 |
| This is not the rite itself, but information on what the Rite of Initiation is. The decision to devote yourself to the ancient ways is not one to be taken lightly. This is just as binding to your soul and self as baptism is for Christians. Once initiated, that is that, and you must undergo a ceremony to break yourself from it, should you ever make that decision. When you initiate yourself, you become a Wiccan Priest or Priestess, a vessel of magic, and a holy person, and a lot of responsibility goes with that. Some covens say that you should wait a year and a day after making your decision to become a Witch, to be initiated, to give you time to reflect, explore other options, and make sure that Wicca is right for you. Once a Wiccan Priest/Priestess, you need to understand fully the workings and consequences of magic, and know that if you reveal to people your religion of choice, you may be treated quite differently. Wicca is still not universally understood or tolerated, and I recommend being very careful about who you reveal this information to. That does not mean, however, that you have any reason to be ashamed of your religion. Wicca is both the oldest and the newest of the faiths, and has a proud and rich history. Read about it. Remember, Wicca is a religion, not a hobby. Research it completly, listen to your heart, and talk to the Goddess. And remember, when you do become a Wiccan, you are not alone, even though it may sometimes seem that way. There is an ever-growing number of us, and there are ways of finding others. There are covens all across the country, and the Internet is a wonderful way of finding other Pagans. Before starting a Rite of Initiation, read it several times before attempting it. Understand it, and more importantly, understand why you are doing this. Are you really ready for the Wiccan lifestyle? You will know when you are ready. Ask the Goddess to give you a sign. This is forever, and Wicca is not right for everyone. Another thing to consider is what your Pagan Name will be. Many people take names from their animal spirit guides, or trees or herbs that they are drawn to. Some take names from mythical creatures or characters, Gods, or Goddesses, or colors that they feel describe them. Take two names, if you wish, a first and a last. It is worth waiting until the right name comes to you, rather than just picking the first that hits you. Make sure it is right, for your Pagan name is who you are to the universe, the Goddess, and your Pagan friends. Part of the ceremony is presenting yourself with your new name to the Goddess, being reborn. I have made a very soulful and personal Rite of Initiation, that took me years to perfect. It can be found in the Book of Shadows. Back to Main Page |