Wicca

The practice of Wicca is still shrouded in mystery for many people. Many people can't help but wonder "What is Wicca?" when they hear mention of this popular alternative religion. The Wiccan religion is based on the reverence, respect and connection to the earth. The practice of Wicca is similar to the Native American belief that human beings are meant to be stewards of the earth, instead of despots over the plots of land they control. Many modern Wicca practitioners have a deep knowledge of the use and power of medicinal herbs and the natural forces of the earth.

Traditionally, Wicca spells were used to produce healing or other beneficial effects such as rain to help individuals and the community at large. This ability to cast Wicca spells was highly valued by the Wicca's community and so there were traditionally no negative connotations for Wicca being a form of dark witchcraft. Practicing Wiccas are deeply connected to nature and have an inner orientation of care-taking and reverence for the natural world. They also believe in living lightly and sustainably on the earth.

The history of Wiccan religion is founded in the British Mystery Traditions. The British Mystery Traditions are, in turn, based on ancient Celtic and Pict beliefs in a fertility goddess and a hunter god dating from as far back as 29,000 years ago. At that time, Paleolithic people painted caves with pictographs of a pregnant fertility goddess and a man with the head of a grown stag, a god for hunters. Archaeologists believe that these ancient Paleolithic people had beliefs similar to today's Wiccans.

Throughout Wicca history, there has always been a deep recognition and respect for the natural world and the endless resplendence of its beauty. Wicca teaches that with continual practice and alignment with the forces of nature, one can manifest a beautiful life while serving other's spiritual growth and physical well-being. Ultimately, Wicca is a path of self-realization through a deep connection to the profound beauty of nature.

The Universal Life Church Monastery has a large, well-developed community of Wiccans who call themselves ULC ministers and offers a wide variety of Wiccan products in its store.