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Statement of Practice
Merry Meet. We are Moondrake Coven and Grove, which has been established and
functioning since Beltane of 1997. We practice a Druidic/Wiccan form of the
Craft, drawing inspiration from the ongoing work and research of authors
Caitlin and John Matthews, Philip Carr-Gomm, numerous classic Wiccan texts, and
the many interpretations of Celtic and Arthurian myth both ancient and modern.
We study the myths and beliefs of other cultures as well, seeking whatever
illumination they may provide, and may even draw on these in our individual and
Solitary practice, if desired. This Tradition we call ‘Morganic Wicca’, after
the legendary sorceress/priestess Morgan le Fay.
Our group consists of two parts:
Our Coven meets at all Esbats and Sabbats. First degree initiation and strict
adherence to the Rede are the primary prerequisites to membership. We do
utilize the traditional three degree system and all initiates are considered
priesthood.
The first degree functions as general support, taking on responsibilities on a
volunteer basis, as needed, and serving as guide to visitors and pre-initiates.
The second degree members’ primary duties are to serve as teachers either in
general craft studies or of specific areas of expertise, and also serve as
ritual leaders in case of absence of the Elders. The second degree priest/ess
may initiate first or second degree with the Elders’ approval. (CoG Ministerial
Credentials are awarded at this degree.)
The third degree member functions as ritual leader, Elder, “principal” of
education, (though they may teach, as well) and clergy. (Ordination to Elder
status, with corresponding credentials, occurs at third degree.)
Initiation occurs when a student has studied and completed all assignments and
has shown a marked increase in confidence in ritual skill and can successfully
complete a solitary ritual without assistance, and displays the general
attitude of a life lived in accord with the Rede. The first degree initiation
is given upon approval by the Elders after a period of no less than six
months, (conditionally) or a year and a day. Second and third degree are
bestowed based on the individual’s continued development of knowledge, style,
expertise, and willingness to take on increased responsibility.
We do accept self-initiates and those from former groups after demonstrating
the knowledge and skill required of our first degree, and after a period of
acclimation to our traditions. These we welcome with an “induction” ceremony.
Our interpretation of the Rede is, as many others, in two parts. “Harm none”
and “Do what thou wilt”, which we see as a commandment requiring self honesty
and study – to first find our true will and work unceasingly toward its
realization. This and the Charge of the Goddess form the basis of any and all
decisions made, and our rules are flexible and determined by consensus, so long
as they remain in accord with the above-mentioned.
We work robed, and do not use sex in ritual or training, for any reason. We do
not use tobacco, drugs, or alcohol in our rituals, in order to provide a safe
environment for those in recovery, as several of our members are.
Our function, as we see it, is ever-increasing service to Goddess and God,
through self realization and growth, and through serving our individual
members, our communities, and our Earth
We also sponsor our Grove, or outer court, which is more loosely based,
consisting of individuals or families who consider themselves Wiccan but cannot
make the time commitment for coven membership, or do not wish to train for the
clergy. It can also serve for individuals who wish to work solitary, yet still
be a part of
community for Sabbat celebrations and support. (First degree initiate training
is available in the grove for this reason.)
Grove members may attend coven ritual and have full access to coven assistance
upon request. Requirements for Grove Membership are:
- The honoring of The Rede and The Charge
- Regular prayer, study, and growth, and,
- To honor the Sabbats and Esbats in a manner deemed appropriate by the
individual at the proper occasions.
All first degree aspirants are considered Grove members prior to initiation. No
one under 18 may belong to the Grove unless a parent is a member of the Coven
or Grove. The Coven is restricted to those over 18, without exception.
Moondrake Coven & Grove is currently a member in good standing with the
Covenant of the Goddess, a prominent and legally recognized Wiccan religious
organization. We have chosen affiliation with CoG based upon the reputation of
integrity, hard work, and service we have observed to be associated over the
years with its name. This has allowed us to be of greater service to Our Lady
and Lord, by offering whatever talents we possess to the wider Pagan community,
as well as allowing our voices to contribute to the shaping of the future of
our Religion.
Blessed Be,
Lady Raven, HPS
Lord Gwydion, HP, founder
And the members of Moondrake Coven and Grove,
West Palm Beach, Florida
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