Agape Lodge

Thelemic magical lodge, experimental occultism, Jack Parsons, Aleister Crowley, Ordo Templi Orientis.

Pasadena, California, USA
Founded 1946

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Tags

Organization Type

Collective
Movement or scene

Industries

Spirituality
Philosophy

Funding

Membership Fees
Donations

Philosophies

Experimental
Post-institutional
Human flourishing

Vibes

Community-first
Experimental
Exploratory / weird

Narrative

Agape Lodge was established as a primary center for Thelemic activity, deeply rooted in the esoteric teachings of Aleister Crowley. Its culture was characterized by a commitment to the practice of ceremonial magic and the principles of Thelema, emphasizing individual will and magical experimentation. The lodge provided a dedicated communal space where members could explore and develop these practices.

Located in Pasadena, California, the lodge fostered a unique environment for occult exploration, drawing individuals interested in alternative spiritual and magical paths. It functioned as a hub for a specific 'scenius' focused on the practical application and interpretation of Thelemic philosophy, which was at the time a relatively nascent spiritual movement in the Western world. This setting allowed for the collective and individual pursuit of magical knowledge outside mainstream religious or academic institutions.

Key People

Founders

  • Jack Parsons
  • Helen Parsons

Master of the Lodge

  • Jack Parsons (1946-1950)
  • Wilfred Smith

Key Associates / Influencers

  • Aleister Crowley
  • L. Ron Hubbard
  • Marjorie Cameron

Breakthroughs

  • Development of Thelemic Practice: Served as a significant hub for the practice and interpretation of Thelema in the post-Crowley era, from 1946 onwards, fostering a distinct community for magical experimentation and spiritual development.

Related Entities

Parent Organization

  • Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.): Agape Lodge operated as a specific lodge within the international Thelemic fraternal organization.

Influenced By

  • Aleister Crowley: His philosophical and magical system of Thelema formed the foundational principles and practices of the lodge.

Associated Entities / Concepts

  • Thelema: The system of philosophical and magical principles that the lodge was dedicated to exploring and practicing.
  • Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL): Co-founded by Jack Parsons, highlighting his dual involvement in advanced rocket science and occultism.
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