I. Development
A. Starting
in the early nineteenth century, a new natural
religion gradually evolved. It gathered
momentum in the mid-twentieth century.
B. Many
authors and philosophers helped to develop the magical
modern religion and to articulate parts of its belief
structure.
C. The
religion finds its roots in ancient ways.
It has psychic connections and sympathy with those who
were burnt in the medieval period, and indeed with all
individuals who have been oppressed and killed in the
name of religion.
D. The
recent "festival" movement has enhanced the growth and
diversity of the religion.
II. Literature
There is no
official text; for the Craft is a religion of life and
of nature, not of "the book."
III. Explicit Religious Doctrines
A. God
(deity) is immanent and transcendent.
B. Every
living entity has a spirit which is connected to and
part of every other spirit. Humans are a part of
nature.
C. Divinity
manifests itself through all living beings. Nature
itself is divine (but not something to directly
"worship") as is the Cosmos as is each person.
D. God
and goddess images are recognized as aspects of a
greater divinity that is unknowable.
IV. Ritual and Worship
A. Observances
may be group or solitary. Regular worship
services are scheduled in harmony with the moon's
phases by groups (covens or congregations) of members.
B. Each
worship site is constructed anew on each occasion of
meeting. It is defined by new consecrated
circles, and may be located anywhere.
C. Only
coven members are allowed to enter the innermost
circle.
V. Ethics
A. The
ethical set is summarized in the Wiccan Rede:
