I have always had a connection with Wicca, Goddess, Nature. Ever since I can remember. My parents are pretty cool. They have always said to do what makes me happy. I love them and I feel blessed. Like I said I have always had a connection, but being raised a different religion (Catholic) is hard. It is hard to give up the beliefs you are raised with, even when you have a strong connection with another. I have been trying to research and study when I can. I think I am going to look more into Wicca and see how I feel. I am scared because my husband is Catholic and most of my friends are Christians. It is hard to talk with them, because they dont understand. I am scared I will lose them. I have tried to look into a covent here, but I am not sure if I want a covent or to practice alone (if this is my path). I dont expect and want anyone to tell me what I should, as far as which religion or path. But if anyone can give me guidance to help me choose my path - or - If anyone has ever been here or been in a similar situation, please feel free to give me your guidance. Your guidance will be most welcome!
Thank you, Riki

Riki,

You have found yourself in a situation faced my many of us. And, as you requested, I will offer my advice for the taking.

Many Wiccan and witchces feel the pull and bury themselves in the study of the Craft while trying to smother or abandon their former beliefs. I think this is both naive and unrealistic. Indeed, you shouold begin your study of the Craft, but I think your studies should inculde a more indepth review of your birth religion, in your case Catholicism.

It would be a mistake to ignore your religious foundation, as it still will have a tremendous influence on how you percieve your existence. I would recommend you look in to the more mystical aspects of the Judeo-Christian traditions in additon to Wicca, as you will find there will be many parallels with the Craft.

Also, remember, many of the early European converts to Christianity were Pagan. You will find a surprising amount of nature-based traditions in Christianity.

Also, by studying both Christianity and Wicca, you will be able to better explain your beleifs to your friends and family in terms they can understand. Should you decide to remain in the broom closet as many of us have, understanding the paganism and magical practices of Christianity will help you develop more discreet practices.

As for a direction for your path, in my experience, many Christians prefer beginnig with a Celtic path. We have post some where (I think in the BOS) describing the various Wiccan paths. I would suggest that you begin with a very general study and listen to your heart to find what aspects of the Divine speak to you. Wicca and the Craft does not tend to hold to the exclusivity found in many monotheistic religions. Be eclectic and concentrate on that which your heart tells you.

If you choose to out yourself, you may want to do this slowly, in order to acclimate everyone.

I totally agree with Stacey. So many of us have Chrisitan backgrounds. I started with Celtic/Faery Wicca. In fact I am a Second Degree Priestess in Celtic/Faery Wicca. That being said, I still incorporate some of my Christian roots in my Wiccan beliefs. For instance, I am a healer and one of the great healers was Jesus. I frequently ask Him to join my circle.

There are many prayers that I found comforting and powerful in the Christian religion. I have "tweaked" them a bit, and now use them as prayers in my Wiccan religion.

Here is one...

Almighty God and Goddess
To Whom all desires known
No secrets hid
Cleanse the thoughts of my heart
With the inspiration of your holy Spirit
That I may perfectly love you
And worthily magnify your holy name
In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.

Wicca continues to evolve. Wicca (as opposed to Paganism) is still in its infancy. You/We are part of this evolution. It is your intent that counts. You need to meditate and go within. Find out what works for you, what works for your Magick.

If you have questions, post them! There are so many within the Castle that will help you!

Many blessings,
DesertMist

Thanks so much. Your advice and guidance has really helped. It is hard to go a different path, I have been so scared and nervous. I will definitely look more into it. It is nice to talk with people who have been there and understand. Thank you once again.

I look forward to keeping in touch while I journey through this path.

I am going through a very similar situation. I have been interested in witchcraft for longer than I can remember and when I discovered paganism and Wicca things began to come together for me. I still struggle with my Christian roots, but it is slowly getting easier for me.
I am fortunate enough to have the support of my fiance, who seems to be leaning a bit closer to the same path himself. I hope that you receive similar support from your husband when the time comes.

Just know this, you must decide for yourself where you journey on your path. It may be lonely at times, but you are never really alone. Even if those around you can not accept your beliefs, you must always accept yourself. There are no right or wrong answers as long as the answers come from your heart. If you should work up the courage someday to talk to your friends about your beliefs, you may be surprised at how accepting they are. The fundamental beliefs of Christianity are that we love one another, no matter what. If your friends and family love you now, they will not love you any less if you choose a different path than them. They may disagree and allow them too, just ask that they respect your beliefs enough not to pretend that you do things to get attention, be dramatic or offend them. Explain why you believe what you do and act as you do and hopefully there hearts will be open to see the similarities rather than the differences. We all must choose our own path, this does not mean we must be separated from those we love. Do not fear what your heart tells you.

I hope that makes sense to you, and good luck in everything!