Book Description
Who doesn't want better health, more love, money, and spiritual fulfillment in their daily lives? This easy-to-follow book will have readers doing guided meditations and affirmations, spinning spells and making charms, as well as blending empowering potions and doing divinations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Fascinating New Age Wicca Book
Knight's new book is a fascinating new age book with emphasis on hands-on methods such as meditations, oracles, and rituals.She has pulled back the veil of mystery surrounding Wicca and new age practices, explaining in clear language how to do magic, how to improve our lives and how to visualize what we really want in life.After reading this book, my life really did improve and I found it much easier to attain my practical and magickal goals.Knight showed me how to bring the meaning and purpose in my life into perspective.I'm more aware of what I need and want now and I know how to get it.Magickal thank yous to Sirona Knight and this book!May the Fae ever bless her and keep her penning new books!

MAGICKAL, WELL-WRITTEN BOOK ON WICCA AND THE NEW AGE
Knight has written a very good book on Wicca and the New Age.I bought her book Empowering Your Life with Dreams and really enjoyed it, so I bought this one a couple of weeks later.I wasn't disappointed.I was delighted!Sirona Knight obviously has a visionary and comprehensive insight into the practices of Wicca together with the practices of the New Age.I have read alot of wicca books that are just basic wicca 101 books and are really boring.This book isn't a Wicca 101 book.It's really cool how each chapter builds on the previous chapter, and there are plenty of meditations, rituals, oracles, and affirmations to do each day.I have really empowered and enriched my life using the techniques in this magickal book.I recommend it to everyone that is into wicca and the New Age.It gave me plenty of things to do to life a better life and now I feel closer and more connected to the Goddess and God, and to myself.

The tools to get your mojo working
Knight gives you the tools to get your mojo working and the magic happening.Cool book that uses Wicca and New Age together.This is the first book I've read that has blended the two together--very progressive, magickal, and lots of common sense savvy!The meditations and rituals are especially strong and I've had great success andI feel a lot more empowered than I did before I started reading this book.

Empowering Resource Book Not Just For Wiccans
I read this book slowly and did the meditations, rituals, affirmations and prayers and it literally changed my life---for the better.There are alot of New Age techniques and also alot of Wiccan methods for personal empowerment in the book--methods that actually worked for me within a few weeks.I was amazed by the power of this book and I recommend it to both teenagers and adults.My teenage son is reading through the book now and he's trying the techniques too.

OWN THIS BOOK AND USE IT!
I think everybody truly interested in Wicca should own this book and use it as much as possible.There are so many helpful things in it, meditations, rituals, prayers, and affirmations.I am working my way through the book and my life is improving nine-fold! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

My actual rating is 2 and 1/2 stars
Since I'm no longer a newbie in The Craft I've modified my former opinion of this book somewhat.

I still feel that this book contains a lot of things that have nothing to do with candle magick, as well as having information about Voodoo(I thought the title of this was WICCA Candle Magick!)But her information on candle colors is good and her information on crystals is very interesting, although again I question why she has info on crystals in a book that is supposed to be about candle magick!

I still think that some of the spells are positively revolting! The worst one involves taking a dead toad or frog(I forget which one)and putting the carcass under a dung heap until all the flesh is eaten away by maggotts and then using the bones in a spell!!! (Hmmm...next time I find a dead toad or frog, I think I'll take the body and save some of my dog's dung)! How much dung would I have to collect to make a dung heap and just how much could it stink? I can't imagine the neighbors objecting!

This is the kind of stuff that gives Witches a bad rep!

It's obvious that the author is very knowledgable, but this book should definetely have a different tile!

This is for Intermediate or advanced, not beginner Witches
Dunwich has written a good book for candle magick, but her book focuses on very specific things to do and not to do. She also provides some basic info on colors, and what they represent. There's also some nice tid bits of historical information that I enjoyed reading.

However, I don't feel this is a good book for someone just starting out. For me to sit here and type all the reasons I believe it's not for beginners would take to long, so I'll just reemphasize that if you have practiced candle magick already, and are comfortable with it, then this book is for you. I know I'm not providing specifics, but I really don't have the time right now to tell you every single detail..Blessed Be.

Amazing!
Wow! I love it! It's very clear, and doesn't just cover candle magick, but crystals, gemstones, gods and goddesses, it's a very informative book for people who are just starting to study the magickal and spiritual arts. Thecandle spells work and are precise. Amazing!

Good, but with many questionable things....
This is a very interesting book, don't get me wrong, but it left me wondering so many things.This book is sloppy, and it makes me wonder if Gerina put her whole heart into it or just threw it together?Someparagraphs made me feel like she was in a hurry.I'm not joking, theintroduction made me feel like she was anxious to get the book over with,she wrote the paragraphs like she was in a hurry.I wish she would haveexplained Candle Magick in this book, she dwells on possibly unessessarythings and includes too many things that I don't think belong in this book. Her information on making candles isn't that bad, but there are othermethods as well, some of which are easier, but she does give severaloptions.Some of her oils are just gross, and I can't see a lot of Wiccansusing them.Her information on herbs and healing isn't bad at all, I justwish she would have explained how to use herbs, how to use herbs withcandle magick, and examples of rituals and spells.Her info on herbs isgood, if you've had experience.Her information on gems and crystal aregood too, it just has nothing to do with candle magick itself.Herinformation on gods and godesses is always good in all her books, but inthis book it is too long and drawn out, I wouldn't be suprised if there are40 pages just about gods and goddesses used in Wicca and the candle colorsassociated with them.This is good information and it can be used for goodreference, I'm just not sure it's necessary and makes me wonder if it wasput in there to fill up space.Do you see what I mean?Her Sabbat ritualsare not really candle rituals, she has good ideas for rituals, but some ofher ideas are complicated, and unusuable for many readers.Plus, manyWiccans do not use ceremonial swords and do not cast magick circles in theway she does.But, as for almost any ritual in my opinion, it can bemodified to fit your own needs, it just be nice, if you could follow itword by word.She is knowledgeable about the Sabbats, and her rituals areenlightening and fun to read.Her chapter on Candle Magick itself isstrange, and it would be nice if there was some candle spells in it.Mostof the spells she presents on a wide variety of topics contains candles,but I only considered ONE SPELL to actually be candle magick, and that wasa love spells targeting individuals, something most Wiccans wouldn't doanyways.I'm not saying this is children's literature at all, but the wayGerina Dunwich writes in some places in this book, makes you feel like sheis speaking to you either like a child or she doesn't care what you do kindof attitude.Her writing style in some places of this book might make somereaders question her intelligence.That is rude, I know, but I am notjoking.She does give a lot of spells, like some reviewers have said, someare very interesting, and some cover topics other authors avoid or may knownothing about, but some of her spells are bizarre, makes you wonder whereshe got them, some of her spells are gross, with disgusting ingredients,and some of her spells are almost impossible to perform for variousreasons.She includes a chapter on Voudoun Candle Magick, which would havebeen nice if it included information about Voudoun Candle Magick, she isknowledgeable about Voodoo, and she does a good job explaining it andexplaining Voodoo gods and goddesses and even how to make Voudoun candles,there is just very little information anyone can apply, but she doespresent Voudoun in an easy to understand, interesting, explainative mannerof being.She includes a Voodoo ritual too, which I'm not sure isnecessary, what was this book about again.She speaks about breakingHoodoo (not Voodoo) curses, yet doesn't explain the background behindHoodoo practice.Finally, as always, I liked her chapter on Candle Omensand Superstitions, and she even includes a listing of Occult andMetaphysical shops most of which I hope at least sell Candles accross thecountry.This book is good, I recently bought three more books and thisone was the best, but this book is sort of thrown together, and makes mewonder more about what Gerina Dunwich was thinking when she wrote thisbook.For better information on Candle Magick, try Ray Buckland'sPractical Candleburning Rituals: Spells and Rituals for every purpose. Bye.

