The religious program at San Quentin has expanded its borders to include a small but dedicated group of Wicca practitioners. The group, or “coven” as they are known, meets Saturday mornings in the old MAC office in the chapel plaza.
Two Britons revived Wicca. Gerald Gardner, in September 1939, after having heard the word during an initiatory service. Gardner, “The father of modern Wicca,” founded one of the two main streams of the religion, known as “Gardnerian” Wicca. Alex Sanders developed the second denomination, termed “Alexandrian,” in the 1960’s.
Certain practices and beliefs are commonly held among all Wicca practitioners. Of primary import is the code of ethics entitled the “Wiccan Rede.” The origins of the code are somewhat in question, but adherence is required by nearly all Wicca sects. Taken in its simplified form, the Wiccan Rede simply states, “As ye harm none, do what ye will.”
Wiccans recognize and emphasize gender polarity, as seen in their “Sabbat” (Sabbath) rituals that focus upon the relationship between the Wiccan Goddess and God. Basic Wicca cosmology closely relates to the beliefs of animism, where all natural things are believed to have a spirit. Wiccans hold ceremonies for the four main seasonal cycles: Summer and Winter Solstices, and the Fall and Spring Equinoxes. Other practices include rites to honor the lunar cycles, and initiatory rituals marking adherents’ levels of development, usually denoted by ranks or degrees.
Another belief common to Wiccans is the Law of Threefold Return. Similar to the principle of Karma, Wiccans hold that whatever they do will return three times.
Modern Wiccans are found on every continent, with the highest percentages located in North America and Europe.
For more information on Wiccan practice, or to sign up to attend services, contact Jimmy Snider in 2N-24.