The Gathering Of Sherwood is a gathering of Pagan Witches. Our beliefs and practices may be generally termed as Pagan in nature and origin. As a gathering we differ notably to most other craft traditions in our working practices and observance of Pagan Witchcraft. This makes us different - it does not make us special.
We refer to ourselves as Woodwitches, since our tradition centres principally around Celtic tree lore and all of our gatherings take place in a wood, and we make use of wooden wands - but do not use Ritual Knives. (A distinguishing feature for our tradition of Witchcraft.) The Gathering does not have a formal or defined system of hierarchy - we have no High Priests or Priestesses, and no High Lord Hand Wavers. We have only one recognised level or position: A Woodwitch - meaning any and all members of the gathering equally, including those who are learning the craft. The gathering serves as its own council and keeps its own counsel. Our rituals and festivals are presided over by alternating members of the gathering and usually involve many or most Woodwitches. Solemnity and sincerity are an essential part of our rituals and formal gatherings. However, we also see them as times of celebration and tribute and therefore they are usually merry times of communion and community. We also consider our gathering to be to the right, of light, and of wisdom.
The Woodwitch tradition was established some thirty four years ago by two English Pagan Witches, who had tired of the high doctrine and rigid dogma of other English Witchcraft traditions that were growing in popularity at that time. The two founding Witches in question believed that most other craft traditions had started to wonder from the Earth-based and nature centred origins of traditional English Witchcraft and, had begun to become diversely hybrid in their beliefs, values, traditions and practices. There seemed to be an increasing feeling of ‘anything goes’ in some quarters, and, a rapidly developing system of rigid hierarchy that was spawning all manner of High And Haughty Priestesses, High Lord Hand Wavers and a good few Big Chief Shouty Persons. Therefore, in view of the Occult / Pagan climate at the beginning of the 1970’s. The Woodwitch tradition was established and founded upon principals that were considered to be more traditional and decidedly less concerned with the creation of artificial laws, doctrine, theatrical ceremony and individuals who hold high and mighty office. Additionally, there was the feeling and desire to get back to basics and into the woods and green places of nature. From this humble beginning has grown and matured a Witchcraft tradition that is now quite distinct in its own right - The Way Of The Woodwitch. Observing the principals upon which the Woodwitch tradition was founded, we continue to guard our traditions and ways well, and do not take on board or adopt practices from other traditions which would dilute our distinctiveness. This may seem insular of us, and this is probably true, but it is the right way for us and keeps us from becoming lost in the eclectic maze of Pagan beliefs that is ever growing. It has been our experience over the years that so many people who contact us are completely lost in a fog of hybrid, eclectic beliefs and values; that they are wondering aimlessly looking for something which they cannot quite find through the blur of their own eclecticism. We believe, these are some of the reasons why people contact us and desire to know more of our simple, traditional ways and beliefs.
The Gathering Of Sherwood gathers formally and ritually four times in a year - the two solstice and the two equinox. These are our most spiritual and meaningful times. However, we often gather in lesser numbers socially and enjoy many occasions where we share company and laughter.
Index Page
