AboutAlayne Grey Expertise I am a Druid and a scholar of Wicca and other forms of Paganism - I can answer people's questions about Wicca, Witchcraft, Druidry (specifically), how to begin Pagan studies, Asatru, Shamanism and so on. I also feel myself competent to deal with the questions of teenage seekers looking to be Pagans, as I am a teenager myself.
Experience I've been a Druid for almost a year, write essays for Witchvox, and I am currently writing a book on controversial Pagan issues. I am widely read about Wicca and other Pagan paths and about the best foundations for beginning such a rewarding spirituality.
Publications I am listed under "Alayne Grey" on Witchvox and have written several essays, including one about my own beginner's experience.
Education/Credentials I am a Pagan teenager completing my A-Levels, having achieved high GCSE awards the previous year in 2005.
Question Hello and thank you for reading this. I have been wondering about something, as far as becoming a high priest/priestess. Some people say to become one the coven you are in has to elect or initiate you. Others say you can't really form a coven until you anoint yourself high priest/priestess. Which of these are true?
Answer Hi Daniel,
As all Wiccans are priests or priestesses, becoming a High Priest or Priestess involves taking on a great deal of responsibility, personal and communal, more than before. As such, they have to get on well with their coven. A group usually elects its leader, so they know they can trust their High Priest or Priestess, and that they are capable of doing all the things necessary for the smooth running of the coven and its meetings and rituals.
Covens can certainly be formed by someone electing themselves High Priest or Priestess, but that person has no real authority in just declaring that - it's something that has to be given. No one will join a group where they don't know if their leader is going to help them learn things, or hold their hand when they're upset, and celebrate their happy times with them.
So yes, traditionally, High Priest/Priestesses are elected, or go through a higher initiation ritual after receiving training from their coven or tradition to be ready for it.
