Phoenix Rising Coven Code Of Conduct
Wiccan Ethics
(Otherwise known as The Thirteen Principles of Belief)
2. We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance, offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.
3. We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary, it is sometimes called supernatural but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all .
4. we conceive of the creative power in the universe as manifesting through polarity as -masculine and feminine - and that this same creative power lies in all people and functions through the interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither above the other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value of sexuality as pleasure, as the symbol an environment of life, and as one of the sources of energy used in magical practice and religious worship.
5. We recognize both outer worlds and inner, this psychological worlds sometimes known as the spiritual world, the collective unconsciousness, the inner planes, etc. and we see any interaction of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena and the medical exercises. We neglect neither dimensions for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.
6. We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but we do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and a knowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership.
7. We see religion, magick, and wisdom in living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it - a worldview and the philosophy of life, which we identify as Witchcraft and the Wiccan Way.
8. Calling ones self Witch does not make a witch but sometimes, neither does heredity itself, of the collecting of titles, degrees, and initiations. A witch seeks to control the forces within him or herself that makes life possible in order to leave wisely and well, without harm to others, and in harmony with nature.
9. We acknowledge that it is the affirmation and fulfillment of life, in a continuation and developments of consciousness, that gives meaning to the universe we know, and two are personal role within it.
10. Our only animosity towards Christianity, were toward any other religion or philosophy of life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be the one true that only way and have sought to deny freedom two others and to suppress other ways of religious practices and beliefs.
And 11. As American Witches, we are not threatened by the debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy update areas aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present, and our future.
12. We do not accept the concept of the absolute evil, nor do we worship any entity known as Satan four and the Devil as defined by Christian tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering of others, nor do we accept the concept that personal beliefs can only be derived by denial to another.
13. We were with in nature for that which is contributory to our health and well being.
Circle Ethics
2. It is always courteous to be on time to a ritual. If you cannot make it at the scheduled time, remember to call.
3. If you wish to bring a guest to a ritual, please ask before hand. Usually there is food and drink after the ritual and we wish to make sure there is plenty.
4. Never try to wear jewelry that is inappropriate, such as that which a High Priestess would wear (i.e. Triple Goddess crown or amber jewelry) as you may be asked to do a duty that you are not prepared to do.
5. It is advisable to never bring illegal substances to a ritual. We do not use them and they are simply not allowed at any of our rituals. If they are brought, you will be asked to leave and not return.
6. Please always be courteous and turn off all cell phones, house phone ringers, pagers and I-pods during a ritual.
7. Try to help with the set-up before the ritual and the clean up after.
8. If at any time during a ritual, you are at a loss as what to do, (i.e. the directions), either ask or simply follow the other people. If there are arm movements that you do not know, stay the direction the crowd is and just quietly stand or sit.
9. Please do not smoke, drink or chew gum within the ritual area.
10. We always smudge with sage or anoint with oils, (sometimes both), before entering the circle. It is never a wise idea to enter a Circle without being spiritually purified or cleansed. However, if you are allergic to smoke or oils, please let someone know prior so something else can be arranged for you.
11. Never walk through a Circle once it is purified or cast. Walk around the outside of the Circle and enter as others do.
12. Loud talking is never appropriate within a Circle. Always try to keep the talking to a minimum and pay attention to what the High Priestess or High Priest is saying so you do not interrupt the flow of the ritual. It is always a good idea to ask what the policy is regarding this when you are in a group prior to rituals. Remember, some Circles do not allow any type of talking.
13. Always ask and find out if your group or Coven allows children at the Circle. Prior to bringing them, ask if children are allowed within the Circle. If they are allowed, remember to pay close attention to them and their actions so there are not interruptions. And always find out what type of ritual it is as well as you may not want your sweet ones within a Circle that is celebrating something that is more intense. If by chance children are not allowed within the Circle, but are allowed to come with you, remember to keep them occupied until your ritual is complete. Also, ask if there is a Maiden figure there that will assist in keeping your sweet ones occupied, and if there is not, make a suggestion one possibly getting one.
14. Remember, there are times when rituals are held in the homes or the yards of some of its members. Common courtesy and common sense of course is required in all circumstances.
15. Unless otherwise asked, never bring pets to a ritual.
*** Other rules may apply to other various groups and/or Covens
bravenet.com