Not a good starter book for beginners
This is a better book for an experianced user. For the experianced user itprovides a number of good magick spells. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Not a book for wannabees!
This is the real deal folks! This is not the crappy "fluff bunny" stuff that many write and send out to fill newbies heads with. This is real and works. As for the Frost's payment for these books, Yes, they have taken a vow of poverty. Yes,They do not profit from their book sales. Yes,They do much to help homeless, hungry, needy people all around the US and other Countries. Those who do not like the Frost's...don't buy their books, leave them alone, buy some fluffy bunny crap. Those who want to really learn something irregardless of your Path, read these books! I know these folks personally, and I can tell you, unless you know them, don't judge them;for what some may misinterpret, others loose out on....if they follow the naysayer crowd. I prefer to use my own mind and make my own decsions,and read books for myself and decide what I can or cannot use out of every book, not just the Frost's books! A great read and rsource book for every Pagan library!

Just like the others
This book is just like the rest of Frost & Frost Inc.'s "books". Total hogwash. The problem with modern paganism/wicca is that people like Gavin and Yvonne just write whatever their little hearts desire and make a huge profit from selling people junk.

Outstanding Book..it should be in your interest to read
This is a wonderful book that takes the cake. A book that cannot be compared to other books because of such great detail. Those that are not fans of Frost and Frost...go someplace else, those that think that Frost and Frost are "fakes"...one question?....did you really "read" the book with an open mind?...if you answer that then all is spoken. Please be sure to read this, cause some of the stuff in this book you wont be able find in Bucklands nor Cunningham books...you'll be surprised. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description
A valuable & enjoyable contribution to contemporary Wicca. There is no title for this system since the author was taught before the current revival groups formed. Rhiannon provides us with a direct path back to the Old Religion in the British Isles and the west country in particular. 104 pages. 15 illustrations.--This text refers to the paperback edition of this title ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

No proof, just speculation
I had higher hopes for this book but nothing was presented to back up this story..... Sounds more like modern Wicca to me than something pre-Gardnerian like this book claims.

Maybe it's accurate, maybe not....
I don't really care if the things in Rhiannon Ryall's book are accurate, or if they're not. All I know is I enjoyed the book and got quite a bit out of it. I'm now in the middle of my second reading of the book and it is a real pleasure. Her writing style has been criticized by some reviewers but, frankly,
it's quite pleasing and relaxed. It's the writing style of someone who is more comfortable talking to people than writing to them. If you wish to make comparisons, you might say the style of Wicca she describes in comparison to modern day, over
elaborate Wicca, is the same as the difference between an old fashioned country Baptist church and the over elaborate Catholic church. In religions of all types there is the simple, direct communion with your god contrasting with the overbearing pomp and flash who's main objective is to be seen and heard by others. I'll take the simple and direct every time. I like "West Country Wicca". It's a good book and a worthwhile read, no matter which direction your path takes.

Nice little book...
Some reviewers state West Country Wicca is fictional, some say it's true: There's actually no way of knowing what went on in the writers town. You can't prove one way or the other.

I liked the book, though. I think it could be useful for a lot of people who are tired of some of the overly cerimonial aspects of Wicca. This book contains simple and down to earth rituals and ideas. This book can offer something positive that people can constructivly use. Isn't that what matters?

A good conversation
Much like the other reviews I do have to say that Rhiannon personalizes the book and writes it as that of a good conversation. This resource is equipped with a wonderful array that helps the reader get "into the scene" of the ways of the Old Religion. Though many may mistake this as an instructional source, that is not it's intent. Rather, it is a summary and introduction into a way of life as seen through the eyes of one who had experienced the Old Ways before the modernization of Wicca as we now have it. She gives the reader many good ideas as to how to keep it simple and meaningful at the same time and moves away from the ceremonially ritualistic approach that we find within the Gardenarian tradition. Her suggestions and way of life seem to reference much of the Green Tradition..."kitchen witchery" if you will. This is one of the first books I bought and I am glad I still own it as an essential part of my library. Good material and good references make this one of my favorites. A definite resource to a library and highly recommended to all levels of study.

interesting read
This book is an interesting read. I always enjoy first person accounts, so I am not as critical as others of this title. Also, this book is not meant to be a teaching manual. But, learning from someone else's perspective is always interesting to me. ... Read more

Book Description
[Revised Edition] Divided into 12 hot topics, Wicca 333 tries to provide the level of insight and depth of material found in many ""101"" books without repeating the same tired introductory information that is irrelevant to today's advanced student. Touchin ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

A really great book to get beyond the beginner level
This is a great book and it has exactly what the title tells you it has: Advanced topics in Wiccan belief. The topics covered in this book are mostly a matter of clarifying the things that are most confusing and controversial about what wiccan do and believe.

It starts with something that might be seen as simple: The wiccan Rede. What is it, what does it mean, and what does it not mean. Kaatryn MacMorgan does a great job of sorting out the history myth and confusion surrounding these words.

This book explains what Wicca is as best as is possible. She talks about common mistakes made by beginners, and how easy those mistakes are to make. She explains what kind of mistakes and lies have been published in many of the popular wicca 101 books and advises her readers to check sources and do research instead of just taking a pagan author on their word (including herself).

There are a lot of misconceptions out there about Wicca, most of them held by Wiccans. This book is a great start if you want to clear yourself of those misconceptions and gain a more critical eye when examining Wiccan texts and traditions.

The author urges the reader to educate themselves so that they won't be put in a situation where they will have to explain their beliefsand not be able to, or accidentally misrepresent themself, which can be a common occurance when Wiccans enter a discussion with people who don't really know what wicca is. The book explains how to ask intelligent questions and to make sure you understand a question before spititting out an answer. Much of this book is devoted to not only clearing up the information that wiccans have, but also clearing up the dialogues they have to facilitate learning and reduce conflict.

The one chapter I found rather uninforamative was the the Chapter that discussed Satanism. The author's gal was to explain what Satanism was and was not and how it wasn't wicca. Unfortunately it was never quite made clear what exactly it was. The goals of explaining what it wasn't and how it wasn't wicca were accomplished, but after reading the chapter I don't think I could tell anyone with confidence what a Satanist is or what they are about. But given that the book was on Wicca, that's a really minor problem with the book.

Companion to "All One Wicca".
This is the second book in the Universal Eclectic Wicca tradition. This one focuses on more metaphysical ideas and is a great book for anyone on the Wiccan path.

