Paganism is a word that carries many different connotations. To some, this is not only acceptable, but is encouraged.

“One of the things that brings different Pagans together is tolerance, and we want people to understand the diversity,” said Lochele Foley, an assistant research scientist at UGA.

In addition to uniting area Pagans, the Pagan Pride Festival held on Saturday aimed to support religious diversity, celebrate the harvest and hold food donations to benefit Project Safe.

Vendors ranged from jewelry and clothing to items specifically for Pagan practices. Presentations included explanations of Pagan ideas and beliefs as well as expositions ranging from blacksmithing to hand-made drums.

One of the vendors was Michael Redturtle, who makes traditional Native American objects, such as drums and decorative gourds.

Jerry Miller of Stone Mountain, Ga., uses a crystal to communicate with unseen forces and makes a living as a spiritual consultant.

The diversity inherent in the activities scheduled for the event only serves to emphasize the expansive nature of the Pagan community.

“We are all very tolerant of other religions. We don’t think that the other guy is wrong. We see them as different ‘paths,’ just that they are doing things differently,” Foley said.

“Everybody is welcome to become part of our community ritual,” Foley said.

The event was attended by psychics, Reiki masters, students, artisans and others.

- Rachel Bailey contributed to this story.