Virtual knights and synthetic worlds: Jediism in second life
Almost every manifestation of religion nds expression in the virtual world of Second Life. Established religions have a presence; for example, Epiphany Cathedral is home to Anglicans in the virtual world (Hutchings 2011) Geographically dispersed adherents gather for communion, Bible study and regular services. Those manifestations of the numinous bordering on religion, depending on the denition employed, can be found in every corner. Masonic temples abound and all the paraphernalia required for the mysterious rituals of Freemasonry can be bought from the Second Life Marketplace (Farley 2010) There are some religions that only nd expression in this virtual space. There are all manner of temples, churches, sacred grottoes, simulated stone circles and the opportunity for religious pilgrimage. Some of these expressions can be seen as virtual missionary activity, taking religion to a new frontier. Some religion in virtual worlds is just for fun; people experimenting with a new religion for a while and trying on the trappings for size.