Wicca 333
Kaatryn MacMorgan really helped me define and answer questions about my spirituality. If you are looking for 1 book to answer your questions start with All One Wicca then move on to this one.

Advanced Topics in Wiccaare 50/50 within this book!
There is a reason why you should take any words of Kaatryn MacMorgan with a grain of salt. Reason one, is that the author has some very good debate topics and has the research to show in each chapter, however, the author has a bad habit of either contraditing her words or she poorly explains them to the point of giving the reader a headache of mumbo jumbo that the averageperson cannot understand.
Another reason, why are we still debating the Wiccan Rede?...there are no "breaking down" as the author puts it. However, to me she fails to put some kind of "mumbo jumbo" out to the public that they "cracked the code" from the decoder ring the author got from a craker jack box...nobody cares!. Everybody knows who is a wiccan see it as a "poem" and only use it as a "guideline"...thats all!..there should be NO breaking down the Rede in order to "understand it". The author also uses too much "scholar type" writing to bore her readers to death with.
On page 16 she truly misunderstood what Dion Fortune words of "All Gods are One God" ment. The author poorly explains this to only confuse the readers. She tells her readers on page 22 , "All paths lead to the same place is a good idea that fails in practice"...hold on!..she just told readers that not to long ago that "they were all different"...Is that a contradiction?.. because if we all ended up in the same place after death, that would pretty much explain all paths are equal. The author fails to explain this more. Then by adding fuel to the fire, she adds on page 23 "Believing all paths are one path can be seen as a sort of reaction to fundamentalism"...very, very untrue this is ONLY in her view.
However, even though the book gets a 3 from me, it isnt a bad book to be honest just poorly explained on the topics. However, there are some things she should rewrite on so other readers can understand it better. On page 59 the Tomas Timeline is very well done and very useful. However, the author's "run around" with newbies on page 67 is very bad...and this person says she is a teacher?...thats very sad. However, she writes that "a smart question assumes nothing"...which is true, but, nobody should assume anything because that makes you an ass..which she fails to explain on what real "smart questions" truly is. Instead, the author plays "mind games" and not truly answer the questions from the e-mail that the person sent to her...again taking her "teaching" with a grain of salt.
The Celt part on page 72 was pretty good, however, the author has to understand that Wicca never claimed "Celtic tradition" as their own. Wicca however, uses the Gods and Goddesses they feel comfortable with and blend the "influences of Celt tradition"..that is all!..nothing more. Every wiccan knows by now that wicca is not Celtic..again she telling readers what we already know.
Anyways, I do agree on her chapters on Proselytizing, Facts about Satanism which was very well explained and Forming an Ethical code which was good too. Now, as i said i gave this a 3 because the author has a poor way of explaining things. Now as being advance..that is 50/50.
I would try to find something better than this book, in order to look for better advance books about wicca.

Excellent Source For Wiccan Philosophy
Thoughtful, pointed and provocative.This is an *excellent* source and starting point for discussion in Wiccan and Pagan philosophy and world view.This work is a great start to filling a gaping hole in Wiccan teaching.Kaatryn MacMorgan is opinionated, but well researched and well grounded in her views, and her purpose is to spark thought, research and more discussion.Her statements are sometimes bold, and tend to stir up the thought processes.

Each chapter contains references to source material that can be used as a start for further discussion and more advanced topics.The book is suitable for solitary study, group discussions, or classroom situations.

Others have pointed out that there are typos in the text, and there are several.However, substance is far more important, and this is an important work.

I consider this a "must read" for any serious solitary or group studying Wicca seriously. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

The information is NOT the issue...
...the issue is that the author has taken her information from others who have taught and written about Faery for *decades* longer than she has, and BLATANTLY stolen it. There has been litigation against her. Even Llewellyn won't publish her books anymore because they are afraid of getting sued. Folklore, Meditation, Folklore, Meditation, and then more Folklore- that is the way to learn the Faery Faith.

I didn't think this was as useful as the first book.
While I don't agree with everything Ms. Stepanich says in her books, I usally try to collect a variety of works in my 'witchy' library.I usually try to look at the stuff I don't agree with and form a solid opinion on *why* I don't agree.It helps me to really find validity in what *I* believe.If you've read the first book in her series, I would recommend the second just for continuity.If you haven't I suggest you start at the beginning as I found that book more useful.I did notice quite a bit of what she said seemed to have come from other authors.Ultimately, I think I would recommend some other authors first.However I think it is also a good idea to be receptive to others' views and ways of doing things.

Spiritual practices
As an Irish gent recently relocated to Boston, and having come across the works by the Irish-American author, Ms. Stepanich, I must say that I find her understanding of Irish mysticism to be quite enchanting. I took the time to read the reviews below and found it quite interesting that many of them sounded as if they were written by the same person and that that person just might be one of the other "authors" so favorably highlighted. Such a shame to attempt to slaunder one individual to stroke your own ego! Makes for bad business. My end comment: a lovely spiritual practice is presented in this book and the first one. As an old druid I must say, she has got her finger on the pulse of the Faery more accurately than any other contemporary author.

This is the best book of Irish Traditons ever printed!!!
This is the best book of Irish Traditons ever printed!

Want to learn about the Irish shamanic traditons? want to learn about the Irish Gods and Goddesses and how to work with them? Then go to the Irish Faery Faith expert! That is Kisma Stepanich! Go to other traditions and their experts for their ways. This is truly unique and the best writing available! As for some of the negative comments listed below, lets see these poeople do better! It is easy to sit on your duff and criticize, but hey, write something and lets see if you can do better!! Buy it, you won't be sorry!!

Dont waste your $$$
I echo a reader from Boston's review.
I *used* to own both these books, one and two. I recycled them, hoping they'd find a useful life. I wouldnt GIVE these away to some unsuspecting person.
Kisma plagerises (and still gets things wrong) is incapable of reasearch, and when questioned on her "facts", replies that the questioner is "mean and too scholarly".
Well then, I'm proud to be in the "mean" camp.
Do not waste your money, especially at the ridiculous prices being asked for here!!
As has been stated, better to spend your hard earned bucks on WY Evans Wentz, RJ Stewart, et al. I own these books, they blow Kisma away. Kisma who?
She's out of print? GOOD!! Best thing that ever happened to this culture raping liar.
Deserves negative 5.
PS, whomever said "those who didnt like it probably didnt use it as intended"?
Puhhhhleese. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

This is THE book
Harrow's book, together with Isaac Bonewit's Cult Danger Evaluation Form helped me shape my incredibly difficult decision to leave my disfunctional coven.

Harrow gives us an excellent overview of what a coven member should expect in terms of ethics, and well-functioning group dynamics. It should be mandatory reading for every HP and HPS, and equally so for every wannabe.

If things aren't working for you in your Pagan circle or coven, read this book, and you can find tools to help it run better. Or to raise your consciousness about when it's time to hit the road.

You won't find practical magic or spells in this book. But you will find a well thought-out analysis of what makes Pagan groups work well together.

