NCPCOW - Services

Services


Sabbats Esbats Rites Home


The church provides access to Wiccan religious services and instruction, not only to her members, but to any sincere seeker. Most of the members of the church have spent time as solitary practitioners. In fact, many of us still practice primarily on our own, turning to the church mostly for fellowship and emotional support. Because of this, we are sensitive to the needs of solitaires and try to tailor our services to accommodate individuals of various traditions. Sabbats Sabbats are held on the Saturday nearest to the actual date in order to allow as many people as possible a chance to attend. The rituals are open to any peaceful attendee, and those who wish may remain outside of circle to observe. Food is also served and guests are encouraged to bring along a side dish for the potluck. We design Sabbat rituals with an eye towards eclecticism, trying not to allow any one tradition to overpower the flavor of the service. Because the Sabbats are solar festivals, we like to start the ritual while the sun is still up. We do hold the rituals only shortly before sundown, however. The next Sabbat is Midsummer. The following Sabbat is Lughnasah. Check back often for more details. [Back to top] Esbats Like our Sabbats, Esbats are scheduled on Saturdays to make them easier for people to attend. We usually hold our Esbats on the Saturday nearest the moon we are celebrating each month. The majority of our Esbat services are focused on the Full Moon. However, we have recently added services to celebrate the new, waxing, and waning moons, as well. Like our Sabbats, the services are open to anyone with peaceful intentions. The ritual typically features The Charge of the Goddess and the working of healing magick. A lighter version of our Sabbat potluck is served at 7:00 pm, mostly with hor's devours and munchies. We ask that you please bring a contribution. [Back to top] Rites The church clergy are legally ordained ministers and provide Wiccan wedding rites (Handfasting). We also perform non binding "Affirmation Ceremonies" for people who are unable to enter legal marriage, but wish to express their commitment to each other. Rites of passage, such as Wiccaning or Initiation are also available, as are Funerary services. Rituals can be tailored to specific needs and to accommodate "closeted" Wiccans. Ministers will expect an opportunity to counsel individuals prior to agreeing to perform any service, to insure that the occasion is approached with the proper reverence and sincerity. [Back to top]