ne·o·phyte
Noun
- A recent convert to a belief.
- A beginner
- a person newly converted to a belief
- A novice of a religious order
A Neophyte is someone who has successfully completed the Seeker classes and passed a written test. In addition, a person at this level has participated in a dedication and their first naming ceremony.
In order to obtain this degree, one must have studied for a minimum of one year and one day, although it is rare to reach this level in such a short period of time. In addition, one must complete Neophyte training, pass the first degree test, and be initiated, receiving both Inner and Outer Court names.
Inner Court names are to be known and used only by those in the coven, while Outer Court names are the names members generally use outside of the coven. At this level, students become members of the Inner Court and become an integral part of the group.
A candidate for this degree undergoes the kinds of training listed below.
A few objectives of the first-degree training are:
- To give the student a complete understanding of Wiccan history, philosophy, rituals, and ethics
- To give them the information and guidance to make an intelligent and informed decision that Wicca, whether of the Unicorn Tradition or not, is their spiritual path; to introduce them to the book of the law and the importance of it in their lives
- Give them the knowledge and skills to be a good representative of Wicca and Paganism in the world at large.
- Learn how to care for and nurture oneself physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally
- How to be an active and supportive member of one’s grove or coven community, as well as the communities in which they live
- How to work in support of actions and policies that respect and honor the Earth, rather than pillaging her; and how to celebrate the presence of the Divine in our lives.
