EARTHCREST was the name proposed by Heather Briles for our community in late 1994. She was murdered in 1995, and we hope to honor her vision and memory until she returns.
How does Earthcrest Sanctuary work? Basically we are a collaborative on-and-offline network of Earth-loving souls who have pledged that we will take action to make a difference. In order to do this we take ownership. By finding, claiming and "owning" pieces of this planet, we can protect and heal it. By creating safe spaces for our families and circles, we save lives and restore hope. By replenishing and setting aside tiny pieces of the planet that are safe from mining, construction and other destructive activities we help preserve ecosystems that would otherwise be destroyed. By finding "worthless" properties and cleaning them up and designating them Sacred Spaces we are able to help our Mother heal and little by little the destroyed habitats can re-appear. By taking in unwanted, abandoned, abused, injured and orphaned animals and plants we can share their love and relieve their pain. In a world where the majority of the population believes all non-human life is inferior... There is much rescue work to be done. Just think: That stinking little empty lot full of garbage and chunks of concrete could easily become a tiny rain forest, and creatures that would have otherwise suffered and died can find safe space and compassion there. All you have to do is say: "I will get it, save it, and pledge that I will work to make it stay beautiful and alive." By owning the planet, you aren't exploiting her. You are preserving her from those who are destroying her. As they finish destroying, we must take the rubble and create fertile earth again.
History:
During the Shoal Creek Camp Counsel in 1994, it was decided by consensus that we would strive to acquire lands. It was decided that we would not become an official non-profit organization. In other words: We would not incorporate. The IRS can DISSOLVE a non-profit and seize it's assets. However, the government has no authority over a church. A church is automatically protected by the Constitution and since we all followed a basic lifestyle and had a definitive Earth-centered belief structure, the Crusty Pagan Tribe became then, by public proclamation, an official religion. Many other details were discussed and decided upon at that time. We decided to preserve natural habitats wherever and whenever possible. We decided the more barren, damaged and undesirable a property was, the better. While untouched lands were to be preserved, damaged lands would be re-fertilized, re-planted, and OCCUPIED AND PROTECTED. By setting up small villages all over we are able to restore balance to small pieces of the planet.
While the Crusty Pagan Tribe is a recognized religion, Earthcrest Sanctuaries are non-denominational Shrines and Sacred Spaces for ALL Earth Tribes.
Earthcrest Sanctuary is the realization of many dreams and many years of work. We already have 2 Shrine/Sanctuaries and a new animal rescue. We invite all of you who share the visions of a Tribal, Earth-friendly lifestyle, Naturally Harmonized Earth Reciprocal and independent of mainstream society to become a part of this movement.