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Article Specs
Article ID: 11533
VoxAcct: 184374
Section: trads
Age Group: Adult
Days Up: 996
Times Read: 4,322
RSS Views: 50,446
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The Serpent Tradition
Author: Silver Serpent Coven [a WitchVox Sponsor]
Posted: May 20th. 2007
Times Viewed: 4,322
The Story of The Serpent Tradition
Like every other Tradition of Witchcraft, each has it's own birthing process...the meager beginnings in which the Goddess prepares you for that special path meant for you and those of like mind who will eventually follow.
The Serpent Tradition is no stranger to this particular pattern. In 1998, The Serpent Tradition began with a vision...the symbol of the serpent...which began to grow and evolve into a path, a living creation that seemed to literally plunge us into the essence of its life force.
From this mystical and sacred creature came a swirl of myth, history, and lore from the ancient lands of our ancestors which would prove to be the key that would open the door to our very destiny; the creation of The Serpent Tradition.
The Celts believed in individual animal allies or helpers as shown by their legends, but they also had clan animals. In Celtic lore Clan animals, like individual animal allies, chose you...you did not chose them. This is also true for many tribes of the Native Americans who refer to these animals as Totem Animals. Many of the Celtic Clan names reflected this, and true to form, The Serpent Tradition was born in that same manner.
Back in 1998 we (my wife Becca, myself, and our small intimate “group of like-minds”) were scheduled to go to a Samhain gathering of various Pagan Traditions and Clans. In this particular gathering, they had asked for any Groups or Covens attending to create some sort of banner or flag to represent their group, unless of course they already had one. Upon hearing this news, the image of a serpent encircling a chalice immediately emerged as our focal point for the design. There was never even a debate about this; it was the first and only symbol that was created, and we knew immediately that it was right for us. Although the serpent was the central focus of the symbolism of the idea, we opted to name the coven (and its banner) ...Hearth of the Silver Chalice.
Previous to this point and time, to be honest, taking on the responsibilities of a Coven was a larger step for us (Becca and Cayne) than we had intended. The fact is, we had always been comfortable doing what we did, the way we did it, and our little "Fam-Tram" seemed perfectly fine for us...however...the Goddess and God obviously had other plans.
Well, time marches on and with that came some revelations, and some much needed changes. Somehow the name "Hearth of the Silver Chalice" never really seemed to fit for many reasons. After much meditation, consideration, and "shedding of skin"; The Silver Serpent Coven was born. In order to really understand the serpent and its relevance toward our path and Tradition, we must first explore some of the lore.
Some Serpent Lore
The creature which chose our Coven and Tradition is as intriguing as it is mysterious. From the beginning of time serpents have imbedded themselves into the human psyche. Ancient societies ascribed to their amazing powers...considered among the wisest and most cunning of creatures with their unblinking eyes that were believed to see all. Emerging from Mother Earth, the serpent was believed to be all knowing of the world's secret knowledge and vital forces. It is viewed to be an Underworld magical animal found in Celtic Tradition and represents the natural cycles of life due to the regular shedding of its skin. Being a symbol of rebirth and by shedding it's old skin to reemerge in the spring from the winter's hibernation; it gives the impression of its immortality.
Several different cultures recognize this aspect of the serpent. The Ouroboros for example, is the symbol of a circled snake devouring its own tail signifying the continuing cycle of life. The term "ouroboros" comes from the Greeks meaning "tail eater". This image is also seen as the Midgard Serpent (sometimes called Midgardsorm) of Norse Mythology. This symbol may not represent a specific mythos, but does represent the endless circle of time, rebirth, regeneration, and the balance of creation.