The help book your coven really needs
There are a couple of good books on the market that deal with Wicca Covens, and in my opinion there are not enough.

While a lot of Covens cover within their own group their own rules and such regarding how their covens are structured and formed, those outside the coven structure are sadly lacking in the necessary teaching, information and skills needed to undertake such a project.

Judy Harrow presents here an in depth book dealing with the formation, principles and workings of a Coven.From starting a coven to dealing with individuals within the Coven group to deciding when to meet or how to perform ritual together, it is all discussed in a grown up manner with a common sense approach to the problems and day to day workings.

There are way too many people out there who are calling their group a "Coven" only to have someone realize they are nothing more than a working group.And there are those out there who really do want to create a working coven, and need a guide to help them put it all together.Many people do not know what a real coven should look and feel like.This book can help clarify a lot of these questions.

No one book will contain all the answers or have everything you need to be completely assured of a successful coven.But this book covers much ground in the practical approach to forming a Coven.If you are taking the first steps, or think you have a coven and are not sure, or looking for experiences from someone who has been in a coven, this book can certainly help you out.

Salvation for any Witch.
If you thought Scott Cunningham had his feet planted well on terra firma, watch out for Judy Harrow, hie female counterpart in the literary world of the Craft.Her pragmatism and leadership skills are staggering, and her anecdotes of personal experience invaluable.If there's considerations left out for anything, you'd never know it until you ran a coven yourself.But even if you are a solitary practitioner, this book can wisen you to all the methods of evaluating a coven to see if it's the right one for you.

Great guide to running any kind of group
Judy Harrow has two great qualifications for writing this book.She is a Wiccan High Priestess of many years standing, and is also a trained psychologist who understands group dynamics.This book is a wonderful resource for anyone involved in coven work, especially for coven leaders.In fact, most of the information in this book can be used for running any type of group.Highly recommended!

The actual rating this book deserves is 4 1/2 stars...
because the title of the book is not actually what the book is about. A better title would be something like: Group Dynamics In Wiccan Covens And How To Deal With Interpersonal Conflicts In A Wiccan Coven.
The part of this book that includes an evaluation of how dangerous a given group is was quite funny. Turns out that the the mainstream religions are far more "cult-like" than Wicca. So when you tell someone you're a Wiccan and they tell you that you belong to a cult, give them a copy of the evaluation form in this book, and watch 'em squirm, at least if they evaluate their own religion honestly! This book is an absolutely essential book for coven leaders, and members, to read. Along with Covencraft by Amber K, which IS about the nitty-gritty, day-to-day stuff on how to start, organize and run a coven and Inside A Witches Coven by Edain McCoy, which is a wonderful book in helping a person decide if they should join a coven or not, these three books contain invaluable information.
I cannot stress enough the need to find out everything you can about coven life before you decide to join or start one! Speaking from personal experience, when everything is working being in a coven is of the best experiences a Witch can have. When everything is not working out, beingin a coven is one of the most painful experiences a Witch can have.
These books will make you think of things you would probably not have thought about on your own. Don't be naive enough to assume that all Witches will act ethically and kindly all the time, lest you end up sifting through the wreckage of a group you helped found!
All three of these books should be in any coven's library! Thank Goddess I found them and the three of us are who are left are now in the process of rebuilding our group. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

How to meld Christian faith of elements of fortune and voodoo.
Are angels at work, and how is luck determined within the context of Christianity? CHRISTIAN VOODOO answers these questions and more with chapters that tell how to meld Christian faith of elements of fortune and voodoo. A unique blend of the two offer up Christian practices for prediction, winning love, and even acknowledging the faith and purpose of saints: perfect for both Christian and New Age libraries or collections relying on both perspectives.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Respectfully Written and VERY FUNNY
Christian Voodoo is a book written by a Christian from a Christian Point of view.It explores the early church and the "Christianization" of Pagan traditions.Many of these old traditions were steeped in superstition, omens and magic then coupled with faith to become ritual and prayer.Many of these early beliefs have been dropped by the Church and even labeled as heresy or counter to the dogma of the faith... BUT many are still practiced today in many cultures.The pop-culture tradition of burying a Saint Joseph Statue up side down to sell one's home actually pre-dates Christ.Christian Voodoo explores this and other rituals.Why might you put a Statue of the Virgin Mary in a lake?Why put a Bible under your child's pillow? Why feed animals water gathered at a churchyard?What does it mean if a church bell rings when a storm is brewing? Why is it good to find a spider on ones wedding dress?What would it mean if you cast a headless shadow from a Christmas Fire? How would you catch the attention of someone you admire or have affection for?Christian Voodoo coveres these and hundreds more.

Christian Voodoo goes on to explore little-known and even quirky Saints of the church.It shows ancient examples of Exorcism people use to perform in their homes to dispel the effects of Satan, the Evil Eye or a run of Bad Luck.It ends with a chapter on potential dates for the End of the World and great changes in the Earth as speculated on for hundreds of years.

Much of what is in the book is laughable, and some make one understand where our own quirky rituals came from.It is a carefully compiled collection of beliefs that will spark some interesting conversations of faith and relay a history that has been almost forgotten.

... Read more

Book Description
This comprehensive introduction contains all the information you need to gain an in-depth knowledge of Wicca. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Different then her others but still a gem.
This book is a basic introduction to wicca.I really did not need to read another introduction but i bought this book anyway because i love vivianne crowley's work.Most of her books are more advanced and go deep into theory, psychology and the like. I recommed all of her books.This book is different because it is a wicca 101 book--but it is still a worthwhile read.For true beginners this book has a lot of value.Crowley describes everything you need to start practicing wicca, but unlike others she goes one step further.she describes everything you should be feeling and visualizing as you are performing the ritual actions.Crowley provides mediations and practices that will also be helpful for the more advanced practicioner. and like all her books this one has a smattering of her poems and invocations which i feel are the true gems in all her work.one of the things that puts Crowley a few steps above other authors is that she is not only a talented witch but she is a talented writer. she has a background in psychology and is a college professor.This book is the antedote to all the poorly thought out introductary books on wicca that seem to be flooding the market. Thorsons way of wicca presents the religion in a thoughtful, serious, beautiful, touching, and easily understood way.highly recommended.

Good introductory book
I read this book to learn about this religion. The book describes the tenets of this faith, simple exercises and meditations that someone can do to learn more about wicca. It also explains about the various sects of wicca and how rituals and wording may differ from one coven to another. The book describes the garments and tools that are used in rituals.

The book made me see why wicca appeals to so many people.It's very compatible with environmentalism and certain spiritual and belief systems, including animal rights.I like that the ending of the book also provided next steps for people who want to become wiccans.It also talked about the problems that can develop if practitioners allow the powers of wicca to inflact their ego.

This book didn't convert me, but I feel a lot more knowledgeable about this religion. I feel confident that I can now separate the myths from the truths of wicca. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

Insightful
A.J. Drew is a wonderful author and by his writtings is very knowledgeable on the subject of Wicca.This is a great book for the male's point of view, and I encourage all men and women to read it!

