Online study course about Wicca

This blog discusses aspects of the Master of Wiccan Studies course offered through the ULC Seminary.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Wiccan Studies

I must say that I have greatly enjoyed this course. There are many wonderful things that I learned to help me on the Wiccan path and to minister to others who are pagan.



I greatly appreciated lesson #2 about consequences. It is wonderful to have a warning that reminds us all to be diligent not to cause harm and to be very aware when we are engaged in a magickal setting. I was also pleased with how all the tools were listed and explained. This helped me to know what tool serves what purpose and what to purchase to help me on my path. The lessons on the holidays were wonderful to help me begin to celebrate these special days. I enjoy each and every Sabbat with the Coven I am a part of.



I loved how the lessons became deeper and deeper with each passing week. The God and Goddess lessons were very informative and assisted me on my way to develop my pantheon. Learning about consecration and magick also was very beneficial. I have consecrated my altar and tools and use the magick I have learned for the benefit of others. I have participated in many rites now and I am so grateful for the foundation of rituals in this course that I have learned. Each rite has been its own wonderful experience and accomplished for the good of all.



My favorite lessons in this course were the ones on herbalism. I took great delight in learning about different herbs and their uses. This part of the course gave me a great foundation that will help me continue on into the future. From these lessons I have found a great passion to work with herbs. I have since studied other herbalism materials and hope to help others in the future and use herbs in magick for rites and such. My ultimate goal is to be an herbalist and I am grateful to the Wiccan Studies course for offering this in the lessons.


In conclusion, I would like to thank ULC for creating this course to help me on my path. I appreciate all you have done to help me.


Rev. Holly A. Lee

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Wiccan Course

Master of Wiccan Studies Program
By Matooka MoonBear

While I have been a solitary practitioner for over 12 years through self study, never have I come across the style and structure of Lord Starwalker’s work. My practice has been a cross of eclectic Dianic witchcraft. So our flavors are quite different. I opted to do this study with the intention of forming a church in New Hampshire. This idea was cultivated upon my receiving my ordination. I felt it important to do some formal study for the sake of the goal being reached. My ministry would be earth based.

The weekly lessons have been fun. I enjoyed seeing different perspectives compared to my personal studies over the years. I found many things helpful such as altar layout in lesson 4 where I am supported in the idea of choosing what tools go with which elements. Many books have a strong view on this, so the lesson was validating for me.

I did not always resonate with Lord Starwalker’s perceptions on the craft. However, I can appreciate his wisdom and experience with this path. His humor was refreshing as well, making the reading of the material an upbeat and pleasant experience for me. There are many strengths in this program pertaining to it’s structure and information shared. I found the order of this quite useful. I also enjoyed his blessings at the end of each lesson.

My favorite lesson actually was the last #24, because the information on a banishing ritual used was something I have never come across in all my years on the path. The use of Kabalistic style and angels was fascinating to me!

To conclude, I am grateful for having the opportunity to have the ULC Seminary with these studies available not to mention the ordination. I feel supported on this path and guided by the universe. I thank ULC for making this possible for me and so very affordable. I have enjoyed my seminary experience and would recommend it to others who may feel called to minister.


Blessed be,
Rev. Matooka MoonBear



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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers handfasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Wicca

It has taken me a while after completing this very interesting course to compose my thoughts about the content, in large part because of the very personal approach of the author. His asides were inserted at points where he felt emphasis was needed, but were stated in such a way as to make them memorable. One instance was his explanation of the history of witch craft and the beginnings of Wicca as a religion, where he devoted a paragraph to Sybil Leek. He very respectfully referred to her passing, “She was born into the Summerlands in 1982, from her home in Florida .” What a beautiful sentiment, and exactly in keeping with the Wiccan belief in reincarnation.

I was both pleased and surprised to note that he took the path of the Wiccan in that he stated “The Law of Three” was to be considered an integral part of practice as a Wiccan. The growing numbers of neo-pagans and eclectic Wiccans have declined to accept the three-fold return of what is sent out. He stressed responsibility both in the Law and in his discussion of the “Wiccan Rede.” These points were obviously very important to the author, as they are to me as an individual Wiccan.

