Paganism / Wicca: Most Popular Articles

2008 Pagan/Wiccan Calendar
Trying to plan your holidays in advance? There are a number of celebrations throughout the rest of 2008. Check here for the dates for upcoming Sabbats in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, as well as full moon dates.

Create Your Book of Shadows
In Wicca and Paganism, it's traditional to create a Book of Shadows, which is a notebook containing information regarding your tradition, gods and goddesses, correspondence tables, sabbat and esbat rites and rituals, magical recipes, and more. Learn how to make your own BOS here.

Bedtime Prayers for Kids
Looking for a bedtime prayer for your child? Forget about that whole "now I lay me down to sleep" thing - here are prayers for a variety of Pagan and Wiccan themes. From deity focused to silly chants, read on for more Pagan children's bedtime prayers.

Basic Principles and Concepts
There's a lot of information out there about Wicca, and if you're just beginning your studies, it's hard to get a good handle on what is what. While each Wiccan tradition or group may have its own set of specific beliefs, there are a few basic principles common to nearly every Wiccan path.

The Four Elements
Many followers of Wicca and Paganism feel a connection to the four classical elements: earth, air, fire and water. Each connects to a cardinal direction on a compass, and each is associated with a number of different characteristics and attributes.

Flower Moon
In the merry month of May, the soil warms up enough that we can begin planting. In addition to our garden, we can work on nourishing our souls and hearts. Learn about May's Flower Moon and its fiery magical associations.

Your Magical Name
Many Wiccans and Pagans choose to select a new name to use in ritual and ceremony -- in some cases it's a name shared only with the gods. Learn how you can find the magical name or craft name that's right for you.

Spring Full Moon Ritual
Celebrate the arrival of spring with a seasonal full moon. Welcome spring with a water-themed ritual adaptable for either groups or solitaries.

Cast a Circle
We've all read about the idea of Casting a Circle, but what does it really mean, and how is it done? What is the significance of the Circle in Wiccan and Pagan worship?

All About Beltane
May 1 is known as May Day to many people, but for a lot of Wiccans and Pagans it's Beltane. It's a day to celebrate fertility, fire, and abundance. Learn about the traditions and trends of this Sabbat, how to hold a Maypole Dance, and some great ideas for rituals and celebrations.

Baby Naming Ceremony
Few things in life are as important as one's name, and for Wiccan and Pagan families, a naming ceremony is a joyful alternative to traditional baptisms. It's a chance to welcome your child into the community of family and friends, and to bless them with the name you have chosen for your new baby.

Spring Goddess Ritual
When spring arrives, we can see the fertility of the earth in full bloom. For many traditions, this brings the opportunity to celebrate the sacred feminine energy of the universe. This simple goddess ritual honors the feminine, while also celebrating our female ancestors.

Litha History
Summer solstice celebrations have been held throughout history. While some cultures dedicated this time of year to the Divine, others saw it as a chance to welcome the power of the light of the sun over the darkness which would eventually arrive. Celebrate Litha, or Midsummer, with fire and water and find the light and power in your own life.

Write Your Own Spell
There are hundreds of books available on how to write your own Wiccan and Pagan spells, and thousands of spells available on the Internet. But what if you want to write your own spell? Do you need to have decades of experience? You might be surprised to learn that by following a few easy steps, anyone can write an effective spell.

Rule of Three
What is the Rule of Three, and why does it play such an important role in modern Paganism and Wicca? Does it apply to everyone, or is it just a bunch of fluffy New Age mumbo-jumbo?

Tarot 101
If you're ready to start learning about reading Tarot cards, how they work, different spreads, and the best decks to use, this is the place to start.

Paganism Factoids
So you think you're ready to become Pagan or Wiccan? Here are ten factoids you really need to know before you take that step.

Isis
Isis was a great goddess of the Ancient Egyptians, and sister/consort of Osiris. She is honored today by some Pagans as the archetype of the mother and wife, and a goddess of mystery and magic.

Artemis - Goddess of the Hunt
Artemis was a Greek goddess of the hunt, and like her twin brother Apollo possessed a wide variety of attributes. Some Pagans still honor her today because of her connection to times of female transition.