Very good source but
I truely enjoyed this book and was quite happy with the matterial and the explanation that it is not just for men. The book does a good job of reminding you that both the male and female are required and have beauty in them one cannot exist without the other, contrary to may peoples belief today. we look at nature and find the magic of life and this book does bring that magic to a compeling view that the male force must not be shut out but niether can you not recognize the great importance of the female.

Now for the but part the book is easy to read and well writen perhaps abit more intune with the needs of a beginner or as a sorce book if you have experience it is still and excelent choice of matterial but definately seemed more aimed at the begginer.

Reconciliation of Goddess and God
I find myself trying to break away from the unforgiving, intolerant religion of my fathers, only to be shunned by the largest, fastest growing pagan religion in the U.S. It seems that after several millennia of abuse from the "patriarchal" religions, women have taken the only religion that does not oppress them or make them look like Jezebels and tried to make it their own.Thing is, they made it almost exclusively their own, projecting the same attitude toward men as has been shown to them for so long. Well, this book sets the record straight by pointing out that there is a room a plenty at Gods (esses) table. This book embraces all that is male (The Horned God) and introduces HOW TO EMBRACE THE GODESS AS WELL. This book is a true reconciliation between the two sexes. I started reading this book to affirm my place in the Wiccan religion. Only to find out it had already been done, and now know the real difference between a REAL witch, and these scissor-happy, man hating, neo-feminist "earth mothers" I always seem to run into. This book not only points out the incorrect way many Wiccan covens practice this religion, but also assures the curious and spiritually destitute man that Wicca, in fact, means MALE WITCH. (Sorry, ladies) However, this book takes it one-step further. I now realize the true beauty in seeing a gender duality in divinity because I found out that the Goddess (portion of Divinity seen as female) has never hated me nearly as much as I feared her.

Guys, I am happy to report thatSHE IS NOT A THREAT and will welcome you with arms open, not closed. She loves and cares for our father and the reverse is true. THEY ARE THE SAME. I feel the Gods rage in this book as he explains through the author the hurt and outrage he feels to this day when it came to be that man had forsaken his wife, his partner. His best friend, his soul mate. OUR MOTHER.

Now that I have digested and assimilated this new philosophy and religion, I see God and myself in a very different light. In doing so, certain things have happened almost literally overnight.

I have come to know a peace I have never known before and it is through tears of joy that I can now release a lifetime of bigotry, sexism, rage, hate and pain. Simply put:

The Goddess has helped me heal.

Now I understand the conceptual philosophy of gender duality attributed to all things divine and profane, I feel that I know now who my mother is.

And she is so...very...beautiful.

I have been shown that to accept my mother DOES NOT MEAN I MUST FORSAKE MY FATHER. It is the piece missing from the myriad of one-side confusion myself and others have been raised to believe. I now see women in a completely different light as a result of seeing myself differently the product of seeing The Almighty differently. This book IS NOT MEANT as an affirmation for men to reassure them that their conception of divinity must be REPLACED, but EXPANDED. Things began to click with me instantly while Ishtar smiled. All she wanted was for me to know who she was. Moreover, to know that although I may have never known WHO or WHAT she was, she has never forgotten who I AM. More is the pity. Better late than never I suppose.

This book is a calling to all male pagans Wiccan and non-Wiccan alike, to now join our sisters in reuniting the planet as a family and not strangers. Though I would venture to say that a reference to the Goddess as the "consort" to the God would be met with equal disdain from the True Wiccan Womanand earth-mother alike, it also serves to show them how equally distasteful it is to us to have the God referred to by the same title. Unless of course, you mean consort as "partner," that is.

That IS what you meant, right?

THIS BOOK IS FOR MEN AND WOMEN BOTH. To enlighten the man about the Ways of the Wood, while setting the record straight with our fairer counterparts as to equality and "practice what you preach." Ladies, I love you all. Please know that we (men) are coming from the same battle torn, madhouse that is modern religion and we are just as bruised, bloody and hurting as you were when you left. We are glad you have capitalized on a little known secret and exposing it to the world, but please remember that those who started this ball rolling in the 20th century meant to re surface something beautiful and a LOT of those pioneers...

WERE MEN. Buckland and Gardener to name but a few. Remember the witch who helped repeal the anti-witchcraft laws of England in 1951? O.K. that, my dearest sisters was a MAN. Quite a few of these guys were in fact, freemasons, like myself. And it is by no means a coincidence that our initiation rituals are so similar. No coincidence at all, ladies. So when you see one of us staggering toward your camp, hungry, beaten and torn, understand that a kind word, a hot meal and a warm bed can do more for a person in that condition (male or female) than a closed door ever could. See what I have come to understand is that the God (or the conception thereof) did not do this to all of us. HIS INSANE FOLLWERS DID. They took off his horns and replaced them with guns. THIS IS NOT THE GOD. This wrongful conception of masculinity must stop and this book subtly points that out. Even if you are a soldier and have been to war, you want to show me how brave you are?

Try changing a diaper tough guy. Lets see how bad you REALLY are.

We are not just soldiers and conquerors. We are husbands, fathers, lovers and protectors. We are the hunter, the farmer and the Holy Man. When did we loose sight of our roles and responsibilities AS MEN?

When did the farmer become the executive, the warrior a soldier? When did the hunter become a poacher, and the father a deadbeat dad? When did the husband become a tyrant and the father become just a picture on somebody's wall. But most importantly:

What about Mom?

WHEN DID WE KICK HER OUT OF THE HOUSE?

When we did that, we kicked out our wives and mothers as well, tossing out the baby with the bathwater, turning our women into slaves and thus begun the Ruination of the World.

Read this book. Because it can change yours.

Blessed Be :-}

Misleading...Where's the Male Stuff???
The book's title leads you to think that the book is geared towards Men. As you read through, you quickly realize that it would be better titled Creation's Covenant's View of Wicca.

I'll agree that the book is great for those uninformed about the Craft, and looking for information. Unfortuately, someone looking to break away from the female dominated stereotype of Witches will not find much help here. It rarely seperates the genders and focus' on coven-work, as opposed to something a male solitary would find helpful.

I was looking for a book to take to my male friends to help explain what I believe.That would have proven to be a mistake because as I am not part of the author's group, and he doesn't stray from their beliefs very often.

Great book....
This is a great book! lots of info. Some of the stuff I dont agree with but might be great for others! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Family Wicca
I know this book gets great reviews, but it didn't gain my interest. In working with my granddaughter, I find I never take it off the shelf. . . .

A Great Start For Family Pagans
I found the book very informative and very interesting. Its great to see ideas on how others are raising their childeren in Wicca tradition...a must have for those that want to welcome their child or childeren into the craft and this is the best way to get started.

A must read for the newbies to the craft
My husband bought this book for me earlier this year, and its darn near worn out.I've lent it out so many times I'll be amazed if I ever get it back.The book helps families (especially those new to the craft or solitary) understand that they are not alone and give some ideas as to what they can do to help their children and families understand.Ive sent copies to my Southern Baptist grandparents and Catholic father to help them understand us better.A great book!

Simply Common Sense
This is a decent enough book, but I found that it wasn't very helpful to me - a person who has been walking the pagan path for a long time or has experience with children does not really need The Family Wicca Book. Everything in it is simply plain common sense that most people can work outfor themselves.The answers to the tough questions weren't really thatinnovative, just practical thinking - and others might answer some of thosequestions differently.

Having said that, I also think this is a good bookfor parents who have no prior experience with children, or who have justcome to Wicca.If you are in this group, I do recommend that you buy thebook - it can give you some solid advice, and perhaps offer a springboardfrom which you can develop your own ideas.

Great Book
I have a copy of this book, and have met Ashleen in person (we are in the Tucson Area Pagan/Wiccan Network together). This is an OUTSTANDING book... I dont have kids of my own YET, but when i do, this will be the first booki refer to... ... Read more

Book Description

What is Wicca?Is it witchcraft, Paganism, occultism, esotericism, magic, spirituality, mysticism, nature religion, secrecy, gnosis, the exotic or 'other'? Wicca has been defined by and explored within all these contexts over the past thirty years by anthropologists, sociologists and historians, but there has been a tendency to sublimate and negate the role of Christianity in Wicca's historical and contemporary contexts.

Joanne Pearson 'prowls the borderlands of Christianity' to uncover the untold history of Wicca. Exploring the problematic nature of the Wiccan claim of marginality, it contains a groundbreaking analysis of themes in Christian traditions that are inherent in the development of contemporary Wicca. These focus on the accusations which have been levelled against Catholisicm, heterodoxy and witchcraft throughout history: ritual, deviant sexuality and magic.

Customer Reviews (1)

Adding this to my "must read list"
The title of this book, together with the fact that it was written by one of the leading "pagan" academics in the UK got me rather excited. In some of the research I have been conducting into the origins of the practices of the Wiccan Tradition I have found many surprising correlations to material found in Christian practices, more surprisingly some of the practices, invocations and rituals of Wicca seem to be directly "borrowed" from that found in Christianity. I assumed that this book would address some of these and many more issues, but that was not quite the case as Joanne Pearson's research seems to have gone down a similar, yet parallel path to that which I expected to find.

The book has some unfortunate factual errors, which regrettably detract from its value as an academically sound work. For example on p.5 the author writes about Gerald Gardner's library: "Twelve of Crowley's works are listed among the library's contents, along with Mather's translation of the Key of Solomon (1888), Elic Howe's The Magicians of the Golden Dawn (1922) ..." The author Ellic Howe was born in 1912, he was 10 years old in 1922, the book in question was published in 1972 by which time Gardner had been dead for 8 years! On p.77 the author states that Aleister Crowley got involved with the O.T.O (Ordo Templi Orientis) in 1910, when in fact he first became involved with this order which he is now synonymous a couple of years later. On p.23 the author discusses the usage of the term "Old Religion" seemingly unaware of its use by Scott in 1582, which is a rather shocking oversight for a book on Christianity and Witchcraft, as Scott (Discoverie of Witchcraft) in my opinion is one of the standard texts from which to start such a project.

Nevertheless, the book does provide some interesting material for readers interested in theology or in some of the lesser known religious and spiritual affiliations of Gerald Gardner, who is generally acknowledged today as the "father of modern Witchcraft" as he was, in part, responsible for the revival thereof. Pearson explores in depth the involvement of Gerald Gardner in the "Ancient British Church" believed by some to be the only Christian Church in the British Isles during the first five centuries CE, and the influence this experience could have had on the development of Gardnerian Wicca. Likewise his friendship with Ross Nichols, the man responsible for the modern revival and popularity of Druidry, as well as Gardner's own interest in Druidry is explored.

I found the chapter on Sex and the Sacred to be interesting for the authors views on the subject. In this chapter she supports her own views with quotations from a number of esoteric authors, though personally I find the conflation of the use of the scourge, ritual nakedness and bondage to be a bit confusing. Though these may on a superficial level hint at sexuality, they don't in reality reflect sexual practices or beliefs in the tradition. It is refreshing to see them addressed from a different angle however. Even here though, it is frustrating to note some obvious oversights in regards to research which could have supported the author's theories even more - for example, she links the idea of scourging to Christianity, but seems to be unaware that the use of 40 strokes (as used in initiation ceremonies) has its parallels in Judaism, where 40 was the maximum number of times someone would be whipped as punishment. But to be fair, this is an obscure bit of biblical information we unearthed as part of our own research on the origins of Wiccan practices.

This book for me makes an interesting addition to the work and research done by Prof. Ronald Hutton (Triumph of the Moon) and Philip Heselton (Gerald Gardner & the Cauldron of Inspiration; Wiccan Roots). It compliments and adds to the material made available by these two authors and in my opinion, regardless of the factual errors, provides additional material for consideration and study for practitioners of Wicca and is certainly a book I would recommend to initiates wishing to explore the origins of their tradition in more depth. It provides a great deal of interesting tangential research, ideas and opinions - certainly worth getting, and in my opinion keeping. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

It's not crap!
I didn't come in with very high expectations, being unaware of the author, but very aware of the horrible inaccuracies and random flights of fancy stated as fact, generally associated with anything claiming to be 'Celtic Wicca'.

So, my first words when shoving this book under a friends nose when I read it last year, were:
"Look! And it's not crap!"

I really need to read it again, and give a better review, but I just had to put *something* down here.

This is very nearly Celtic Reconstructionism, but definately Wiccan, as the author put it, Wicca provides a foundation for the practice - as there's alot of things we don't know.

In reference to an earlier reviewers critique, the book actually has a section on Historical accuracy (which is excerpted on the authors website if you look for it), which deals with maintaining historical accuracy, and the fact that opinions in academic works change constantly, in fact - the previous reviewers critiques really only deal with points over which many historians have strong, and contradictory opinions, so if anything, the only fault is in not stating that the issues are still controversial (and there's few historical 'facts' that aren't!).
E.g. personally I do believe the Celts practiced human sacrifice at some point, if only because *everyones* ancestors probably practiced it at some point, not to mention some people attempt to make a distinction between say 'killing domestic animals for food' and 'animal sacrifice' and between 'criminal justice' and 'human sacrifice', when the distinction isn't so clear (or there at all!) in the culture concerned. I think the previous reviewer would have an apoplexy if they actually read any of the other, so called, 'Celtic Wicca' books. But, that's an aside.

I'd give this book 5 stars for anyone actually interested in practicing a form of Celtic Wicca, and 4 stars (highly recommended) for people practicing Wicca in general, because it has some great content on connecting with Deities, ritual in general, not to mention great little tips such as its suggestions on how to conduct a trance/guided meditation for two people (it can be really hard making sure you're both 'on the same page' as it were, not to mention helping keep the other person close if one person starts experiencing something that deviates from the script).

Inept At Best...
While this book did have it's good points (albeit few & far between), they were off set by much of her historical inaccuracies.In fact, I found them to be worrisom enough to detract one star for each fallacy.So, I would like to take the time and correct those 3 prevaliant issues.However, it is truly sad to see that pagans believe they will not be taken seriously (even by many pagans) if you do not toe-the-line (as suspicious as those "lines" may be).Otherwise, you risk being labled the dreaded "fluffy bunny"!

