The “Traditionalist Approach” to witchcraft in our coven within the New England Covens of Traditionalist Witches (N.E.C.T.W.) ~ and not necessarily all covens within the Tradition as a whole ~ emphasizes several core principles and practices that set it apart from more modern or eclectic forms of witchcraft. This approach focuses on preserving and continuing ancestral knowledge, rituals, and ethical standards that have been handed down to us. Here are the key elements of our Traditionalist Approach: 

1. Ancestral Heritage: 

• Lineage: A strong emphasis is placed on the historical and familial roots of the tradition. Practices and beliefs are traced back through specific lineages, in this case through Gwynne Thompson’s family lineage from Somerset and the West Country. 
• Oral Tradition: Knowledge has been passed down orally, preserving the integrity and authenticity of the teachings. Stories about ancestors and their practices are shared to maintain a connection to the past. 

2. Structured Training and Initiation: 

• Degrees of Initiation: The tradition includes a structured system of initiation, with multiple degrees that represent different levels of knowledge and responsibility within the coven. 
• Mentorship: New initiates are mentored by more experienced practitioners, ensuring that knowledge is passed down accurately and responsibly. 

3. Rituals and Ceremonies: 

• Traditional Rituals: The rituals and ceremonies are we received from Lady Gwynne and those that have been composed by others since her death. These may include specific ways of creating ritual space, invoking deities & spirits, and using ceremonial tools. 
• Seasonal Celebrations: The tradition celebrates the Wheel of the Year, marking seasonal changes with Sabbats (major festivals) and Esbats (full moon rituals). These celebrations are rooted in agricultural and natural cycles. We acknowledge that this is a “borrowing in” from modern Wiccan/Pagan practice by Lady Gwynne, as our tradition did not originally observe an 8-fold “Wheel of the Year”. 

4. Magical Practices: 

• Folk Magic: Traditionalist witchcraft often incorporates elements of folk magic, using herbs, charms, and other natural objects in spellwork. 
• Ceremonial Magic: Some aspects of ceremonial magic, such as the use of specific ritual gestures, words of power, and complex ritual structures, are sometimes also incorporated.

5. Ethics and Philosophy:

• Recognition of Gwynne Thompson as the individual solely responsible for the releasing of her family Craft materials and initiations to the N.E.C.T.W. Family.
• Belief in Reincarnation.
• Recognition of the Rede of the Wiccae: (NOT the “Wiccan Rede”) as the Family’s primary ethical statement.
• Work robed at all gatherings. (How you dress in your personal workings is up to you!)
• Personal Responsibility: Practitioners are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their actions and the consequences of their magical workings.
• Respect for Nature: A deep respect for the natural world and its cycles is central to the tradition. This includes ethical considerations around the use of natural resources and living in harmony with the environment.
• Interconnectedness: The belief in the interconnectedness of all life is a fundamental principle. This includes understanding how actions affect not just the individual but the broader community and ecosystem.

6. Esoteric Knowledge:

• Hidden Wisdom: Traditionalist witchcraft involves the study and practice of esoteric knowledge that is not widely known or accessible. This can include specialized forms of divination, astrology, and alchemy.
• Mystery Tradition: The tradition may include elements of a mystery tradition, where certain knowledge and experiences are revealed only to those who have undergone specific initiations and proven their dedication.

7. Coven/Grove Structure:

• Hierarchy: Covens and Groves are typically organized hierarchically, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities for each member.
• Community: Emphasis is placed on the coven as a supportive and tightly knit community where members work together and support each other in their spiritual and magical development.

Overall, the Traditionalist Approach to witchcraft within Nemed Cuculatii and N.E.C.T.W. is characterized by a deep respect for historical continuity, structured learning, ethical conduct, and a profound connection to nature and ancestral wisdom. This approach seeks to preserve the richness and depth of traditional practices while adapting them to contemporary contexts.