Drawing Down the Moon
This beautiful and powerful ritual is one in which the practitioner invokes the Goddess directly into herself (or himself, as the case may be). In some variations of this ritual, a High Priestess (HPs) may go into a trancelike state and speak the words of the Goddess, and in others, it may be a formal monologue calling upon the Goddess in her many forms.

Magical Tools
Ever wonder what you can do with a wand, cauldron, or chalice? Trying to figure out what tools you absolutely have to have on your altar? Read on for information about some of the most commonly used tools of the Craft.

Self-Dedication Ritual
Many modern Pagans and Wiccans choose not to be part of a coven or group. Because one of the benefits of joining a group is initiation, if you're practicing as a solitary you may choose to perform a self-dedication rite as a way of declaring yourself to the deities of your tradition.

Beltane History
Beltane has been celebrated for centuries among agricultural societies -- it's the beginning of May, the sign that summer is just around the corner. This fire festival has its roots in fertility rituals that can be traced back to Greco-Roman religions. Learn about traditions of May celebrations from around the world.

Magical Oils 101
Learn the basics of blending your own magical oils. With just a few simple tips, you'll be able to make your own concoctions in no time at all.

Full Moon Esbat Rite
In addition to the eight Sabbats, many Wiccans and Pagans celebrate regularly with an Esbat. This is a time of spellwork and magic, as well as of communing with the Divine, traditionally held at the time of the full moon. You can hold this Esbat ritual either alone or as part of a group.

Crystals and Gemstones
Many Wiccans and Pagans use crystals and gemstones in workings, because every stone is connected to some aspect of the human experience. Learn about the therapeutic and magical properties of different stones, as well as how they are best used in magical practice.

Make Your Own Altar Pentacle
You can spend a small fortune on altar tools and magical supplies, but if you'd like to make your own pentacle, follow these simple steps.

Wiccan Sabbat Rituals
As the Wheel of the Year turns and the eight Wiccan Sabbats pass by, many people like to celebrate with special ceremonies and rituals. Learn about the different Sabbats, what they mean, and how you can celebrate with your group or as a solitary practitioner.

Paganism / Wicca - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Paganism / Wicca guide site.

Make a Ritual Robe
Although many Wiccans and Pagans prefer to practice skyclad, sometimes it's just not practical -- and that's when you need a good ritual robe. You can buy them commerically, but for a lot of people it's just more satisfying to make their own. You can assemble a simple ritual robe by following these basic steps.

Is Magic Real?
Is magic real? Depends on who you ask, but most Wiccans and Pagans will tell you they accept magic as part of their daily life. Most people don't practice magic at all -- why on earth not, if it's real? Some of the reasons might be simpler than you think.

Differences in Paths
What's the difference between Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism? Or are they all just the same thing with different names?

2007 Wiccan Calendar
Trying to plan your holidays in advance? There are a number of celebrations throughout the rest of 2007. Check here for the dates for upcoming Sabbats, as well as full moon dates.

Consecrate Your Magical Tools
What should you do with a wand or athame when you first get it? Many Wiccans and Pagans perform a consecration ritual on their magical tools. It's not hard to do, and can be incorporated into any other ceremony. Learn how to consecrate your magical tools with this simple ritual invoking the energies of the four classical elements.

Cerridwen
Cerridwen is known in Welsh mythology as the keeper of the Cauldron of the Underworld in which knowledge and inspiration are brewed. She is considered a goddess of prophetic powers, and because her symbol is the Cauldron, she is an honored goddess in many Wiccan and Pagan traditions.

Pagan & Wiccan Food Blessing
Many religions say a blessing over their food and drink, because consumption is a constant reminder of our link to the earth. The following short prayers can be said before a meal, a Cakes and Ale ceremony, or any other time you like.

Offerings to the Gods
So you want to make an offering to the deity of your tradition -- but what's an appropriate choice? Here are some suggestions for different types of gods, and what's an acceptable offering.

Gardnerian Wicca
When Gerald Gardner founded Wicca in the 1950s, he set the wheels turning for countless other traditions to form. Many of today's Wiccan covens can trace their origins back to Gardner, but the Gardnerians path itself remains initiatory and oathbound.

Prayers for a Deceased Pet
If you've lost a pet, it can be hard to let go. These prayers can be used for a family memorial for your deceased friend, from goldfish to dogs and cats.

