Those learning about any Pagan group have some common questions. We’ve answered many of these below and elsewhere on this site, but we save some specifics for face-to-face conversations.
What do you do together?
We share ritual (Sabbats and Esbats), discussions, learning, and our shared and individual interests. We value intentional simplicity, understanding not only what we’re doing but why, introspective work, deep conversation, self-awareness, and shared responsibility.
What are your rituals like?
Our tradition uses a consistent ritual structure with some room for variation. Music is a particular ritual focus for us. It’s common for our rituals to focus around patterns, cycles, introspection, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, but we also do occasional magical workings.
When do you meet?
A balanced life is important to us, so we meet sometimes on weekdays and sometimes on weekends. (That way, we can have full weekends free regularly for our other interests and commitments.) It’s important that prospective members be available for most group events. (You can’t have a relationship with people who aren’t there!)
Each month generally includes an Esbat, a Sabbat (if there is one), at least one discussion evening, and often some social event. Dedicants learning the tradition will have one or two class sessions with their mentor, as well.
Where do you meet?
We currently hold rituals at our HPS’s home in Minneapolis (it’s easily accessible by bus). Other meetings may be held at other locations if people wish to host. Our initial meeting with someone is always in a public place, like a tea or coffee shop.
Are you all women?
We’re open to inquiries from those of all genders and sexual orientations (and, long-term, would prefer a diverse mix within the group.) Our tradition has moved away from gender polarity: we instead focus more on energetic polarity and individual personal tendencies.
What is the group’s structure?
We are a priestess-run group but prefer to function informally and by general agreement whenever possible. We focus on our shared work together, and all group members are expected to join in making that happen. You can learn more about Jenett (our High Priestess) over here.
Do you have oathbound information?
Our tradition does have oathbound material – and similarly, there is some details we keep within the coven. We talk about the general outline of what’s included before we ask for any commitment or share specifics.
How large a group are you?
We’re open to adding one or two students in 2009, and our goal size is 5-8 members. We do have some requirements, listed in our membership information.
Do you charge for training and membership?
Nope. We do expect you to invest your time, energy, and attention but our teaching is offered freely to those who commit to the group. That’s how our teachers trained us! We do ask that everyone contribute to potluck feasts, and that you provide your own tools and materials for personal work. If money is tight for you, we’ll talk about inexpensive options. We also welcome contributions to shared group expenses (good candles, incense, wine for rituals, etc.)
I don’t know much about religious witchcraft – how would I learn?
Our training is designed to work with a student’s existing learning and skills, and build from there. We welcome interest from anyone who is interested in learning, and committing to the time and practice needed to build skills. However, we do want you to be reasonably sure that you’re interested in pursuing ongoing training in our path. If you’re brand new to Wicca and religious witchcraft, we may suggest attending introductory classes in the area before looking to commit to this group.
I already have experience in the Craft – how do you handle that?
As we mentioned, we work in a specific tradition – and we expect new members of the group to learn that tradition. However, we’re very happy to adjust our training and assignments to adapt to someone’s prior experience.
Are you active in the local community?
Our focus as a group is on our own religious work. That said, we encourage members to take part in the broader community in some way that suits them, and members may from time to time offer to put on a public event. Our HPS has been on the Twin Cities Pagan Pride board since late 2005.
I have some specific needs or preferences, what are your practices?
Our Visiting Us page has many details that might be of use. If there are other conversations that are important for you, please include them in your introductory email.
I’m still interested. What’s next?
Our membership process is described over here.