As seekers, it's natural to want to find others who share our views or interests. Whether it's practicing together or simply having friends to talk about mystical experiences, the idea of being part of a group is appealing. But even with all the information available online and so many ways to connect with like-minded people, it can still be challenging to find a group that fits.
Before I dive in, I just want to clarify that everything I share comes from my personal experience. Your experience might be different, and that’s completely fine—that's just how life works!
For this topic in particular, it's important to remember that there are countless ways that covens can form and function. Think of this as a casual chat. The best way to truly learn is by putting yourself out there, but please be cautious! There are people with bad intentions, so always be mindful of the information you share online.
So, What Is a Coven?
A coven is a group of like-minded individuals who come together to practice witchcraft, Wicca, or another magical/occult path. These groups, sometimes called Groves, can vary in size—some are small, with just a few members, while others may have dozens. Covens typically meet regularly to perform rituals, celebrate holidays, and deepen their spiritual practice.
Some people describe a coven as a “spiritual family,” but not all covens are that emotionally close. Some groups are more practical, meeting regularly to focus on their craft without the need for deep emotional ties.
Covens can be either formal, with roles like High Priestess or High Priest, or more laid-back, where everyone contributes equally. There’s no "one right way" to run a coven, and definitely no "witch police" enforcing rules (though you might come across some folks who like to push their own ideas). Traditions with deeper roots might have specific guidelines, but these are usually just for that particular path. What matters most is finding a group with rules and practices that make you feel comfortable.
Do I Need a Coven to Be a Witch?
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to join a coven to be a witch. Many people practice solo or with a small group of friends and find just as much fulfillment. While being part of a coven can give you community, learning opportunities, and shared rituals, it's not a requirement for practicing witchcraft.
But for example, Wicca has some rules about whether you can define yourself as Wiccan or not, but this doesn't apply to the term Witch. Having that said, I’m not going to open that can of worms here! I’m talking about witchcraft in general, not strictly Wicca.
Even if you’re part of a coven, your personal practice is still the most important part of your journey. It’s where you’ll have the freedom to explore, try new things, and shape your path.
I've been part of several groups throughout my life since 2006 —from ceremonial magic to eclectic witchcraft, to British traditional Wicca. These experiences taught me a lot, but the biggest lesson is this: learn all you can from the group when you’re with them, but in your own practice, feel free to mix and match what works best for your magic. That’s just my advice—take it or leave it! The most important thing is finding a path that feels meaningful to you.
If you’re just starting out, there are plenty of ways to learn and grow without a coven. Books, online forums, and local metaphysical shops are excellent resources. Yes, you’ll come across some unreliable information, but as you grow, you’ll learn to spot what’s helpful and what’s just noise.
Why Might a Coven Be a Good Option?
Community: Being part of a coven can provide a sense of belonging and support, especially if you're new to the craft. It’s a space where you can form friendships with others who share your spiritual interests, offering a comforting place to grow together.
Learning and Growth: Covens often have structured learning opportunities like workshops, classes, and study groups. This guidance can help you deepen your understanding and skills in ways that may be harder to achieve alone, especially as a beginner.
Ritual and Celebration: Sharing rituals and celebrating holidays with others can be a deeply meaningful experience. It gives you a sense of connection and shared purpose, and it's also a great way to exchange ideas and inspire each other for future celebrations.
Personal Development: Being in a coven can offer both support and accountability as you work on your spiritual and personal goals. The group dynamic often pushes you to stay engaged and committed to your path.
However, not every coven will be the right fit. It’s important to think about what you’re looking for and take your time finding a group that aligns with your values and needs. Just as there are many paths in witchcraft and occultism, there are many types of covens, so don’t hesitate to explore different options. Ask plenty of questions and share your thoughts openly. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to say, “Thanks, but no thanks” if the group doesn’t feel right for you.
Cool, But Where Can I Find a Coven?
Research Online: There are many websites and online communities that connect people who practice witchcraft, Wicca, or other occult paths. You can look for local groups or join forums to meet like-minded individuals. For British Traditional Wicca (BTW), there are Facebook groups like Gardnerian Wicca Seekers and Initiates and Alexandrian Wicca Seekers and Initiates. These groups are moderated and include verified initiated members. If you're interested in British Traditional Wicca, some of these groups provide lists of verified covens open to new members around the world.
Attend Events and Festivals: Many covens and pagan groups host events and festivals where you can meet others and learn about their practices. You can often find information about these gatherings online or by asking at local metaphysical or spiritual shops. Even events like “open tarot reading nights” can lead you to others practicing witchcraft.
Visit Local Metaphysical or Spiritual Shops: These shops often serve as hubs for the local pagan community and can help connect you with covens or other groups. Don't be afraid to ask the staff if they know of any meetups, workshops, or local groups you can join.
Safety First: A good way to start is by looking for groups that hold public meetups in places like cafés or parks. This allows you to meet people in a neutral, safe setting. And it’s always a good idea to bring a friend along, just for extra precaution.
Things to Keep in Mind When Searching for a Coven
Respect people’s privacy. Not everyone is open about their practice, and that’s okay. Always be mindful of this when reaching out. Also, always ask before sharing photos or tagging others on social media—it’s important to respect boundaries.
Some eclectic witchcraft groups might charge for their workshops and rituals, while Wiccan groups typically do not. Wiccan groups tend to follow a more structured path and often invite newcomers into an “outer circle.” This means you’re not officially part of the coven yet, but you’re learning the craft. You don’t have much control over what you learn first, but this structure can be helpful if you’re new and don’t know where to start.
What If There’s No Coven Nearby?
Sometimes, it’s hard to find a coven right in your neighborhood, so you might need to travel to meet members in person. In my own group, we travel between Leipzig and Berlin to meet up. However, we also use video chats to catch up and share news when in-person meetings aren’t possible.
If you can’t find a local group, ask if they offer online meetups or public gatherings where you can meet in person safely.
Ultimately, whether or not to join a coven is a personal decision. Some people thrive in a coven environment, while others find more fulfillment in practicing alone or with a close group of friends. The key is finding what works best for you on your spiritual journey.
Until next time,
Lore Graves
