witchcraft or Wicca?
Witchcraft is the belief in and practice of magic. Many witches use elements of the earth to focus their energy and work.
Wicca is a life-affirming, Earth-based religion which sees all life as sacred and interconnected. Deity is seen in all of nature and is not subscribed to a single gender. It is a welcoming faith that includes anyone who wishes to be a part of it. Wiccans celebrate the cycles of the seasons, throughout the year and it is known as the Wheel of the Year. There are eight specific holidays that are celebrated. They are:
Imbolc - February 1 or 2
Spring Equinox - March 21
Beltane - May 1
Summer Solstice - June 21
Lammas - August 1
Autumn Equinox - September 21
Samhain - October 31
Winter Solstice - December 21
Many witches are followers of the Wiccan faith; however, not all witches are Wiccans. Magic is practiced across a multitude of faiths.
The Wiccan Rede
Most Wiccans agree on the ethical code known as the Wiccan Rede. The heart of it reads, "An it harm none, do what ye will." We believe in individual rights and each of us personally defines harm for ourselves.
We are fortunate to have leaders and elders who understand how intimidating it can be to seek community and want seekers to know what to look for and what to avoid. Check out the Seekers' Bill of Rights written by a Texas Local Council member, Charles Mars.
For more about Wicca and witchcraft, check these out:
