Bylaws

Article I: Name, Purpose, and Ownership

 

Date: Established March 21, 2002

 

 

Name: This Coven shall be known as The Coven of the Whispering Spirits or The Coven.

 

 

Purpose: A Coven formed to honor and celebrate the Goddess and the God in all their guises with monthly celebrations and by celebrating the Sabbats and Esbats. Statement of beliefs and rituals will be found in the Book of Shadows. The Wiccan Rede will be strictly observed.

 

 

Ownership: The Founder, High Priestess, Lady Lilith McReynolds shall have the authority to dissolve the Coven at any time. In the event of the dissolution of the Coven, these bylaws shall become null and void, and no member of the Coven, with the exception of the Founder, shall use the name "The Coven of the Whispering Spirits" in connection with any other Wiccan or neo-pagan organization.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article II: Membership

 

 

 

 

Spirit Walkers: These are people who attend open ceremonies, but are not otherwise members of the CWS. Spirit Walkers only attend open Sabbats by personnel invite only. A Spirit Walker may be banned from the group if the council deems necessary based on the following criteria:

 

 

• If they could be harmful to anyone in the CWS

   

• Has a history of being disruptive

   

• Could expose coven to unnecessary public exposure

   

 

 

 

Potential Member:A potential member is a person who shows an interest in joining the CWS. They may contact the group in a variety of ways: email, snail mail or personal phone call. They should be met in a public place by the acting High Priestess/High Priest or Founder. They should be asked the following questions in additions to completion of coven application:

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Past experience

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->How they found the coven

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->What they hope to gain from joining the coven and what role they would like to have as a member.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Family views on their religious choice

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->What they are looking for in a group

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Any other information deemed necessary

 

 

If accepted, the potential member signs “CWS Potential Membership Agreement” and pays membership fees {$50} in addition to three months membership, which is non-refundable.  The potential member will review the bylaws with interviewer and sign the “Bylaw Acceptance Agreement”, and be instructed on when and where the next coven meeting will be held.

 

 

1. Potential Member Class/Course Study: Required Reading Material: Green Witchcraft: Folk Magic, Fairy Lore and Herb Craft written by Ann Moura.  Class work will include assignments, tests and essays.

    

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                    I.      <!--[endif]-->Introduction

<!--[if !supportLists]-->A.     <!--[endif]-->Witchcraft

<!--[if !supportLists]-->B.     <!--[endif]-->Styles of Practice

<!--[if !supportLists]-->C.     <!--[endif]-->Rules of Conduct and Etiquette

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                  II.      <!--[endif]-->Basic Equipment

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                               III.      <!--[endif]-->Basic Altar

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                IV.      <!--[endif]-->Circle Casting

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                  V.      <!--[endif]-->Assignment

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                VI.      <!--[endif]-->Meditation and Techniques

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                             VII.      <!--[endif]-->Divination

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           VIII.      <!--[endif]-->Ogham

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                IX.      <!--[endif]-->Set up the Altar

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                  X.      <!--[endif]-->Affinity of Stones and Crystals to Witchcraft

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                                XI.      <!--[endif]-->Using Stones and Crystals

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                             XII.      <!--[endif]-->Bodily and Elemental Energy Points

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           XIII.      <!--[endif]-->Other Uses for Stones and Crystals

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           XIV.      <!--[endif]-->Consecration of a statue

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                              XV.      <!--[endif]-->Divine Couples

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           XVI.      <!--[endif]-->Holy Days: Creating your own calendar of observances

<!--[if !supportLists]-->A.     <!--[endif]-->Witches Wheel

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                         XVII.      <!--[endif]-->Eight Sabbats

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                      XVIII.      <!--[endif]-->13 Esbats

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           XIX.      <!--[endif]-->Palmistry

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                              XX.      <!--[endif]-->Spell Creating and Casting

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                           XXI.      <!--[endif]-->Types of Magical Spells

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                         XXII.      <!--[endif]-->Herb Crafts

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                      XXIII.      <!--[endif]-->Oils

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                       XXIV.      <!--[endif]-->Basic Candle Magicks

 

 

 

 

2. Potential Member Duties

    

   1. Attend Sabbats and meetings on a regular basis.

       

   2. Follow rules and ethics of the CWS

       

   3. Help set up and clean up for ritual

       

   4. Be on time at rituals to set a standard of respect for all attendees

       

   5. Be on top of current trends and periodicals/books on paganism.

       

 

 

 

 

Dedicant Members: A potential member who completed a year to a day with the coven and signs the new “Dedicant Membership Agreement”.  A Dedicant member may choose to remain just a Dedicant Member with no voting rights but agrees to remain in good standing by following the Dedicant Member Requirements or began studies to advance to 1^st Degree Membership and voting rights.

 

 

 

 

1. Dedicant Member Requirements:

    

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be with the CWS for at least one year and a day

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend at least 7 Sabbats, 10 Esbats and 9 classes and 4 other schedule events during that time.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Dedicant Member Class/Course Study: Dedicant class work will include reading material, assignments, tests, essays, and completion of a magickal item to be made or designed (examples: wand, magick box, altar).

    

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                       I.<!--[endif]-->Development of the Mystery Religions

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                    II.<!--[endif]-->The Social Significance of the Mystery Religions

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                 III.<!--[endif]-->What the Mystery Religion had to offer Humanity

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                 IV.<!--[endif]-->Development of Mystery Religions (part 2)

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                    V.<!--[endif]-->Brief Overview of the Major Mystery Religions

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                  VI.<!--[endif]-->Christianity viewed as a Mystery Religion

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                              VII.<!--[endif]-->Introduction─ Mythology

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           VIII.<!--[endif]-->What are Myths

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                 IX.<!--[endif]-->Common Types of Myths

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                    X.<!--[endif]-->Interpreting Myths

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                                 XI.<!--[endif]-->Influence of Myths

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                              XII.<!--[endif]-->Introduction─ Folklore

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           XIII.<!--[endif]-->Folklore and Popular Culture

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           XIV.<!--[endif]-->Folklore Sources and Categories

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                              XV.<!--[endif]-->Early Folklore Studies

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           XVI.<!--[endif]-->Modern Folklore Scholarship

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                        XVII.<!--[endif]-->Folklore Societies and Study Facilities

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XVIII.<!--[endif]-->Introduction─ Culture

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           XIX.<!--[endif]-->The Characteristics of Culture

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                              XX.<!--[endif]-->Categories of Culture

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                           XXI.<!--[endif]-->Mystery of the Concept of Culture: A Early Development

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                        XXII.<!--[endif]-->The Development of Global Culture

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XXIII.<!--[endif]-->Introduction─ Race: Human

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XXIV.<!--[endif]-->Adaptations of Environment

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                        XXV.<!--[endif]-->Nature

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XXVI.<!--[endif]-->Ancestors

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                  XXVII.<!--[endif]-->Astronomy

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                               XXVIII.<!--[endif]-->Crystals and Crystal Healing

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XXIX.<!--[endif]-->Chaka/Crystal/Color Correspondence

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                        XXX.<!--[endif]-->Cleansing Your Crystals

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                     XXXI.<!--[endif]-->Being with Crystals: A Beginning

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                                  XXXII.<!--[endif]-->7 Wonder of the Ancient World

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                               XXXIII.<!--[endif]-->Divination

<!--[if !supportLists]-->                               XXXIV.<!--[endif]-->Introduction─ Mythical Creatures

 

 

3. Dedicant Member Duties

    

   1. Attend Sabbats and meetings on a regular basis.

       

   2. Follow rules and ethics of the CWS

       

   3. Help set up and clean up for ritual

       

   4. Be on time at rituals to set a standard of respect for all attendees

       

   5. Be on top of current trends and periodicals/books on paganism.

       

 

 

 

 

The Initiated Degree Members: To be an accepted Initiated Degree Member a person must have completed the first two years wit the CWS or provide course training with another coven, this is at the discretion of the Founder and acting High Priestess/High Priest.  Initiated Degree Members must sign “Initiated Degree Membership Agreement”.

 

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->             I.      <!--[endif]-->1^st Degree

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->A.    <!--[endif]-->First Initiative Requirements:

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be with the CWS for at least a two years and a day

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend at least 7 Sabbats, 8 Esbats and 4 schedule events during that time.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Write an approved paper (may be ritual, essay, meditation or combination).

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Create and make ritual item (wand)

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->B.     <!--[endif]-->First Initiative Class/Course Study: First Degree class and course study work includes reading materials, tests, essays, and some magickal creation.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->1)      <!--[endif]-->Introduction to the Old Religion

<!--[if !supportLists]-->2)      <!--[endif]-->The Roots of Western civilization

<!--[if !supportLists]-->3)      <!--[endif]-->Peomagogic History of the Universal Goddess Religion

<!--[if !supportLists]-->4)      <!--[endif]-->The Archetype of the Goddess

<!--[if !supportLists]-->5)      <!--[endif]-->The Archetype of the God

<!--[if !supportLists]-->6)      <!--[endif]-->Ethics and Values shared by most members of the Craft

<!--[if !supportLists]-->7)      <!--[endif]-->The Modern Scientific View of the Universe

<!--[if !supportLists]-->8)      <!--[endif]-->The Craft view of the Universe

<!--[if !supportLists]-->9)      <!--[endif]-->Modes of perception

<!--[if !supportLists]-->10)<!--[endif]-->The Concepts of the Self

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->11)  <!--[endif]-->The Four prices of Freedom      

<!--[if !supportLists]-->12)  <!--[endif]-->Analysis of the Creation Myth

<!--[if !supportLists]-->13)  <!--[endif]-->Analysis of the Myth of the Wheel of the Year

<!--[if !supportLists]-->14)  <!--[endif]-->Examination of the all as two Great Forces

<!--[if !supportLists]-->15)  <!--[endif]-->Old Age of in the Craft

<!--[if !supportLists]-->16)  <!--[endif]-->Death as seen by a member of the Craft

<!--[if !supportLists]-->17)  <!--[endif]-->Magic in Theory

<!--[if !supportLists]-->18)  <!--[endif]-->Magic in Practice

<!--[if !supportLists]-->19)  <!--[endif]-->Western Tradition of Ceremonial Magic

<!--[if !supportLists]-->20)  <!--[endif]-->The Great Books of Magic

<!--[if !supportLists]-->21)  <!--[endif]-->The Training of a Magician       

<!--[if !supportLists]-->22)  <!--[endif]-->The Meaning of Ritual in Working Magic

<!--[if !supportLists]-->23)  <!--[endif]-->Ritual Etiquette

<!--[if !supportLists]-->24)  <!--[endif]-->Creating Meaningful Rituals

<!--[if !supportLists]-->25)  <!--[endif]-->Format of a Typical Path

<!--[if !supportLists]-->26)  <!--[endif]-->Meditation: Elemental of Ritual

<!--[if !supportLists]-->27)  <!--[endif]-->Meditation: Symbolism

<!--[if !supportLists]-->28)  <!--[endif]-->Meditation: Senses~ Smell

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->29)  <!--[endif]-->Meditation: Hearing      

<!--[if !supportLists]-->30)  <!--[endif]-->Touch~ Emotion

<!--[if !supportLists]-->C.    <!--[endif]-->First Initiate Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend Sabbats and meetings on a regular basis.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Sit on the council and have a vote.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Follow rules and ethics of the CWS

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Help set up and clean up for ritual

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on time at rituals to set a standard of respect for all attendees

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on top of current trends and periodicals/books on paganism.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->          II.      <!--[endif]-->2^nd Degree

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->A.    <!--[endif]-->Second Degree Requirements:

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·        <!--[endif]-->Be with the CWS for at least a three years and a day

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·        <!--[endif]-->Attend at least 7 Sabbats, 8 Esbats and 4 schedule events during that time.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·        <!--[endif]-->Write an approved paper (may be ritual, essay, meditation or combination).

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·        <!--[endif]-->Create and make ritual item (wand)

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->B.     <!--[endif]-->Second Initiate Class/Course Study: Second Degree class and course work will include materials, assignments, tests, essays and some kind of magickal work.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->C.    <!--[endif]-->Second Initiate Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->All First Degree Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Write ritual when needed

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Organize Rituals

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Teach other First Degree

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend Sabbats and meetings on a regular basis.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Follow rules and ethics of the CWS

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Help set up and clean up for ritual

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on time at rituals to set a standard of respect for all attendees

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on top of current trends and periodicals/books on paganism.

 

 

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->       III.      <!--[endif]-->3^rd Degree

 

 

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->A.    <!--[endif]-->Third Initiative Requirements:

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be with the CWS for at least a four years and a day

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend at least 7 Sabbats, 8 Esbats and 4 schedule events during that time.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Write an approved paper (may be ritual, essay, meditation or combination).

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Create and make ritual item (wand)

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->B.     <!--[endif]-->Third Initiative Class/Course Study: This will be discussed between the Founder, acting High Priestess/High Priest in what reading material and studies that a Third Initiative will complete.

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->C.    <!--[endif]-->Initiate Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->All First and Second Degree Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Write ritual when needed

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Organize Rituals

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Teach other First Degree

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Attend Sabbats and meetings on a regular basis.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Follow rules and ethics of the CWS

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Help set up and clean up for ritual

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on time at rituals to set a standard of respect for all attendees

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be on top of current trends and periodicals/books on paganism.

 

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->       IV.      <!--[endif]-->CWS Elders

 

 

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->D.    <!--[endif]-->Elder Requirements and Duties

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Must be Second Degree Initiative.

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Set example as an elder of the CWS

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Help with first, second or third-degree initiates (class work, training, mentoring etc.)

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Organize community education or volunteer work for coven

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Keeps Book of Shadows, Grimoire, etc.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Responsible for all Rites of Passage.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Be at one with the God and Goddess

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article III: Coven Hierarchy

 

 

 

 

Hierarchy: CWS has a three degree system. All initiates must have the ability to lead and write rituals within the Coven framework, and must be able to teach new Dedicants.

 

 

Book of Shadows: Any ritual accepted for use in the Coven will be added to the Coven's Book of Shadows. Only approved rituals can be used at Coven rituals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article IV: Day to Day Operations

 

 

 

 

Wand Master/Mistress: In charge of the Coven funds and collecting tithes in the amount of $120 per year or $60 every six months.  Tithes cover the cost of running the coven, in the event that a cost will exceed over $50 then a vote of approval must be given by the Founder and Elders Council.

 

 

NOTE: Protential and Dedicant member pay on three months bases and Initiated Members pay full amount or twice a year.

 

 

 

 

Fortune Teller: Will keep the initiation date of the Coveners and will be in charge of creating the minutes for all Coven meetings. A second copy of the minutes are to be given to the Founder/High Priestess when completed.  Will record ritual attendance and maintain list of all Dedicants, Initiates, and Coveners in the CWS and their positions.  Responsible in creating a three month schedule for all members of set dates for Sabbats, Esbats, events, classes and coven meetings.  This calendar will also be emailed to all coven members and posted on the coven website.

 

 

Article V: Required Rituals

 

 

 

 

Esbats: The Coven will meet 13 times a year during the time of the Full Moon for rituals. These are the Esbats. A ritual will be held on the weekend before or after the Full Moon based on a majority vote. In the event of a tie, the Founder’s vote will be the tiebreaker.

 

 

Sabbats: The Coven will hold ritual for all 8 Sabbats. Rules for when the meeting will take place are the same as those for the Esbats.

