Pagans Behind Bars Project

03/06/2026

It has recently been brought to my attention that a man named Brian O’Donnell ([email protected]
) has been using the name Pagans Behind Bars Project to solicit inmates to join what he claims is our program. I have also been informed that he has been spreading false statements alleging that I have been speaking negatively about the Appalachian Pagan Ministry and its founder, Donna Donovan.

Let me be absolutely clear: these statements are false.

Mr. O’Donnell is not affiliated with the Pagans Behind Bars Project in any capacity, nor has he ever been authorized to represent our organization or recruit participants on our behalf. Any claims made by him suggesting otherwise are misrepresentations.

The Pagans Behind Bars Project operates in a very specific and transparent way. Individuals who wish to participate in the program contact me directly, or friends and family members reach out on their behalf. Our organization is intentionally small and consists of myself and four dedicated volunteers who work hard to provide spiritual support to incarcerated Pagans across the United States.

The Pagans Behind Bars Project was founded on principles of service, compassion, and respect for marginalized spiritual communities. It is deeply disappointing that misinformation is being spread about an organization whose sole purpose is to provide support and guidance to incarcerated practitioners.

If you encounter any rumors or claims attributed to Mr. O’Donnell regarding me or the Pagans Behind Bars Project, I ask that you please disregard them and feel free to contact me directly if clarification is needed.

Thank you for your continued support of this work and the community we serve.

—
Zehara Nachash
Founder, Pagans Behind Bars Project

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01/23/2026

I *finally* have a newsletter option on my website! Sign up!

Discover authentic witch craft supplies and tools at The Vodou Witch. Elevate your spiritual journey with our unique metaphysical products.

01/15/2026

Hey everyone! Facebook will not allow me to answer messages here! So please contact me directly at [email protected]

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12/06/2025

A poem that I wrote for those incarcerated that I had AI add music to :)

THE ECHOES OF A MENDED SOUL
You look at me like I am a shadow of a ghost
A story you heard long ago
You hold my past like a weapon in your hand
But you don't see the new strength where I stand
I’ve walked through shadows deeper than my name
Carrying storms I never learned to tame.
Every breath felt borrowed, every step a war,
But still I kept on moving toward something more.
And though the night tried to swallow me whole,
I held a spark inside my soul—
A whispered truth, a trembling fight:
You were born to rise back into the light.
I’m fighting the darkness, one heartbeat at a time,
Clawing my way up through the quiet decline.
Even when the world fades to black in my mind,
I hold on—I rise—I survive.
Through broken wings and silent cries,
I’m learning how to take back my life.
I’m fighting the darkness, and I will find
My way into the light again.
Some days the weight feels carved into my bones,
I drown in battles no one else is shown.
But even in the stillness where the hurt runs deep,
There’s a voice that tells me I’m allowed to weep.
And every tear becomes a step toward dawn,
A promise that I’m moving on—
The night may linger, but it won’t win;
The light is calling me back again.
And if I fall, I won’t stay down—
I know the sun is waiting now.
The dawn remembers every soul
Who once felt lost but still let go.
I’m not the person I was then—
I’m breaking open just to mend
I’m fighting the darkness, one heartbeat at a time,
Every breath now feels like a lifeline.
Even when the shadows try to pull me inside,
I stand tall—I rise—I shine.
Through every scar I’ve learned to find
A map that leads me back to my life.
I’m fighting the darkness—
And I will find…
My way into the light again.

04/29/2025

01/20/2025

Update!

11/20/2024

We now have a BLOG!

​When joining a coven or pagan community, pagan inmates should be mindful of what they choose to disclose. It’s generally beneficial for them to be open about their spiritual intentions, personal...

10/03/2024

The October newsletter for the Pagans Behind Bars Project just dropped in the mail today. If you want to learn more about the project and how you can help please visit www.pagansbehindbarsproject.org

10/01/2024

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8RgA7m3/

Check out snakeandbone’s video.

09/05/2024

If you know a Wiccan/Pagan/Heathen inmate who could benefit from our newsletter, classes or both, please contact [email protected] or complete the form at https://www.pagansbehindbarsproject.org/newsletterclasses.html