This page focuses on the basics of connecting with other Pagans, both online and offline, through general discussions, open events, public rituals, and other things of that kind. The bottom of the page focuses on finding and working with a specific group or teacher.
Getting started:
- Looking for other Pagans near you? Here’s a guide to where to look.
- Is connecting online a good choice for you? Here are some things to think about.
- Pagans and online privacy issues – there are some things you may want to think about carefully before posting online.
- The question of names (where do those names come from, and what do you call people?)
- Learning to ask smart questions : a longer guide to asking better questions and helping people give you better answers.
- Where to start: some thoughts on which paths you might begin by exploring, based on your interests.
- Setting aside some assumptions from other religions.
- A word about time and money costs: with notes on getting started inexpensively, and about what you might want to prepare for if you look for a group.
Finding options:
- Things to think about as you explore the community - a list of questions to help you consider what you’re looking for, and what would work for you right now.
- Navigating Witchvox: Witchvox is one of the oldest networking resources in the Pagan community, and a good place to check out. However, it can be a little confusing to navigate. Here’s a guide to help.
- If there seem to be no options near you : here are some other options you can check out.
- Which things matter when checking out a group? Some people focus on the wrong things when checking out a group. Here are some things you might want to look at instead.
Making first contact:
- Learning about a particular group
- Great first contacts by email
- If your email goes unanswered
- A few practical and safety notes.
- A sample letter of introduction (based on what I ask for re: group work)
Public events:
- Going to a public event (includes a list of things to bring and not bring).
- Public rituals : a brief guide to things to know before you go.
- What to wear : ideas to help you figure out a good choice.
- Potluck : ideas and tips for a great potluck.
Practical help:
- Accessibility
- The question of children
- What does this cost? Ways to start without breaking the bank.
- The problem with focusing on a specific tradition
Seeking to work with a group or teacher:
- What are the differences between solo work and group work?
- Finding a teacher, as opposed to a group. (some challenges, and things to think about)
- What do groups look for?
- Online training is something many people consider. Here are some questions to start with as you consider options, and more things to think about that focus on issues of how teaching and learning work in an online setting.
- Being open to change (and what that means)
(Also make sure you check out the CARE pages on this site for things to think about while considering a group or teacher.)
