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[from http://www.oakgrove.org/GreenPages/bos/0351.txt ] Subject: What is a First Degree? Many persons feel that the first degree initiation is somethin g that a person receives simply because this group or that wishe s to accept a person into their circle (Gardenarian, Alexandrian, etc.). In the my tradition, as a first degree, you ARE a priest/ess, an d as such you carry responsibilities. In some traditions, th e knowledge you have gained during your first degree studies wil l qualify you for a third degree in that tradition. But let's loo k at it a minute. As I have stated, as a first degree, you ARE a priest/ess. Wha t does this mean? In other faiths, you must go to seminary or it s equivalent for a period of at least 5 years to obtain this goal . When you leave there, you are knowledgeable in not only th e beliefs of your faith, but also it's history, sects, an d doctrines. You have been trained to be a counselor, helper, an d friend to your parishioners. You have had training in dealin g with problems within your church, your community, and "th e enemy". Basically, you have been given the trust of your churc h to be knowledgeable, loving, caring, and trustworthy. Should a Priest/ess in the craft be expected to be any less? A s an Isian, the answer is a resounding NO! During your first degree studies, you are the equivalent of a n Associate Pastor/Minister/Whatever. You are now in training t o eventually have your own coven, or if you wish to be solitary , you are in training to be able to defend your religion to th e outside world if the need arises. What are the responsibilities of a First Degree in my tradition? As always, in the this tradition, you are required to constantl y be learning and growing. This does not mean that you have to b e constantly be learning about the craft, but about yourself, you r community, Mother Earth, etc. This responsibility does not ceas e even when you receive your third degree. This is a responsibility to yourself. Last amended June 11, 1989 -- Page NEXTRECORD 351 Some of your responsibilities to the coven are listed below: 1.) To grow within the craft. 2.) Observe and participate in all circle functions of you r degree or lower. 3.) To assist in preparation for all circle functions of you r degree or lower. 4.) To assist any student of a lessor grade in his/her studie s when asked by this student for assistance. 5.) To contribute at least one research paper of 10 pages (5 i f single spaced) or more on the craft subject of your choice. 6.) Contribute in some manner to each sabbat or public gatherin g either by time, monies for supplies, or bringing something t o share either during or after event. Time could be by arrivin g early to help set up, staying a little later and helping to clea n up after, preparing and sharing a workshop (if open workshop i s scheduled), making phone calls to remind people of the event , etc. 7.) Contribute to ideas for coven gatherings and help arrang e same. (Remember, all things do not happen at Covenstead!) 8.) Be aware of any conflicts within Circle, and bring this t o the attention of the HP/HPS (even if that's where the conflic t is!) 9.) Be prepared to accept the responsibility of a circle o r ritual should something happen to your HP/S. To some people, this may seem like a lot of expectations, bu t keep in mind. We are not are not training "week-end witches. " You are in training to be a Priest/ess of Wicca. Your first degree is something to be proud of. You have worke d hard and long to receive it, and your HP/S has found you worth y of same. May the Lord and Lady smile on your efforts.
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