Interpret the Tarot Cards
Once you've got a pile of Tarot cards down in front of you, how do you interpret the messages within them?

Magical Herb Use
Need to do a working but not sure which herbs are appropriate? Check out this list of correspondences -- it's listed by intent, so all you'll need to do is set a goal and then find your herbs!

Hold a Seance
Many Wiccans and Pagans communicate with the spirit world by way of holding seances. Before you have a seance of your own, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Croning Ceremony
More and more women are celebrating the third stage of life by having a Croning Ceremony. Rather than hiding our maturity, we're honoring and welcoming it. Learn what a Croning ceremony is, and get some tips on how to hold one for yourself or a friend.

Are Wiccans Satanists?
Are Pagans and Wiccans a bunch of devil-worshippers? Are they performing naughty naked rituals? Well, no... let's talk about why that's a myth.

The Wiccan Rede
Used as a guideline in many Wiccan traditions, the concept of the Wiccan Rede encourages practitioners to be cautious about harming others, and in fact delivers the warning, "Harm None."

Make Your Own Besom
The besom is the traditional witch's broom, and while you can certainly buy one in a store, there's some degree of satifaction in making your own. Learn how to create a besom with natural items in just a few steps.

Find a Coven
What is a coven, and what are some of the benefits and pitfalls of joining one? Learn about coven dynamics, and most importantly, where to meet the people whose groups you want to join.

Days of the Week
Each day of the week is magical in its own right. Believe it or not, when it comes to magic, the seven days all have very different planetary influences, colors, and other associations.

What Is a Spirit Guide?
Lots of people believe they have spirit guides -- but how do you know that it's not just your imagination? Learn about some of the different types of spirit guides -- and how to tell if your spirit guide is really there to help.

Blessing Oil
This oil can be blended together in advance and used for any ritual requiring blessing, anointing or consecration oil.

Baby Blessings
Hold a baby blessing ceremony to welcome your new arrival, and to introduce your little one to the gods of your tradition. By combining these two rites, the child is joined to both the earth and the heavens at the same time.

Handfasting Basket
What do you give the Pagan or Wiccan couple who already has a toaster oven and three different styles of flatware? Make them a gift from the heart, and celebrate their handfasting with this basket full of thirteen symbolic goodies.

The Role of Prayer
Prayer is a conversation, sometimes one-sided and sometimes not, between us and the Divine. Although some Pagans and Wiccans pooh-pooh the idea of prayer as being a Christian exercise, many more understand it as a way to take a step closer to our gods.

For Concerned Parents
Your child has suddenly changed her name, started reading some fairly strange things, and doodling pentacles on her notebook. Is there cause for alarm, or is it just a phase she's going through? What if she's serious about Wicca and Paganism -- should you worry?

Make a God's Eye at Mabon
God's eyes are popular decorations to make in nearly every spiritual path. By using harvest colors like reds, oranges, yellows and browns, you can create one for Mabon to hang in your home or to adorn your altar.

Celtic Tree Months
The Celtic tree calendar is based upon thirteen lunar months. Each is named for a letter in the Celtic alphabet. Learn about the thirteen tree months, and how they are used in magical workings.

Celebrate the New Moon
In some traditions, the appearance of the New Moon each month is even more important than the night of the Full Moon. This ritual is a very basic one that can be done either as a solitary or as part of a group. The welcoming theme makes it a good one to use if you're teaching young children about Pagan and Wiccan spirituality.

Tobacco Leaf
Tobacco leaf is used in many native American practices, and has a number of magical qualities. Learn about the properties of tobacco leaf.

Faerie Lore
Some people believe that the Fae are most active around the time of Beltane. What are these otherworldly creatures, and where do they come from?

Basil
Basil brings the powers of protection and love. Find out how you can use basil in magical workings.

Candle Magic 101
Many Wiccans and Pagans use candles as part of their magical workings. Learn about the basics of candle magic, which colors to use and how to anoint your candles before using them in ritual.

Floralia
Long before the medieval peasantry of the British Isles erected their Maypoles, the ancient Romans were partying hard in honor of Flora, their spring fertility goddess. She had her very own festival, called Floralia, and there was all kinds of merrymaking going on!

Goddess Position
What is a Goddess position, and when would you use one?

Samhain History
Samhain is celebrated October 31, the same night as Halloween. However, this Sabbat has roots that go back thousands of years. Learn about how Samhain became All Hallow's Eve.

Make a Beltane Floral Crown
Beltane is a great time for celebrating spring flowers, so before you head off to the Maypole Dance, take a minute to put together one of these simple but lovely floral crowns!

Wicked, the Musical
Long before Dorothy dropped in on the Land of Oz, there were two friends named Elphaba and Glinda (that's Ga-linda, with a "Ga"). If you've ever wondered why the Wicked Witch of the West got such a bad rap, seeing "Wicked" will give you a whole new perspective!

The Magical Moon Garden
While most people think of their gardens as a place of sun and light, there are a number of plants that thrive nocturnally. Consider planting a magical moon garden, so you can enjoy the benefits of your efforts under a night sky instead.

Festival Etiquette
You're getting ready to attend your first Pagan or Wiccan festival or other public event -- that's awesome! Being prepared, though, with some simple "Do"s and "Don't"s, will help you have a much more positive experience. Follow the guidelines for proper festival etiquette, and you'll probably be invited back again next time!

Reader's Starter Kit
Many people come to Wicca seeking something new in their life -- but there's a LOT of information out there to absorb. How do you know which books are good, and which ones are best used as a door stop? Here's a list of thirteen books from a variety of sources that any Wiccan seeker should have in their personal library.

Charge of the Goddess
Originally published by Doreen Valiente in the 1950's, the Charge of the Goddess is one of the most moving and most popular incantations in the Wiccan religion. This is the most traditional one of several versions available today.

Litha Fire Ritual
Although this particular Midsummer ritual isn't ancient, it is inspired by the traditions and legends of the Celts of the British Isles. Take advantage of the long hours of daylight to celebrate Litha, or Alban Heruin, and honor the solstice outdoors under the skies. If you're interested in Celtic lore, or wish to honor the Triple Goddess, this might be the perfect ritual for you.

Beltane Maypole Dance
The tradition of the Maypole Dance has been around for a long time -- it's a celebration of the fertility of the season. If you have a big group of friends and a lot of ribbon, you can easily hold your own Maypole Dance as part of your Beltane festivities.

Valerian
Despite its unpleasant smell, valerian has many useful properties. Learn about the many different uses of valerian in medicine and magic.

Thyme
Thyme has many magical and therapeutic properties. Learn about the many different uses of thyme.

Are There Rules In Wicca?
Are there any rules involved in Paganism or Wicca, or is it just a magical free-for-all where everyone does as they please? Find out what standards most Wiccan and Pagan groups set for themselves.

Pagan Clergy Listings
Are you looking for Pagan or Wiccan clergy in your state to perform a handfasting, committment ceremony, or wedding? This list contains Pagan clergy sorted by states.

Apple Blossoms
The apple is a symbol of immortality and of the gods themselves. Find out how you can use apple blossoms in magical workings.

The Language of Flowers
During the nineteenth century, it became popular to send someone a message using only flowers. Each one had its own symbolism, so the type of flower you sent was very important. Here's a partial list of some popular flowers and their secret meanings

Handfasting Tips
So you've set a date for your handfasting -- congratulations! Now the fun really begins. Here are some helpful tips on how to have the best ceremony you possibly can.

Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb of protection and purification. What are some ways you can use chamomile in magical workings?

How Magic Works
Wondering why you keep hearing Pagans and Wiccans talk about magical energy, correspondences, or chatting with their gods? Believe it or not, there are a number of schools of thought as to how magic actually works.

Rosemary
Rosemary is known for its many magical and culinary uses. What are some of the ways you can use rosemary in your life?

Are they all the same?
Are Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism the same thing? Not exactly. Learn what some of the differences are.

Lavender
What's so special about lavender? Learn about this herb that is used in perfume, medicine and magic.

Blood Moon
October's Blood Moon brings with it cool, clear nights and the knowledge that winter is around the corner. It's also a time for spiritual growth, because it's when the veil between this world and the next is at its thinnest.

Keep Your Tarot Cards Safe
Now that you've found the Tarot deck that's right for you, there are a few things you should do to keep your cards not only physically safe, but also to shield them from negative energy.

Ten Things To Learn
So you told your parents you want to be Wiccan, and they've said it ain't gonna happen under their roof. Well, they're within their rights, and there's not much you can do to change their minds. But while you're waiting to Be An Adult and move out on your own, there are other things you can study instead of Wicca that will help make your spiritual journey more effective when you finally get to that point.

Definition
Up until just a few decades ago, England had strict laws prohibiting anything to do with Witchcraft.

Handfasting History
Handfasting was common centuries ago in the British Isles, and then vanished for a while. Now, however, it's seeing a rising popularity among Wiccan and Pagan couples who are interested in tying the knot. Find out where this custom came from, and what brought it back.

Sage
Often called an herb of wisdom, sage can be used in number of ways. Learn about how to use sage for its magical and therapeutic properties.

Meditation 101
Ever wonder what meditation is and how it works? Now's your chance to get the basics on meditation and what it can do for you.

Fertility Deities of Beltane
Beltane has been a time of fertility celebration for thousands of years, in innumerable cultures. Learn about some of the different deities that can be honored during this spring Sabbat.

Talking to Parents about Wicca
Teens often have questions about talking to their parents about Wicca and Paganism, for a variety of reasons. Learn why it's important to keep those lines of communication open - even if your parents object.

How to Prep for Tarot Readings
Ready to read Tarot cards for a friend, family member, or even a total stranger? There are a few things you should know ahead of time.

A Prayer for the Dying
This prayer is one which may be said by or on behalf of a dying person, and addresses the need we have to feel at home in the last moments of life before crossing over. If you're Pagan or Wiccan, and looking for the equivalent of a "last rites" sort of prayer, this may be helpful to you if you have a loved one who is terminally ill or in hospice care.

Magical Ethics
Black magic, white magic, what's the difference? Or is there one? As a Wiccan or Pagan, how do you know what kind of magic is acceptable to perform, and what's completely out of bounds?

Warning Signs
What should you beware of when looking for a Pagan or Wiccan coven in your area? Learn about safety tips, things to look for, and what sort of dynamic makes a coven the right fit for you.

Living a Magical Life
Many people ask what it means to "live a magical life" as a Wiccan or Pagan. It's quite simple -- it just means to live in a way that's compatible with a belief system all the time, not just when it's convenient. Learn about ways you can live a more magical life.

Hyssop
Hyssop is a popular herb in purification rituals. Learn how you can use it in magical workings.

Ouija Boards
We've all heard about Ouija boards as a form of divination, as well as the corresponding cautionary tales. Just how safe is it to use a Ouija board?

Beer Battered Fish and Chips
The Celtic peoples often relied on fish as part of their diet -- after all, fish were plentiful, and could be caught any time of year. Try this tasty beer-batter recipe as part of your Imbolc celebration.

0 - The Fool
Who is the Fool in the Major Arcana of the Tarot, and what does he represent in a divinatory reading?

Autumn Full Moon Ceremony
Instead of a regular Esbat rite, some Wiccan and Pagan groups tailor their full moon celebrations to the season. This ceremony is designed for a group of at least four people, and can be held during any of the autumn harvest months.

Make a Tarot Card Bag
While some people don't mind keeping their Tarot cards in the original box, it's always nice to have a special place for them. Make this simple drawstring bag with a few scraps of fabric, some ribbon, and a couple of pony beads.

Imbolc House Cleansing
Many people have gotten into the habit of doing a spring cleaning, and it's a good way to get yourself inspired. Once you've done a physical cleaning, invite your loved ones to join you in a spiritual cleansing as well.

Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa
One of the best known occult writers is Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa. Born in France, he was periodically denounced but never formally accused or tried for his interests in magic and the occult. His work "Three Books About Occult Philosophy" was a major influence on later thinkers such as John Dee, and examined the idea that the magic of the natural world was linked to the magic of the Divine.

Pre-Birth Ritual
In addition to being a great way to get things you need for your baby, a Preparing Ritual is also a chance to prepare yourself emotionally for the fact that you are welcoming a brand new person into your home and family. If you like, you can include this as part of a baby shower celebration.

How To Find Local Covens
How to find a Pagan or Wiccan coven in your area. Discusses safety tips, things to look for, and what sort of dynamic makes a coven the right fit for you.