Re-addressing ethics just prior to spell craft was another example of this instructor’s belief in responsible practice as a Wiccan. Some individuals would have left this chapter out all together, yet he took the time to re-emphasize the need for doing what is right.

Given all 24 dissertations, I would have to commend the most highly the self-dedication. While brief, it was right to the point and beautifully written.

Many of the references he employed seemed to indicate either Alexandrian or Gardnerian background, although it could have been nearly any Wiccan tradition. His approach was generic, without being vague. I wish I could have corresponded with him.

By Kristine Dice


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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Wiccan Studies

Wicca Training Course
Rev. Jac Martins


First, let me preface this by saying that I have been a witch and a Wiccan (Alexandrian tradition) for over thirty years, so I was already familiar with much of the material . That being said, the course was interesting and informative.

The section on the history of the Craft was well done, without a lot of the misconceptions and false myths that have crept into Wiccan lore over the years. However I would have mentioned Alex Sanders, Janet and Stewart Farrar, Doreen Valiente, Isaac Bonewitz, and Star hawk (even if you don¢t agree with most of what she writes).


I found the section on mythology and legend interesting. However, I do encourage all people to explore other pantheons besides Celtic. I discovered a very personal resonance with Isis myself.

I found the exercises in dowsing fun and useful. In fact, I found all of the exercises useful, and excellent training techniques.

I also found the discussions of ethics interesting. Since a witch is one who shapes reality, one is then under a greater responsibility to engage in ethical behavior. You can¢t lie, steal and cheat all the time and still be able to work effective magick.

The one glaring inaccuracy I found in the course is in the section on herbs. I make my living dealing in herbs and essential oils. And while I am not an herbalist, I am familiar with herbs and their uses. Diazepam, also known as Valium, is not derived from valerian root. Valium is a benzene - derived synthetic which acts on the same brain receptors as valerian, which, by the way, smells and tastes as bad as they say.

Other then that, I found the course to be of value, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Craft, no matter their level of experience.



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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers handfasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Wicca

I can't say I truly learned anything new during the Wiccan studies program but I did enjoy it. I have been a witch for 21 years and basically took the program to add to my reverend credentials.

As a Witch I feel its important to keep an open mind and continue learning/sharing on this path in life. The Wiccan Studies program was well put together and easy to understand. Its an excellent study program for the beginner and a great refresher for the more experienced. I did enjoy going through this course.

I also was glad to see the links and resources given during the lessons. Too many times, online, people do not give credit where credit is due. Its important when we do not write something to add the source. I was very happy to see the sources given. Bravo!

I really liked how the course was designed. It kept all the essentials of Wicca at the forefront and kept it interesting. Very well thought out and included great information.

As a Witch with a Coven I would definitely suggest this course to anyone. I'm glad I took the course because it gave me another class design to have in mind when teaching. Thank you for putting together a course well done!

Blessings,
Rev. Darlene Marie Meehan

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Wiccan Studies

I enjoyed this course tremendously! In October my dad came to live with me after a massive stroke left him bedridden. Between his care and 6 children of my own, I had a busy busy time! I did try to keep up and loved the info I learned! My dad passed on 4/23 and I now have the time to sit and do this essay.

I've been a Solitary Wiccan for a couple of years now, worshiping the sacred as immanent in nature. I am raising my sons in the ways of the earth and it's cycles. This course has clarified the religion for me, although I still feel it's a religion all your own.I've taken your class teachings and my experiences and strengthened my knowledge in the craft and my perception of the world around me.
I learned to add my energy in ritual by the elements.

Earth-Body and movement. Swaying back and forth to the rhythm of my chants, radiating heat and energy of my physical life force.

Air- In ritual I add air when I speak aloud my intentions or wishes.
Fire- Rhythm by clapping or stomping.

Water-I can connect to my intentions of my rituals through touching hands of others.

I feel witchcraft usually begins on a personal level with spells for health,love or wishes. As we mature in the craft, we become more adept at raising power and using it for the good "all" around us!

My wand is my dearest treasure. I made it from a fallen Oak branch. It has beautiful natural grain and devots where I inserted crystals for calm, balance, peace, happiness,and protection.

