Initiation into Wicca

When you have been studying Wicca for some time, you may feel it is time for you to commit to Wicca and start your Spiritual journey. I found that after my Initiation, I felt my Soul move and I officially felt One with nature, the God and Goddess.

This rite of passage can be seen as a change in your life, some have called it the 'rebirth into Wicca'. Wiccans that belong to a Coven, have a ritual performed with an Initiator where the power is passed from them to you. Being Initiated with a Coven also stops the danger of feeling too overwhelmed and missing the whole meaning of your Initiation. Generally there are three degrees of Initiation, they are listed below:

1st Degree - A ceremony that centres on the theme of Rebirth, there is an ordeal and vow. At the end, the Initiate is pronounced Witch or Priestess. Ideally, you would be wearing your chosen Ritual Robes for any future Rituals.

2nd Degree - The Wheel of the year has to pass in order for you to progress into the 2nd degree, this ceremony focuses on the Horned One. Again, there is usually an ordeal or vigil. After this Degree, you assume the title of High Priest or Priestess, from this point you can teach the beginners to the Craft.

3rd Degree - Generally taken after years of study and active work in the craft, the ceremony centres on the relationship between the God and Goddess. This degree allows you to feel the balance and transformaion of Wicca.

Note: Each Coven will have different traditions when it comes to Initiation, most Witches will only reach the 1st degree as it is the 'entrance' to Wicca while the other two are elevations.

Not every Witch belongs to a Coven, Solitary Witches can carry out their own Initiation (Self-Initiation). This form of initiation is just as valid as the Coven performed rituals, if you feel 'Changed' after the ritual then you have been Initiated into Wicca. A Solitary Witch can choose to do whatever they want for their Initiation, there is no 'right' ritual. But I will make a few suggestions.

Self-Initiation - Some witches prefer to perform a ritual with the elements and all of your chosen ritual tools such as: your Book of Shadows, chalice, candle, knife and ritual clothing (any item of clothing). You would write your own vow to the God and Goddess, at this time you can also name the God and Goddess you wish to follow (if you have chosen them), if you haven't you can refer to them as the Lord and Lady. You can also present your chosen Wiccan name which you will only use in ritual and spell-making. After this is done and you have closed the circle you may feel, 'Changed' and fully dedicated to the Path of Wicca.

Note: Choose the date of your Initiation wisely, as the phase of the moon can effect and improve the power of your Self-Initiation.