 

 

Attendance: Attendance for all required rituals is expected. To remain in good standing, a Covener can miss no more than 6 Esbat and 3 Sabbat rituals during a one-year period.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article VI: Coven Meetings

 

 

 

 

Monthly Meetings: The Coven will meet once per month to designate ritual dates and times for all rituals taking place for the following three months. Any new rituals suggested may be used on for inclusion in the Book of Shadows at this time. New rituals may be presented to the Coven prior to or after any required ritual, as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article VII: Public Events

 

 

 

 

Public Events: CWS may elect to hold public rituals, trips, parties and festivals open for all. These events are not mandatory for members, but obviously, they would be strongly encouraged to attend.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article: VIII: Branched-off Covens

 

 

 

 

Branched-off Covens: Any member of the Coven who has been a member for more than ten years as a Covener and moves over 50 miles away may wish to found his/her own Coven in our tradition. A request should be made to the Fortune Teller and will be voted on by the Coven. A majority vote is required to pass. As a founder, the individual takes over as Founder/High Priestess/High Priest of the new Coven for at least the five years. The new Coven can name itself and add the following: "Sister Coven of the Whispering Spirits Tradition." While they may create their own BOS, they may adopt their own Bylaws as an autonomous Coven.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article IX: Oath of Secrecy

 

 

 

 

Oath of Secrecy: No documented rituals in the BOS may be used elsewhere. No Coven member is to use the magickal name of any other member outside the Coven without permission from that person. No person is to reveal the identity of any member at all who chooses to remain "in the broom closet." We encourage community activity and Wiccan/Pagan activism, so we encourage members to be "out of the broom closet."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article X: Attendance

 

 

Attendance: Attendance is encouraged for all members for all events, class, and rituals. Any coven member who is going to miss a class or meeting needs to let the Fortune Teller know at least 8 hours in advance if possible or some other Initiative member. This is common courtesy but also a requirement if you can not attend event, class or ritual. In addition any member who misses (3) conceptive schedule (events, classes or rituals) could receive the following:

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Three months no attendance of any CWS coven rituals

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Dismissal from the CWS

 

 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Six months temporary leave.

 

 

 

 

Article XI: Calendar

 

 

Calendar year: A calendar will be made every three months by the Fortune Teller. It will be discussed well ahead of time so all members can ask for time off from their employers and schedule any family events. Plan events, classes, and rituals will be plan three months prior.  It is at this time members can be excused from a function. After that time, the members will be liable under the attendance policy.

 

 

 

 

 

Article XII: Attire

 

 

Attire: The CWS Initiative members will wear their tunics at all rituals events unless stated others wise by leading High Priestess/High Priest.  No nudity is allowed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article XIII: No Alcohol, Drugs or Weapons

 

 

Alcohol, Drugs or Weapons: The CWS coven is a non-alcohol environment.  We do not accept or allow any alcohol, drugs, or fire arms at any function or events. Breaking this Article is an automatic dismissal from the CWS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article XIV: Voting

 

 

Voting: All members who received their First Degree Initiation and/or above initiations have a vote.

 

 

 

 

 

• All members have an equal vote.

   

• Voting is by majority decision

   

• If tie happens then the Founder will make tie breaker.

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article XV: Problems within the Coven

 

 

1. Should there be a dispute among Coven members, the Council of Elders shall convene. The Council shall hear both sides, alone, then together, and shall make a just decision.

    

2. Should the Council find it necessary to correct, rebuke, or punish a Covener, this shall be done in private, and accepted with good grace by the recipient.

    

3. All Elders should strive to be present, when a correction, admonishment, or punishment is carried out.

    

4. If an individual misses more than 25% of classes, rituals and other coven activities during a year's time, they must understand that they will not be considered for initiation at the end of the term.

    

5. If a Covener misses more than 50% of classes, rituals and other coven activities during a year's time, the Council of Elders will convene to discuss their behavior.

    

   1.  The Covener in question may be asked to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

       

6. If the Covener is a Potential/Dedicant or higher initiative, and they break their signed Dedicant's Agreement the Council of Elders will convene to discuss their behavior.

