Spirit Flame Tradition of The Craft

Is There A Hierarchy?

Yes, there is. We operate under a Three Tier Degree System with the High Priestess having final say within her coven. However, while there is a hierarchy within Spirit Flame, we are committed to the dignity and value of all of our members first and foremost--be you Dedicant or Elder. We are all equal before the Gods.

I would prefer to continue to worship my own Gods, can I do that?

Yes and No. Our Tradition works with specific Celtic Gods and Goddesses and as a member you will be required to work with these energies in ritual. However, we feel that it is not our place to designate your personal worship. In fact, we encourage personal exploration of different modes of worship as we feel that this can only add to your value as a public clergy member. We feel strongly that education dispells ignorance and fear. Bigotry has no place within Spirit Flame.

I am in High School and would like to join Spirit Flame. May I?

Spirit Flame does not accept minors--meaning those under the age of 18--except under very strict and unusual circumstances.

I am new to The Craft but would still like to train, may I?

Spirit Flame is a clergy-training Tradition and thus requires several years of previous Craft experience before entrance. We are not the right choice for those just starting out on this Path. Most covens within the organization offer study groups which WOULD be appropriate for those just starting out. Please contact us for more information.

I have cords from another tradition and would like to transfer these into Spirit Flame; may I?

No. Our program of study is set up to build apon itself and therefore it is important to begin at the beginning. Everyone will enter as a Dedicant.

I belong to another Craft Tradition and would like to join Spirit Flame as well; may I?

Under most circumstances, Yes. However, all information in regard to this situation must be presented at your interview and the final decision is that of the High Priestess.

Is Spirit Flame Tradition a Wiccan Tradition?

No. Spirit Flame is a traditional Western Craft Tradition. We consider ourselves Witches, not Wiccans.

I don't like my High Priestess, may I switch covens?

Under most circumstances, No. While this is a rigorous study program we want you to succeed. We realize that sometimes personalities clash, but we do expect all parties to behave as adults and attempt to resolve any differences that may crop up.

I think I have reached the point of elevation to the next degree, can I request that of my High Priestess?

No. Your High Priestess measures much more than lesson material when making these decisions.

I am assigned the _____________Sabatt ritual  for my coven and would like to switch the quarter calls and circle casting. May I do This?

All official Spirit Flame Rituals--including elevations, initiations, handfastings,blessings, and coven Sabbats shall use the Tradition's quarter calls and circle castings. The High Priestess may change these elements in open <public> rituals if she so chooses. Traditional elements may be used in open circles but cannot be printed and passed out to non-initiates.

I think <insert name of drug here> helps me to reach different levels of awareness and would like to incorpaorate it into my practice.

Spirit Flame will not tolerate illegal drug use amongst its members, this includes recreational use. If you use illegal drugs--or abuse legal ones-- do not apply. Think you can hide it? Not likely. This includes alcohol.

I would prefer to not share circle with <insert sexual persuasion,religion, race, or gender here>.

Tough.  Spirit Flame does not discriminate based on race, religion,sexual orientation, gender, or creed and our members are forbidden from doing so as well. 'Bashing' of other religions, races, genders, etc. will not be tolerated.

Do You Worship 'skyclad'?

No. Ritual robes or cloaks are required for official Spirit Flame Rituals, street clothes are fine for coven workings and esbats.

There is no coven where I live, do you train long-distance students?

Yes we do. Please contact us for information.

How much does it cost to belong to Spirit Flame?

Spirit Flame is not a social group, we are a Clergy Training Spiritual Organiation. It is against our policy to charge for teaching, we only ask that the yearly dues of $25.00 be paid by each member to cover ritual supplies,etc. and that the printing cost of your lessons be returned to your HPs (you will be given the printing receipt with your lessons). Lessons are provided in 'hard copy' format. At this time we do not provide lessons on disk or via email.

What Makes Spirit Flame Witches different that any other Solitary or Tradition Witch?

Several things, actually! First and foremost it is our devotion and service to The Gods that not only defines us but sets us apart. We are not ego-tripping and cord-collecting but rather compassionate and dedicated servants of The Old Gods and our community. We Serve.

We are also-- to our knowledge-- the only group in Northern Michigan who's 3rd Degree Witches and Elders are also highly trained Hoodoo Root-workers. This is a rare and valuable skill and one not earned easily. We take great pride in being able to offer this uniquely American magical art to our community.

I want to quit Spirit Flame, how do I do that?

If you are a dedicant you may tell your High Priestess of your decsison at anytime during your year and a day dedication period. It is the decision of the High Priestess as to whether or not you may continue in any 'outer court' activities such as study groups or open rituals. You may be asked to return you lesson material or to burn it; again this is the decision of the HPs.

Once you have dedicated you must ask for a formal release from the group in writing. You will be asked to return all lesson material and will be given a formal Letter of Parting. Please be advised that this happens very quickly--you will be released from the group within 24 hours of your request with your Letter of Parting arriving in your mail shortly thereafter.

I quit Spirit Flame but have changed my mind and now want to re-join, May I do this?

No. Once you have been separated it is best for all parties to walk their own path in love and light.

On what condition would a person be asked to leave Spirit Flame?

There are several, actually...

Under Fault of the Chalice:

* Repeated Failure to attend coven meetings with or without calling first. This is a commitment and is expected to be treated as such.

* Repeated failure to keep current on lessons and assignments given by the HPs

* Lesson Assignments not up to expected levels.

*Plagiarism or Intellectual Thievery

Fault of the Sword

*  Threatening or anti-social behavior in or out of circle

* Engagement in ANY illegal activity

*Abuse of animals or of any other living creature.

* Sexual Harassment or Intimidation.

The High Priestess of any Spirit Flame Coven will not--at anytime- tolerate abusive,intimidating,or illegal behavior perpetrated against members of the group. The appropriate legal actions WILL be taken.