The first thing to look at when forming a coven is the environment. Whenever you wish to form a coven you need to make absolutely sure that the environment is suitable for it.  If you wish to perform magic solo then all you really need is a private corner which is your own private haven.  The main important thing to look at is that the environment is safe, quiet, private and that you are unlikely to be disturbed by children, phones, neighbors etc. However, if you wish to perform your magic is in a group of like-minded friends then of course you will need a larger space to operate in.

Apart from the more obvious aspect of companionship the formation of a group, or coven as it is called, brings with its certain advantages. As with all forms of magic you learn a lot from others experiences and knowledge far more than you do from books. Also, you will find that the bigger the group the more power. Remember the old saying “many hands make light work”.

Once you have found the right place to perform your magic everyone needs to sit quietly there and pick up the energy of the surroundings and feel comfortable with it.

All members of the coven must have that sense of basic belief, emotional rapport and present a certain amount of magical dedication. They also need to feel comfortable with everyone else involved. The more this group gets along the stronger they will become. This will then make all the members of this coven involved in a very strong potent magical force.

However, there is an opposite effect in this situation which needs to be avoided the old saying “too many cooks spoil the broth” comes into effect. If you have too many people in your coven it is very easy to lose sight of what you are trying to achieve and you also have a tendency to let your guard down and this can also cause problems. Decide before hand how big you wish to grow. I have personally found that if you limit your coven to say 15 people maximum and their roles within. Also decide on what your objectives are going to be. Sort of like the 10 commandments actually. Our family coven was set up exactly that way.

Over the years we have had thousands of people wanting to join our coven and we could have easily given other religions a run for their money. We decided right at the start that our family coven was in fact a family coven and we never allowed outsiders into it.  However, over the years we have started up other covens for smaller groups and then backed off. Basically, given them a kick start.

In the early day’s covens were usually formed with equal numbers of the sexes say 6 women and six men. Nowadays it seems to be more women then men. There are no set rules in relation to covens however you will find that most males have a tendency to think that they are going to be in the middle of an orgy surrounded with naked women swarming all over them. Keep this in mind at all times. Another thing to watch when forming a coven is that you are not situated in another witch’s territory. You must always try and stay away from others turf or if this isn’t possible then ask their permission before hand.

The word “Coven” derives from the Latin noun “Conventus”, meaning gathering or assembly. It is the same basis which gives us the words “Convent,” “convention,” “Convenant,” and “convene.”

 Meetings are usually called “Esbats.” Which comes from the French word meaning to frolic? Similarly, the 8 annual Sabbath, have been known as occasions for festivity, celebration, beginnings, family, friendships, end of seasons, power and enjoyment. So, when you form your coven make sure you always bear in mind these facts.

There are several steps to consider with your coven. The first being the nature of it.

1         Why have you formed it, you need to forma logo, totems and or a general symbolism. Mine is nature.

2.        The hierarchy, if any. It is always best to form some sort of committee so to speak.

3         Make use of your logo or symbolism as part of an initiation ritual.

4       A secret oath. This needs to be kept within the coven also usually accompanied with a lock of hair or a fingernail or drop of blood.

5       The name of the coven.

6       Clothing or insignia similar to the church different colors for different rituals or crystals etc.

7       Ritual or rituals little things you do when entering the circle and when leaving.

Once you have established the above you can then concentrate on attempting to heal the sick or working towards your goals that you have however most people focus on developing their powers firstly.

The nature of your coven should always be generated towards the good of others. Bad thoughts and negative energy come back. Positive thoughts and positive energy empower you.  Also, you need to keep in mind that all gods are one god and all goddess are one goddess. Your religious beliefs should not be brought into the coven as this is the only way you will strengthen yourself.

Covens are, or should be, made up of individuals, held together by common interests either in knowledge or love of the gods. Who cares who your god or goddess is?

When you set our forming your coven your symbols for it should reflect somehow your beliefs. If you want love then your symbols should involve Venus and possibly rose quartz. If you wish to intone with nature then plants and trees.

If you cannot think of an appropriate logo or symbol mythology books might help. Also ask your fellow members what they sway towards you might find that you all have interests in aboriginal mythology or American Indian.

Next comes the hierarchy.

All organizations need a boss to run smoothly. Sometimes we might not agree with their views or opinions but never the less they are needed to help things run smoothly. These people are usually believed to be stronger and wiser than the rest. If your coven is run correctly then their role is usually just a title and nothing more. However, in ancient times there was the belief that when their time was up, they were sacrificed to the gods. We don’t do that now we usually just vote them out.

The whole concept of scapegoats and guilt is totally absent from witchcraft. Usually if it’s possible you have two leaders of the coven usually one male and one female this usually is the case in covens that practice fertility and love rituals and they are known as the high priest and priestess and in these covens, they usually spend most of their time naked. But over the years this has also changed with the times. Thank goodness as you do get to an age where you hide as much of your body as possible.

However, on the other hand in those covens where they practice power and knowledge these two figureheads are known as the grand master and queen. Your attire can range in colour or if you so desire none at all.

Your initiation ritual

All people who wish to join a coven must be screened carefully before being accepted and this is why initiation rituals were basically designed. As I stated earlier a lot of people think witchcraft is some kind of kinky sex act and that we all run around naked drinking the blood of sacrificed. This sort of belief can bring about some rather dark forces and or people. The other reason why there is an initiation ritual is to make sure that the person is going to fit into your beliefs and views and those they are accepted into the group as all members of the coven need to get along. Most initiation rituals are performed on the Sabbath usually Halloween is the best time.

The ritual itself is usually done by incorporating all the elements and more than likely involve incense and candles. We usually have the robed ceremony involving crystals incense candles oils and all the elements. However, the other ritual naked isn’t usually performed in my coven.

The Sabbath rituals

The Sabbath rituals are usually designed by all members and can be altered slightly over time to suit your views or desires. You must however bear in mind also the phases of the moon and or planetary aspects at the time. There is no right or wrong way to perform your rituals as long as your thoughts are pure. You can also at this stage perform certain spells

This is also when the witches dance comes in. the joy and power at this stage sometimes overwhelms people and they need to release the energy. If you feel like dancing laughing crying, yelling now is the time to do so releasing is also part of healing.

I found throughout the years dancing around in a circle holding hands still sends shivers down my spine the energy you receive is amazing. Then it is usually followed up by music food and drink just as you would when having a dinner party with friends.

Throughout the years I have read thousands of books of witchcraft and covens most of them make nonsense or are written by people who have no idea about it at all. A coven is not some kinky sex act involving animals. A coven is bringing people and the elements together as one and that is how it should be.

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Sarah Kulkens ©2022