Grave Rubbings
Gravestone art became popular during the Victorian era, when headstones were carved with elaborate scrollwork, calligraphy, and art. You can use rubbings from headstones as a decoration in your home, but you also need to be sure to follow a few simple guidelines.

Osiris - King of Egyptian Gods
Osiris was the son of earth and sky, and beloved of Isis. He is known as the god who taught mankind the secrets of civilization. Today, he is honored by some Pagans as a god of the underworld and of the harvest.

Handfasting Favors
It's popular to give wedding guests a small favor to commemorate the event. If you're having a handfasting ceremony, why not make gifts that are representative of your spiritual tradition? Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Brighid - Irish Hearth Goddess
A daughter of the Dagda, Brighid is one of the classic triple goddesses of the Celtic pantheon. Many Pagans and Wiccans honor her today as a goddess of the hearth and home, and divination and prophecy.

Lammas History
Ever wonder why Lammas is such a big deal in some Pagan traditions? Learn about the history of Lammas and how harvest festivals have been documented back thousands of years. A time of grain and fruit, Lammas (also called Lughnasadh) is the first of three Pagan harvest celebrations. In some traditions, it's the day to honor Lugh, the Celtic craftsman god.

Setting Up Your Beltane Altar
Okay, so we know that Beltane is a fertility festival... but how do you translate that into altar setup? Here are some tips about how to set up your altar to celebrate the Beltane sabbat.

Incense 101
For thousands of years, people have used fragrant flowers, plants, and herbs as incense. Using smoke to send prayers out to the gods is one of the oldest known forms of ceremony. From the censers of the Catholic church to the Pagan bonfire rituals, incense is a powerful way to let your intent be known. You can make your own quite easily, using a blend of herbs, flowers, wood bark, resins, and berries. Most of these are items you can grow yourself, find in the woods, or purchase inexpensively.

Peppermint
Peppermint has many magical and therapeutic properties. Learn about the many different uses of peppermint.

Pagan Kids Activities
For many Pagans and Wiccans, it's hard to find kid-friendly activities that celebrate our spiritual path. Believe it or not, sharing your beliefs with your kids is easier than you think. Try some of these simple activities as a way of celebrating your family and your beliefs all at once.

Dianic Wicca
With origins in the feminist movement, Dianic Wicca has been embraced by many women trying to find an alternative to oppressive, patriarchal religion. One branch of the Dianic movement centers around the writings of Z Budapest, while other groups tend to be more eclectic. One facet they all have in common is a celebration of the Goddess only, instead of the dual God/Goddess practice often found in Wicca.

Wicca for Solitaries
Scott Cunningham's book "Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Pracitioner" is a worthy read for anyone interested in learning about Wicca and modern Paganism.

Freyja - Goddess of Abundance
Freyja, or Freya, was a Norse goddess of abundance, fertility and war. She is still honored today by some Pagans, and is often associated with sexual freedom.

Books for Pagan & Wiccan Kids
While there aren't a lot of books out there specifically for Wiccan or Pagan children, there are a number that support Pagan and Wiccan belief systems. Here's a list to get you started hunting for Pagan-friendly books for the little ones.

Pagan Student Scholarships
Are you a Pagan or Wiccan student looking for a college scholarship? Are you a parent of a Pagan or Wiccan student who's headed off to college? Here's our listing of scholarships and grants available to Wiccan and Pagan students.

How Long Does Magic Take?
So now you've decided to learn about spellwork, and you're ready to do a little magic of your own. How long should you wait before you start seeing the results of your working?

Hold a Beltane Bonfire Rite
Beltane is a time of fire and fertility. Combine the passion of a roaring bonfire with the love of the May Queen and the God of the Forest, and you've got a recipe for a fantastic ritual. Use your imagination to kick start your Beltane festivities with this group ritual.

Altar Maypole Centerpiece
The Maypole is a long-time symbol of Beltane -- but you may not have the time or the means to erect a full-size one on your property. Instead, why not make this smaller scale Maypole to sit on your altar for your Sabbat celebrations?

Spring Flower Magic
With spring comes blooms and blossoms everywhere -- learn how you can use some of your garden's loveliest plants in your magical workings.

