[Little Ray]

I have read the entire series and, as far as I can tell, there is no paganism in Harry Potter. In fact, there is no religion of any kind in the Harry Potter books. Just fantastic beasts, and trite, simplistic magic. I suspect this is deliberate on the part of the author, in an effort to keep her potential customer base as large as possible.
I am saying this as someone who has actually made a modest study of the occult. (No, I don't practice, never have, and never will. Yes, I'm Christian.)
Whatever the Harry Potter series is, is is sure as heck not Lord of the Rings or even The Hobbit. I don't know why anyone takes them seriously.

If I were going to condemn something, I'd condemn “romantic vampire” books as corrupting drivel. But I'm not in the habit of wasting my time with drivel.

[goodwithagun]

This is something I plan on discussing in my Harry Potter Lit class. It is fascinating how Rowling eliminates religion. I read a paper about Harry being a Christ-like figure and Ron and Hermione were John and James. It should be a lively discussion.

[mlizzy]

I have heard both sides of the issue. I was struck because Michael D. O’Brien’s words/personal occurrences regarding his involvement with this book in his preface are surprisingly strong. If the devil wanted anyone NOT to write about something he was involved in, it would surely be Michael D. O’Brien. My husband, a scholarly type himself, who also writes, holds Mr. O’Brien in very high regard. In fact he shakes his head in amazement over O’Brien’s high intellect and ability to write. THAT’s why I posted this thread. And that’s why I think Catholics should at least consider O’Brien’s words regarding their own children’s activity with the series.