Dear Friends,
I’m sure a lot of my readers are either solitary pagans, or those interested in solitary practice. For those of you who are, I wanted to take the time to share what a coven is and why it is important to me, and to others, in the practice of witchcraft.
What is a coven, you ask? it’s a group just like any other. Think of a church, or a quilting circle, or a think tank. As you define these, you may be surprised to find that they have functions similar to a coven’s function.
A church has long been the source of strength and cohesion for people throughout many centuries. It is a cornerstone of many communities. The primary definition of a church is a building where people get together to observe religious practices associated with the Christian faith. It can also be used to describe the people that get together in observation of the customs of their religion.
When a group of people gets together to practice magick (observe their religion) it is called a coven. This group normally decides on a ‘statement of purpose’ which establishes their reasons for being. This is a foundation for the goals the group will later set and the magick they will perform.
Conflicts arise from time to time and the coven finds ways to solve the problem. Problem solving is an important part of the evolution of a coven. These problems can be addressed by a few of the members, or all depending on the nature of the situation. In this way, a coven acts like a think tank – a coven’s main purpose is to solve problems.
In a quilting circle, the members are close and participate together to achieve a goal. Everyone lends a hand and takes prize in the finished work. Everyone’s hands are busy performing the necessary task, and people become comfortable with one another. Members allow each other to let their hair down, discuss problems and share techniques that help the group work.
In a coven, this happens as well. The members are very close and they work toward a common goal. The level of comfort allows for exchanges that are both fun and educational.
A coven is the fastest and best way to learn the craft. It can be done alone, but it requires a lot of dedication and focus (or a very good book or course). As you spread your magickal wings, I encourage you to search for a coven if it feels like the right time to do so. Your spirit guide will let you know when it is time.
When the time comes for you, there are some things to ask yourself before you join any group. First, you’ll want to ask the God and Goddess to point you in the right direction. Do this before you even start your search. Ask them to bring to you what you seek, and then define what you seek. Do you want a coven that focuses on rituals, or do you want to be part of a more informal group. The Deities can only give you what you ask for.
Once you’ve found a group that interests you, spend some time getting to know the members and evaluating your comfort level with them. Do you have common ground with them? Can you see yourself having developing relationships with them?
Next, evaluate their requirements for membership or their group dynamics. Are their mandates agreeable to you? Do they participate in things that you aren’t comfortable with (like drugs)? If you see any red flags, seek a group elsewhere.
Get to know the other members of the coven. See if they are happy being part of the group. Find out about them and share about yourself. This will allow you to see if you would be a good fit in their group and vice versa.
Love And Light,
Rose Ariadne, Your Warm And Caring “Resident Witch In Charge”
