Wicca, (the Craft, Witchcraft, the Old Religion), is based on the old, Goddess worshiping religions of pre-Christian Europe. Wicca emphasizes the Feminine aspects of Deity as well as reclaiming Male aspects of Deity from the patriarchal model. Our class series also emphasizes self-development and self-empowerment through re-establishing contact with the natural world.

Real Wicca is very different from the myths, misperceptions and fears often spread by some of the media, Hollywood and some aspects of "organized" religion. Wicca is the return to our ancient roots and harmony with Mother Earth. Magick used in Wicca is used mainly for personal development in accordance with natural cycles and natural laws. Wiccan ethics forbid the use of magick to harm another - actually the natural laws that govern magick make misuse not only counter-productive but fairly uncomfortable for the user.

Classes will be presented in an informal lecture & discussion format. Each class runs two hours and handouts will be given at each class. Participation in the Ritual in the last class is optional.

The first class is open to all interested persons and is an introduction to the Craft. Those interested in continuing the series will be asked to sign a "Statement of Ethics" promising that what they learn from us will not be used to harm or interfere with the free will of another. This agreement is offered after the second class in the series, the Ethics class, and is required to continue the rest of the series.

There is a suggested donation of $15-$30 for those who attend past the first class. Scholarships ARE available. Donations cover class costs, and benefit the Coven of Our Lady of the Prairie.

All interested persons may attend. Although we anticipate no problems, we realize as teachers we bear the responsibility of that which we teach. Therefore, we reserve the right to limit attendance.

Minors under the age of 18 MUST have written parental consent which we WILL verify. We suggest parent/s attend the series if your Youth is interested in the Craft.

The series begins Thursday September 21st, 2006 at 6:30pm - 9:00pm. Register early! For more information, call: (563)324-6218 or emailOur Lady of the Prairie Coven at ourladyprairie@mchsi.com

Blessed Be!

Click HERE for a printable registration form for the Wicca 101 class series.

SESSION ONE: WHAT WITCHES DO (REALLY!)

What modern Witchcraft and Neo-Paganism is all about
The Re-emergence of the Goddess Religions & Why
A brief Herstory of the Craft & Goddess worship
Politics, Feminism, Ecology & the Craft
The "Nature of Magick"
Introduction to the Wiccan Rede... Ethics in the Craft

SESSION TWO: WICCAN ETHICS
Note: This class is mandatory to continue the series.

The Wiccan Rede - what does it mean?
The Three-Fold Law/the Law of Return
The importance of Free Will
"Power from within" & "Power With" vs "Power over"
Words of Power
Exercises in Ethics - Putting Ethics into action!

SESSION THREE: THE WHEEL OF THE YEAR
Celebrating throughout the seasons of the year!

Tuning in to the Natural world
Solar, Lunar & Personal cycles explored
Reclaiming the Ancient Seasonal Celebrations

SESSION FOUR: MAGICKAL CORRESPONDENCES

The three aspects of Self involved in making Magick
The five elements of the ancient and modern world
Elemental qualities & why they are important
Magickal connection in the "mundane" world

SESSION FIVE: PURSUING A WICCAN LIFESTYLE

Creating sacred space in our own homes & workplaces
Creating a living harmony with Mother Earth & natural cycles
Accepting personal responsibility for our lives

SESSION SIX: WICCAN RITUAL

What really happens in a Magickal circle
How & Why do Witches participate in Ritual
Elements of Ritual Design explained
Group ritual will be done for personal healing (optional)

Click HERE for a printable registration form for the Wicca 101 class series.

Click HERE to learn more about Our Lady of the Prairie.