These aspects of the serpent were obvious and important symbolisms for our Tradition. Through the years we have learned to accept change and the teaching that it brings. Serpents are also recognized as symbols of wisdom and healing. Because of their "wave-like" movements they are associated with healing waters and sacred wells, sources of the healing and regenerative powers within Mother Earth. These facts and symbolisms have also lead us to view the serpent as a protector and keeper of health and well-being. In addition, the serpent is not only representative of the Goddess, but the God as well. This is also very relevant to our path because through it all, balance is one of our main focal points. We recognize both aspects of creation and the wisdom they bring. This is just a few of the important relevancies and reasons why we are both honored and fortunate to be chosen by the serpent as part of its Clan Family.
Core Beliefs and Bylaws
Regarding deity, the Serpent Tradition recognizes both the Goddess and the God aspects and the balance they bring. We center our focus mostly on the ancient Celtic deity forms of Scotland and Ireland, but recognize and honor deity in all their various forms. Much like most other Traditions of Witchcraft we have our set standards for most things like the calling of quarters, circle standards, summoning of deity, chosen pantheon, Tradition secrets and so on. But like the serpent we still "shed old skin" when needed and strive to remain enough in balance to know what needs changing and observe the lessons we can learn from those changes. Through these things we have come to the personal realization that there is really no such thing as coincidence. There are reasons (although sometimes unknown to us) why things occur the way they do. If certain circumstances occur that cause you to begin thinking or to take some sort of action, there is a reason for it. Perhaps it is for you, or possibly that you might need to act as a catalyst for someone else. There is wisdom and knowledge that comes about in sometimes the strangest of ways. In the Serpent Tradition, we have a standard three degree system. These degrees and our ongoing studies consist of (but are not limited to) such topics as:
•Celtic Lore and Deity of Witchcraft
•Practicing and proficiency in the art of Witchcraft (energy work, spells, herbalism, meditation, ect.)
•Divination
•Understanding your true self
•Guidelines and practices of self discipline
•Practicing conservation and preservation of The Mother’s land and creatures.
•Working well with the Community (Pagan and Non-Pagan alike)
To attain any degree in The Serpent Tradition, regardless of any timeframes that may have previously been set, the knowledge and full awareness of that degree must be attained. The “ground floor” training in The Serpent Tradition consists basically of getting to know the true you and some of the history and lore surrounding Witchcraft itself as a whole. It is our belief that most of us throughout our life path have established viewpoints via general media and other sources that often times cloud our minds keeping us from moving forward in spiritual growth. This is especially true if you come into the knowledge of The Craft after you have become an adult. Some modes of thinking must be rethought, and mental boundaries must be redefined. Shedding of one’s old skin to begin anew is the key. This is a lengthy process for many and can take years to achieve. And the rule of thumb with all our degrees is that attaining the wisdom and knowledge is the most important aspect of all, and not the pursuit of a title.
The following is a list of our chosen Bylaws:
Serpent Tradition Bylaws
I. Statement of Purpose
A. Our purposes are to be as follows:
1. To give and initiate due respect to elders and parents, to accept others for who they are, to revere and honor the Ancient Goddesses and Gods as we go about our daily life, to respect others for their choice of religion and not to force our religion on others.
2. Explore and practice ancient beliefs and traditions regarding Witchcraft, with a primary focus on the traditions of the Celtic people as accepted by The Serpent Tradition;
3. Support one another within the Tradition in our healing, growth, and aspirations;
4. Hold ancient rites and rituals on the Sabbats and Esbats and other special occasions, in order to celebrate the seasons, work magick, recognize rites of passage, and honor the Goddesses and Gods;
5. Honor The Great Mother and all her creatures as sacred, and work to heal and protect the environment within our community, throughout our nation, and across the world;
6. Teach the adopted beliefs and traditional skills of The Serpent Tradition to its members.
7. When appropriate:
a: Educate the general public about the art and path of Witchcraft.
b: Assist in providing aid to sisters and brothers in the Craft and kindred spiritual paths when deemed necessary.
B. Commitment: All Members of this Tradition must have fully committed themselves to these purposes in their beliefs, their activities, and their lives.
II. Membership and Affiliation
A. Qualifications: Membership shall be offered to individuals upon recommendation of the High Priestess and High Priest of Serpent Tradition Covens, and consensus of all Members of their Coven/s. No person shall be denied access to Membership on the basis of gender, race, ethnic background, sexual preference, physical handicap, or age providing they have attained their majority.
B. Degrees of Participation and Membership: Participants in the programs sponsored by these Serpent Tradition Covens shall be defined as follows:
1. Invited Guests: Interested parties who may attend all open activities, and Coven related activities in the company of a Dedicate or Initiate, with the Council’s approval.
2. Friends of the Coven: Interested parties who may attend all open activities, and Coven related activities with the consent of all other Initiates in attendance.
3. Children: Unless accompanied by a parent or Guardian children under the age of 18 are not allowed to attend any Coven functions or rituals due to any possible legal ramifications.
4. Children of the Coven: Children of Coven Members are accepted at most Coven functions and are considered Associate Members as long as their parents or Guardians remain current and active Members of the Coven. Upon the age of majority Children of Coven Members are considered for full fledge Membership if it is their wish to join the Coven.
5. Membership in the Coven shall be limited to:
a. Dedicates: Persons, whom have dedicated themselves to the study of Witchcraft and who, with the approvals of all active Initiates, are following the prescribed course of study in this Coven. After one year and a day of participation, a Dedicate may be asked to state his/her intention to qualify for initiation into the priesthood or to withdraw from the Coven.
b. Long Distance Dedicates: Persons living at least fifty miles from the Covenstead which agree to and abide by the terms set fourth for long distance membership criteria, whom have dedicated themselves to the study of Witchcraft and who, with the approvals of all active Initiates, are following the prescribed course of study in this Coven. After one year and a day of participation, the L.D.D. may be asked to state his/her intention to qualify for initiation into the priesthood or to withdraw from the Coven.
c. Member: Persons who have met the requirements for membership and been initiated as full members of the Coven.
d. Long Distance Member: Persons who have met the requirements for membership and been initiated as full members of the Coven. L.D.M.s will have the same voting rights and privileges as members, but are subject to the attendance criteria and regulations set fourth for L.D.D.M.s.
e. First Degree Member: Persons who have been active in the Craft and this Coven for at least a year and a day and have met all requirements for initiation as defined by the Coven Council.
f. Second Degree Member: Persons who have been active in the Craft and this Coven for at least two years and two days, and have met all the requirements for Second Degree status as defined by the Coven Council; and have been recommend by the High Priestess and High Priest, and approved by a consensus of the Second and Third Degree Initiates.
g. Third Degree Member: Persons who have attained Third Degree Status; have demonstrated proficiency in ritual design and leadership, teaching, counseling, group process and administration; and have been recommend by the High Priestess and High Priest, and approved by a consensus of the Third Degree Initiates.
C. Additional Titles of Recognition: the Titles of Mistress of Arts or Master of Arts shall be granted by Serpent Tradition Covens in recognition of special achievement. Initiates who have attained proficiency in the appropriate field and have been approved by a committee of all active Second and Third Degree initiates may be designated Mistress or Master of:
1. Divinatory Arts (general or specializing in Tarot, astrology, scrying, I Ching, runes, lithomancy, dreamcraft, radiesthesia, etc.)
2. Herbalism (for healing, amulets/talismans, incenses oils, etc.)
3. Healing Arts (specializing in herbal healing, nutrition, energy work, aromatherapy, flower remedies, psychic healing, rebirthing, color therapy, music therapy, stone, or other healing modality)
4. Familiar Arts (animal magick, totems, shapeshifting, etc.)
5. Talismanic Arts (creating amulets and talismans)
6. Ritual Toolcraft (the crafting of ritual tools in metal, wood, etc.)
7. Psychic Skills (specializing in astral travel, telepathy, clairvoyance, clairsentience, clairaudience, psychometry, etc.)
8. Incantation (words of power, charms, chants, mantras)
9. Fascination (trancework, meditation, hypnosis)
10. Bardic Arts (music, storytelling, drama)
Additional titles may be created by the Coven Council as desired.
D. Membership Status: Any person’s Membership or participation may be curtailed, suspended, or terminated by decision of the Coven Council, either for lack of attendance and/or participation, or violation of the Coven Creed.
III. Administration and Operation
A. Coven Council: This body shall handle the ordinary business of the Coven.
1. Membership: The Coven Council shall consist of all Full Members of the Coven. (Dedicate or Associate Members are not considered Members of the Coven Council.)
2. Scope: the Council shall discuss all matters of:
a. Program planning and activities;
b. Dedication, initiation, and Membership generally;
c. Finance and budget; and
d. Outreach, networking, and affiliations.
3. Facilitations: The High Priestess shall ordinarily chair meetings of the Council. Where she is absent, or chooses to delegate this responsibility, the High Priest shall chair the meeting.
4. Method of operation: The Coven Council shall make decisions by consensus. When consensus cannot be reached, the Council may refer the decision to the High Priestess (or in her absence, the High Priest) , who shall consider all that has been discussed and make the decision.
5. Meetings: That Council shall meet quarterly on a regular basis, or as called by any Initiate.
6. Quorum: A quorum shall consist of the active Members present at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Coven Council, or three-quarters of the active Membership at any specially called meeting.
B. Offices and Duties: The Coven Council shall fill the following offices whenever a vacancy occurs.
1. High Priestess: Chairs the Coven Council; coordinates the teaching program; provides counseling as necessary; leads the rituals or provides resources to those doing so; supervises the work of others Officers; directs the initiations of candidates to the priesthood; supervises the work of candidates for second and third degree status; represents the Coven to the Craft and the public; enhances the inner strength and harmony of the Coven; provides overall guidance to the work of the Coven; and exercises final authority regarding ritual, initiation, ordination and other religious matters.
2. High Priest: Chairs the Coven Council in the absence, or at the request of the High Priestess; teaches; provides counseling as necessary; helps to lead the rituals or provides resources to those doing so; assists in supervising the work of the other officers; shares the responsibility for initiating candidates to second and third degree status; represents the Coven to the Craft and the public; leads in the defense of the Coven where worldly dangers threaten it; and supports and encourages the High Priestess in the performance of her duties.
3. Maiden: Assists the High Priestess with rituals and her other responsibilities, and assumes the ritual duties of the High Priestess in her absence.
4. Summoner: Assists the High Priest with rituals and his other responsibilities, and assumes the ritual duties of the High Priest in his absence.
5. Bard: Collects songs and chants; teaches and leads the Coven in music, and provides accompaniment; collects lore and traditions.
6. Scribe: Keeps minutes of the Council meetings, handles correspondence as requested. Keeps records of Coven projects, rituals, and activities.
7. Coven Green Man: Handles safety and security at Coven events. Indoors, checks locks and closes curtains, etc. Outdoors, finds safe places for ritual work, posts sentries, and sets wards. Knows laws regarding freedom of religion and assemble, etc.; serves as liaison with law enforcement officers. May teach self-defense.
8. Ritual Leaders, Project Leaders, and Trip Leaders: Coordinate design, logistics, and implementation of Coven events. These positions are vacated at the conclusion of each event. A team may share responsibility for any given event.
9. Additional, temporary offices may be created and filled, as the Coven Council deems necessary.
C. Guidelines for Conduct: All Dedicates and Members shall be guided in their conduct by The Coven Creed, the Law of Return, local laws of the land, and the Goddess and God within each person.
IV. Meeting Schedule
A. Rituals
1. Esbats shall be held as close to the evening of the New Moon or the Full Moon as possible according to the Coven meeting schedule. Special Esbats may be scheduled on the evening of the New Moon or Full Moon if it is deemed necessary by the Coven Council.
2. Sabbats may be held on their actual date or on the weekend nearest, as determined by the Coven-meeting schedule or the Coven Council, except that Samhain shall always be celebrated on the night of October 31.
3. Once scheduled, a date shall not be changed unless two or more Members request it, and unless the entire Membership can attend on the proposed alternative date.
4. During clement weather, rituals shall normally be held outdoors at a site established by the Council. During inclement weather, rituals shall be held in the Covenstead, at other Members’ homes, or in a public place selected by the Coven Council.
B. Coven Classes (Open To the Public)
Any introductory seminars or other classes open to the public shall be offered under the guidelines, stipulations, provisions, and exclusions decided by the Coven Council.
C. Coven Classes (Dedicates and Members Only)
1. Classes for Dedicates and Members shall be held as determined by the Council.
2. The Coven Council shall establish the curricula.
3. Special classes that are part of a M.A. or other program shall be conducted by its own specifications.
4. Classes shall be held at the Covenstead or such other location as the High Priestess designates.
5. No fees shall be charged for classes that are part of the regular curriculum of the Coven and congregation.
D. Field Trips and special events shall be held at such times and place as the Council decides.
V. Attendance
A. Esbats shall be open only to Dedicates, Initiates and by Coven Council invitation.
B. Sabbats shall be open only to Dedicates, Initiates and by coven council invitation; except the Coven Council may schedule a second, Coven-only celebration on or near selected Sabbats.
C. Classes shall be designated open only to Dedicates and Initiates of this Coven or open to individuals within the community by approval of the Coven Council.
D. Dedicates and Initiates are expected to participate in Esbats, Sabbats, and classes. If any attends fewer than 75% of these events, their status shall be subject to review by the Council.
VI. Privacy of Members
A. The names, addresses, telephone numbers, and other information relating to individuals shall be considered confidential and may not be disclosed to non-Members without the permission of the individual involved.
B. Disclosure of confidential information may, at the discretion of the Council, be considered a violation of the Coven Creed and grounds for expulsion from Membership.
VII. Revising the By-Laws.
The stated Bylaws are a guideline for individual Serpent Tradition Covens. Any part of these By-laws may be amended by consensus of the individual Coven Council/s of The Serpent Tradition pertaining to their individual Coven/s. This pertains to the Bylaws as stated here and NOT Degree Lessons or Serpent Tradition Specifics.
Holidays
The Serpent Tradition celebrates thirteen Esbats and eight Sabbats ( Sabbats consisting of Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lughnasadh, and Mabon) and any other rites of passage necessary. Most of our holidays are celebrated within our Covens, but other individuals may be invited at the discretion of the HPS or HP of their particular Coven.
Goals and Aspirations
We make many efforts to try to help and heal our land and community, pagan and non pagan alike. Recycling, restoration, and preservation of our land, education for the community at large concerning our beliefs and religious path, and assisting our pagan sisters and brothers with rites of passage, handfastings, celebrations, and festivals...These are just a few of the things we strive to accomplish in our Tradition and as a Coven; for by assisting in the healing and growth of others, we are healed and grow as well.
Whether it is for all time or merely a season, The Serpent Tradition is here. Together with the Priestess', Priests, Elders, and hived Covens of our Tradition, we hope that future generations of seekers will seek out the Old Ways and the wonder of their mysteries just as we have; with the same thirst for knowledge and the love for the Goddess, the God, the Great Mother and all her creation. Blessed Be!
Cayne
Co-Creator of The Serpent Tradition
High Priest for The Silver Serpent Coven
Footnotes:
Suggested Reading:
The Elements of The Celtic Tradition: Caitlin Matthews
Ancient Ways: Campanelli
Popular Tales of the West Highlands: J.F. Campbell
Any of the literary works of Doreen Valiente
Covencraft: Amber K
Celtic Magic: DJ Conway
Snake Charm: Marilyn Nissenson and Suzan Jonas
ABOUT...
Silver Serpent Coven
Location: Newalla, Oklahoma
Website: http://www.serpenttradition.com
Other Listings: To view ALL of my listings: Click HERE
Email Silver Serpent Coven... (Yes! I have opted to receive invites to Pagan events, groups, and commercial sales)
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