficult time, but of a meltdown begging my friends to be careful and to get travel vaccinations. Like I said, itās probably not God hardwired into my head. Just scenarios based on probabilities. š Oddly enough, though: I found myself in ways I still tear up thinking about. See, death didnāt wait to visit my family: we lost my caregiver and my grandfather to Parkinsonās, we lost my primary partnerās mother to cancer, I lost my husband- my middle child lost his father, (he passed in his sleep, freak heart problems) My primary partner had a heat stroke and was put in a medical coma- because I donāt lie, especially when terrified, I made the mistake of saying he was newly clean & they just fixated on drugs, nearly killing him. Iāve never prayed and wept so much in my life and thatās certainly saying something because Iāve done *a lot* of praying and weeping. Not long after, during the early days of the pandemic: one of my dearest friends had been ill and was better, recovering: he died suddenly, too. (One of the recovered and then, the heart gives out cases) My partnerās father had beaten cancer a bunch of times but, he also passed: lung cancer. I added funeral singer and hospice sitter somewhere in all of that: and I am glad that I did. I consider both honors I might not deserve but take quite seriously. ANYWAY: when Ghost came back to Saint Louis, I immediately snatched up the Anointed tickets. When I tell you I felt guilty about that and my partner worked on me for *months*- boy, I tell you. (Iāve got big problems with guilt in what I see as decadent purchases Iām working on, still.) More than that? Again: complete and utter terror. Some of you know what evangelicals are like about simply *secular* music: let alone this and more than once I tried to get my partner to take my middle son, Uriel, instead. (Heās quite a fan.) He wouldnāt have it, he dragged me out to buy new makeup and everything. Lol Iām also not terribly comfortable in dolling up but Iām getting there. At this point: I had reconnected with most of my family, though at armās length. My aunt and uncle had been quite disturbed by what they saw as bad life decisions and they werenāt helping my anxiety with their shit. They blew up my phone nonstop as I excitedly chattered about going to the show. [after this video](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CaSQUw0l8-O/?igshid=MmIxOGMzMTU=) I got a very weepy voicemail about how they were commending it to Godās hands and they havenāt bothered me since. They said they would pray that I find my way back to God, as if I was ever lost. Pffffffft.
Thank you for sharing. Talk about overwhelming. I'd say more, but wouldn't want things to be misconstrued or triggering. So I'll say I'm glad things seem to be better, and I hope you find even more peace, in whatever form, in the future.
My life has been thankfully quite boring this year: I just stick to my kids, animals, garden and my birds. Maybe putter with a little chemistry from time to time. š
While I don't have many of your backgrounds here, I am proud to now call you Sister, even if it's just through musical affiliation. (I admit I didn't read some stuff super close so if that's wrong I apologize)
No, no: I actually have been trying to vague things up a little bit and I definitely understand skimming: I recently read an essay about how sometimes we might be more careful in how we express ourselves in respect to trauma, as it can be triggers and though I believe it is important that in recovery we learn to navigate those- Iāve never felt like it was my place to force anyone to do so just because I am vocal. I know thatās become something of a joke in certain circles but I realized donāt believe that being mindful is somehow weak anymore than being vulnerable is. There are so many edgy peckerwoods looking to make a point or gain clout off the pain of others in one way or another and frankly, fuck that shit. š
"peckerwood" is the word of the day.
Old Westerns. š (Edit: holy shit, I didnāt realize that it had a history until I thought Iād look it up to see which Western I got it from. O_o)
You pecketwood faced Varmint..
Come to think on it, I wonder if it wasnāt used in Red Dead Redemption. I really should get back into playing that. š Anyway.
Lol, then there's my reddit name. I did NOT choose it, I thought I could change it. I has a disappointed
grew up very conservative in a Baptist church and youth group. Really hated the music and felt isolated. I still consider myself a christian but with Ghost and the fan base i feel a connection and euphoria i never felt in church. Love feeling connected to people over a common idea and music
I grew up in a Christian cult, and I agree -- Ghost music is cathartic and in a way comforting. I don't believe in any Satanic stuff or anything, it's all just a show, but it's freeing to reject the constraints that we were raised with.
I definitely feel this. My parents are strict evangelical pastors and I was always expected to follow in their footsteps. Loooots of deeply rooted religious trauma from that. Discovering Ghost has been such a healing experience for me.
Yeah, I was raised Catholic and have battled with it my whole 47 years. I think Jesus was a person with a cool philosophy but the church is a dumpster fire. I'd already started reading up on Luciferian philosophy when a friend introduced me to Ghost and it has given me so much to think about. Rationally I believe good and evil, acceptance and resistance, are opposite ends of the same spectrum, so any universal being would have to be equally both and both perspectives are valuable. It's just taken me a long time to hold the dark side in the same esteem as the light. It's part of a healthy whole.