Season after season, nature shows her wonders, beauty and growth. Sometimes she even shows her grief. Flower petals fall,leaves blow in the wind and plants go dormant or die. This cycle repeats over and over in life. We made a special garden between my pet cemetery and our wetlands, that is a dedication to all those we've loved and lost in this lifetime or those we send intentions for. A bleeding heart bush for my Grandma, Lilly of the Valley patch for the needy in Haiti, and a newly planted patch of daisies for my dad. My children bury stones and pieces of wood they've found on our land in honorment of a deceased pet ,friend or relative. We have large rocks circling this area where we can sit, reflect, meditate and remember! There is a natural stream that flows next to it and the sound of the water is relaxing and spiritual. Here is where I hear a whisper within me that says" I am the Goddess inside of you. I am wisdom, compassion,magic and grace. Look deep inside yourself and you will find me." The magic of Wicca is love,and the right path for me. This course has definitely proven that for me. I'm proud that Wicca is an accepting, open minded faith that celebrates diversity and considers us all to be children of the same mother. Our temples are our gardens,backyards,beaches and porches. I feel no one is born Wiccan, but it's a belief system that emerges in our hearts and souls.It reflects who each of us are in this miraculous world with personal integrity and respect for Mother Nature in honorment of the God's and Goddess. Thank you for the lessons learned and the empowerment to achieve greater knowledge of the craft.

Blessed Be.
Barbara B Decker

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As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.


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Friday, June 3, 2011

Wiccan Studies

Master of Wiccan Studies
Wicca Final Essay

Thank you Lord Starwalker and Amy for all your work. This course was well written. It was very interesting and informative to me. Even though I’m a Christian, I’ve found it enlightening to take different courses on different types of religion. Just before this course I took the one on Buddhism. Taking these courses will make my walk as a minister better.

I have a couple of close friends who are wiccans. Before this course we talked about their beliefs and some of their rituals. We talked about their views of their God and Goddess. This course gave me a much better understanding of them and their ways.After taking the Wicca course, I realized I basically knew almost nothing about Wiccans.

This course covered may areas, such as: history, philosophy, holidays, mythology, theology and rituals. The part on dowsing was especially interesting to me, since it brought back childhood memories. My grandparents owned a ranch and whenever they wanted to dig for water they would use dowsing. Using two sticks about three feet long; they would hold them loosely straight out. When the sticks crossed each other, they usually found water when they dug. To me as a child it was magic. Another part of the course was the charts. I made all the charts and one of my friends made me a real nice pendulum. I practiced with it until I got good enough to ask questions I would trust the answers. It really worked! I still use the charts.

I read some great books about Wiccans. Without this course I never would have gone to that section of the bookstore. One of my favorite authors was Scott Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham had several great books.

Another interesting phase in the Wicca course was on Bioelectric energy. It is the energy that every living thing has. It is what carries the instructions from our brain to our fingertips. This energy can be channeled externally. One assignment was to put one hand above the other (palm to palm). Close your eyes and think of a flow of light. After a few moments of concentration you should have felt some tingling or coldness or a hot sensation. If it didn’t work try again by rubbing your hands together in a circular motion, then proceed as written above. This is manipulating your field or aura. I was so fascinated I went to a lady who takes pictures of your aura. It was of my head and chest. She explained what all the colors and chakras meant in my picture. I got to keep the picture and the written explanation of the colors. This led me to read some books on auras and chakras. My favorite author on these was Anodea Judith.

I enjoyed this course very much and would definitely recommend it. Lord Starwalker explained it in such a way a novice like me could understand it. Even as a Christian you need other views to have a successful ministry. My favorite saying was from discourse 15. "May your right hand always be stretched in friendship, and never in want."

Blessings to you all,
Rev. Nancy Rutledge

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. I have been a proud member of the ULC for many years and the Seminary since its inception.

The Universal Life Church offers handfasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training.

As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge selection of Universal Life Church  minister supplies. Since being ordained with the Universal Life Church for so many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've watch the huge change and growth that has continued to happen.



Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar