A: The Black Earth Coven is the only Hermetic Wiccan Coven in the Upstate of South Carolina. Our goal is to provide quality training for those interested in entering the Wiccan Priesthood and to provide a safe and meaningful environment for those who simply wish to worship the Lord and Lady with us.
Q: What is Hermetic Wicca?
A: Hermetic Wicca is based heavily on British Traditional Wicca (Alexandrian and Gardnerian), but incorporates material from ceremonial magick (specifically Golden Dawn material). It is well known that Gerald Gardner possesed quite a bit of knowledge of ceremonial magick (through his involvement with the O.T.O.) and incorporated that knowledge into Wicca. So, it is not such a leap to combine the original Wiccan rites and theurgy with the Hermetic/Qabalistic exercises and teachings of the Golden Dawn. In fact, the two come together perfectly to create a tradition that brings one into contact with the Divine. Hermetic Wicca is a tradition that stresses balance. We favor neither the Lord or the Lady - for both are essential and inseparable.
Q: Why do you call yourselves the Coven of the Black Earth?
A: The Ancient Egyptians called their land Khem, which means "black earth". We refer to ourselves as the Coven of the Black Earth for several different reasons. First, it is a salute to a land that could, arguably, be called the birth place of the Mysteries. Secondly, we derived much of our teachings and methods from the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. This Hermetic Order included much Egyptian symbolism. Thirdly, many believe the word alchemy has been derived the word Khem (Transmitting the hieroglyphics for Khem into Arabic produces al-khem). We view Wicca and the practice of Hermetic and Qabalistic arts to be alchemical in nature. They transform the individual form the inside, elevating the consciousness to direct communion with the Divine.
Q: What does the Black Earth Coven offer?
A: We offer training for those interested in entering the Wiccan Priesthood via a three degree initiatic system. Which is, of course, free of charge to all willing aspirants. We also offer, to those who practice a Neopagan or Wiccan spirituality (but who do not necessarily wish to become an initiated Priests or Priestesses), a place to worship with those on a similar spiritual path.
Q: How often does the Coven meet?
A: The Coven meets every Full Moon and for every Sabbat. The Coven may also meet if the group or a member of the group has some specific need (like a healing request or urgent coven business).
Q: How can I contact the the Coven?
A: Email: [email protected].