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So you want to join a coven... The trick is, how to find a coven in the first place!
This is a problem that has plagued Witches since the Burning Times. It became incredibly dangerous to practice Witchcraft, and it's only recently gotten safer.
And for many people, it's still not particularly safe.
Obviously, to find a coven you need to be able to find other Witches or Wiccans. Not always easy. Also, it's very important to use caution!
Be cautious when joining covens. There are a lot of nice Wiccans out there, but there are a lot of messed up Wiccans too (like any group of people, there are good and bad).
Sadly, it often seems that the people who welcome students or coven members are those who are looking to take advantage or gain power.
That's not true of everyone of course, but it does point out that it's necessary to go in with your eyes wide open. Check out this article on Coven Cautions for tips on what to look for and what to avoid like the plague!
Here are a few ideas to get things rolling...
The first step in finding a Wiccan coven to join is to have a clear idea of what you're looking for.
Know what you want, before you try to find it.
And then be open to the Universe giving you what you need instead
Put out a Call in a spell or ritual. (SeeMagick Spells: Free Tips And Tools for info on how to do this in a way that gets you what you actually want, rather than an unpleasant surprise.)
Then be patient. Let the Universe work on it.
Maybe the best way to connect with other Witches is to take workshops and classes.
I highly recommend Reclaiming's workshops. They seem to happen all over the world.
Identify yourself. If you feel safe to do so, wear Wiccan Jewelry. It identifies you as a Witch, and opens the door for others to approach you.
I've met other Witches as sales clerks and on the street... a casual comment about liking my pentacle ring is a perfect ice-breaker.
A more subtle sign can serve, if you feel that you are at risk as a visible Witch. Goddess symbols or God symbols, for instance, are clues to others who are familiar with them. And they fly under the radar with everyone else.
Next, start looking around. Many Witches are still very quiet about their practice of the Craft, but . . . We are everywhere!
Wicca Spirituality Community on Facebook
Reclaiming also sponsors some international email discussion lists.
Being in a Witch forum not only helps fill the need for spiritual community, but may also help you find other Witches in your area.
Once you've found other Witches, they may be able to help you find a coven in your area, if they don't have one themselves — or room for additional members.
Another option is to start up a coven with other Witches . . . .
There's no cut-and-dried way to start your own coven. The only real advice I can give you is to go into it with awareness.
Of particular importance is an awareness of power dynamics. Read Starhawk's guides for help with this area.
Whether you find a coven to join or find other Witches to start a new coven with, keep the essence of Wicca Spirituality alive, and you will be protected by the Grace of the Lady and Lord.
With Brightest Blessings,
erin Dragonsong
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