Ask A Witch: Bellona in Trenton, NJ
Dear Alexandra,
For my sociology project, my partner and I were wondering:
What form of Wicca do you follow?
Are you a member of a coven, and if so, what is it called?
How old were you when you became involved with Wicca?
What are you views on the Salem Witch trials and the burning time?
Can you explain your personal beliefs?
What is your favorite Sabbat, if you follow them?
Do you know what it means if a coven works robed or skyclad?
Thank you so much for you help.
Bellona in Trenton, NJ
__________
Dear Bellona,
[In 2002 I was] a seeker of British Traditional Wicca. Through a coven that would probably prefer not to be named in this context. [At this later date of re-posting I am now an Initiated Priestess]. I was raised by parents who allowed me to worship in Pantheist and Pagan ways, and I began serious study when I was 14 years old but did not seek Initiation into Wicca until after age 21.
I believe that very few actual Witches were burned in the Salem Witch trials, but that it should be remembered as a point in history that was driven by fear and discrimination against mystics of other varieties.
Explaining my beliefs would probably take up a lot of room. I often call myself Pagan, which I consider to be a polytheistic, nature-revering, life-affirming religion. I try to keep myself in tune with nature and bring myself closer to the joys that I know as Gods. Wicca is an initiatory, mystery tradition devoting itself to the rites of specific deities.
My favorite Sabbat? That's a hard one! I'd have to say Yule (Winter Solstice) because I love the winter holiday season and awaiting the return of the lengthening of the days! [Although at the time of this re-posting I've become closer to Samhain since my father's death.]
A Coven may choose to work skyclad which means naked. Some do this to show that they are free and have nothing to hide from the Gods. Some may also choose to go robed to show respect and the robes may also reflect the nature of the occasion.
Light!
Alexandra
17 Dec 2002
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