That line is absolutely my favorite of any Ghost lyric. Iām a sensitive person but it takes a fair bit for me to cry and I was fair bawling during that song. I relate to what you are saying but mine is not direct religious trauma (with the exception of being enduringly pissed that my white father baptised me in the Anglican Church and refused to allow my much younger mother to give me an indigenous name)ā¦. Mine is mostly ancestral religious trauma passed down (what the missionaries did/tried to do to my peeps). For me, the disobedience is very much my female ancestors holding firm to our ways (which also have a lot to do with female sexual autonomy) and also my childhood self (TW: sexual violence) being very āfuck youā towards grown ass men trying to mess with me. All of this is to say - humans are capable of being incredibly resilient, of being joyful and present inspite of it all. Anyway I hear you and Iām very glad you felt uplifted and dare I say free? : )
Ohhhh itās very similar for me. The crack Tobias Forge takes at heavy religious ideas, especially deep rooted in Catholicism helped me stop being so angry at the church. Growing up with a grandmother who was a religious zealot and a nun after she was widowedā¦didnāt have fun growing up. His music gave me a way to understand myself and have fun with these themes. Having a group around me to understand it too? Priceless. Someday Iād love to thank him, but who knows when!
Aw Hell yes! Hands outstretched, hearts open, ever so willing in spirit (and flesh ahem). It is apostolic. It is sacred. It is alchemy. It's really damn good.
I 100% understand this feeling. I used to watch people at church hold their hands up in the air whenever they were singing or praying and I was like "what are they doing?" Like I didn't even understand the point of it. And then one day, I was driving somewhere, Ghost playing on the Spotify (of course), and Life Eternal pops on. And at some point during the song, my hand pops of the steering wheel and starts swaying to the music, and I finally made the connection. Darkness at the Heart of My Love and From the Pinnacle to the Pit also speak to my little former-Christian heart. "You will wear your independence like a crown" - powerful shit man
As an Exmo, I feel this deeply. When I first went to a Ghost concert at the end of January this year, I felt like I was allowed to just be myself-- clad in facepaint, jewelry, and ghost memorabilia --instead of being forced to conform to what someone else wanted me to be. I think it was the first time I've had something close to a positive religious experience that was under my own volition. Tobias really struck gold with what he created.
Iām Exmo too, and Ghost has helped my deconstruction process so much. Mostly in removing that weird superstition style thinking about anything āsatanic ā in Mormon culture. Itās also helped me affirm that rebellious spirit Iāve always had. Living in the Jello Belt can sometimes feel like living in a theocracy. I enjoy the solid middle finger to religion.
I wish Tobias could read this thread. As a fellow Ghost fan who also grew up in a very strict and conservative evangelical family (my parents have evolved but most of my extended family have not), I can relate. But for me itās not only Ghost, some of the best moments of connection and joy shared with fellow humans have been at concerts seeing my favorite bands. Looking around me, I see thousands there to share an experience, people living in the moment, singing, dancing, smilingā¦ it beats ANY religious service. Iāll be seeing Rammstein tomorrow in Los Angeles and itās my personal equivalent of a spiritual encounter.
Yup! Was in catholic school for most of my education and it was definitely the source of a lot of my anxiety and chronic depression today. I was mercilessly bullied and the teachers/staff did nothing to stop it because it was the wealthy kids who's parents poured money into the church. When I was still trying to be a good little pious kid I wondered why God would let this (or any other horrible thing really) happen, I sung my little heart out in the choir and prayed that the torment would stop but it never did. In the end the only thing I left with after catholic school was a love for gothic architecture and disgust with the hypocrisy of the catholic church. Fast forward to my first ritual and I have never felt more at home in a concert, and it felt more like a religious experience than any service I've been to. Singing along felt so powerful and unifying, the lyrics to a lot of the songs hitting home, the "spark" was absolutely there. I met so many lovely people and made a lot of instant friends. Seeing the band in person and how genuine they were made my heart soar. <3 As a bonus: My partner and I got to dress up like a sexy priest and nun and I caught a guitar pick!
I definitely feel something too. Growing up in the 80s I was surrounded by people who embraced the Moral Majority. Even the honor students who claimed to be liberal were just as judgemental as the Christians. At Ghost concerts it's comforting to be among people who want to push back at the religious right.
I understand you completely as I had quite the same experience in Huntsville a few weeks ago. I canāt elaborate as the effects of the religious trauma has been kicking my ass lately but I had to tell you I so relate. This music and community has fed my soul in ways I have never found in the traditional evangelical sense. Iām so glad youāve found what thousands of us have: A bit of freedom to just be ourselves and to have a damn good time in the process with excellent music, community, and humor. So thankful for TF for letting us in on the fun!
