Philip Carr-Gomm is a leading figure in modern Druidry, who for decades has shaped a new vision of this ancient spiritual tradition. As the Chosen Chief of the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids (OBOD), he has seamlessly blended traditional teachings with contemporary psychology, esotericism, and the needs of modern individuals. His works not only introduce readers to Celtic philosophy but also help in understanding personal development, nature, and living a balanced life in the world. Read more on londoname.
Early Life and Spiritual Path of Philip Carr-Gomm
Philip Carr-Gomm was born on 31st January 1955 in London. His father was Francis Eardley Carr-Gomm, brother to the humanitarian Richard Carr-Gomm. Growing up in the multicultural area of Notting Hill Gate, he was educated at Westminster School, and later at University College London.
At the age of 11, Philip Carr-Gomm met his first spiritual mentor, Ross Nichols, the founder of the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids. This mentorship marked the beginning of his complete immersion in spiritual practices, which he deepened throughout his teenage years. However, his inner development wasn’t limited to Druidry. He also studied meditation under Olivia Robertson in Ireland, who later founded the Fellowship of Isis. At 18, the young spiritualist officially joined the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids, and at 20, he organised the Esoteric Society in London.
After Ross Nichols’ death in 1975, Philip Carr-Gomm spent seven years following the Bulgarian spiritual teacher Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov. He not only studied his teachings but also actively spread them, giving lectures and assisting in the translation and publication of books into English. His connection with Bulgaria continued, as for fourteen years he annually visited Sofia, where he delved deeply into the teachings of Peter Deunov.
In his thirties, Philip Carr-Gomm turned his attention to psychology. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from University College London, underwent Jungian analysis, and intended to become an analyst. Discovering Psychosynthesis, he decided to train as a therapist at the Institute of Psychosynthesis in London. After this, he began a private therapeutic practice, integrating psychology with spiritual knowledge.
In 1988, Philip Carr-Gomm was invited to lead the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids. He initiated a reform of the learning process, expanding access to knowledge by transforming traditional instruction into a distance learning course. Together with John Matthews, he edited Ross Nichols’ work, ‘The Book of Druidry’, giving it new substantive and methodological content. Thus, under Philip Carr-Gomm’s leadership, the Order became the largest spiritual association of Druids in the world.
In 2021, leadership of the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids was passed to Eimear Burke. The official ceremony was attended by Dave Smith, Pendragon of the Order, and Stephanie Carr-Gomm, Scribe of the Order. During the event, Philip Carr-Gomm delivered a farewell speech, summarising over 30 years as the Chosen Chief. He also addressed the public via a broadcast of “Tea with a Druid,” where he shared reflections on the challenges of the modern world, the importance of peace, and the relevance of traditional Druidic prayer.
Recognition and Significance of Philip Carr-Gomm’s Druidic Work
Philip Carr-Gomm remains an exceptional figure in the spiritual, cultural, and intellectual landscape of modern Europe. He is the author and co-author of over 20 books, including ‘Paneurythmy’, ‘The Elements of the Druid Tradition’, and ‘The Druid Way’. These are published by leading global publishers such as HarperCollins, Random House, Simon & Schuster, Granta, and St. Martin’s Press. Additionally, he is the author and co-author of popular oracle card decks and texts for tarot sets, making ancient symbolic systems accessible to modern individuals. Furthermore, his educational seminars, lectures, and appearances have influenced thousands of followers of the spiritual path worldwide.
