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The Modern Tradition

What is the Modern Tradition of Witchcraft?

Perception
Usually people's first reaction to ModTrad is "Isn't that an oxymoron? How
can something be modern and traditional?" Well, the key to it is that we
examine the traditions and folklore of the past, and decipher a way to
interpret them in a contemporary format that relates better to humanity's
needs today. ModTrad incorporates a system of careful research, reflection,
and ingenuity. Although most of us fantasize about living out in the middle
of nowhere, being self-sufficient, close to the earth, the reality is that
most of us lead urban-based lives. When one examines the sabbats on
the wheel of year, one discovers that they are planting/harvest/farming
based. How does this relate to us now, living in the concrete jungle,
lacking fields and livestock? How do we keep the meaning and intention in
something that seems outdated? How does this reflect through all the aspects of the Craft, such as spellcraft and our view of the Divine? This is the
challenge of Modern Traditional Witchcraft. To forge your path, you will
need to take a look at time and place, mind and thought; the following short
articles should help you along your way.

Some things to think about:
* The Witch's Mind How a Witch thinks
* Roots: What is your tradition?
* Stones: Where are you now?
(an interesting thing to note here...I have found the above 3 short articles on about 4-5 sites now..if you think you have read this before, you may have...but now you've read the original work, from the source...)


The Tradition
The Modern Tradition is what is known as a family tradition or "famtrad" for
short. We are not organized into covens, but rather houses, where members
can work together or as solitaries--and should be able to function as a
solitary in fact. The houses are part of the one Family, though they may be
separated by location and other factors. The Modern Tradition prides itself
on not having a hierarchical structure; members of the house are placed on
equal terms (no specific degrees of ranking) once initiated, even the leader
of the house. The leader of a house is known as the Focus, and they are in
charge of organizing the house, teaching dedicates and initiates, and other
duties of guidance. The Focus is shown respect in all matters, as due to
her place as Focus from years of experience and dedication to the Family.
Those looking to enter the Family are known as Seekers, until they have been initiated. Other appointed "positions" within the House include the Scribe, who maintains records of the Housešs activities, members, etc..

What is expected of a Modern Tradition Initiate?
*Be self-motivated and scholarly minded (ever-learning is ever-growing)
*sound and stable mind (able to maintain a fairly healthy emotional and mental state, particularly when working within the household)
*the initiate should be able, ready and especially willing to perform any aspect of a ritual at a moment's notice, as well as being able to foster a
spontaneous nature infused with self-esteem)
*be able to learn or possess a wide knowledge of various deities from
several cultures and particularly being very knowledgeable of one's own
particular area of concentration
*practice (or ready to learn) at least one form of divination
*willingness to gain a very good understanding of spellcraft, herbalism, history, and lore (not particularly in that order, but you know the gist) *accept and maintain the key notion that its not just knowing how to do something but the WHY as well (and foremost)
*be respective of other members and other paths
*consider "The Craft" as a way of life for oneself (not a hobby or casual amusement)
*be able to function BOTH as a solitary individual and with the House. That is, being able to work independently as well as socially.

How does one become part of the Family?

The Modern Tradition is focused on learning, sharing, and growth,

and therefore offers a variety of classes for many levels of students.

 

After becoming familiar with the House and its members, one can take

classes specifically about the Modern Tradition and begin along the path

to see if it's right for that individual. Classes are usually organized into two

periods, Level I and Level II. The Seeker, under the discretion of the Focus,

takes on several projects designed to further their growth. Then the Seeker

is brought before the Family for an interview, and then it is decided whether

or not the Seeker is ready.