Paganism / Wicca - Recipes
An index of Recipes for the Paganism / Wicca guide site.

Why Is There Secrecy In Wicca?
Even though you can buy books on Wicca and Paganism just about anywhere, there still tends to be a lot of secrecy and mystery surrounding the issue. Find out why you can't just open the yellow pages and find a coven of Wiccans.

Before You Join...
There are a lot of things you need to consider before you actually join a Wiccan or Pagan coven. Before you say "yes" to any invitation, think about some of these issues.

Odin - Ruler of the Norse Gods
Odin was the mighty ruler of Asgard, and the supreme deity of the Scandinavian pantheon. Many Pagans still honor him today as a god of wealth, wisdom and inspiration.

Catnip
In addition to being the plant of choice for our feline friends, catnip has a number of magical properties you can use in workings of your own.

Herne, God of the Wild Hunt
In British lore, Herne the Hunter is a god of vegetation, vine, and the wild hunt. Similar in many aspects to Cernunnos, Herne is celebrated in the autumn months, when the deer go into rut. He is seen as a god of the common folk, and is typically recognized only around the Windsor Forest area of Berkshire, England.

Blessing Moon
July's full moon is known as the blessing moon, and is associated with certain herbs, trees, and deities.

Make a Brighid's Crown
Imbolc is a time to honor Brighid, the fiery goddess of hearth and home. She reminds us that spring is on the way, and you can make a Brighid's Crown to place on your altar, as a reminder that new life is coming soon.

Reiki 101: Healing Energy
Reiki is a healing modality which comes to us from Japan. Many Wiccans and Pagans find this method of channeling healing energy appealing. Learn about the basics of Reiki, and what its benefits can be.

Beltane Bannocks
The Beltane bannock is a traditional cake to be eaten during the celebration of May Day. Eating the bannock on Beltane morning is said to bring abundance your way.

Candied Flowers
Nothing says spring has arrived quite like flower blossoms -- and what many people don't realize is that not only are they lovely to look at, they can taste good too. With a few fresh flowers, you can create a tasty treat.

Is Magic Evil?
Many people who discover Wicca and Paganism come from other religious backgrounds, and many of them are concerned about this issue. How do Wiccans and Pagans feel about the matter?

Belief in God?
What do Pagans and Wiccans think about the concept of "God"? The answer might surprise you.

Paganism / Wicca - StepBySteps
An index of StepBySteps for the Paganism / Wicca guide site.

Wiccan/Pagan Authors
A number of authors have published work on Wicca and Paganism. Meet some of the people who have written books that every Pagan or Wiccan should read.

Create a Portable Altar Kit
Many Wiccans and Pagans like to create a portable altar kit. This can be handy if you travel a lot, or if you just like the idea of being able to put your stuff away quickly when guests come over. Learn how to assemble a simple altar kit that you can take with you wherever you go.

Make a Faerie Chair for Spring
If you like to garden, this easy craft is a great way to showcase your climbing plants - and invite the Fae into your garden at the same time!

All About Imbolc
Here's where you'll find links to all kinds of articles on Imbolc -- rituals, history, crafts, recipes, and more!

Yarrow
Yarrow has been used both medicinally and magically for centuries. How can you use Yarrow in your everyday workings?

Asatru
The Asatru tradition is a reconstructionist path that focuses on pre-Christian Norse spirituality. The movement began in the 1970s as part of a revival of Germanic paganism, and numerous Asatru groups exist in the United States and other countries.

Raymond Buckland Interview
Raymond Buckland has written over thirty books on Wicca. Check out what he had to say about the modern Pagan movement, books worth reading, and contemporary issues of concern to Wiccans.

Jumping the Broom
As more Pagans and Wiccans celebrate handfastings, the tradition of jumping the broom has seen a rise in popularity. Although it once was thought to be strictly the domain of slaves in the American south, scholars now believe that the custom also has roots in European society.

Full Moon Water Scrying
Are you one of those people who feels more sensitive and alert during the time of the full moon? Channel that energy into something useful, and try this simple yet effective water scrying divination rite.

Rights of Pagan Students
Can Pagan and Wiccan students be treated differently at school? Actually, they have the same rights as everyone else. Read on to learn about how to protect your religious freedoms in an educational setting.