MySpace blog: My answer to reader questions.

Wicca-The term was originally applied to the tradition started by Gerald Gardner in 1954. He originally stated that this was an intact system from a surviving witch-cult. This is not exactly the case, however, as Gardner obviously added outside elements (including the 3rd degree initiation borrowed from Crowley), in order to make a more complete system. This makes the original Gardnerian system eclectic in nature. Gardner's High Priestess, Doreen Valiente, often suggested books on the occult and Native American spirituality to supplement Wicca training. Again, quite eclectic. Today the term Wicca describes a number of different traditions that vary a little from Gardner's. It is not necessary to join a coven, as several different self initiation or dedication rituals have been written. It's how seriously you take your path that matters. It takes serious study and practice to be effective. Otherwise, you are just going through the motions. And, as Valiente suggested, studying from many different sources can have great benefits.