The first thing which struck me as odd, is that she claimed that we DO know some very controversial claims regarding "the Celts".However, this is not a safe comment to make, due to the basic reason that the Celts left no written records.In other weords, we can't really claim to "know" what we do about the Iron Age tribes.She views historey and scholarship as black and white.However, as any historian will tell you, history consists less of facts, than it does of theories, interpretations, and even innuendo!Until otherwise, I choose to remain open minded.Much of my schoalrly knowledge comes from the works of Miranda Green.Who's books were recommended to me by prof. Ronald Hutton (whom Jane Raeburn seems to fauns over, again & again).Yet, it's clear that Raeburn has read Prof. Green's work (as well as that of Dr. Anne Ross), however, she dismisses most of it as facy!The best description for Hutton's work, who is not an expert in Archaeology, is "Jack of all trades and master of none".Both Max Dashu (a historian) and Asphodel Long have published well researched articles regarding his sometimes sloppy research (and other times narrow or limited, even biased, remembering what I've already said about history).

The first flaw I noticed is her discussion that the Celts DID engaged in ritual human sacrifice as a means of appeasing the Gods.For a variety of reasons, this is a highly suspect claim (always has been).Even prof. Ronald Hutton has been quoted as saying, "The Druids are people who are experts in magick and religion in North West Europe about 2,000 years ago.And, they are very big in what now is the British Isles, France, and the Netherlands.They impressed the heck out of the Greeks and Romans as people of great power & wisdom.Unfortunately, they impressed the heck out of them in different ways.Some Greek and Roman writers said that they are very wise and gentle, deeply in touch with nature and the human soul.And, others said they were blood-thirsty barbarians dyed up to the elbows in human blood, and, experts in sacrifice and all manner of savage and horrible religious rites."So, we have two very contradictory stories, here, already!And, Raeburn further exemplifies these contradictions further, in picking and choosing (badly) certain research to appease modern Pagans at large, rather than stating "We don't know" that they committed ritual human sacrifice for a fact (which we don't)!

Dr. Green goes on to say, which bears one's respect and consideration, that, 4 of the Classical writers (including Ceasar) whom protrayted them as "blood-thirsty barbarians dyed up to the elbows in human blood," are known to have based this "evidence" upon the earlier, but lost, writings of Posidonius.Which is clear, enough, a mark against such actions by any scholarly reasoning.After all, many scholars would dismiss such accounts as "hear-say".Which, even in a court of law, is inadmissible.

However, we also know that Ceasar's motives were certainly a smear campaigne of propaganda!(Heck, the word "Celt" was created by the Clasical writers as a blanket term for a "barbarian").Because we know that the Romans saught to demonize their opponents as enemies (a common practice).We also know that the Celts once siezed control of Rome for a total of 7 months.I would be mad enough to demonize them and prove what "savages" they were, too!What also bears consideration is that if sacrifice was, in fact, part of their culture, one would expect many references in their literature.There is only one, which apepars to scholars in the field, to be a Christian forgery.However, some remains of executions have been found in the archeological record, but it is not clear whether the victims were executed after a court trial or killed during religious rituals.Given what we DO know (which I have outlined, above), I am betting on the prior belief...However, many try to bring in Tollund Man (a bog mummy) as proof positive.But, Dr. Linnda Caporael has a fascinating new theory for this, and showns repeatible evidence throughout history, and is quite plausible!It all begins with ergot (a fungi which grows on spoiled rye) which was found within the remaining contents of his stomach.And, it has been used to successfully explain much of the Salem trials, & even "The Burning Times".Which all boils down to a bad acid (LSD) trip!She was able to trace break outs of ergot in both the areas of Salem and throughout Europe and the UK.Historian, Mary Matossian, supports her theory, and has shown evidence for it as, perhaps, the leading cause of "Witch" persecutions throughout Europe.However, many of the peat bog bodies, dating from the Iron Age had been found that their last meal had been contamonated by ergot.So, this could strongly link it to the Witch trials, as many historians assert.Perhaps he was murdered because they were thought to gave been possessed.Some exhibit a strong sense of over-kill & have been bound.What better way to "bind" a spirit from ever rising & causing further harm than!It is perfectly plausible, in the words of another Dr., an expert in ergotism, from Switzerland.

She further alleges that Cerridwen was not a Goddess.And, supports her views with no real evidence, other than citing Hutton.However, Celtic scholars, Dr. Miranda Green and Anne Ross (amongst others), believes She was...and supports her views with plenty of evidence.What was so odd is Hutton had Green review his book "The Pagan Religions of the Ancient British Isles" to which Raeburn turns, yet forgets that Huttons' theory, here, is way off, and Green obviously didn't read Hutton's views of Cerridwen.In fact, Raeburn (who was trained in a Welsh coven) forgot that Hutton does not accept the historic existence of any Welsh Gods and Goddesses.

Also, no Celtic scholar whose works I've ever read had translated her name as meaning "Crooked Woman" (this stems from "Korrigan" which Hutton contends protrays Her as a stereotypical witch, despite the fact that it refers to drawfism, rather than personal temperment).But, according to several Celtic scholars, her name is firmly believed to come from the following words: "Cerdd" or "Cariad", which mean "song, poetry" and "beloved", respectfully, and "Gwen", which most often, "White", or in other cases, "fair," "shining," or "holy".Celtic scholar, James Mackillop, has also come to this conclusion, as he had his works reviewed by specialists in the Welsh language.Green asserts that "She [Cerridwen] was almost certainly a goddess, a prophet and a creator.The dualism of Her role as a divinity associated with life, death an regeneration is symbolized by Her children Crearwy and Afagddu who, perhaps, represented day and night, light and darkness, and perhaps also the sky and the underworld, summer and winter."Taliasin, Her regenerated son, describes himself as having been present at the Creation and was older than Mabon, described as both the youngest and oldest of beings.In fact, Raeburn seems to dismiss a lot of what very well regarded scholars have to say, throughout her book.

She also alleges that the Goddess, Bridgit, was never a Goddess, but...an actual woman.Now, this may be.But...tell that to the Catholic Church which successfully decannonized Her back in 1996, because there was not enough evidence for Her historical existance.Thus, putting to rest, that She might have been an actual woman/saint, essentially.In fact, there is far more evidence, which points to Her having been a divinity, according to Celtic scholars, than not!

In conclusion, it seems curious that she seems to ommit any contributions to her book, from her "Bibliography" by noted Celtic scholars, whom disagree with her prime theories.Indeed, based on the books in her "recommended reading list" and her "statement" that "Celtic Wicca has history as its foundation," one can easily deduce that it may, in actuallity, be a book concerning Celtic Reconstructionism rather than "Wicca."In fact, she is overtly harsh and uncompassionate when it coms to the works of earlier scholars which made Wicca, as a world religion, what it has been from the very beginning!I have never understood this sad attitude amongsty modern Pagan Witches-- they should give credit to their religion, where it is due: Murray, Leland & Frazier, etrc.!THEY are an INDELIBLE and INTRINSIC part of our religion (period) and deserve our due respect (regardless of the politics involved)!!!

If you are exploring Wicca as an option...
This book is great for someone who is just exploring the possibility of Wicca or the Celtic tradition. However, for someone at the intermediate level, I would recomend something less "generalized" such as one of Fitch's or McCoy's many works. Again, Raeburn's "Celtic Wicca" is a comprehensive, easy to read overview of Celtic Wicca. The author was very good at giving a general sense of the principles of Wicca with a touch of humor on the side. But what I found extremely useful about the book, was that it is a great book to share with someone who is..."uneasy" with the concept of Witchcraft as a religion, but is willing to learn more. Blessed be!

Celtic Wicca
Very well-written and informative.I enjoyed the book very much, and found the history of the Celtic gods and goddesses, with their complimentary rituals, to be especially good.Also, Ms. Raeburn describes the way the Celtic deities and the Roman deities became intermingled as did the cultures in a way that can help one follow the sometimes tangled web of changing names of various gods, goddesses, and demi-deities.

Real history and real religion!
At last, a book that takes both Wicca and history seriously. You see so many Wiccan books that just mangle historical facts. This one is the real thing. Raeburn is honest about what is and isn't Celtic, and about the fact that Wicca is a modern religion.

I also liked the writing in here very much. Raeburn offers some basic Wicca information for newcomers, but this is more like Wicca 102 - she quickly gets into deeper material and really encourages the reader to explore history and art. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

What?
The title tells all that needs to be read of this book,The Concept of Christian Wicca does not exist,Christianity Is Christianity,Wicca is infact wicca,No matter how much Paganism may be inside of christianity. Christian Wicca was created for those who want to be on the fence, You cannot be a christian and a wiccan,True you may practice magic and be a Christian if you wish to break one of christianities teachings against the practice of magic, but you cannot be a christian and a wiccan.. Wicca is a religion all to itself Coming from mainly Northern Europe, its infact a reconstructed religion of the tribal religions of northern europe.no matter how eclectic wicca may be you cant just change a religion because you dont want to believe in its beliefs/practices..that would be like someone Saying,,, I want to be a christian but i dont want to believe in Jesus so they make a title called Christless christianity >> that wouldnt make sense now would it?nae it wouldnt. There for you cant take Wicca and Leave out bits and pieces and make it into something its not..I Hope that there arent as many misguided people useing the title of wicca as this book says.. if there are i fear what the future may hold for Wicca,

Misses the mark
This book, like MOST books written purporting to be about Wicca, misses the mark entirely.

I would have NO PROBLEM with a book called Christian Witchcraft.

But Wicca, as a term for the NeoPagan practice, dervies its MODERN usage from Gerald Gardner's term Wica.

Whether Gardner made it up out of whole cloth, expanded upon what he was given, or passed on a completely intact set of rituals as were given to him, the fact is that Gardner and his downline coined the word.

For those who have come to believe that "Wicca is whatever you want it to be", this next statement will sound (gasp) heretical - Wicca is a practice.

It is a specific set of practices, done in a certain way, by people who have received the practices from people with an initiatory lineage back to Gardner.

Wicca is a priesthood.An initiatory, mystery religion priesthood.
It worships specific tribal gods, from the Hampshire area of England, whose names are known only to initiates.

One could no more be a Christian Wiccan than they could be a Jewish-Catholic Priest.

The rest of the book, being based on the idea that Wicca is whatever you want it to be (an idea popularised by Llewellyn, who stood to not make money if they can't publish books about a subject), falls flat.

Not Gonna Work.
Ok. Seriously. Like the other person said, you can't be a pagan Christian. And also, that is a JEWISH star in the background. Wiccan stars have only five points. It is obviously a Christian writing this book just trying to hide the fact that they are attempting to wean Wiccans into Christianity. I am not against Christianity, but can people just leave others alone and let them believe what they want to believe? Convert is the worst word in the English language.

Poorly written, but...
I am more disturbed by the overt anti-Christian bias and lack of tolerance demonstrated by other reviewers of this book!!

I was raised Catholic, but for years have searched for a belief system that will enable to me to embrace my love of nature and Mother Earth.

My husband is Wiccan, and watching him practice lead me to believe that perhaps I had found a religion that would allow me to combine respect and adoration of nature and creation with a belief in a creator spirit neither male nor female, but both and neither. With my belief that I am divine in essence, created that way by the spirit, and only through knowledge and experience can I unlock the peace of my inner divinity.

This, I believe, is the TRUE message taught by Jesus - a human man who lived and practiced a combination of his native Jewish law and Egyptian mystery beliefs learned through years of living in Egypt. A Prophet sent to humanity by the spirit to show us where we had gone wrong with traditional monotheism. However, his real message was distorted and ignored even by his closest followers. They were unwilling or unable to accept what he truly meant. Thus, we ended up with modern Christianity - a mockery of a beautiful message of love and respect for oneself, one's earth, and the spirit.

I tried Catholicism (obviously). I read about modern Gnosticism (close, but just not quite). I looked into Buddhism. Nothing worked for me. The idea of Christian Wicca is the closest I have EVER come to feeling at home, and it's nice to know that others share similar ideas.

People who insist that Wicca and Christianity are completely incompatible are misinformed about one or both systems. Bravo to Ms. Pittman for recognizing that being "Wiccan" does not necessarily mean that you cannot recognize the contributions of a mystical spiritualist called Jesus of Nazareth, and that being "Christian" doesn't mean you need to convert everyone you meet and burn heretics.

Subvert the dominant paradigm
I was raised as a fundamentalist Christian and spent 13 years as a Goddess-worshipping Pagan Wiccan. Now I am finding my way back to a liberal Christianity, but I miss the ritual aspects of Wicca. The reviewers who say you can't combine Wicca and Christianity are only half right: It doesn't make sense from a fundamentalist viewpoint--either Christian OR Wiccan fundamentalist. But if you believe instead that Deity exists and religion is what we make up to re-link ourselves to the Divine, why not combine the two?

(Also, as the author points out, she's not the first to mix pagan religions with Christianity: the Catholic Church beat her to it by several centuries, systemicatically absorbing native deities as saints and seasonal festivals as holy days in order to pacify the people they forcibly converted.)

The core principle of Christianity is "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself." This says nothing about HOW to worship God. Catholics and Protestants of different denominations worship God in a variety of different ways; the Wiccan way is no less valid.

The core principle of Wicca is the Wiccan Rede: "Bide ye Wiccan Law ye must,/In perfect love and perfect trust./Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfill:/An ye harm none, do what ye will./What ye send forth comes back to thee,/So ever mind the Rule of Three./Follow this with mind and heart,/Merry ye meet and merry ye part." This says nothing about which God/dess(es) you mush worship. Modern Wiccans feel free to use deity names from all times and places, so why not the Judeo-Christian ones? (Well, probably because of Christianity's history of oppressing Wicca, but overcoming that can only be a positive thing.)

The core principles of the two religions are certainly not mutually exclusive. Loving God and others, harming none, and realizing that there are consquences to your actions--they actually go pretty well together.

So yes, I am convinced that blending the two can work; and the author provides some nice rituals for doing so. They are, as she states, her own personal take on Christian Wicca; most practitioners would probably want to adapt and per