With a history predating Christ’s birth, Wicca is an ancient religion that centers around core beliefs and spells. Despite historical challenges, Wicca currently boasts over one million global followers. The roots of Wicca can be traced back to 50,000 B.C., when two separate cults merged into a single religion. In approximately 500 B.C., the Saxon King converted to Christianity and enforced stringent anti-witch laws, which remained in effect until 1231. During this period, there were at least 235,000 documented cases of witch burnings (with some suggesting the number could be as high as 9,000,000).
The majority of those accused were women and children who lacked the ability to defend themselves as men would. Witch burnings were primarily conducted by individuals who viewed witches as lesser beings with a pale lineage. This belief was reinforced by numerous stories and unfounded accusations against witches. In some societies, witches were seen as supernatural terrorists. Due to a lack of understanding, people marginalized and ostracized witches, treating them as outcasts.
In the early 1900s, there were approximately 100,000 witches in the United States. Witchcraft was made legal in England in 1950 and ten years later in North America. It is important to note that witchcraft can be inherited across generations, with children often following their parents or grandparents’ Wiccan path. As they grow older, these children acquire knowledge and participate in Wicca traditions. This religion traces its origins back to the ancient beliefs of the Druids.
The Covenant of the Goddess was established as a gathering place for witches in 1975, similar to how Catholics have churches but referred to by witches as a cove. The purpose of this Covenant is to promote collaboration among witches and it operates under the guidance of a national board of directors. With two-thirds of its clergy being women who uphold an ethical code, this board holds legal authority to officiate marriages and hand fasting ceremonies.
