1. With a Coven, the rituals are performed
by a group of people, with several(principally the Priest and/or Priestess) playing the parts.
As a Solitary, you do everything
yourself.
2. The Coven meets in a large, nine foot in diameter,
circle.
The Solitary has a small,
compact circle.
3. The Coven uses a full complement of tools, depending
on the tradition.
The Solitary uses only what they feel they need.
4. Coven meetings must, to an extent, be held when most convenient for the majority.
The Solitary can hold a ritual whenever they feel
like it.
5. A Coven draws on all its members to build a Cone
of Power.
A Solitary has only thei
own power to draw on.
6. A Coven has a wide variety
of knowledge and specialties.
A Solitary has only their own knowledge and specialty.
7. A Coven is usually fairly set in its ways.
A Solitary can change with
their mood, age, location, etc.
8. A Coven ritual can become almost a production,
or pageant.
A Solitary ritual can be the barest minimum of words
and actions.
9. A Coven must attune
itself as one.
A Solitary IS one.
Covens are not to be found everywhere, and finding one can be difficult. There is a saying in Wicca "When
the student is ready, a teacher will find them". There's a lot of truth in this. If you truly want to join a coven, chances
are you'll find one. Visit local New Age, Metaphysical or Occult stores and take classes on Wicca or similar subjects offered
through these centers. More than likely, these classes will be taught by a priest or priestess of Wicca. At the very least,
attending such classes will enable the student to meet others of like minds, which could be the basis for founding a new coven
or for finding contacts in established groups.
In the end, only you can make the decision to be
solitary or to belong to a coven. Don't let anyone else pressure you. If someone tries to pressure you into joining their
group, run the other way fast! Good Wiccans would never do this. Wiccans don't recruit. We can encourage, but never pressure
or push someone into believing as we do. Enjoy the journey, the path may be difficult but is always rewarding.
I am my own Leader and my own master, and I am a Solitary that practices in a group, called
Coven of the Black Rose when I feel I need to strength of more than myself to back me up.
Coven of the Black Rose will be explained further in another time.