    

   1.  The Covener in question may be asked to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

       

7. If a Covener breaks any oath sworn during initiation the Council of Elders will convene to discuss their behavior.

    

   1. The Covener in question may be asked to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

       

8. If a Covener is found to have falsified information or lied to the Coven, be it to obtain a higher rank, or for other reasons, the Council of Elders will convene to discuss their behavior.

    

   1. The Covener in question may be asked to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

       

9. If a Covener (dedicant level or higher initiative) decides to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits they must submit their resignation request in writing to their Fortune Teller. If their Fortune Teller is not available, they may submit it to an Elder of the council. The resignation will be presented to the Council of Elders and will be kept in the Coven records. Requests may NOT be made in email form.

    

10. If a Covener has left the Coven of the Whispering Spirits for a period of three months with no contact or formal resignation, the Council of Elders will convene to decide if the Covener in question should be no longer be considered a member of the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

     

11. If the Council of Elders decides to ask a Covener to leave the Coven of the Whispering Spirits, the Coven will attempt to contact the ex-Covener to notify them of the Council's decision.

     

12. If a Covener takes issue with the HPS, the Covener must take it to an Elder.  Where it will be discussed between the Elders Council and the HPS. The situation will be reviewed, and decided by the Elders Council and HPS as see fit.

     

13. If a Covener’s complaints are made about the HPS more than three times during a year, the Covener may be asked to meet with Elders Council and HPS to disused a solution. If no solution is made, the Covener may be asked to resign as a member.

     

 

 

 

Article XVI: Joining the Coven

 

 

1. A petitioner must be 21 years of age or more, no exceptions. The Coven of the Whispering Spirits reserves the right to ask for proof of age, and the right to copy and keep on files proof of age documents.

    

2. If a petitioner desires to join the Coven of the Whispering Spirits, they must make their request to the Coven. The petitioner will be interviewed by the Council of Elders regarding their desire to join the Coven, and their interest in the group. If approved by the Council of Elders, the petitioner becomes a Spirit Seeker.

    

3. A potential member has a probation period of three months intervals over a year to a day.  With three month reviews quarterly by the Elders Council of their continue participation as a potential member.

    

4. During the three month probation period, a potential is expected to increase their participation in the Coven by attending open Coven functions including classes and public rituals. The potential should also be working towards meeting the minimum requirements for dedication including the dedicant exam.

    

5. After a year to a day, the entire Coven shall convene to decide if the potential may join the Coven of the Whispering Spirits. The Coven must vote unanimously in favor of admitting the potential to the Coven.

    

   1. If the Coven cannot reach consensus to admit the potential during this meeting, the potential must wait another three months before the Coven reconvenes. During this time, the potential will be presented with a list of tasks to work towards during the three month waiting period.

       

   2. After the three month waiting period, the entire Coven shall reconvene to decide if the potential may join the Coven of the Whispering Spirits. The Coven must vote unanimously in favor of admitting the potential to the Coven.

       

   3. If the Coven cannot reach consensus to admit the potential during this second meeting, the potential will be refused admittance into the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

       

6. If the potential is accepted into the Coven of the Whispering Spirits they must sign a Dedicant's Agreement form.

    

7. The approved potential will be expected to participate in a dedication ceremony to be scheduled at the Coven's discretion less than two months from the time at which the Coven notifies them of their acceptance.

    

8. Upon obtaining Dedication, the Covener shall be presented with a 9' white cord to be worn around the waist as a badge of rank during ritual.

    

9. Each member of the coven should bring the following items to every ritual:

    

   1. Ritual Blanket

       

   2. Book of Shadows (or a binder or folder for handouts and information)

       

   3. Cord of Rank (as presented at each degree)

       

   4. Athame (ritual knife)

       

   5. Ritual Jewelry (a special piece of jewelry to be consecrated by the Coven and only worn during ritual)

       

   6. Stones, crystals or ect as they see fit

       

 

 

 

Article XVII: Tithes

 

 

Annual tithes: The tithe shall be paid by each member (Potential, Dedicant, and Initiative) to the Wand Master/Mistress or a designated representative. A member who is in arrears in paying the tithe shall automatically have all voting rights and other privileges suspended.  If the tithe is not been paid before Beltane, May 1, the membership shall be revoked, and can only be reinstated by a new applications for membership.

 

 

• Tithes are due first of the Witches Year (November 1) a total of $120 a year or $60 twice a year (every six months).

   

• Tithes may be paid in advance.  Although no refunds are given to members who resigned from coven.

   

• Potential members enrollment of $60 is non-refundable, this covers three months and cost of reading material.

   

• Tithes are used to cover coven cost.

   

• Monies paid are not refundable

   

 

 

 

Article XVIII: Coven Etiquette

 

 

• The High Priestess (and/or High Priest) has supreme authority in the Coven.

   

• The Priest and Priestess are due all honors for they represent the Gods and serve as spiritual Father and Mother.

   

• The Elders are due all honors and respect for they are the teachers of the Coven of the Whispering Spirits.

   

• Leave not the Circle without the permission of a member, who can open and closed a door.

   

• Enter not the Circle un-cleansed. You must be clean in body, mind and spirit.

   

 

 

 

Article XIX: Coven and Guest Behavior

 

 

When attending a CWS functions, events or rituals members and guest should remember to be polite to the host or hostess (High Priestess, High Priest, Elders, and owner(s) of the home, Ect.) Here are some rules to follow:

 

 

 

 

 

• Be on time when attending a function. (Pagan time is an excuse and should not be accepted, you would not claim pagan time when showing up for work)

   

• Be dressed properly for the event (ask prior to event what the dress code is: robes, causal, ect.)

   

• Be respectful towards yourself and others

   

• If you smoke, smoke after the event, not during the ritual.  This is disrespectful towards other members but also the Goddess and God.  (Ask if there is a sign area for smokers)

   

• Do not BAD MOUTH a High Priestess, High Priest, Elder or a member of the coven.  (Keep your remarks to yourself)

   

• When greeting a HPS, HP or Elders you should be polite.  Try to learn what is the proper greeting for the coven before hand. ( Some require females to curtsy in front of HPS, HP or Elders and males to bow or shake hands)

   

• Do not bring your pets

   

• Ask before bringing children (The CWS does not allow children to attend any ritual except the family rites of Yule and Ostara.  (Please Note below: Children in Attendance rules and behavior)

   

• Bring food or non-alcohol beverage to events. (NO items will be denied, this helps the Host/ess out with cost)

   

• DO NOT BRING ALCOHOL ( The CWS is a NON-ALCOHOL coven)

   

• Members and guest who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be asked to leave.  (This may also cause loss membership or invites to future events)

   

• NO DRUGS OR FIREARMS!!!! *** Should not need to explain this***

   

• NO SWEARING, SEXUAL REMARKS OR RUDE COMMENTS!

   

• SHOWING OFF*** This means don't be a know it all, don't explain what is happening, those who are attending know what is going on and don't need your commentary.

   

 

 

Article XX: Children in Attendance

 

 

The CWS offers two open family events a year, Yule and Ostara.  At which time we ask guardian(s) or parent(s) to read the following.

 

 

 

• No children are allowed under 18, at closed rituals
• Children who attend open rituals must be accompanied by legal guardian(s) or parent(s).
• Children's behavior shall be control at all times, there shall be no screaming, running, or throwing of items).
• When in attendance at member's home, children will be shown an area of play.
• Children will not go in and out of members home at will, but must ask permission. (Members homes are not playgrounds, children who need to enter, should be entering for restroom use only.)
• During ritual, children will stand or sit on the ground near their guardian(s) or parent(s).
• Children are not allowed to run or play, within, near, or outside the ritual area.
• Children's behavior is the "RESPONSIBILITY" of the guardian(s) or parent(s) at all times. (The host or others members or guest are not babysitters.)
• At anytime that a child or children misbehavior or abuse these rules, they and their guardian(s) or parent(s) will be asked to leave.