The Witch's Coven: Finding or Forming Your Own Circle

While I think this book is good, I was a little annoyed when I purchased it online, along with "Inside a Witches Coven". The 'look inside' information was different. But when the books arrived I found that they are exactly the same book - just with a different title

I wish I had this book when I was starting my own coven four years ago. I have since used it for a research tool for my own writing on the topic. I highly recommend it. Deborha Blake Circle, Coven & Grove (Llewellyn 2007) Everyday Witch a to Z (Llewellyn 2008)

Being Wiccan can be a lonely prospect. Truth be told, the burning days are still not over. No, people are no longer burned at the stake; however, they are ostracized by ignorant minds that do not understand. So, finding a group to study Wicca with can be a very difficult thing. "The Witch's Coven" by Edain McCoy, offers guidance and a friendly tone of understanding. Edain explains the purpose of meeting in covens, or groups. She takes a look at the different kinds of covens that are out there today and helps the reader to make a knowledgeable decision on choosing a path. She explains the inner workings of spiritual circles and what to expect of them, and also, what they might expect from you. Here you will find some guidance on creating your own coven, or ways to seek out an existing one. Most of us aren't willing to wear a pin that says, "Are you a good witch?" in seeking out other Wiccans. So how can one find others of like mind? Edain suggests placing veiled newspaper ads and using the internet, among other things. There are groups out there, everywhere, and the right one is waiting for you. What goes on in a coven? Why not remain a solitary? Edain explains a bit about the Wheel of the Year and of Life, rituals and celebrations. There are Healing Rituals and Group Magick to explore. Always, Edain is impartial and giving in her sharing of information. This book is to help you learn about covens and make up your own mind. If you are simply curious about witches, you will come away with greater understanding. If you are seeking a coven, you will be glad to have this information to help you find the perfect match. Making the decision to join a coven can be an important part of your spiritual path, or it may not be for you. Making an informed decision is always the best thing to do. Edain McCoy is a practicing witch. Who better to answer your questions?

This is a very, very good book. The remark that was made about Brujeria was rather intolerant. Most of the information applies to Wiccan tradition, a bit less so to other traditions, but it is very, very good general information. It gives you a lot of ideas on what you need to look for and check out before starting or joining a coven or other group. The differences are generally minor. I think, especially when you are young, you may not think quite so much about how you will fit with the group you are attempting to join and may overlook some critical issues that will come back to haunt you later. I found a lot of useful information on how to deal with people who seem to cause disruption in groups. Unfortunately, we have had one eclectic and inclusive neopagan group locally fail because of just those sorts of people. I was happy to read of some techniques for handling them without destroying the group itself. I generally love this author's books. She is a very, very good researcher and scholar.

Very highly recommended and informative reading, The Witch's Coven: Finding Or Forming Your Own Circle by self-initiated Witch and Pagan community activist Edain McCoy offers the reader a practical and informative look at how modern-day covens operate, with a keen eye toward choosing the right coven to suit one's own practices and beliefs. Structures for teaching circles, as well as methods for mediating conflicts are also nicely covered in this well-thought-out and insightful guide. Many of the general principles laid forth apply wholeheartedly not just to Wiccan and Pagan groups, but to organizations, clubs, and gatherings of all types and categories.