Embarking on a spiritual quest often involves seeking individuals who share our beliefs, practices, and experiences. While it's not necessary to be a part of any specific group to consider yourself a witch, finding a supportive community can be enriching and fulfilling.
This guide applies not only to how to join a coven but also to spiritual study groups and other magical communities. The following steps and practical considerations to help you connect with others who share your path.
How to find and join a Group or a Coven
1. Self-Reflection
Before actively searching for a coven, it's essential to understand your own spiritual beliefs and intentions. Take time to reflect on the experiences you seek and the type of work that resonates with you. Start as practical as possible: consider whether you enjoy working independently or prefer collaborating with others, your comfort level with others taking the lead, the level of commitment you are willing to make, and even the distance you are willing to travel. The more you understand your limitations, the better you will be to navigate challenges and make your own decisions.
2. Research Different Paths of Witchcraft
Witchcraft encompasses various paths and traditions, each offering its unique flavour. Some focus more on nature, while others emphasize ceremonial practices or work with specific deities and spirits. You don't need complete clarity on which path to follow right away, but it's helpful to explore different philosophies and rituals that inspire you. This self-awareness will further guide your search and increase the chances of finding a compatible coven.
3. Utilize Google and Social Media
Take advantage of online resources such as Facebook communities with coven listings and individual coven websites. Read through their content and see if it resonates with you. If it does, don't hesitate to reach out and contact the coven. Keep in mind that not all covens are open to new seekers, so be patient and persistent.
Social media platforms can also be useful for connecting with like-minded individuals and online covens. Engage with groups and communities; don't be afraid to initiate conversations to build connections. It's common to see seekers posting something like, "I'm looking for a mentor to guide me." Remember to exercise caution and discretion when interacting with online communities. No trustworthy cover leader will reply by accepting on their wings just because. You will need to show interest and reach out first.
4. Seek In-Person Activities
Explore the witchcraft community in your local area and look for in-person activities. You might realize your city has way more esoteric opportunities than you expected. Many witchy stores offer workshops; some covens and groups organize meetups and open rituals. You can also consider attending larger gatherings or events dedicated to paganism, such as Kaleidoscope Gathering, Wic-can Fest or Firelight Festival, where you can meet people, participate in workshops, and expand your network.
5. Ask around
As you connect with more people, you'll discover that some witches prefer maintaining a low profile. Reach out to your acquaintances and inquire about these covens, asking for information on how to contact a coven member or learn more about their practices. You don't need to rush. Take your time and invite those you are interested in for a meeting or coffee. Gathering information about different covens, their code of ethics, and guidelines will give you a better understanding of what to expect.
6. Join an Outer Court or a Study Group
Depending on the tradition, some covens may have Outer Courts, Study Groups, or classes you can participate in. Engaging in conversations with coven members through these avenues shows genuine interest in their practices and experiences. It provides an opportunity to learn more about their rituals, leadership dynamics, and alignment with your thinking. These groups often don't require a full commitment like initiation, but they offer a chance to imagine what to expect if you join them.
7. Review Your Goals
Remember that this journey takes time, often spanning months or even years. As you progress, you will evolve, and your spiritual path may shift. Each person's journey is unique, so feel free to adapt and modify the steps outlined here to suit your specific needs and circumstances. Reflect on your encounters and learnings along the way to make an informed decision when you find a coven that resonates with your path.
What about online covens?
You may have come across various online covens during your search. Some groups, particularly those on platforms like Discord, may refer to themselves as "covens." However, it's important to note that traditional covens involve physical closeness, shared celebrations, and a deeper level of connection. While online groups can provide opportunities to meet more people and learn, they differ from in-person coven practices.
Don't Take Membership for Granted
Just as you are seeking a group to join, covens will also evaluate potential members to ensure a good match. Covens has specific criteria for the type of individuals they want to work with. Building relationships, demonstrating dedication, and showing genuine interest can improve your chances of being considered for initiation. However, it's essential to understand that you might not be accepted for initiation, and it does not reflect your personal worth. Each coven has its own evaluation process; sometimes, it may be a matter of finding the right match. Keep searching and trust in the journey ahead.
Don't be afraid of starting over
Finding the right group is akin to starting a romantic relationship. You will encounter people you like and others you don't. Sometimes, you may find the perfect coven at the wrong time. Remember, this journey takes time, and it's essential to be patient and open-minded. There may come a time when the path you're on no longer serves your development. It's important not to view past experiences as failures but as valuable insights contributing to your spiritual discovery. Embrace the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and trust that the right group will show up along your spiritual journey.
How to Join a Group or Coven: