Hello and Blessings to all....I would like to know any information on starting a new lodge or coven. Any help in this matter from all viewpoints would be very helpful...I have a book on the subject but i would like some personal experiences to go with that material to have a full understanding on the subject.

    Thanks and Blessings to All!!!!

Hi celticwarrior,

Personally, I would not be in or particpate with another coven, lodge or tribe. Too many egos, "titles" (which to most of us don't care about and mean diddly squat) and following someone elses beliefs when it comes to Spirituality.

If you follow a certain tradition, you could create a Coven, Lodge, Tribe etc. But I have found over the years that most of the Pagan mindset are not about labels, titles and being in a coven, but about living a lifestyle in which their Soul can sing. This often entails many different spiritual practices combining to create a very sacred way of life...and it doesn't always go along with the traditional way of covens.

I have been in groups who study certain subjects together, such as tarot, astrology, lunar gardening etc., and found them to be very enjoyable. In these situations, it wasn't about who is higher up on the ladder of title, but what we were sharing as a person. There were egos...no one with a better or higher degree...no one tryint to outdo the other.

Many folks feel that being in a "coven" will help give them more guidance and structure. But that all depends on who is runnig the show. In my experiences (as well as a few other folks I know) this has not had a happy outcome. I have had my share of degrees and titles..they are but pieces of paper tossed in a box in my closet. AFter the experiences in my 30+ years at this way of life, I have come to discover it is not who or what you know, it is about self-discovery.....and creating a relationship with the Mother Earth and the Divine within yourself that matters most.

If you desire to celebrate the Sabbays and Esbats with a group, perhaps looking into the celebrations that the local UNiversalist Church has put together for practicing pagans/Wiccans could give you a little more of an idea. I have found those organizations to be professional, well-liked by all involved and without all the drama.

I hope that more folks can give you their input on this matter, as mine is just one.....

Many thanks to you Lady Elaine! I know what you are talking about with the whole jockying for position, being ex-military and all... I would like to find like minded people and gather...