Before one begins on the Spirit Pathways to
training, they begin as a *Dedicant. Here they get basic classes,
discussion topics, homework and a glimpse into the dedication needed to
be either a Ritual Leader (Fferyllt)
or Clergy member (Winter Spirit)
of STG. They also get a glimpse into the increased
responsibility need to be a leader within our Tradition. The Dedicant
works closely with the Inner Grove, has time to ask questions,
reflect and prepare for this new "trainee" spiritual path. The Dedicant
then begins the walk down the Spirit Pathways toward their goal with the unwavering support from clergy, other
students AND the members of the Church.
Spirit
Pathways- In the Spiral Tree Tradition's training
program, the emphasis is placed upon the growth cycle in every person.
Just like the seasons change, people have tendency to follow the same
format when starting on a path of learning.
Each "teaching" Spirit path is 1 year and 1 day
long (or longer) and each has specific expectations and
requirements- Refer to the
Inner Grove
training page for more information.
*not all of the hives have Dedicant. (See
"root member")
Take
a journey down our Inner Grove (Training) Spiral pathway.....
 Spring
Spirit Path
In the
spring, new buds form and trees begin to grow and blossom. This path
is one of new beginnings, growth and learning. This is the time when
the new Spring Spirit learns the fundamentals of the Spiral Tree
Tradition, God and Goddess theory, history, Sabbats, Esbats, laws,
etiquette and above all, and understanding of this unique spiritual
path. This is perhaps the most important path of the Spiral as it is
the foundation.
 Summer
Spirit Path
In the
summer months, the tree displays it’s lush, rich foliage for the
world to see. Summer Spirits start to use their skills for the whole
Grove’s benefit. The Summer Spirit becomes more involved in the
how and why of ritual writing and working. At this path, they also
begin to teach, mentor & sponsor the new Spring Spirits. Summer Spirits are
learning how to apply their previous knowledge gained in the Spring
Path along with an in-depth understanding about ritual writing, directing and raising
energy and the different uses in ritual. In the Spiral Tree tradition, a student
is considered a Priestess/Priest at this level, and therefore the
teaching (and expectations) is more hands on.
The
Crossroads of choice
This is a decision that is found within as each requires commitment.
Moving forward to the Autumn Path and then onto the Winter Path is something that takes an inner calling to do so. Not everyone chooses, or
is ready to become ordained clergy. So after the Summer Spirit has journey upon their
path, they will stand at the
crossroads of choice. To stop being a 'trainee' and travel the path of
the Fferyllt as a dedicated Ritual Leader, or move on to Autumn Spirit,
and eventually onto ordination as a Winter Spirit.
What ever path one
chooses, they do so with dedication, honor and commitment.
 Fferyllt
Inner Grove Ritual Leader- A Fferyllt (Fire-lite)
which is a Welsh word for Alchemist, is a Priest/ess within our
tradition who has learned to blend magick, metaphor, elements, and
Spirit into ritual form to create spiritual wholeness for themselves and the
members of the Grove. The Fferyllt has internalized their own divine
light as a Summer Spirit and now utilizes that magick and mystery to
stir the cauldron of Awen. The Fferyllt is a no longer a trainee in
the tradition, but they are always growing spiritually by honing their
skills through leading ritual, teaching and mentoring/sponsoring new Spring
Spirits. The Fferyllt is a competent Ritual Leader & assistant to the Clergy (Winter Spirits) of
this tradition and we are honored by their dedication and abilities.
 Autumn
Spirit Path
Fall foliage blazes into
brilliant color, and then drops to the ground as the tree prepares for
it’s quiescent time. If one chooses to continue on with clergy
ordination, they will see that the Autumn Spirit path focuses on inner
reflection and deep spiritual growth. Working with the Dark moon energy
and the mysteries of Crone/Enchantress, Stag/Sage aspect of the Gods is the
main thrust of learning. ‘Balance’ becomes the keyword for the Autumn
Spirit as students strive to acknowledge the shadow within, and bring
the Craft to everyday life. Advanced ritual work, myth and metaphor,
counseling, rites-of-passages, clergy responsibilities and other aspects of running a group
are discussed in detail. Some Autumn Spirits can begin an "umbrella"
group and learn what running their own Group is all about.
 Winter Spirit
Ordained Clergy- (*High
Priestess/Priest) The winter
is a time of waiting for a tree: waiting for the rejuvenation of the
warm spring rains. In order to be reborn, a student must face the
‘death’ of their old self. They are now at a short time of
rest and silent contemplation. They will be "reborn" as
clergy to take on all aspects of running a church, either within our Grove or hive to create their own branch.
The Winter Spirit has demonstrated their determination, ability,
strength and love of the Craft and our tradition as well as finding inner spiritual awakening. The learning does not stop at Winter Spirit, it just takes on a
new form, as our clergy go out and are able to teach others about this
tradition with confidence.
* Winter Spirit Balance-Terminology
for the High Priestess & Priest in
our Tradition, as we do not believe that ‘balance’ has to be that of male and
female. It simply
has to be a balance between two people who complement each other’s
strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, we do not call ourselves HPS/HP; instead we are the Winter
Spirit Balance, eliminating a need for gender distinction.
*Core
Winter Spirit-
When
there are more then 2 Winter Spirits within a Grove/Coven with
separate
obligations to the Church, splitting responsibilities as a “Balance”
may not be a workable form. In this instance, the WS in charge is
called the Core Winter Spirit. Just as a spiral moves inward;
He/She must honor that sacred center; the ‘Core” has to balance oneself as
the spiral moves in and out to guide the spiritual growth of the members.
Inner Grove
Training
Grove
Hives
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