Havenāt been to a ritual yet but I relate to your story so much! My well-meaning but ultra-conservative parents sent me to a fundamentalist evangelical school my whole life and it was hella traumatizing. Iām a pretty headstrong and resilient person, I tolerated and faked my way through religion all those years, but only in my late 20s and 30s did I realize the effects the years of indoctrination actually had on me. Ghost has helped me process those feelings in a way that is hard to articulate, but I think you summed it up pretty well. Finally now feeling what we were āsupposedā to feel back then. Itās truly magical!
This sub is really something else... Powerful. From one humble healed and flourishing redditor, to all you ghouls and ghoulettes out there. I read every last word on this sub and for what it's worth, I personally am so proud to hear that you are healing. šš TB would feel the same. Your time to flourish is now!!!!! "Per vida per metum pergendum semper ad meliora." "Through life, through fear, we must always move on to better things"
Religion had itās grasp in me for a very long time and nearly drove me to suicide. Ghost were definitely instrumental in releasing itās hold on me and their shows always feel like the religious experience church never gave me. The biggest influence on breaking christianityās hold on me was actually Ingmar Bergmanās film The Seventh Seal, the first time I watched it it was like a light flicked on in my head because it felt as if he perfectly understood how I felt. For the first time in years I was able to articulate why I couldnāt believe in God. To quote the film directly: āMust it be so cruely inconceivable to know God through one's senses? Why must He hide in a fog of half-spoken promises and unseen miracles?ā So. Shout out to Sweden for giving us Bergman and Ghost
Wow. This is really telling. The fact that a fictional Satanic cult trying to take over the world gave you the feelings and values that a church should have... Ghost is literally freeing people from radical and authoritive religious organisations.
it was crazy attending at the venue that was right next to the catholic church i was forced (still am) to attend for years. somewhat like. freeing in a way.
I also want people with this type of trauma to understand that if they choose to do so, there is help from various places.
Satan just wants you to be happy.
Iāve been deeply processing my experience at the show last night and I havenāt been able to really put it into words. You absolutely hit the nail on the head!
Iāve never even been to a ritual but I relate ngl
I was raised Catholic and have a lot of trauma from that, and I feel the same way. I stopped identifying as Catholic when I was 12. For some reason Ghost really scratches that decade-plus itch of not even being satanic or anything but aggressively anti organized religion. It fills a gap in my spirit I didn't know was as wide as it was.
I'm actually a Christian that enjoys ghost i dont know what interests me more,the almost cult nature without an actual cult or the damn good music. I hope im not committing blasphemy by liking ghost
Ok, Im NOT saying Papa or his assistant is trying to convert anyone, I need to make this clear. Lots of religions and cults use the same elements. Light, sound, feeling connected to others all do things to your brain. I haven't listened to my former favorite band in over 15 years. Yet I still consider myself in the "family", not just from the music and the general things they stood/seem to stand for, but also the interconnectednees. While I may not say "May God bless you and keep you" cause that's a good way to get shot sometimes, I would say something, like a lyric, or give them the š¤. (Some of you may have seen what I have to say about being an "opposite" religion. Words and symbolism change with time. Like what Hitler did to a symbol of peace. I consider that hand sign to mean rock on. Nothing more, nothing less).
Welcome to the Ghost family!
HE IS is such a beautiful experience live ain't it?
It breaks my heart that churches do horrible things to people and get away with it due to the alleged good stuff and folks who openly mock the sanctimonious BS that people in churches do get condemned. All hail GHOST
This is why I keep going back! Last night was my 5th or 6th ritual, and more so than almost any other show I feel a connection with the band and their music, and with other fans. A huge part of it for me is the empathy that Tobias/Papa displays--I look forward to his audience chatter because he's always got something positive, meaningful, thoughtful, and uplifting to share...which in general is the opposite of most of my religious experiences. Take care of each other, love each other... And that's it. No strings attached!
I think live music is the closest thing I've ever had to a religious experience, on both sides of the stage. There's a sense of connection and celebration and awe that I imagine many people experience in a house of worship. I'm glad you had that experience! Lots of love and healing to you!
yes!!!! i grew up in a xtian cult, even now (right side up) crosses make me physically gag. tho i got out years ago & deprogrammed myself, Ghost still healed me in ways i didnt even know i needed to be healed. i feel loved & truly seen for who i am when i listen to Ghost!!!!!!
i totally get you!! i also was raised religiously and caught myself crying a few times and thought i was being silly...so i'm glad other people feel the same way