Sunnheim Arbor Frithyard

The Sunnheim Arbor Frithyard was created by Herne Webber, Shamanic Priest with fellow congregants of the East Tennessee Clergy Alliance and friends thereof, and certified in 2005 by the National Wildlife Federation as a "Backyard Wildlife Habitat." Its certification number is 57335.

This is a notable example of creating an ecologically sustainable island in the middle of an urban environment. The creation of new kinds of "churches" such as this, particualrly in the southeast US, is a new phenomena worthy of exploration. This frithyard is connected to pagan circles and groves across the nation and world, but its unique feature is bringing science and faith together in one place, as an example for neighbors, for businesses, and cities themselves.

It is called "Sunnheim" to honor the Teutonic goddess Sunna, but is dedicated to Thor and aspects of Him, such as the Native American Thunderbird, and to Thor's wife, Sif, who is said to guard the Apples of Immortality.

It is an arbor due to its containing Native species of trees, bushes and undergrowth of the local ridge and valley ecosystem. This is a working arbor, as scientific testing of ecological relationships is conducted, along with a small tree breeding program.

Finally, it is a "frithyard" due to meeting the conditions of such: people may enter only with friendly intentions. No weapons may be brought within, and no human wastes are to be excreted therein (other than sweat).

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