Beginning in the 1960’s and 70’s, and continuing since then, there has been a growing interest in nature and the environment.  The concern with nature is not only ecological and scientific, but also spiritual.  A “return to nature” and a belief in an inherent spirituality in nature itself has become commonplace among many people.  Many new religions stress the importance of nature (and sometimes nature worship) in their belief systems.  These new religions often look back to more primitive, tribal religions for their inspiration.  The belief systems of the First Nations of the American continent are a primary source for this purpose.  As Jacob Needleman said many years ago in The New Religions:  “In all this the American Indian stands as a paradigm.  His way was a way in nature.”  Continue reading →